Guidelines for Developing Members of the Buffalo-Cow Bank Project under the Operations of the Foundation for Education and Development of Rural Areas (FEDR) in Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, According to the Working Principles of King Rama IX

Abstract

This research aimed 1) examine the current socio-geographical context of the members of the Buffalo–Cow Bank Project under the operation of the Rural Study and Development Foundation in Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province; and 2) explore development guidelines for the project members based on the working principles of His Majesty King Rama IX. The research employed a sample group consisting of 61 project member households in Mae Rim District and 12 experts. Research instruments included questionnaires and interviews. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation.

The findings revealed that 1) The current socio-geographic context of the members revealed that most households had a medium to relatively low economic status, with agriculture as their main occupation and unstable income. Livestock raising was semi-traditional and semi-modern, which helped reduce costs, produce organic fertilizer, and generate additional income. Although members lacked technical knowledge and external linkages, the project still contributed to economic stability and improved quality of life. Overall, the socio-geographic conditions and satisfaction levels were high, but group strength remained moderate to low due to limited external connections.

2) Development approaches should adhere to the working principles of King Rama IX, emphasizing self-reliance, knowledge and skills enhancement, network building, and supplementary occupations. These include animal healthcare, feed production, herbal and vegetable cultivation, agro-tourism, and online marketing, to ensure long-term sustainability for both members and the project.