Determinants of Food Bank from Melientha suavis Pierre in a Rural Community in Phrae Province, Thailand

This study aimed to understand the socio-economic characteristics of the communities living in close proximity a conservation forest and determine the factors impacting of communities participation in a forest based food bank using non timber forest products (NTFPs). The plant based food source assessed in this research is Melientha suavis Pierre and study participants were from rural communities in Phrae province, Thailand. In the study, the net return was calculated using economic values. Stepwise regression was done to analyze the factors in 0.05 significance level. The results of the study showed the relationship between household socio-economic characteristics and dependent on non-timber forest product (NTFPs) to secure their livelihoods. The products of Melientha suavis Pierre were approximately 2.33 kilograms/household/month in February-June, 2014 which consisted of consumption in household 0.73 kilograms/household/month and selling 1.6 kilograms/household/month with an average price of 186.77 baht/kilogram. Factors impacting community participation on the food bank were the month of harvesting and the sale of Melientha suavis Pierre. Both factors were incentives to obtain community participation Malientha suavis Pierre was found to be a NTFPs which can increase household income, thus improving quality of life parameters in participating communities. The results of this research highlight the benefits of obtaining a food supply from the forest. These benefits include an improved understanding of forest management practices and awareness among the villagers regarding development of ecology; socio-economic, cultural functions which help improve the communities well-being.