A Case Study of Project Implementation in the East of Thailand

Abstract

This is a case study of the Land and Water Conservation Center project implemented in the selected 7 eastern provinces by Department of Land Development (DLD), under the cooperation of the Japanese government. Objectives of this study were to assess suitability of the conservation measures, effectiveness, problems and constraints of the pilot project implementation, and to propose recommendations for further adaptations of the model for soil and water conservation measures. The contextual analysis revealed that the project goal was not clearly perceived at the practice level. There were unadequate inputs in terms of follow-up budget and personnel to maintain the mechanical structure and equipment. The pilot site was appropriately selected for technology testing in terms of physical condition, but with some problems in the social background of participating farmers. Overall administrative structure and plan of the project were well developed. However, the problems existed in the project coordination and monitoring, incongruence of the target plan and the actual implementation. Technology testing was not fully implemented, particularly on-farm experiment. Follow-up and evaluation of the project was unadequate. The output analysis revealed that the mechanical and vegetative measures were suitable for the project area. However, extension activities were much needed to support the adoption of vegetative measures by farmers. Farmers did not fully perceive the benefits of the conservation measures, hence a lack of participation in the maintenance. The DLD official benefited much from the knowledge transfer, but knowledge implementation was limited. Data were lacking to indicate the physical outcome of the conservation measures. Overall, the project goal was attained in output rather than outcome. For further adaptation of the conservation technology and model, it was recommended that the integrated nature of the project should be maintained by incorporating into the routine activities of the provincial DLD offices. To ensure a successful and sustainable implementation, selection of project sites should be based on the activeness of the local farmers, group dynamics, and local leaders and organizations.