Lesson Learned from Community Forest Management : A Case Study of Bantakraotong Community Forest Village No.6, BanLang Subdistrict, Muang District, Rayong Province

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to 1) study the topography and diversity of tree species in Bantakraotong community forest 2) study the management of Bantakraotong community forest using Geo-Informatics System 3) study important factors in sustaining the community forest and 4) propose a model of community-based forest management to other interested communities. Documents related to community-based forest management, participation and Geo-Informatics System were reviewed. Data collection was carried out by in-depth interviews, participatory observation and field research. Results were reported in descriptive analysis summary and TOWS Matrix to determine the forest management pattern.

            The study results showed that 1) the topography of Bantakraotong community forest is the high mountain running in north-south direction, at an elevation of 1,733 meters above sea level. The average slope of the area is 87 percent at the upper part of the forest, 65 percent at the central area and 54 percent for the lower foothills. All 46 plant species found in the forest is comprised of 34 species of trees, 5 Climber species, 4 Herb species and 3 species of shrub. The potential to reduce nitrogen oxides, Sulfur dioxide, Ozone has been found in 13 species. Five species have the potential for reducing volatile organic compounds, Hempstead poly chlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, furans and 5 species have the potential of dust reduction. 12 species can be categorized into both group 1 and group 2, and the other 10 species can be categorized into both group 2 and group 3.     2) The management of the community forest was run by the committee. Even without clear pattern of management, it was highly flexible through the good understanding of the community and its leaders. 3) Important factors that contribute to the success in community-based forest management were the participation of community and the government agencies and private support. 4) To be a model in community-based forest management for other interested communities, the written strategic plans, rules and regulations should be drafted. Administration should be more delegated to people in the community to help building green society, livable community as guided in sustainable development of sufficiency economy philosophy.