Capacity Development of Agricultural Extension Officers in Pest Management and the Implementation of Local Plant Clinics Department of Agricultural Extension

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the capacity of agricultural extension officers in pest management, analyze the problems and severity of issues faced by farmers, develop the potential of agricultural extension officers, and evaluate the success of plant clinic operations by the Department of Agricultural Extension’s plant clinic operations. A mixed-method research design was employed, including a questionnaire, in-depth interview forms, and document analysis. The study was conducted between 2018 and 2024. The findings revealed that most agricultural extension officers lacked foundational knowledge in plant protection with an average of only 2.93 years of experience. Their knowledge and competency were rated at a moderate level and they lacked confidence in diagnosing pest problems. Meanwhile, farmers facing recurring pest outbreaks relied heavily on chemical use, and incurred high production costs. Training was provided to 1,072 agricultural extension officers which led to a statistically significant improvement in knowledge, positive behavioral changes, and effective knowledge transfer to farmers. Currently, 968 plant clinics are in operation. A case study in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province showed that farmers had a high level of knowledge regarding pests  and pest management, as well as a positive attitude toward adopting the pest management practices recommended by the plant clinics. Meanwhile, their actual behavior in following the
recommendations was at a moderate level. Rice yields increased from 620 to 780 kilograms per rai and income rose from 3,519 to 4,793 baht per rai. Despite the increasing costs of biological control products, the overall returns had clearly increased.