Landscape ecological structures and functions of community forest and human utilization of landscape ecological services : a case study of the community forest in Song-Puea District, Amphur Kamkuenkaew, Yasothorn province / Piyapat Namprai
Abstract:
This research focuses on studying the landscape ecological structure and function of a traditional community forest in relation to surrounding communities in terms of ecological services, which are interdependent and key to human well being. The aim of this research is to analyze the landscape both structural and functional in relation to, ecological service. The research process utilised aerial photographs Google Earth combined with geographical maps (Royal Thai Survey Department), field surveys and interviews with surrounding residents to gain insights into the landscape ecological structure both in physical and biological terms, facts concerning area usage, as well as problems with area transformation or landscape change. The research characterizes and classifies the study areas to show both the landscape ecological structure and the function that affects ecological service to the surrounding community and understanding into the relationship between study area and human utilization. The research makes proposals concerning area study and analyzes the landscape both in terms of structure and function, which is the first step in planning and managing the landscape. These can also act as a framework or guide for this kind of research in other areas.