By Nicholas Relich | Project Manager
We thank you for your ongoing support of this project. Lack of tourism has affected communities worldwide, and the village of Huay Pakoot is no exception.
Villagers of Huay Pakoot brought elephants back to the village once tourism wound down in the country meaning that income for many families was severely affected.
Thanks to your support and the dedicated efforts of the villagers we are happy to report that the elephants remain healthy and well-fed. Some of our team were able to visit recently and were able to report that the families in the area have been able to ensure this, despite the challenges of the fragmented forest areas.
In the past, areas around the community were thick with forestation. Over the years, large scale farming, often at an industry level, has affected the forest. The result is less opportunity for the elephant to roam and feed in the area putting additional stress on the families. The village is eager for reforestation in the area. A reforestation project will lead to longer-term benefits. Reforestation will support the elephants and other wildlife in the area for many years to come.
The challenges brought about by the global pandemic have highlighted the need for alternate livelihoods. It has been on the agenda for some time in Huay Pakoot, but the current situation means that creating new and sustainable sources of income is a higher priority.
The crisis has meant that the village has really pulled together villagers are in discussion about ways they can develop eco-tourism. Our team were excited to visit the village recently and hear that the families are working together to formulate plans for eco-tourism. We are keen to support these initiatives so that once tourism opens up in Thailand the community is able to sustain itself. There are many skills within the village and being able to develop crafts, for example is a great way to share the local culture as well as create some income.
Over time we have been able to support English lessons for the local community. Being able to speak English is an asset. When communicating with tourists, a valuable skill. Once people have some English and are confident to communicate with tourists their vocabulary and confidence can expand. The lessons have helped them with their first steps. We are keen to continue supporting these lessons and support the community members to be able to b effective in their ethical tourism ventures.
Tourism is still quiet in Thailand however as things open up again, local tourism can be the key to re-establishing livelihoods. Your support can help reach several goals; the reforestation of the local area, skills development of the Huay Pakoot community and keeping the elephant population in the area healthy despite the challenges facing the community..
We thank you for your ongoing support and as we mentioned, excited to hear how well the community is banding together to develop income opportunities in the local area. And great to hear the elephants are doing well. Your ongoing support is deeply appreciated.
By Liane Fulford | Program Manager
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