The Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives visited Krabi to support the Land Development Technology Transfer Center, a model of integrated agriculture that creates sustainable income.
Mr. Nares Thamrongthippayakun, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, revealed after visiting the Land Development Technology Transfer Center of Mr. Weerasak Minto, a volunteer soil specialist of Ao Luek Noi Subdistrict, Ban Na Khae, Village No. 4, Ao Luek Noi Subdistrict, Ao Luek District, Krabi Province, that this center serves as a model for converting monoculture (oil palm) farming into an integrated farming system based on the philosophy of sufficiency economy. It integrates knowledge of land development, soil and water conservation, and appropriate technology applications to increase product diversity and generate income throughout the year.
Currently, the learning plot grows oil palm alongside supplementary plants such as cempedak, vegetables, herbs, and fruit trees, along with beekeeping and cricket farming activities to diversify income risks. Soil improvement is conducted using compost, bio-fermented solutions, and agricultural waste materials, as well as planting vetiver grass to prevent soil erosion and establishing an appropriate water management system.
Operational data shows that farmers continuously develop production systems. Despite some rising production costs due to economic conditions and climate change, they can manage to achieve net income each year. This reflects the potential of integrated farming to provide income stability and reduce risks from price fluctuations of single crops. The Land Development Department supports knowledge, soil improvement materials, and ongoing technology transfer on soil and water conservation to elevate the center as a learning hub for farmers, students, and the general public in the area.
Mr. Nares added that the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives prioritizes land management alongside balanced soil and water resource management. It supports regenerative agriculture, resource conservation, and adaptation to climate change to strengthen farmers in the long term. Relevant agencies have been tasked to monitor and concretely expand successful models to other areas.