The Boeung Prek Lapouv wetlands in Cambodia’s lower Mekong floodplain span over 8,000 hectares of seasonally flooded grasslands and forests and are among the last intact floodplain wetlands in continental Southeast Asia. They support globally significant congregations of waterbirds, including over 10% of the regional Sarus Crane population, and many threatened fish and bird species.

The wetlands sustain about 5,000 households across 22 villages, including at least 12 in Borey Chulsar and Koh Andeth districts. An ecosystem services survey found that nearly 3,000 households—around 68%—depend directly on the site for fish, edible plants, firewood, and farmland, underscoring its importance for food security. It is also key to flood hazard regulation. Improved wetland site management, preserving artisanal fisheries, expansion into high-value, biodiversity-friendly rice production can enhance livelihood security, boost incomes, and strengthen community stewardship to preserve the ecosystem services of this critical site.