Systemic Issues and Development Approaches for Beef Cattle Farm Management toward GAP Certification in Chiang Mai Province

บทคัดย่อ

This study aimed to (1) analyze systemic constraints among beef cattle farms in Chiang Mai Province that hinder readiness for Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification, and (2) develop appropriate management approaches to strengthen GAP readiness. The population consisted of 15,174 beef cattle farming households, from which a quantitative sample of 390 households was determined using a statistical formula and selected through systematic random sampling. A qualitative sample of 15 key informants included GAP-certified farmers, livestock extension officers, local leaders, and community representatives. Research instruments comprised a five-point Likert-scale questionnaire, validated for content accuracy with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients exceeding 0.80, and semi-structured interview guides. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and multiple regression analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis and thematic synthesis.

The findings revealed that structural factors of beef cattle farms were generally at a moderate-to-low level, with farm data management emerging as the weakest component. Farm management practices were also at a moderate level, though deficiencies were noted in marketing, environmental management, and animal welfare. Regression analysis confirmed that farm data management and overall management practices exerted the strongest influence on GAP readiness, jointly explaining 62% of the variance. This study contributes new knowledge by integrating structural factors and farm management practices as joint determinants of GAP readiness and by conceptualizing farm data as a form of knowledge capital. It also highlights environmental and animal welfare management as emerging weaknesses within Thai beef cattle farms. Policy recommendations include the development of comprehensive farm databases, provision of low-interest credit, and prioritization of environmental and welfare standards in livestock policies. Practical recommendations emphasize farmer training in data management, establishment of model GAP farms as community learning centers, and strengthening cooperative systems to enhance market power and environmental practices.