Authors : Anurak Khrueakham, Sittichai Shatachote, Kanyarat Sukhawatthanakun, Sarinthip Pongkuleekarn and Arporn Sreemart
Abstract: The purposes of this study were to investigate and develop Nong Harn Chalermphrakiat Park to be a source of lotus collection including eco-tourism destination. Publication and education of people in lotus species through academic exhibition and printed material was also studied. Mixed was employed in this research. The physical survey showed that Nong Harn Chalermphrakiat Park is the wetland area and suitable for growth and collection of the lotus species. Moreover, 5 species of tree, 8 species of floating plant and 6 species of aquatic animal were found. In terms of quantitative research, respondents strongly agreed on developing Nong Harn Chalermphrakiat Park as the source of lotus species collection, eco-tourism destination and local economic development (mean = 4.22). The respondents also strongly agreed that tourism would have positive impacts on their community (mean = 4.25); meanwhile, perceived negative impacts of tourism were less concerned than perceived positive impacts (mean = 3.31). After a feasibility study on investigated the development potentiality in the area, the researchers had started to develop this area in order to make it more scenic and prompt to serve visitors. Furthermore, the researchers have conducted academic exhibition and public relations in order to publicize and educate people. In this study, to avoid the long-term development cost, the project needs to make a proper management plan with an emphasis on 3 important elements (3A): Area, Activities and Authorities.
Anurak Khrueakham, Sittichai Shatachote, Kanyarat Sukhawatthanakun, Sarinthip Pongkuleekarn and Arporn Sreemart, 2010. The Development of Nong Harn Chalermphrakiat Park for Lotus Species Collection, Ecological Tourist Attraction and Local Economic Development. The Social Sciences, 5: 270-275.