Forest rangers in Khao Nan National Park, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, recently made headlines after catching a hunter red-handed. This accomplishment is just one example of the tireless dedication of rangers across Thailand, who put their lives on the line to safeguard the country’s natural treasures. (File photo by Nujaree Raekrun)
To bolster these vital efforts, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is launching an initiative to increase the number of forest rangers, aimed at enhancing forest protection and easing the workload of the current rangers. “We deeply admire and value the extraordinary work of those who protect and preserve our nation’s precious natural resources,” said Ratchata Pisitbannakorn, assistant to Environment Minister Phatcharavat Wongsuwan, during World Ranger Day celebrations on Wednesday.
Starting in October, the ministry will raise the starting salary for rangers from 9,000 to 11,000 baht per month, a move warmly welcomed by the ranger community. Moreover, to further alleviate the burden on the existing 21,000 rangers responsible for managing 75 million rai of forest and maritime reserves, additional staff will be recruited. Currently, one ranger is tasked with overseeing 5,000 rai on average, but the plan is to eventually bring this number down to 3,000 rai per ranger, according to Mr. Ratchata.
“We can implement these changes more swiftly in flat terrains, but it will take a bit longer in mountainous regions,” he explained. “Thai rangers are globally recognized as among the best due to their remarkable success in conserving the nation’s pristine forests.”
In Chiang Mai, an area plagued by seasonal forest fires, the work of forest rangers is especially valued. “Forest fires pose the greatest threat to our province,” commented Tosapol Phuanudom, deputy governor of Chiang Mai. For the past two decades, residents have grappled with haze and smoke pollution caused by these fires. However, thanks to the relentless efforts of our forest rangers, there has been a notable improvement in air quality this year.
Despite a 60% decline in rainfall compared to the previous year, rangers have managed to significantly reduce the number of hotspots and burn scars, as observed by Mr. Tosapol. Furthermore, the number of days with unsafe PM2.5 levels has dropped by 28% in comparison to last year, a testament to the rangers’ dedication and hard work.
On a global scale, the importance of rangers extends beyond national borders. Dindo Campilan, regional director for the International Union for Conservation of Nature, highlighted the critical state of our planet, with numerous species disappearing at an unprecedented rate. “This alarming trend disrupts the delicate balance of our ecosystem, impacting our access to clean air, water, and essential medicines,” Dr. Campilan remarked on World Ranger Day.
He praised the rangers for their crucial role in implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to promote global sustainability. “Rangers deserve adequate resources, better welfare, fair compensation, and strong support to effectively perform their duties,” Dr. Campilan emphasized, acknowledging the indispensability of their work.
As Thailand moves forward with these new initiatives, the world watches closely, recognizing the profound impact that well-supported and well-equipped rangers can have on preserving our natural environment for generations to come. Here’s to the unsung heroes of our forests, who battle tirelessly in the face of adversity, ensuring that our natural world remains a pristine sanctuary for all.
Increasing ranger salaries is a great start, but 11,000 baht per month is still peanuts. These people are risking their lives!
True, but any increase is better than nothing. At least the government is acknowledging their efforts.
Acknowledgment is nice, but real change comes with proper compensation. They deserve a lot more.
I agree with JoeD. Rangers should get hazard pay and better equipment too.
Instead of just increasing salaries, they should also focus on better equipment and training for these rangers.
Precisely! A well-paid but poorly equipped ranger is still at great risk.
How about tackling the root cause of poaching and illegal activities? Until we address poverty and lack of education, we’re just putting a band-aid on a gaping wound.
Exactly! We need a holistic approach, not just throw more rangers at the problem.
Tara, you’re right. Increasing salaries is good, but eradicating the root causes is essential for long-term solutions.
I’m happy to see that Thailand is taking steps to protect its natural resources. I hope other countries follow suit!
Where is the money for this coming from, though? I hope it’s not at the expense of other critical services.
Good point. Government budgets are always a tricky balancing act. Still, conserving forests is pretty crucial too.
Indeed, Liora. I just hope they don’t cut education or healthcare to fund this.
As much as I respect rangers, why burden the taxpayer further? Maybe private organizations should contribute more.
Private organizations have their own agendas. This is a public issue and should be funded by the public sector.
Why aren’t rangers getting support from global conservation groups? They have millions in donations!
Some NGOs support rangers, but it’s often not enough. Governments still need to up their game.
Imagine how much better the world would be if every country increased funding for environmental conservation like this.
In my opinion, this initiative is long overdue. Countries should prioritize their natural resources.
I wonder if this increase in ranger numbers will actually reduce poaching and illegal logging, or if criminals will just find new ways to operate.
Criminals always adapt, but more rangers mean a better chance of catching them. It’s a step in the right direction.
True, but I hope they also invest in technology to stay a step ahead. Drones, sensors, and more.
It’s so important to support our rangers. They’re on the front lines of protecting our planet!
While it’s great to see these efforts, the issue of deforestation is not confined to Thailand. Global cooperation is imperative.
Absolutely, Lara. Deforestation is a global crisis and requires international collab.
When will they address the corruption that allows illegal activities to happen? More rangers are great, but corruption is the root.
Why not get local communities more involved? They know the land better and will have a vested interest in protecting it.
Great point, Tommy. Local involvement ensures better protection and sustainable practices.
Exactly! Plus, it provides employment for local residents. A win-win situation.
This is a positive development, but I’m skeptical about its implementation in mountainous regions. That’s where many illegal activities happen.
Sophia, you’re right. The terrain makes it tough, but that’s all the more reason to have more rangers with better support.
If only more governments would follow Thailand’s lead. Conservation is key to our survival.
Let’s not forget the mental health support these rangers need. Dealing with stress and danger daily is no joke.
I second that. Mental health is crucial, and often overlooked in such high-stress jobs.
How about sharing some of these success stories more widely? Learning from positive outcomes can inspire others.