Today (19 July 2020) at 9.00 AM., Mr. Poongboon Pongthong, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, presided over the training project “Volunteers” by the reforestation and forest fires prevention project. This project covers the areas of upstream forest, mangrove, swamp, other public lands to show loyalty and appreciation of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua for performing various royal duties for the benefit of the Thai people. This training project aims to enable trainees to coordinate with all sectors effectively and have a deep understanding of the theory and practice of rehabilitation planning, preserve upstream forests, and control forest fires. Additionally, this activity will bring to raise awareness of the preservation of natural resources and the environment in the area, together with building and expanding a strong community network. At the event, Director General of Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation, Director General of Forestry Department, Deputy Governor of Chiang Mai Province (Mr. Komsan Suwanaumpa), Commander of the 7th Infantry Brigade, Royal Thai Volunteers, and trainees welcome at Chiang Mai Grand View Hotel, Chiang Mai Province.

Mr. Poongboon Pongthong states that forest fires problems mostly occurred due to humans. Whether it is forestry, hunting, livestock, the encroachment of land, and agriculture. These activities of humans cause forest degradation resulting in reduced fertility of forest ecosystems. Forest restoration, water resource preservation, and forest fire solution for the maximum benefit of communities are very significant. Therefore, the training project “Volunteers Mind” under the reforestation and forest fires prevention project has been established. This project is the project that the Royal Thai Volunteer Head Center, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and Ministry of Interior work with government and private sectors. The training will hold between 19 – 23 July 2020. The project will be implemented by providing training in all provinces nationwide, in which the crucial stage will start in 56 districts at 12 provinces.