Guidelines for Solving Forest Fire and Smog Problems in Mueang Paeng Subdistrict, Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province

Abstract

This research aims to 1) to study the guidelines for solving forest fire and smog problems in Muang Pang Subdistrict, Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province, 2) to suggest steps and methods for creating a volunteer network to prevent and solve forest fire problems in forest areas in various villages of Muang Pang Subdistrict, Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province. This qualitative research employs in-depth interviews with purposively selected key informants, including 32 individuals from three groups: (1) nine government officials, (2) eight village leaders, and (3) fifteen core and operational forest fire personnel.
The research results found that:
1. The key approach to addressing forest fire and haze issues involves collaborative efforts between government agencies, local leaders, and community members. However, bureaucratic complexity, budget constraints, unclear communication, and lack of coordination hinder effective prevention and mitigation. Despite these challenges, establishing a volunteer network for forest fire prevention and control is highly feasible.
2. Regarding the proposed procedures, the study suggests selecting and appointing volunteer leaders in each village, forming a network, and establishing local fire watch units. Additional measures include training volunteers, providing firefighting equipment and budgetary support, utilizing technology for fire monitoring, fostering community awareness, and maintaining continuous evaluation and communication.