General
Thailand Expands Wetland School Network in Bueng Kan
The Department of Water Resources visited schools in Bueng Kan to monitor the progress of the Wetland School network, highlighting local conservation efforts.
On August 11, 2026, officials from the Department of Water Resources visited two schools in Bueng Kan province to evaluate the development of the 'Wetland School' network. The initiative aims to integrate wetland conservation into local education and community practices.
At Pho Thong Wittayanusorn School, which previously won a Department of Water Resources award for wetland management, officials observed the 'Kud Thing Model.' This program, active since 2006, focuses on preserving the Nong Kud Thing Ramsar Site. Students participate in water quality monitoring and traditional crafts, such as weaving with sedge and processing local fish products, guided by community elders.
In the afternoon, the delegation visited Bueng Khong Long Wittayakhom School. This institution has incorporated a specific course on the Bueng Khong Long wetland into its curriculum. Students there are involved in water level monitoring and have developed methods to utilize giant salvinia, an invasive species, for productive purposes.
For residents and visitors, these schools serve as hubs for environmental education and sustainable local development. While the visit confirms the ongoing success of these educational models, it remains to be seen how these specific school-based conservation strategies will be scaled to other wetland regions across Thailand.