ABSTRACT
The northeastern region of Thailand was rich with open deciduous forests on large plateaus which has subsequently became a major source of logging since 1968. Deforestation in the northeastern region was extended into Tha Wang Sai and Bung Phra villages in Nakhon Ratchasima province. Learning from their experiences, Tha Wang Sai villagers have turned the deteriorating lands into a dense and green community forest. Villagers were driven more by self-interests than the greater social good like the care of the community forest. With support from government, community forestry projects have been implemented throughout this region by local forestry officials for purposes of reforestation in degraded lands. The forest areas surrounding the community have been destroyed and converted to seasonal economic farms. The villagers have shown little interest in participating in the community meetings. Instead, government officials have played a major role in the decision-making process of community forest management.
