Khoke Yai forest is a catchment area draining into Siew River, a tributary of Mekhong River. The forest has been providing sources of food , wood and fuel for surrounding communities. The threatening problems are community encroachment for more cultivated land, illegal logging, and wild-fire. Consequently, the forest has become degraded and subsequently affected the ecology of Mekhong River.

Besides, Khoke Yai forest has long contributed to the control of soil salinity. Without it or with such capacity decrease, the saline soil will expand and spoil cultivated land and water courses.

The network was established by small groups of communities who depend upon the forest for livelihood. It aims to rehabilitate and manage the forest so that it continues to be the main source of food and fuels.

Project goals or objectives (including GEF problem-area addressed by projects):

1.To build capacity of CBOs? in the area of watershed management
2.To promote alternative agriculture and maximize the efficiency of land use
3.To be a focal point for cooperation amongst public and private sectors

Activities to be carried out under project:

1.Organizing seminar and study tour on community forest management, wild-fire fighting , integrated farming & forest agriculture and natural resources management
2.Formulating plan for fire fighting
3.Launching integrated farming and forest agriculture
4. Setting up mobile unit for exhibition

Project participants and/or beneficiaries:

1.Five tambol administrative organizations
2.Fire Prevention Unit of Mahasarakham Province
3.Mahasarakham Provincial Forest Office
4.Schools around the project location

Anticipated results of project:

1.There emerge 2 network committees in 27 villages with 135 members capable of managing the rehabilitation and conservation plan.
2.There emerge 20 families which are model for integrated farming and forest agriculture.
3.At least three out of the five participating tambol administrative organizations jointly allot budget for the rehabilitation and conservation of environment.
4.There are more trees in the forest and reduction of wild fire