People’s Perception and Attitude Toward Forest Laws of Land use in Mae Tuen Wildlife Sanctuary, Tak Province

Abstract

This study aimed to (1) examine the socio-economic characteristics of people utilizing land within Mae Tuen Wildlife Sanctuary, Tak Province; (2) investigate the levels of perception and attitudes toward forest laws; (3) analyze factors influencing such perception and attitudes; and (4) assess the impacts of land use for livestock farming. The research employed a quantitative approach. The population consisted of 622 residents, and a sample of 244 respondents was determined using Yamane’s formula and selected through proportionate stratified sampling. The research instrument was a structured questionnaire covering general information, information perception, perception of forest laws, attitudes toward forest laws, and land-use impacts. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as inferential statistics such as t-test, One-Way ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient at a significance level of 0.05.

The findings revealed that most respondents were female, aged 41–50 years, with primary education, engaged in livestock farming, earning less than 10,000 baht per month, and residing in the area for more than 20 years. The level of information perception regarding forest laws was low, while the overall perception of forest laws was moderate, and attitudes toward forest laws were high. Factors such as age, land use, and participation in wildlife sanctuary activities significantly influenced the level of perception. Meanwhile, duration of residence, landholding, land use, and information perception significantly affected attitudes toward forest laws. Additionally, the impacts of land use for livestock farming were found to be at a moderate level in both positive and negative aspects. The study contributes new knowledge by proposing an integrated conceptual framework linking socio-economic factors, information access, and land-use practices with public perception and attitudes toward forest laws. This framework can inform policy development by emphasizing effective communication, community participation, and balanced land-use management to promote sustainable coexistence between local communities and forest conservation areas.