Tourism Management in Dun Lam Phan Non-Hunting Area, Na Chueak District, Maha Sarakham Province

Abstract

       This research aimed to investigate the tourism components and key indicators evaluating the management of Dun Lam Pun Non-Hunting Area, Maha Sarakham Province. The research objectives also aim to identify marketing factors effecting the local tourism management and to provide guidelines for tourism management at Dun Lam Pun Non-Hunting Area. The research methodology applied mixed methods; the qualitative methods were included an in-depth interview and focused-group with a total of 30 local stakeholders and the quantitative methods applied a 5-point rating scale, the discrimination index of the tourism marketing factors was 0.61-0.74, distributed to a total of 400 Thai tourists.  Mean score, standard deviation and factor analysis were statistical techniques for analyzing the quantitative data.  The research findings indicated that conservation and restoration of natural resources were important components of tourism management, whereas raising awareness among the local youths and cooperation of local people were significant key indicators for the development of community-based tourism in this area.  Marketing and service factors strongly effecting to the area’s tourism management were included fame, outstanding that let the tourism of such area become well-known.  Such type of community-based tourism, which initiated all the steak-holders in the area brought about sustainable development.   The research suggested that local stakeholders should mutually understand and help   promote and support tourism activities, as well as preserving the natural resources of Dun Lampun Non-Hunting Area.  A strong collaboration from all sectors will, therefore, lead to sustainable development of the area.