Study of the Current Situation, Problems, and Obstacles in Managing Green Tourism Dongrak Subdistrict, Phusing District, Sisaket Province

Abstract

Background and Aims: The development strategy of local administrative organizations in Sisaket Province has outlined key development strategies focusing on infrastructure, natural resources, and environmental management. This includes creating awareness, fostering love and appreciation for nature to reduce global warming, which aligns with the 20-year national strategy (2017-2027) on promoting growth with an environmentally friendly quality of life. Dongrak Subdistrict has high potential for green tourism due to its abundant forests and mountains, resulting in numerous natural tourist attractions. This subdistrict has significant tourism potential to generate income for the community and Sisaket Province. Therefore, this research aims to study the current conditions, problems, and obstacles in managing green tourism in Dongrak Subdistrict, Phusing District, Sisaket Province.

Methodology: The group of key informants consisted of 32 people, including 8 community leaders, 16 residents, and 8 business owners/shopkeepers, totaling 32 people. The tool used for data collection was a semi-structured interview. The researcher personally collected interview data in the area of Dongrak Subdistrict, Phusing District, Sisaket Province. The data were then analyzed using content analysis.

Results: Dongrak Subdistrict is located in the southern part of Phusing District, Sisaket Province, 99 kilometers away from Sisaket Province by car. Its geographical features include foothills and dense forests, creating beautiful and distinctive tourist attractions such as Huay Sawai Waterfall, Na Trao Waterfall, Laem Son, Phatamum, and Phlan Tham Jan. However, there are few tourists due to a lack of good publicity. The community also lacks knowledge in managing green tourism and support from government agencies.

Conclusion: Dongrak Subdistrict has beautiful natural scenery and a variety of tourist attractions, but it still lacks good infrastructure, such as roads leading to tourist sites, accommodations, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The management of tourism in Dongrak village still faces several issues, including the community's lack of knowledge and understanding of green tourism management, land-related problems, issues from the local population, and problems stemming from the lack of cultural group cohesion.