Evaluation Herbs Producing and Processing to Achieve Quality and Safety of the Farmer in Chachoengsao Province

Abstract

     This research aimed to: (1) examine the project context of high-quality and safe herbal production and processing among farmers in Chachoengsao province, and (2) evaluate the achievement of the high-quality and safe herbal production and processing project among farmers in Chachoengsao province. The study population consisted of 45 farmers participating in the herbal crop cultivation project. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation. The results revealed that the project area in Chachoengsao province possesses strong physical potential for herbal crop cultivation that aligns with market demand, thereby facilitating the implementation of the high-quality and safe herbal production and processing project. Project evaluation based on the CIPP model indicated that the overall project effectiveness was at a high level (4.03). The input dimension demonstrated the highest level of effectiveness (4.23), reflecting adequate support in terms of budget, personnel, and materials, which contributed positively to project implementation. The context dimension showed a high level of effectiveness (4.09), indicating that the project was necessary, aligned with government policies, responsive to farmers’ problems and needs, and appropriate to the current socio-geographical conditions. Regarding the process dimension, project effectiveness was at a high level (4.07). The findings indicated that operational planning, knowledge transfer processes, and monitoring activities were implemented; however, continuous on-site farm visits should be further improved. The product dimension showed a high level of project effectiveness (3.75), and farmers reported a high level of satisfaction (3.93), as project outcomes and outputs were achieved in accordance with the project objectives. The impact dimension demonstrated the highest level of effectiveness (4.29), as the project positively affected farmers’ occupations, income, and quality of life, particularly through the reduction of chemical usage. Overall, the project contributed to the development of a circular economy system, promoted integration among the public and private sectors, and fostered sustainable community development. It also serves as a model for high-quality herbal development at the local level and aligns with the national bio-based economic policy.