From January 12 to 16, 2026, we hosted guests from GIZ Lao PDR and the Wyss Academy for Nature for a comprehensive five-day workshop. The event provided a valuable platform to share international experiences in forest restoration, highlighting key efforts from GIZ Lao PDR and Wyss Academy.
A Lao participant shared a forest restoration project from Lao PDR.On the first day, participants attended fundamental lectures on the principles of forest restoration and engaged in knowledge-sharing sessions regarding restoration efforts in Lao PDR and Nan Province, Thailand. They also toured the Seed Bank and Seed Explorium at the Doi Suthep Nature Centre to study tree seed conservation and explore the historical significance of Lanna culture regarding 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 visited the Doi Suthep–Pui Forest Restoration Research Nursery and learned how to produce seedlings for restoration.
Participants visited the forest restoration plot.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 in installing camera traps for wildlife monitoring at the restoration site.
Nan demonstrated how drones can be used for forest restoration.On Day 4, the program was divided into two sessions: Restoration Technology and Watershed Management. Participants 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 for 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 restoration.
Participants gained hands-on experience in applying mycorrhiza to seedlings.Simultaneously, the other group traveled to the Mae Klang Watershed Management Unit to study sustainable water management implemented by the government. 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.
Additionally, the participants 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 workshop concluded on the fifth day at the 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 "New Theory" agriculture and integrated farming initiatives pioneered by King Rama IX. These models demonstrate 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.
