Agricultural Development
2.1. Establishment of a 75-Rai Agricultural Demonstration Farm
The project has established a 75-Rai agricultural demonstration farm as a model area for integrated development activities in water resources, soil, agroforestry, and livestock in a comprehensive manner. It covers the entire process from the source (cultivation and production), to the middle (market planning), to the destination (value-added processing). This development is carried out in an area-based development approach that is suitable for different types of areas, whether they are upland areas, lowland areas, or paddy fields. Both upland areas, lowland areas, and paddy fields are equipped with modern technologies and agricultural machinery to manage the farms. This serves as a learning and working center for the community and other organizations to expand and continue. The area is divided into several zones as follows:
Upland Area – Fruit cultivation
Such as Kaew Kam Ming mango, Water Jasmine mango, Golden Good Orange, Large White Orange, Mon Thong Durian, Noi Na, Avocado, Lemon, Lemongrass, Scented Coconut, School Shade Lychee, and Water Lettuce Banana.
Sustainable Agriculture Plot
This is a demonstration area for agriculture and livestock, aiming to generate income and reduce expenses. It serves as an example of sustainable agriculture.
Experimental Plot for Pathumma and chrysanthemum
These are plants that provide beautiful landscapes and can be sold and processed into additional income.
Water System in the 75-Rai Agricultural Demonstration Farm
The water system in the agricultural demonstration farm includes plastic-lined ponds, soil-mixed cement ponds, water delivery systems for cultivation areas and paddy fields, solar-powered water pumps, and irrigation channels.
Lychee Garden
Pruning and shaping of lychee plants are conducted as an experiment to modify the canopy shape, making it easier to manage in the future. Additionally, charcoal burning experiments for lychees are carried out.
Terraced Paddy Fields and Irrigated Rice Fields
These are demonstration plots for water management aimed at increasing rice production and reducing the use of chemicals for pest and weed control through the use of bioagents.
Establishment of Nurseries and Seedling Raising Facilities
This includes the operation of nurseries to promote the interest of local residents in seedling raising activities.
Office Building
The office building serves as a workspace, temporary accommodation, and facilities for the project team. It includes meeting rooms, produce sorting facilities, dining halls, dormitories, restrooms, a pavilion, and parking lots.
In addition to being a learning center for visiting study groups, the immediate benefits for the local community from the establishment of the agricultural demonstration farm include job opportunities for local residents. Around 143 people, who had lower incomes compared to the poverty line, have been employed by the project, generating an estimated income of approximately 4,400,000 baht per year.