Utilization of Nipa Palm in Songkhla Lake Basin, Pak-Ro and Chalae Sub-districts, Singhanakhon District, Songkhla Province

Abstract

Utilization of Nipa palm in the area of Songkhla Lake basin, Singhanakhon district, Songkhla province was studied by collecting the data in the field, and using GPS Map Garmin Program. Researchers prepared a map showing the spatial distribution of Nipa palm community. The analyzed data were obtained through documentary, interview and observational survey from local government leaders, monks, teachers, students and people who used Nipa palm. The results showed that the total number of Nipa palm was 8,039 trees and all groups of people realized about its benefit. From the past to present, Nipa palm community has direct and indirect benefits to local people. Direct benefit of Nipa palm included use for making basket, some house innovation, processed food products and beverages. In the past, there was the production of sugar from Nipa palm. Nipa palm had indirect benefit as the habitats of aquatic animals, preventing erosion of the riverbank, land increase by sediment accumulation and maintaining ecological balance. Therefore, the utilization of Nipa palm is important to support and promote people in the area to realize and appreciate the value of this plant community and also activate the communities to conserve Nipa palm ecosystem.