Forest Monasteries: A Synthesis of the Process of Managing the Ecosystem for Forest and Wild Animal Conservation in Northeastern Thailand

Abstract

AbstractThis study explores the ecosystem management process in forest monasteries in northeastern Thailand. The methods used for the study were documentary and field studies. The study was carried out at three temples: 1) Wat Puttanimit (Pukao), Kalasin Province, 2) Wat Tham Pa Mak Haw, Loei Province, and 3) Wat Phraputtabat Panom Din, Surin Province. The research data were analyzed and synthesized for the management process of the ecosystem of forest and wild animal conservation in northeast Thailand. The results show that ecological problems in designated forest temples are mainly due to a lack of personnel to properly care for animals, ecosystems, deforestation, and encroachment. The study found that the elements of the ecosystem of each forest were fully related to one another. Ecological management requires an understanding of local circumstances and problems of ecological systems through close study of each area, organization, and network. There are also short- and long-term plans that contribute to the integrated management of the entire ecosystem. First, these include managing the process of the ecosystem of soil, water, wild animals, religion, community, tourism, education, and cooperation among organizations. Second, the models include the management of plans, participation, law, and Buddhist ways. The whole management process leads to integrated ecosystem management and can help efficiently conserve the ecosystem for forests and animals.