A Changing of Unsuitable Area for Rice Production toward the Agri - Map of Farmer in Mueang District, Chaiyaphum Province.

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to study 1) economics, social characteristics, and agricultural resources 2) changing rice area conditions, and 3) problems of farmers in Mueang district, Chaiyaphum province. The sample was 64 farmers continuing to grow crops in an unsuitable area for rice. Data was collected using questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results found that most farmers are female, with an average age of 59.86 years, and most have completed primary school. The average agricultural experience was 31.78 years. The average number of household laborers was 2.41 people. The average amount of debt was 481,910.71 baht. The average amount of land changed was 3.30 rai. Chemical fertilizers and compost were used in the plots but not pesticides. Each farmer had a water source in their plot. Farmers used an average of 22,840.63 baht for farm investment, mostly for water resources. Most of the farms used household labor. Crops grown in their plots included fruit trees (93.75 percent), vegetables (50.00 percent), and planted forest (25.00 percent). Raising animals were fishing (73.44 percent), cattle or buffalo (34.38 percent), and poultry (9.38 percent). Mostly farmers grew for home consumption and sold the surplus in the community. Income from selling products was higher than income from rice, averaging 7,429.12 baht/rai. Most farmers have problems with high production costs and drought. Government agencies should support water resources and low-interest funds. Extension officers should regularly follow up and provide knowledge