THE ENDEVOR TO AUGMENT INDIVIDUALS' COGNIZANCE REGARDING SUSTAINABLE COEXISTENCE WITH THE FOREST IN BAN SOP PONG, SITUATED WITHIN THE SOP PONG SUB-DISTRICT OF PANG MAPHA DISTRICT, MAE HONG SON PROVINCE

Abstract

 The objective of this participatory action research is to investigate the following: 1) the evolution of Sop Pong villagers' way of life in conjunction with the forest from past to present, 2) an analysis of limitations and problems related to managing Ban Sop Pong forest area, and 3) improving people's consciousness towards sustainable living alongside forests through community participation. A total of 46 key informants were surveyed using observation, interviews, and group discussions as data collection methods. Content analysis was utilized during community forums and training sessions.

The research results were as follows:1. Sop Pong villagers' way of life in relation to the forest comprises modern housing construction, wild food consumption supplemented by agriculture and hill tribe markets for sustenance, colorful clothing choices, as well as herbal medicine usage complemented by modern medicine; 2. Limitations pertaining to forest area management include declining forest land areas due to fires or flash floods along with poverty-induced inequalities; and finally, utilizing KLIPS Model for creating collective awareness among villagers about their local environment proved effective via knowledge creation surrounding laws governing forests (K), developing transformational leadership strategies (L), generating innovative ideas from productive factors (I), promoting village-wide participation measures (P),while fostering social networks dedicated towards sustainable forestry practices (S), Social networks for sustainable forest management.