Crops production management to create income stability and food security for the innovation community of the Department of Agriculture at Khao Phra Subdistrict Community, Rattaphum District, Songkhla Province

Abstract

The project "Crop Production Management for Income Stability and Food Security in Agricultural Innovation Communities" was implemented in Khao Phra Subdistrict, Rattaphum District, Songkhla Province. The objective was to apply appropriate technologies from the Department of Agriculture to develop suitable crop production models, enhance agricultural income, and strengthen community food security. The study was conducted from October 2022 to September 2023. The findings revealed that applying fertilizer based on the Department of Agriculture’s guidelines significantly increased durian yield to 789 kg per rai, compared to 353.5 kg per rai under traditional farmer practices. Additionally, integrating a mixed cropping system based on the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, which included nine crop groups, contributed to increased household income and reduced expenses. The development of an organic farming model enabled farmers to access safe food sources, while climate-adaptive cultivation techniques supported continuous crop production throughout both regular and rainy seasons. Furthermore, the establishment of a knowledge-sharing platform among farmers, researchers, and stakeholders promoted collaborative learning in crop production. This initiative fostered the development of a model agricultural community capable of disseminating knowledge and expanding its impact to other regions.