A Study on the Potential and Preparation of the Community in Establishing a Medical Cannabis Cultivation Community Enterprise Group.: A Case Study of Ban San Klang Community Champa Wai Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phayao Province.

Abstract

This research aimed to: (1) examine the potential of Ban Sanklang Community, Champawai Sub-district, Mueang District, Phayao Province, for establishing a community enterprise for medical cannabis cultivation; (2) investigate community members’ acceptance of establishing such a community enterprise; and (3) prepare local farmers for the establishment of a community enterprise for medical cannabis cultivation through community participation. A mixed-methods research design was employed. The population consisted of 271 household heads in Ban Sanklang Community. The sample size was determined using the Krejcie and Morgan table at a 95% confidence level, resulting in 158 respondents. In addition, 15 interested prospective members of the community enterprise and 4 representatives from relevant organizations were selected using simple random sampling and purposive sampling. Research instruments included questionnaires, structured interviews, and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as environmental analysis and the TOWS matrix.

The findings revealed that Ban Sanklang Community possessed strong resource capital; however, technological capital and network partnerships were relatively limited. Furthermore, relevant regional and local agencies lacked clear guidelines for promoting and supporting the establishment of a community enterprise for medical cannabis cultivation. The results of community members’ acceptance indicated a high overall level of acceptance across five stages (mean = 4.19). The community readiness activities covered four key aspects: (1) individual capacity and leadership, (2) community resources, (3) knowledge related to community enterprise management, medical cannabis, and organic farming, and (4) community organizational preparation. These activities led to the formation and registration of a community enterprise, which represented a preliminary level of readiness that enabled farmers to meet the basic requirements for applying for permission to cultivate medical cannabis. The study concluded that the establishment of a community enterprise for medical cannabis cultivation should be grounded in community participation, members’ acceptance, and consensus among community members and government agencies, along with the systematic application of strategic planning processes.