The research project on the development of an innovative community network for high quality buffalo production for domestic and international trade aims to create an innovative community network, establishes model learning areas and community innovators capable of solving and managing their buffalo farming careers in the Phayao and Chiang Rai provinces. This project aims to enhance buffalo production for trade in local and international markets based on local resources and improve the income, well-being, and quality of life of the innovation community network sustainably.
The project leader, Assistant Professor Dr. Payungsuk Intawicha, is a professor in the Animal Science Program at the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Phayao. He has conducted preliminary surveys in 10 provinces in Phayao and Chiang Rai, in collaboration with various organizations such as the Phayao Livestock Research and Breeding Center, Chiang Rai Animal Nutrition Research and Development Center, Phayao Provincial Livestock Office, Buffalo Farmer Community, Phrae Animal Nutrition Research and Development Center, Chiang Mai Artificial Insemination and Biotechnology Research Center, and Chiang Rai Animal Feed Research and Production Center. These collaborations aim to develop community innovators who can transfer knowledge and establish their own learning and innovation platforms for those interested in studying and applying these practices to improve the quality of buffalo production and enhance export potential.
The project facilitates knowledge and innovation processes by organizing appropriate activities in each area, such as health programs, blood sampling, estrus induction, and artificial insemination, with community innovators acting themselves, supported by the research team as mentors. Demonstration plots for quality animal feed cultivation allow innovators to practice growing and harvesting feed, creating demonstration plots for learning about buffalo feed production. The project also develops knowledge and skills in breeding improvement, low-cost feed production, farm management, and market linkage.
This project aims to promote value chain and area transformation through the efforts of community innovators.
In terms of breeding, the use of estrus induction technology, artificial insemination technology, and online pedigree application has resulted in the production of high-quality buffalo calves. This has helped to reduce the issue of inbreeding and has also expanded the distribution channels for buffalo, with meat buffalo being sold at 30,000 - 50,000 baht per head and breeding buffalo at 50,000 - 100,000 baht per head.
In terms of food management, innovative methods have been implemented to grow high-quality animal feed plants, ensuring that buffaloes receive sufficient protein and nutrition for their bodies' needs. The use of agricultural waste as food has also helped to reduce food costs.
Additionally, the project has implemented applications to manage vaccination programs and record farm management data, resulting in healthier buffaloes and more efficient farm management. The farm has also received farm standard certification, providing consumers with confidence in the safety of the food produced.
In terms of marketing, the project has established a process to connect local markets for farmers, creating a community buffalo butchering system where farmers can butcher and sell their buffalo within the community. This has resulted in an average profit of 9,620.65 baht per head for farmers and has also provided a central pen to support exports.
The University of Phayao is confident that this project will be a significant step in developing high-quality buffalo production and strengthening local communities. By providing farmers with the skills to think critically and assess situations independently, this project aims to secure long-term financial stability for them and create opportunities for international trade.