Ratch joins effort to save nation's forests

Anongwan Thepsuthin, minister of natural resources and the environment, said her ministry asked all parties, particularly the department, to take care of wooded areas and encourage reforestation with the goal of expanding the country's forest cover to 128 million rai, or 40 per cent of its land area.

The programme is the first partnership between the department and a private organisation to develop well-managed forests that benefit their communities in accordance with the sufficiency economy philosophy.

Somchai Piensathaporn, director-general of the department, said the programme is a key driver for the application of the ideas of Their Majesties the King and Queen on forest development for the ultimate benefit of the community. The programme will strengthen communities while building a network of communities for efficient management of community forests.

Narong Sitasuwan, managing director of RATCH, said Bt56 million was set aside to support the five-year project, including a contest to find the best community forest with systematic plans, mechanisms and procedures to protect and develop solid forestry through people's participation.

Entries for the contest can be submitted to forest resource management offices or forestry development and study centres nationwide before the end of the month.