Buddharaksa Community Forest: Drought-Resistant Mango Cultivation for Ecosystem Restoration and Community Economy

This article presents the integration of drought-resistant mango cultivars as a key strategy for ecosystem restoration and community-based economic development within the Buddharaksa Community Forest in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand. Four selected varieties Mahachanok, R2E2, Khiow Yak (Ngam Muang Ya) and Nga Chang Daeng were identified for their resilience to arid conditions, cultural significance and economic potential. Their cultivation enhances biodiversity, stabilizes soil, rehabilitates degraded land and generates income ranging from household-level markets to high-value exports, while also preserving indigenous genetic resources. By incorporating these mango species, the community forest initiative achieves a balanced integration of ecological sustainability, economic resilience and cultural heritage.