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Her Majesty the Queen has highlighted the importance of forests and expressed concern about continued unrest in the deep South. 

Each year on the eve of her birthday the Queen delivers a speech that touches on issues of national concern and includes sage advice.

On the eve of her 76th birthday she addressed the country from the Dusidalai Hall, Chitralada Villa, Dusit Palace. It was attended by PM Minister Samak Sundaravej, his Cabinet and representatives of the people.

After thanking the nation for their best wishes, she turned to the pressing issue of dwindling forests. The Queen says forests help to store groundwater that gives life to watercourses, big and small.

"A forest is a water source," Her Majesty says. "Think about fresh water - we can't do without it.

"Our industries, our lives, need water," the Queen says.

She notes many experts predict the world will suffer a serious shortage of water within the next 15 years.

As well as encouraging renewed forest protection, Her Majesty pleads for reforestation efforts.

Her environmental concerns extend to the Chao Phya River and mangroves, too.

"The Chao Phya River used to be abundant," Her Majesty recalls.

She hopes to see the river clean enough again to be a vibrant habitat for water life. Factories and farms must cease discharging effluent into the Chao Phya.

"Mangrove forests are important. Don't destroy them," she adds.

Her Majesty's concern for the deep South was another significant part of her address.

"This problem has been going on for four or five years now. The situation is seriously worrying," Her Majesty says.

She laments the deaths of citizens killed in market bombs and plantation attacks. "I don't know why this problem has erupted. Peace used to prosper there," Her Majesty says.

She praises selfless police officers like Captains Thoranit Srisook and Krittikul Boonlue. Both volunteered to work in the southernmost provinces to help local people.

Both were killed in the line of duty.

Her Majesty urges all people to support officials, police and soldiers serving in the troubled region.

"Send them your support. It can be in the form of a letter or any item," she says.

State-school teachers are targets of attack there, too, she says. Her Majesty plans to provide protection to teachers.

Her Majesty supports demonstration farms at local villages where people can get food and basics, without having to travel to distant and often dangerous fresh markets, frequently the targets of attacks.

"I want to prevent these deaths," Her Majesty says.