Enhancement of Rice Production Through the Development of Farmers by Utilizing Rice Production Technologies from Rice Department in Mae Jam District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand

Abstract

Rice production in Mae Jam District, Chiang Mai Province, faces several challenges, including high production costs, low yields, and susceptibility to pests and diseases. These issues arise from the conversion of sloped, wooded lands into rice fields, inadequate soil management, and a lack of knowledge regarding proper fertilizer application. Additionally, rice blast disease, rice gall midge, and white-backed planthopper infestations further reduce productivity. To address these challenges, this research aimed to enhance rice production through the adoption of improved agricultural technologies in Ban Mae Pan, Chao Kheing Subdistrict, Ban Kong Kan, Mae Suek Subdistrict, and Ban Mae Na Chon, Mae Na Chon Subdistrict.

This study employed participatory research methods, integrating knowledge transfer and practical demonstrations through the following steps:

1. Conducting meetings with officials, community leaders, and farmer representatives to identify agricultural challenges and farmers’ needs.


2. Transferring knowledge about advanced rice production technologies.


3. Collaborating with the Rice Department to identify and introduce appropriate rice production technologies.


4. Organizing group meetings and hands-on training in rice fields based on rice growth stages.


5. Evaluating rice yield and production costs, allowing farmers to assess the advantages and limitations of the introduced technologies.

Through this initiative, 13 farmers were trained as representatives, playing a key role in disseminating knowledge within their communities. Farmers recognized the benefits of soil-based chemical fertilizer application based on soil analysis, which effectively reduced production costs. Additionally, environmentally friendly pest management strategies, such as sticky traps and antagonistic microorganisms, were encouraged to minimize pesticide use in highland areas, where rice is mainly grown for consumption.

The RD22 rice variety emerged as a preferred choice among farmers due to its high yield, resistance to rice blast disease and rice gall midge, and its aromatic qualities. Adoption of this variety and improved cultivation techniques led to an average yield increase of 102 kg/Rai, representing a 20% improvement, while production costs decreased by 13% (477 Baht per Rai). Specific results by village indicated: 

• In Ban Mae Pan, traditional methods yielded an average of 501 kg/Rai, while the new techniques increased yields to 604 kg/Rai (+103 kg/Rai). 


• In Ban Kong Kan, yields increased from 530 kg/Rai to 624 kg/Rai (+94 kg/Rai).


• In Ban Mae Na Chon, yields improved from 519 kg/Rai to 629 kg/Rai (+110 kg/Rai).

These enhancements resulted in greater food security for farming households. Moreover, the cost reduction strategies led to financial savings of 1,523 Baht/Rai compared to traditional methods. Specific cost reductions included:

• In Ban Mae Pan, production costs decreased from 4,024 Baht/Rai to 3,737 Baht/Rai, with net income increasing by 1,353 Baht/Rai.


• In Ban Kong Kan, costs dropped from 4,173 Baht/Rai to 3,524 Baht/Rai, with a net income rise of 1,620 Baht/Rai.


• In Ban Mae Na Chon, costs fell from 3,334 Baht/Rai to 2,840 Baht/Rai, increasing net income by 1,598 Baht/Rai.

Beyond economic gains, this research fostered significant social and community impacts. Farmers' participation in group discussions and field trials facilitated experiential learning, encouraging them to reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of their existing methods versus the newly introduced techniques. This led to greater acceptance of scientific practices and modifications in traditional rice-growing methods. The establishment of farmer groups further strengthened community networks, enhancing cooperation in problem-solving and knowledge-sharing. This initiative also laid the foundation for the creation of community rice centers, allowing farmer groups to receive ongoing support from the Rice Department.

The long-term sustainability of these improvements is evident in three key areas:

1. Economic Impact: Farmers achieved a 20% increase in rice yield and a 13% reduction in production costs, leading to higher incomes and improved livelihoods.


2. Community Development: Adoption of sustainable rice farming practices contributed to reduced chemical pesticide use, benefiting both the environment and local food safety. Community rice innovators emerged as local leaders, providing guidance on rice production challenges and strengthening farmer networks.


3. Policy Implications: The success of this initiative provides a model for expanding similar programs through farmer training workshops and rice farming demonstrations. The Rice Department can utilize these findings to develop targeted interventions, ensuring more widespread adoption of cost-effective and environmentally friendly rice production techniques.

Overall, this study demonstrates that integrating scientific knowledge with farmer participation can significantly enhance rice production, improve household food security, and foster sustainable agricultural practices in Mae Jam District.