communities, mostly of ethnic minority groups, have depended on the natural resources in these areas for generations. Contrary to popular myth, upland ethnic minority groups are not the cause of vast deforestation. In fact, the Pa-ka-yoh or Karen population, are known for their sustainable use of natural resources. While on the other hand, conservation policies have ignored large forest concessions made to private investors and the impact of cash-crop contract-farming.
While the future of highland communities is uncertain, due to ambiguity in policies and conflicting laws, Raks Thai Foundation/CARE Thailand has been working for over 20 years in Mae Chaem district in Chiang Mai and in many more locations in Lampoon, Mae Hong Son and Nan provinces to support sustainable agriculture practices, agro-forestry, natural resources management and education. |
