Mangrove forests are vital coastal ecosystems, providing critical ecological services such as shoreline protection, biodiversity habitat, carbon sequestration, and livelihood support for local communities. Globally, and particularly in Southeast Asia, mangroves face significant threats from anthropogenic pressures and climate change impacts, leading to widespread degradation and loss. Cambodia, with its extensive coastline, is not immune to these challenges.

The Prek Kampong Smach Marine Fisheries Management Area (MFMA) in Preah Sihanouk Province is a critical mangrove ecosystem in Cambodia. Recent observations and anecdotal evidence suggest an alarming trend of mangrove dieback and destruction within this MFMA, impacting its ecological integrity and the socio-economic well-being of surrounding communities. While the precise extent and underlying causes of this degradation are not fully understood, potential drivers include unsustainable resource extraction, land-use conversion (e.g., aquaculture expansion, coastal development), pollution, and hydrological alterations, potentially exacerbated by climate change effects such as sea-level rise and extreme weather events.

This rapid assessment research aims to provide a focused and timely investigation into the spatial and temporal changes in mangrove forest cover within the Prek Kampong Smach MFMA, identify key impact factors, and ascertain the primary drivers contributing to mangrove dieback and destruction. Given the tight timeframe, the study will leverage remote sensing techniques complemented by targeted field validation and stakeholder consultations to achieve its objectives efficiently.