Abstract:
This research aims to investigate the distribution and utilization of the sago palms (Metroxylon sagu) in Surat Thani, Chumporn and Ranong (Kraburi and Muang district) provinces. Data were collected through surveys sent to community leaders and government sectors from each region, in-depth interviewing, and through field observations. Results indicated that the sago palm area had noticeably declined and loss from these regions. A total of 304 locations with an estimated area of 200 rai of sago palms are found in 15 districts (Kanchanadit, Ban Na San, Wiang Sa, Ban Na Doem, Phrasaeng, Phunphin, Tha Chang, Chaiya, Muang Surat Thani, Khiri Rat Nikhom, Chai Buri, Khian Sa, Phanom, Tha Chana, and Don Sak) in Surat Thani province. The largest distribution area of sago was found in Karnchanadit and Ban Na Derm districts in Surat Thani Province. In addition, a total of 8 locations with estimated area of 20 rai of sago palms are reported from 3 districts (Lang Suan, Lamae, and Sa-wee) in Chumphon province and a major area of sago palm was found in Langsuang district. Furthermore, there was one location of sago palm with an area about 3 rai in Krapor district, Ranong province. The current situation of sago palm has decreased dramatically both in number of trees and areas in these regions in the last 10 years. Following this trajectory, a critical point will be reached in the near future. Most of sago palm were found along the river, canal, peat land, swampy areas, and pond nearby villages. Nevertherless, sago forest played an important role for human in the community. The use of sago palm had been practiced traditionally since ancient times by people who live in sago producing areas in these regions. Its linked the traditional way of life with culture in many dimentions of, and then, transfer their local knowledge to the next generation as well as demonstated the identities of the community. Almost all part of the sago palms can be used for different perpective. For example, leaves can be used for thatching with costs about 15-30 bahts. Pith of trunk used for animal feed especially feeding the sago worm and costs 100-500 bahts per stem. Starch extraction from the trunk can be used as a food resource for human. Outer bark for solid fuel. The surface of rachis can be peeled and used as matting material. Sap from the cutting surface of the petiole used as glue, while root for medical purposed and etc. In addition, the sago palms ecosystem provided many benefits such as high biodiversity, water resources area, purification of water and soil, reducing the soil erosion as well as food resoures for living things and etc. Moreover, sago palms also influenced to the belief and culture of human in the village. Its used as a part for numerous important culture or festivals such as make a votive offering, Wai Kru Mhor Nora ritual, and others ceremony in the village. However, the distribution of sago palms has decreased dramatically and disapperared in many places. The most severe recent loss has been through the dredging. The loss of sago palms mean the loss of community relationship in any dimention. Therefore, there is a need to have a community and political awareness of conservation issues and practices to protect and restore this local plant as a significant resource in the community.