Alternative agriculture in the upper North of Thailand has been steadily developing over the past 10 years.  It has grown through trying and testing in the farmer’s fields, through learning from real experiences, through the proceedings of community groups and with the help of outside groups throughout that period.  It was all an effort towards altering the agricultural production systems, appropriately addressing the different potentials of the lowlands, upland and highlands.  Today we are seeing clear tangible alternative production whether it be raising fish in rice paddies, integrated agriculture, rotating agriculture or contour agriculture in the highlands to conserve soil and water.

Equally important have been local agricultural leaders.  Through their own experiences in developing techniques and amassing observations into wisdom they become important sources in disseminating knowledge to those who are interested.  These leaders disseminate their knowledge through hosting demonstrations and through many other platforms of study.

The opportunity to produce this book, therefore, has arisen from cooperation of many people and interested groups so as to relay valuable information to as wide an audience as possible.
 

     Alternative Agriculture Network of North Thailand
      February, 1996