Pha Khao Phuluang “A restoration project” case study-forest exploits of the past and present RFD can fix it!-develop strong organizational and community bases-forest restored!

Abstract

The forests of Thailand have been depleted at an alarming rate over the past few decades in Pha Khao Phuluang due to illegal encroachment and deforestation. This situation has not been helped by incoherent and uncoordinated government policies regarding natural resources and agricultural expansion. As a result, the Royal Forestry Department (RFD), as the direct agency responsible for the forestry area maintenance and governmental policy implementation, cannot address the problems effectively. This paper attempts to examine problems regarding the Royal Forestry Department’s policy implementation with a mission to improve the state agencies so they can sustain Thai national resources in a more effective and efficient way. The research uses mixed method analysis. The priority qualitative data is gathered by in-depth interview with 3 groups of executives who are directly involved with illegal deforest suppression and repression. The minor qualitative data is gathered from literature review. Then, a triangulation technique is used for data verification combining multiple observers including experts, literature reviews and officers using Delphi analysis. The proposed solutions I outline are as follows: 1. In order to fix the problem the government must grant additional time for community rehabilitation and recovery from the crisis so that they may secure new living space and for economic and social adjustments within the community 2. The Royal Forestry Department officers must be trained and educated regarding their roles, responsibilities and authorities under the nation's laws. 3. At this point the government should offer policies in order to support economic and social changes of the community as a supplementary opportunity for people to live their lives under the ecosystems conservation context.