Public Opinion on The Potential of Geotourism Attraction and Community Expectations for Economic Development in Khon Kaen Geopark

Abstract

This article aims to evaluate the potential of geotourism sites, including the components of tourist attractions and public expectations regarding economic development within the Khon Kaen Geopark area. This is a quantitative research study conducted with a sample of 375 residents living in Wiang Kao District, Khon Kaen Province. The tool used for data collection was a questionnaire, and the method used for data analysis was descriptive statistics. The study found that, in terms of academic potential, the most significant sites are 1) Excavation Site No. 8 – Hin Lat Pa Chat, 2) Tat Fa Waterfall, 3) Chom Tawan Cliff, and 4) Ban Bo Rock Salt Site, respectively. In terms of development and management, the highest potential was identified at 1) Tat Fa Waterfall, 2) Excavation Site No. 8 – Hin Lat Pa Chat, 3) Chom Tawan Cliff, and 4) Ban Bo Rock Salt Site. For the factors affecting the potential of tourist attractions, the most important ones are 1) attractions, 2) accommodation, 3) amenities, 4) accessibility, and 5) activities, in that order. Public expectations on economic development in the Khon Kaen Geopark area, ranked from highest to lowest, are: 1) Improvement of Thailand geopark from national status to UNESCO Global Geopark status, 2) the community feels pride in geotourism sites in the area, 3) the community has greater awareness of the conservation and protection of natural resources and the environment, 4) geological resources in the area are being sustainably preserved and protected, 5) the community has improved quality of life, 6) increased community income, and 7) higher employment opportunities, respectively.