Strategic Agricultural Resource Management Through Community Participation in the Mae Kwang Watershed Area, Thep Sedet Sub-district, Doi Saket District, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This research aims to examine the community participation process and the capacity for managing agricultural systems in the Mae Kuang watershed, as well as to formulate strategic approaches for agricultural resource management. The study employs both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The quantitative sample group consists of 65 household leaders from Ban Mae Ton, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. For the qualitative component, the sample includes 16 key informants involved in community development and resource management, divided into three groups: (1) three representatives from local government agencies, (2) eight community leaders and local experts, and (3) five development and environmental officers. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis.

The study revealed three main findings: 1) The overall level of community participation in the Mae Kuang watershed area is high, encompassing decision-making, implementation, benefit-sharing, evaluation, and resource management. 2) An analysis of community capacity identified key success factors in the agricultural system within the watershed area, including: (1) the richness of natural resources and biodiversity, (2) the preservation and transmission of local culture and wisdom, which support community self-reliance and balance between economic development and environmental conservation, (3) lifelong learning processes that incorporate new knowledge alongside local wisdom, and (4) support from external networks such as royal initiatives, government agencies, and academic institutions, which enhance effective resource management capacity. 3) Six key strategies for managing the agricultural system in the Mae Kuang watershed were formulated: participatory resource management, ecosystem conservation and restoration, enhancement of learning processes and networks, integration of multi-sectoral cooperation, development of sustainable agriculture systems, and establishment of effective management mechanisms. These strategies aim to strengthen community capacity in managing resources for economic, social, and environmental sustainability.