Water resources policy and administrative management

The project area is the origin of two tributaries of two international waters. The Lamphraphlerng collects water in the watershed then supplies water to the Mekhong River s Moon River. The Lamnamsaiyai plays the same ecological roles for the Gulf of Thailand s Bangpakong River. Population growth , coupled with the implementation of the first Socio-economic Development Plan in 1961 resulted in uncontrollable deforestation by modern equipment turning a great portion of this intact watershed areas into expanses of cultivated land of cash crops. Ecosystems and natural resources has been gradually degraded . Even though the area is situated in the neigbourhood of and managed by the Khao Yai and Thablarn National Park, the degradation and loss of natural resources are still significant. The main driving force is the promotion of modern agriculture applying chemical substances at a progressive rate and field burning. The group had carried out the appraisal of the situation and concluded that the time had come for local communities to participate in finding solution. Networking among themselves for learning, in conjunction with demonstration activities would initiate further action leading to the solutions. Project participants and/or beneficiaries: 1. The Wildlife Fund Thailand providing preexisting facilities and technical support 2. Thai Samakkhi and Wang Nam Khiew Tambol Administrative Organizations playing communication role and providing natural resources data base 3. The Khao Phaeng Mar Royal Reforestation Project providing resources persons and models of watershed management 4. The Centre for Local Information, Rajabhat Institute University Nakhornratchasima supporting data & information and playing advisory role. Activities: 1.Launching capacity-building activities such as workshop , study tours training for 30 communities leaders and 150 youth members 2.Developing and implementing projects in conjunction with youth groups 3. Issuing bi-monthly newsletter and other communication materials Anticipated Result/Immediate Outputs 1.Compilation of Community Learning Manual which is a result of community brainstorming 2.Ten projects to address natural resources degradation being carried out 3.Area of about five ha under rehabilitation and as a model for best practice 4. Emergence of an environment network at local level

Thailand