Participatory process helped Thai villagers win a community forest title for their seven villages that allows them to use the land more efficiently and is bringing young people back. The 5,000 villagers can farm some 3,500 acres inside a protected forest in Mae Tha district in northern Thailand, showing it is possible to preserve the forest while allowing community development. They record their use of forest resources including timber, which is allowed in a designated area. They farm vegetables, fruit, corn and herbs organically. More than 20 young residents set up home delivery of produce in the pandemic, a tie-up with a big retail network has ensured demand, and their new organic cafe is thriving.

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