Land suitability analysis for pasture development at Muaklek, Thailand : a GIS application | |
| Author | Shrestha, Rajendra Prasad |
| Call Number | AIT RSPR no.NR-93-02 |
| Subject(s) | Pastures--Thailand Geographic information systems |
| Note | A research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Environment, Resource and Development |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Series Statement | Research studies project report ; no. NR-93-02 |
| Abstract | Land, being the basis of production of utmost importance, it is imperative to assess the performance of a land unit for any specified use. This study is about the suitability of land for pasture and forage production in Muaklek area of Thailand. The method employed was based on FAO Framework for Land Evaluation to analyze the suitability both physically and socioeconomically. Limitation concept combined with parametric classification approach was employed for physical suitability analysis by using GIS. Muaklek, which has rolling steep terrain is most vulnerable to soil erosion due to both geomorphological nature and land utilization practices. On the other side, this is the largest production area of dairy farming which is main economic activity of the people of this area has serious problem of livestock fodder shortage.'. The findings of the study indicate that on the basis of physical suitability the Muaklek area which is obviously not suitable for upland cultivation has only 4.1 percent area suitable for intensive pasture production. Another 25 percent of land area, however, is of moderate suitability for pasture can be more productive in terms of economic return compared to maize cultivation. Small farmers are the one utilizing common resources for grazing animals most frequently than larger ones. Until now, no significant attempts to overcome the problem of shortage of livestock fodder are under way. Problem oriented recommendations regarding policy matters, extension and development were derived focusing on the fodder problem, socio-economic status and physical suitability of land with due consideration of ecological stability in the area. The specific recommendations for future research on pasture are also supplemented. |
| Year | 1993 |
| Corresponding Series Added Entry | Asian Institute of Technology. Research studies project report ; no. NR-93-02 |
| Type | Research Study Project Report (RSPR) |
| School | School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD) |
| Department | Department of Development and Sustainability (DDS) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Natural Resources Management (NRM) |
| Chairperson(s) | Apisit Eiumnoh; |
| Examination Committee(s) | Weber, Karl E.;Sornthep Tumwasorn; |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA); |
| Degree | Research Studies Project Report (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1993 |