Matsya Park, located in Ban Khong Kud Wai, Moo 7, Kueng Sub-district, Mueang District, Maha Sarakham Province, is just 6 kilometers from the Maha Sarakham municipality. Following the route to Mukdahan, the park lies in Kood Wai, which derives its name from the long-standing waterway shaped by the Mekong River. This area, known for its lush growth of reeds, was once surrounded by the natural growth of rattan. In the middle of the park, native grasses, such as miscanthus and vetiver, thrive abundantly along the banks of the water's bend. Phra Kru Pitak Kosumphisai (Ya Khru Mong), the abbot of Wat Phothi Sri, established a monastery to serve as a sacred space in ancient times. Today, this area has been designated a temple called Phitak Samakkhi Phothi Sri 2. In 1994, the Mobile Agricultural Service Center and the Royal Irrigation Department dredged the waterway, restoring it to its original form, which is about 120 meters wide and 10 meters deep, with a unique curved shape extending approximately 800 meters, holding around 96,000 cubic meters of water. To the west, a natural water flow runs down into the surrounding waterway, and to the north lies the village of Khong Kud Wai, home to a population that consists of Thai, Lao, and Korat ethnic groups. In October 1994, rising waters flooded both banks of the Chi River, spilling into Khong Kud Wai before flowing into the Mun River and then the Mekong River. The local fish species, especially the 'Pla Poha,' a type of catfish, thrived in the Mekong River and its tributaries, including the Mun River. These fish gathered in large schools, an unusual phenomenon likely caused by the explosive destruction of the Tanah Rapids, which was their previous habitat due to the construction of the Pak Mun Dam. With their natural habitat destroyed, these fish made their way upstream, merging with floodwater fish such as carp and tilapia, leading to a large influx within Khong Kud Wai, particularly of the larger Pla Poha. Recognizing the opportunity, the villagers banded together to block the waterway, preventing it from flowing back into the Chi River. Subsequently, authorities reinforced the earth embankment, extending it to 30 meters in length and 8 meters wide, collectively naming the site Matsya Park. The park emphasizes cultural-driven development, with the Buddhist temple serving as the community center. Within the temple grounds, villagers contribute to caring for various animals, including alligators, foxes, monkeys, squirrels, rabbits, birds, and rats. There is also an Esan Heritage Museum. A project was initiated to conserve the fish, coinciding with the celebration of His Majesty the King’s 50th anniversary on the throne. Fishing or capturing aquatic life in this conservation area is strictly prohibited, with violators facing fines of up to 10,000 baht or imprisonment for up to six months, or both. Matsya Park also features a fish feeding area, a wooden bridge measuring 1.6 meters wide and 83 meters long crossing the waterway to the temple, providing a place to feed and observe the fish. Additionally, there are four riverbank pavilions and ten floating platforms, each 3 x 5.50 meters, for tourists to enjoy meals while watching the fish. It has become a popular tourist destination, attracting numerous visitors every day.