Doi Inthanon National Park pioneers integrated conservation area management approach
Doi Inthanon National Park is piloting a holistic area conservation approach, with a focus on integrated administration and avoiding unnecessary burdens on personnel. This pioneering project aims to effectively manage the park’s 16 sub-agencies and a budget of 50 million baht, whilst protecting the natural environment and resources.
Doi Inthanon National Park, the country’s highest peak, is launching a comprehensive area conservation management project with a special emphasis on integrated planning and management to preserve nature and natural resources. The park’s director, Athapol Charoensasa, revealed that there are four main divisions responsible for the coordinated management of the region: General Administration, Tourism and Research, Natural Resource Conservation, and Area Rehabilitation and Development.
The implementation of the integrated conservation management approach primarily focuses on general administration, human resources, finance, procurement, and ensuring all income and expenses are properly monitored and controlled. Tourism and research planning aim to improve facilities, landscaping, and marketing strategies while offering accommodation and rescue services that meet international standards.
The Natural Resource Conservation division focuses on protection, enforcement, fire prevention, and control, along with employing modern technology for smart patrols and maintaining quality standards. Meanwhile, the Area Rehabilitation and Development division creates sustainable community networks, establishes a proper database for park management, and facilitates various initiatives such as reforestation programs.
Athapol has emphasised that the structure must not create excessive workloads or unmanageable personnel duties, with the importance of tasks determining the allocation of resources. Every department and project must operate under the name of Doi Inthanon National Park, to avoid complications in park management.
Adding to the responsibilities of the park’s head, they must be well-versed in various aspects of conservation, problem-solving, and team-building, and possess exceptional communication skills. By doing so, park managers can help address conflicts and issues that may arise within the community, reports Khaosod.
Doi Inthanon National Park is responsible for coordinating with 16 different sub-agencies with a combined budget of 50 million Baht. By employing an integrated conservation management strategy that brings together all departments, the aim is to ensure efficient budget allocation whilst preserving the environment and natural resources for years to come.
