Learning Resource Center for Haze and Forest Fire Management, Lampang Province

Abstract

Haze and forest fires are critical problems in Lampang affecting people’s health, especially young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and patients with chronic diseases. Significantly, they lead to various diseases, including eye inflammation, dermatitis, and cardiovascular and respiratory system disease.  Illegally burnings: forests, grass, and post-harvest scraps in agricultural areas are the principal causes.  To cope with the problem, Node Flagship Lampang, supported by ThaiHealth, provided a budget to many villages around Doi Phra Bat, Kelang Banphot National Park. By participating and integrating management, “Ban Rai Patana” Moo 7, Tambon Pichai, Mueang District, Lampang is one of the success cases. It shows that 1) reducing burning at 100%, 2) developing a learning resource center model for haze and forest fires control, 3) Using a database to link with information from the Provincial Forest Fire Control Operation Center, and 4) communicating to create awareness and elevate the learning process of target groups and networks through many various media.  People in the community are now aware of forest conservation and continuously participated in activities; fireproofing lines, building weirs, and Raising funds for community disasters. The fund can be used for activities related to forests throughout the year.