Chiang Rai Governor Empowers Youth to Fight Climate Change

CHIANG RAI – Governor Chuchep Pongchai proudly launched a major environmental initiative alongside local youth. He led the opening of the “Huai Paeng Dam Laonong Jianghai Sustainable Forest Conservation” project. The lively event took place at the Huai Paeng Dam forest in the Nang Lae Subdistrict. Many community leaders, students, and local villagers gathered to support this vital green cause. The region currently faces unpredictable weather and severe natural disasters due to global climate change, as frequently highlighted by environmental news sources. Floods and droughts are becoming more common, putting local forests and vital water sources at severe risk. Restoring these natural ecosystems is now an urgent mission that requires help from the entire community. Building check dams is a proven way to slow water flow, boost forest moisture, and prevent soil erosion. This exciting forest restoration project aims to educate the local youth, affectionately known as “Laonong Jianghai.” Community leaders want young people to deeply understand the importance of preserving their natural resources. The immersive program gives them a unique chance to learn through hands-on, practical experience. Organizers have carefully planned seven training sessions to cover seven different districts across the province. Between August 4 and August 19, 2026, a total of 560 enthusiastic participants will join the activities. Mr. Jarasphan Arunkong, who currently heads the provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, explained that students learn both the theory and practice of long-term ecosystem conservation. Local groups like the Chiang Rai Breath Council are stepping in to help teach these essential skills. During the comprehensive training, participants study how to prepare for disasters and adapt to a changing climate. They learn exactly how to choose the best locations for building highly effective check dams. Expert instructors also teach them the proper construction and maintenance methods for their specific local environment. These valuable skills ensure the dams will successfully reduce soil erosion and store dry-season water. After the classroom lessons, Governor Chuchep and the youth headed into the forest for active field operations. They worked closely together to prepare materials, build the dam structures, and maintain the surrounding areas. This inspiring teamwork perfectly showcased the energy of a new generation ready to protect local water sources. It was a powerful, beautiful display of community dedication to a greener, safer future. Governor Chuchep reminded everyone that forest conservation is a shared community duty, not just a government job. He strongly stressed that young people are the absolute key to keeping these environmental efforts going. Building a dam is important, but building a network of caring, aware youth matters even more. This project proves that when communities work together, they can create lasting, sustainable change for Chiang Rai. Information source: Chiang Rai Times