Dependency and Value-adde on Forest Resource at Khao Raow Tian Thong Community Forest, Chainat Province

Abstract

This study aims to firstly investigate the economic, social, and general information of residents living in the vicinity of Khao Raow Tian Thong Community Forest. Secondly study the dependence on forest resources and the value of non-timber forest product, and thirdly value added of forest products from forest resources in Khao Raow Tian Thong community forest. Data collected from 292 persons during January to February 2024. Statistical analysis were frequency, percentage, mean, maximum, and minimum.

              The study found that most of population were female, with 54.79 percent. The average age was 55.75 year old. Educational level was primary school, with 67.12 percent. The main occupation was agriculture, with 67.81 percent, Minor occupation were general labor, with 37.33 percent. An average number of household members was 4 persons. An average land occupation were 16.53 rais. An average household income was 198,923.33 baht per year, and an average household expenditure was 109,066.67 baht per year. People dependency on forest resource in Khao Raow Tian Thong community forest, Chainat province, include firewood, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, bamboo, vegetables/tuber plants, honey, herbs, and bullfrog. The total net value from non-timber forest product utilization was 261,352.12 baht per year, with an average net income 895.04 baht per household. Non-timber forest product processing for increasing value added. People use their non-timber forest product such as Adenia viridiflora Craib, termite mushrooms and bamboo shoots. The total raw material value was 33,550.00 baht per year. The total expenditure were 40,255.03 baht per year. After non-timber forest product processing value were 64,800.00 baht per year, therefore the value added benefit from non-timber forest product processing were 24,544.97 baht per year. This research information will be used Khao Raow Tian Thong community forest management sustainable benefit.