Loss of forest area in Nan province

Abstract

The objective of this study was to develop database and maps for analysis of dynamic and loss of forest area in Nan province during B.E. 2530 – 2561 in order to build up mutual understanding and collaborating among related organization for solving common problem. This study utilized data from Rakpanan project and Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) combined with Normalize Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) technique and visual analysis. Data analysis used regression line and comparison of percent change in forest area at sub-district level. Analysis results show that forest area of Nan province declined on the average of 20,300 rai/year and 48,000 rai/year during B.E. 2530 – 2548 and B.E. 2548 – 2554 respectively. After B.E. 2554, forest area was continuously declined and reaching highest loss rate in B.E. 2557 – 2558. During B.E. 2558 – 2561, however the forest area stayed steady around 4.56 – 4.65 million rai. Analysis results show that Wiang Sa district had the greatest loss for forest area i.e. 283,681 rai during B.E. 2507 – 2554. Similarly, analysis results at sub-district level indicate that Sanian sub-district in Mueang Nan district had the greatest loss for forest area, i.e. 78,871 rai. Generally speaking, Nan province loss 1.2 million rai of forest area during B.E. 2507 – 2561.