Technology Transfer in Production and Using Wood Vinegar for Development of Groups and Networks of Farmers Planted Mangoes for Export in Chachoengsao Province

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to identify the need to transfer knowledge of production and utilization of wood vinegar among farmer groups and networks. The studied samples were from a farmers’ group in Chachoengsao province who planted mangoes for export. The purposive sampling method was used for sample size of 30 people. Percentage, average, standard deviation, and t-test score were statistically analyzed in this study. The results were found as follows. 1) On the perspective of identifying the need of production and using wood vinegar, farmers agreed that three methods should be integrated, i.e., lecture, workshop and demonstrations. Manuals should be the primary medium for transferring technology. The group of farmers should consist of 20-30 people. The best time for training should be a one-day training during October to December. 2) The transfer of technology for production and utilization of wood vinegar should be a system approach, such as assessment phase, transfer and development phase, and evaluation phase. 3) The evaluation of technology transfer showed that the knowledge before and after transferring technology is significantly different (p < 0.05). The average scores that farmers gained after the training was 13.10 compared to 7.37 before the training. The attitude of farmer on over training activity score was 4.15, which is in the level of “good”. When considering the trainers’ ability, the score was 4.44 (very good). The average score regarding the media and facilities used, the score was 4.24 (very good). The average score on the transfer process was 4.19 (good). Finally, the farmers suggested that the technology transfer program could be sustainable if budgets for training were to be allocated continuously.