Sustainable Forestry Conservation through Community Participation: Insights from Dong Hua Sao National Park, Lao PDR

Narid  Thaiburi; Thanousinh  Phaxaisithidet; Vannasinh  Souvannasouk; Nguyen  Thanh Huyen

doi:10.66445/twe.v44i3.276908

Authors

Narid Thaiburi Agricultural Extension and Development Program Naradhiwat College of Agriculture and Technology, Princess of Naradhiwas University, Thailand
Thanousinh Phaxaisithidet Faculty of Economics and Management, Champasack University, Lao PDR
Vannasinh Souvannasouk Scientific Academic Research Services Office Champasack University, Lao PDR
Nguyen Thanh Huyen -

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.66445/twe.v44i3.276908

Keywords:

Villager’s Participation, Sustainability Forestry Conservation, Protected Area Management, Dong Hua Sao National Park

Abstract

This study investigates the role of community participation in sustainable forestry conservation in Dong Hua Sao National Park, Lao PDR, using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Data were collected from 748 households across five villages, selected through stratified random sampling based on socio-economic diversity. Robustness checks using ordinary least squares (OLS) regression confirm the consistency of these results across methods. Results show that villagers’ participation significantly enhances forest resource management (β = 0.919, p < 0.001) and indirectly contributes to sustainable conservation outcomes (β = 0.684, p < 0.01). Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the reliability and validity of the constructions. A supplementary robustness check using multiple regression supported the SEM findings. These results highlight the critical role of community engagement in strengthening conservation practices and ensuring the sustainability of protected areas. The study provides policy implications for participatory conservation strategies in Lao PDR and offers insights for comparative research in other protected areas across Southeast Asia.

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