Conservation Farming in Northern Thailand

Abstract

This case study illustrates the application of economic evaluation methods to an important environmental problem in a developing country. Indeed, the problem consists of two interrelated problems. First, it concerns the deteriorating financial and social situation of hill tribe farmers in the Northern Thailand highlands, caused largely by increasing population pressure and the consequent need to produce more food for self-sufficiency from a finite and ecologically sensitive resource. Second, the problem involves adverse off-site environmental effects on other productive activities, in particular forestry operations and downstream uses of water.

The author wishes to acknowledge the assistance provided by the project managers, Australian Agricultural Consulting and Management Company Pty Ltd, and in particular Mark Hoey. The contribution of Ray Moyle, who assisted with data collection in Northern Thailand, is also appreciated. John Dixon and David James read earlier drafts and made helpful comments. Any errors or omissions remain the responsibility of the author. Institutional support provided by the Environment and Policy Institute, East-West Center, Hawaii, during completion of the manuscript is also gratefully acknowledged.