Avocado Model: Toward Sustainable Economic Forest Development in Highland Areas

Abstract

Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) is an increasingly significant economic crop in Thailand, cultivated on more than 50,000 rai^[1] predominantly in highland areas of northern Thailand, yet domestic production remains insufficient to meet demand. Highland farming communities face structural challenges, including prolonged monoculture dependence, climate variability, and limited access to quality germplasm and production technology. This paper presents the outcomes of the project "Extension of Safe Avocado Production Technology toward Sustainability in Highland Areas," funded by the Agricultural Research Development Agency (ARDA) for fiscal years 2024-2025. Implemented by the Department of Agriculture and a multi-institutional network across six northern provinces (Phetchabun, Phitsanulok, Tak,                 Mae Hong Son, Nan, and Uttaradit), the project comprised five core activities: (1) technical plan development; (2) establishment of superior varieties collection plots; (3) production of quality planting material; (4) technology dissemination to farmers; and (5) monitoring and evaluation. Quantitative outcomes included the establishment of 6 learning centers (18 rai), collection plots of more than 30 varieties, production of 15,000 grafted seedlings and 1,500 disease-free rootstocks, and training of 2,700 farmers across six provinces, covering a total cultivation area of 52 rai, comprising six community cooperative orchards and 46 mixed-cropping plots, of which 40 plots received Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) certification. Qualitative outcomes demonstrated a yield increase from 114 to 250–7,500 kg/rai, a price increase from THB 15–30 to THB 50–120/kg, and a reduction in pest and disease incidence exceeding 50%. The project contributed to forest encroachment reduction, sustainable land use, and achievement of multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 12, 13, 15, and 17). Key challenges included climate variability, sociocultural diversity among highland ethnic groups, and market uncertainty. Recommendations include the formulation of a national avocado strategy, the establishment of the Thailand Highland Avocado Standard (THAS), and continued investment in research and network development.