Passing big fishing boats

The area is vital for the economy of Cambodia, since its fisheries provide 80% of the protein consumed within the country. The capital Angkor, situated 10 km from the northeastern edge of the lake at the edge of the biosphere reserve is a World Heritage site. More than 1,000,000 inhabitants (2001) live mainly in the buffer and transition areas. Some sixty floating villages are found on the lake and lake edges in the buffer zone. Fishing is the main activity but the fertile, flood plain is also used to produce rice and vegetables. A management plan is currently being drawn up in consultation with local communities