Development of Guidelines for Forest Encroachment Protection in Pa Khao Phu Luang Non-Hunting Area, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand

Abstract

Currently, there is a concern regarding Thailand’s forests due to the serious level of encroachment. One response has been to develop protection strategies and measures involving government agencies and stakeholders. This study investigated factors influencing forest encroachment and the extent of community participation in forest protection activities, as well as developing strategies to prevent forest encroachment. In total, 162 community members were involved from Lam Nang Kaeo subdistrict, Pak Thong Chai district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand, residing in the area surrounding the Pa Khao Phu Luang Non-Hunting Area. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, while SWOT analysis was performed to evaluate both internal and external environmental factors. Furthermore, the TOWS Matrix technique was implemented to establish guidelines regarding forest encroachment.

Based on the results of the study, the lack of land ownership among community members was a substantial factor contributing to forest encroachment, which in turn motivated them to expand their agricultural areas. Only 25.3% of the studied cases involved a high level of community participation in wildlife sanctuary activities, with 14.9% of the group never participating. Three strategies were identified to prevent forest encroachment: (1) proactive measures to verify land ownership rights, to routinely maintain and update parcel data, and to review rights annually; 2) reactive and corrective measures to increase community involvement through the establishment of advisory committees, development of community networks, and the organization of conservation activities to raise awareness; and 3) proactive measures to increase capacity building and the implementation of modern technology. Furthermore, risk assessment of encroachment areas, involving physical elements, is essential to facilitate the planning of more effective measures to prevent forest encroachment.