Development of Policy Approaches for Restructuring Feed Corn Production and Fire-Prone Crops in Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This research had two objectives: 1) to study the problems and current conditions of animal feed corn production and crops at risk of fire use in Mae Chaem District, and 2) to develop policy guidelines for restructuring animal feed corn production and fire-risk crops in Mae Chaem District. The research employed qualitative methods focusing on both secondary and primary data. The key informants were divided into six groups: 1) policymakers and operational staff, 30 people; 2) community leaders and local scholars, 30 people; 3) farmer representatives, 60 people; 4) business operators, 10 people; 5) academics, 10 people; and 6) external organizations, 10 people (totaling 140 people). The research instruments included in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, observation forms, and joint learning exchange forums. Data analysis employed content analysis and descriptive analysis methods, with triangulation used to verify data validity.

The study findings revealed that Mae Chaem District has 7,898 households growing animal feed corn, covering an area of 117,426.23 rai. The cultivation area shows a trend toward conversion to other crops due to debt problems, high production costs, and strict burning control measures. The development of area-level policy guidelines can be divided into five main pillars: 1) occupational diversification, sustainable markets, and risk management; 2) strengthening society and communities; 3) conservation and restoration of natural resources and the environment;
4) development of infrastructure essential for living; and 5) data management and area-level innovation. Based on the policy urgency assessment, farmers placed the highest importance on infrastructure development, particularly water systems, at 85.71 percent, followed by occupational and market security at 78.57 percent. The study also recommended elevating the role of local government organizations to serve as the main operational units for continuously and sustainably driving policy implementation.