Indigenous Knowledge of River Management on Society (Pattern Study of Intercultural Communication for Watershed Management in Bengkulu)

Abstract

River management for communities around the river area in Bengkulu Province, has various problems in its utilization. Management activities of river area from indigenous cultural values sometimes was forget to effective communicated. Besides that, mining activities and the others of excessive forms the river exploitation are a separate issue for the preservation of river ecosystems. This is a very interesting phenomenon to be examined based on empirical functions for researchers. This study specifically wants to see the wisdom of the community in the pattern of communication that is done when facing the problems related to water resources especially the watershed (DAS). This paper is also dedicated to summarize the knowledge that communities and indigenous peoples have in managing the upstream streams and watersheds that are currently underway. The study was conducted using a participatory approach carried out with the community in managing and improving the watershed. The results in the study looked at some forms of communication patterns that are similar in maintaining the cultural wisdom of the community in managing the river flow but have different problems encountered. Effective Communication pattern can create a model transformation in natural resource management in intercultural communication strategies for surrounding communities and the general public.