From January 12th to 16th, 2026, we hosted guests from GIZ Lao PDR and the Wyss Academy for Nature for a five-day workshop on forest ecosystem restoration principles and practice. The event provided a valuable platform to share international experiences in forest restoration, highlighting key efforts from GIZ Lao PDR and Wyss Academy.
Sysavath Keokhamphuy introduced us to GIZ's large scale restoration program in Lao PDR After Ach. Gwang presented a general introduction to FORRU-CMU, GIZ's Sysavath Keokhamphuy reciprocated with an introduction to GIZ's ambitious project: Protection and Sustainable Use of Forest Ecosystems and Biodiversity.ProFEB aims to improve forest governance, promote sustainable forest management and conserve biodiversity through five outputs: inclusive and deforestation-free forestry, cross-border wildlife conservation, capacity building and research, multi-stakeholder partnerships for restoration, and sustainable forest-based value chains. The project is assisting Lao PDR to increase forest cover to 70% of the country.
The workshop continued with lectures on the principles of forest restoration and teaching in the Seed Bank and Seed Explorium of Doi Suthep Nature Centre. Participants learned the importance of seed supply networks to support restoration and the value of indigenous knowledge related to seed traits in Northern Thailand.Aom explained how to keep seed in the seedbank for restoration and conservation.
Archarn Dia explained the process of producing seedlings in the nursery.On the second day, the focus shifted to practical, hands-on activities at the Doi Suthep-Pui Forest Restoration Nursery. Participants gained direct experience in the seedling production cycle, beginning with field data collection through phenology. They practiced various propagation techniques, including seed collection, extraction, treatment, and germination. The training also covered seedling potting and nursery care, alongside production scheduling integrated with scientific experimental and research techniques.Participants learn how to study tree phenology to refine seed collection timing.
Day 3 focused on Field Visits & Community Collaboration at the forest restoration plots in Ban Mae Sa Mai and Ban Mae Sa Noi, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai. Participants had the opportunity to visit both a 20-year-old restored forest and a 2-year-old plot to observe the long-term success of the Framework Species Method.
Beyond the flora, the group gained practical skills in wildlife monitoring using camera traps and learned how local villagers utilize framework tree species in their daily lives. The visit concluded with an in-depth discussion on the socio-economic impacts of community-led forest restoration and the vital role that local engagement plays in driving ecological success.
Participants gained hands-on experience of installing camera traps for wildlife monitoring in restoration sites.
Nan demonstrated how drones can be used for forest restoration.On Days 4-5, the participants divided into two groups according to their main interests: Restoration Technology and Watershed Management. Group A explored the use of automated drone technology for forest restoration, including hands-on practice with direct seeding and aerial seeding via UAVs. This session covered seed quality testing, seedball preparation, and the use of Litchi software for planning photogrammetry flight missions. The group also delved into LiDAR technology for restoration monitoring. Furthermore, participants learned to analyze drone imagery using Agisoft Metashape to generate orthophotos and 3D models. They also utilized CloudCompare to measure tree height, canopy cover, and DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) through 3D modeling. Additional tools included Pix4D as an alternative for height measurement and QGIS for canopy identification and restoration plot mapping.
Participants learned on how to make seedball for dropping by drones.
Participants gained hands-on experience in applying mycorrhiza to seedlings.Group B traveled to the Mae Klang Watershed Management Unit to study sustainable watershed management implemented by the Thai government agencies. Participants learned about watershed protection and the application of mycorrhizal fungi in seedling production, followed by a hands-on workshop on forest restoration using mycorrhiza-inoculated saplings.
Participants then visited Ban Mae Klang Luang, to explore community-based ecotourism. They engaged in a discussion with the Village Chief regarding ecotourism and environmental management models. This served as a prime example of using local tools to empower the community, enabling residents to achieve sustainable environmental conservation.
Participants discussed ecotourism with the village head at Ban Mae Klang Luang.
Visited the Huay Hong Krai Development Study Centre and learned how to practice integrated farming for forest conservation.The next day Group B visited Huay Hong Khrai Royal Development Study Centre. Participants explored three different forest plantation models and studied forest-fire prevention and control strategies. They were introduced to the "New Theory" agriculture and integrated farming initiatives pioneered by King Rama IX—how sustainable agricultural practices can be harmonized with forest conservation, ultimately encouraging local communities to become active stewards of the forest ecosystem.
Participants learning wildfire management at the Huay Hong Krai–Khun Mae Kuang Forest Fire Control Station.Impressed by the lessons learned in northern Thailand, the GIZ group subsequently invited FORRU-CMU to contribute to a National Dialogue on Forest Landscape Restorations in Vientiane on 9-10th February 2026 ... but that's another story.
