Tactics for Creating Tree Bank for Community Environment and Household Economy in Thailand

Abstract

This article aimed to present strategies for creating a tree bank. Activities in tree bank plots for sustainable community environmental management and raising the household economy according to the new economic model were studied. The research area is a community that has successfully managed a tree bank and has been praised as a model in 3 regions, including 3 locations: Ban Tham Suea tree bank in Phetchaburi province, Khao Chakan agroforestry tree bank in Sa Kaeo province and Ban Khlong Ruea tree bank in Chumphon province. Data were collected through in-depth interviews. Group interviews were conducted and tree survey plots in the field were prepared. Committee members of the Tree Bank and representatives of the 3 Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), 11 people each, totaling 33 people were purposive sampling. Content analysis and the abundance of plant species were analyzed using the Menhinick (1964). The research results showed that the strategy for creating a tree bank involved group forming of household members with their own land by planting trees in agroforestry plots. The group acquire wood as an asset and use trees as collateral to guarantee loans from financial institutions that are guaranteed by the state. Environmental activities were organized by planting trees of at least 25 perennial trees per rai. 58 plant species as specified by the BAAC were chosen. Nourish the soil with compost made from scraps of leaves and branches. The richness index (R2) analysis showed that the abundance of tree species in all plots was at a high level (R2 =2.5-4.5). In terms of upgrading the household economy, knowledge of the production of firewood and burn charcoal, wood vinegar from trees, wood processing for house construction and furniture products was disseminated by the tree bank by organizing learning center and eco-tourism. Collaborative networks with organizations and educational institutions were built in order to use the tree bank for sustainable development.