The Usage of Community’s Biological Resources to Reduce the Cost of Planting. A Case Study of Rice Farmers in Chiangkhong District, Chiangrai Province

Abstract

Using biological resources in the community to reduce the cost of cultivation: A case study of rice cultivation in Chiang Khong, Chiang Rai, Thailand is mixed-method research. The objective was to study the context of rice cultivation and the use of biological resources in the community to reduce the cost and proportion of chemicals used in rice cultivation. The questionnaires were used to collect data from farmers in 7 sub-districts in Chiang Khong. A total number of 113 farmers were used as a sample in this study. The questionnaires were analyzed through quantitative data using statistical percentage, mean value, maximum value, minimum value, and group interview of 15 farmers' representatives. The results showed that farmers have an average rice acreage of 13.56 rai per person, which is their land. The glutinous rice is the most popular one which can be planted 1-2 times a year depending on the area, using natural rainwater and using their seeds for cultivation. More chemicals are used in rice cultivation than natural fertilizer. For harvesting, they are likely to hire rice harvesting machines to harvest their yields. The average yield per rai was 621.61 kg per rai, which can be sold at an average price of 11,356.04 Baht per ton. The different proportion of chemicals and organic compounds using had a statistically significant effect on the rice yields at level 0.05. Farmers' knowledge on the use of biological resources in the community to reduce the cost and use of chemicals in rice cultivation consists of the use of local herbs, composting, bio-fermentation, application of water level control techniques, stubble removal, soil preparation, weed control and pest control in rice fields including integrated farming, adopting farmers' knowledge with knowledge trained by the agricultural authorities to make the best use of biological resources and preserve the environment in the community, the cost of rice cultivation can be reduced by 20.00-30.00%.