Knowledge Management of No-Till Farming in a Highland Area: A Case Study of Farmers in Mae Na Chon Sub-district, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai Province

Authors

  • Nathitakarn Phayakka
  • Anupong Wongchai
  • Fapailin Chaiwan
  • Nobumasa Hatcho
  • Shinogi Yoshiyuki
  • Van Van Kim

Keywords:

No-till farming, knowledge management, highland areas

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to assess the knowledge level of the project participants on no-till farming, both before and after learning about no-till farming. Twenty farmers were recruited to participate in the project in Mae Na Chon Sub-District, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai Province. The research process consisted of three steps: (i) planning; (ii) implementation from training, making demonstration plots, monitoring, and evaluation; and (iii) knowledge sharing. In terms of data collection, a qualitative approach is employed using questionnaires, diagrams, log forms, document analysis, and descriptive statistical analysis. The results revealed that, for traditional agricultural production, most farmers plowed with walk-behind tractors and tractors 1-2 times before planting. After harvesting, the land is often left empty. As for the analysis and assessment of the knowledge level before and after the training and the demonstration plots, it was found that the pre-knowledge level was significantly low (2.04%) while the post-knowledge level improved (4.11%). Besides, at the meeting to exchange knowledge, it was found that there were important issues that should be considered if no-till farming was to be implemented in Mae Na Chon Sub-District and in other highland farming areas. The issues included soil friability, the elimination of regrowing weeds, and pests in the soil. Therefore, the preparation of both the site and the environment should be planned to avoid any potential risk in the soil.

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Published

2022-10-23