Community Participation in the Conservation of Forest Resources in Dong Hua Sao National Park Area, Champasak Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic

Abstract

This research aims to study 1) the level of community participation in forest resource conservation, 2) the factors affecting community participation, and 3) the problems, obstacles, and suggestions for developing community participation in forest resource conservation in the Dong Hua Sao National Park area, Champasak Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic. A mixed-methods research approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative research. The sample consisted of 239 families in the Dong Hua Sao National Park area and 6 key informants. The data collection tools included questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Quantitative data analysis utilized descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and inferential statistics through multiple linear regression analysis. For qualitative data analysis, content analysis techniques were used.

The research results found that the level of community participation in the conservation of forest resources in the Dong Hua Sao National Park area was overall at a moderate level across all four areas of participation. Factors affecting community participation with statistical significance at the 0.05 level include the use of forest resources, group or network membership, length of residence in the community, awareness of news regarding forest resource conservation, and marital status. Problems and obstacles included a lack of budget encroachment on forest areas, illegal deforestation, a lack of awareness and knowledge about forest resource conservation, conflict in the use of space, and ineffective coordination. The suggestions obtained from the research are to increase the budget, strengthen knowledge and awareness about forest resource conservation, enforce strict law enforcement, promote participation, conduct study trips outside the area, and provide correct information.