Improving Standards of Free-Range Pradu-Hang Dum Chiang Mai Native Chicken Farms through Good Agricultural Practices, Uttaradit Province

Abstract

The Ban Nua Yai Pradu-Hang Dum native chicken group consists of farmers who produce Pradu-Hang Dum native chicken. Located in Nam Ang Subdistrict, Tron District, Uttaradit Province of Thailand, they faced challenges related to the substandard quality of their Pradu-Hang Dum native poultry farming. The existing poultry houses on their farms were insufficient in size for the number of chickens, and there was no designated free-range area. These factors affected the growth and survival rates of the chickens. Additionally, many farmers lacked knowledge in disease prevention, animal care, disease control, and waste management, which are crucial aspects of good agricultural practices (GAP) for farm management. This research aimed to upgrade the Pradu-Hang Dum native chicken farms to meet the criteria of Good Agricultural Practices for free-range indigenous chicken farms. The objective was to produce hygienic Pradu Hang Dum Chiang Mai indigenous chickens and high-quality chicken meat suitable for consumption. Sita Farm served as a model farm, showcasing the desired farm standards within the community. The operations involved: 1) improving farms to meet the requirements of Good Agricultural Practices for free-range indigenous chicken farms; 2) ensuring clean and sufficient animal feed and water for consumption; 3) implementing farm management practices, including personnel, cleaning, maintenance, and environmental management; 4) applying for farm standard certification to elevate the standards of free-range native chicken farms in alignment with Good Agricultural Practices; and 5) transferring knowledge about native chicken farm standards consistent with Good Agricultural Practices. As a result, 18 farmers received information on farm standards and observed Sita Farm as a model, demonstrating an 81.20% increase in knowledge, comprehension, and understanding of the benefits of improved farm management. Furthermore, 4 farmers planned to enhance their farms within one year, while 3 farmers aimed to upgrade their farms within 3 years by appropriately expanding the free-range area and modifying the housing structure to raise the farm's standards and increase production efficiency. Certification plays a crucial role in consumer acceptance of the product, providing access to more domestic and international distribution channels and ultimately increasing the income of poultry producers.