DFNet 2024 Forum, Chiang Mai, March 23, 2024
The DFNet 2024 workshop, titled "Tropical Fruit Consortium: Addressing Climate Change Impacts on Tropical Fruit Production and Strategies for Adaptation and Mitigation," was held with great success in Chiang Mai and Uttaradit, Thailand, from March 21-23, 2024. Organized by FFTC in collaboration with DFNet Project Core Group members - Dr. Chinnapan Thanarut from Maejo University, Dr. Peerasak Chaiprasart from the National Research Council of Thailand and Naresuan University, and Dr. Wen-Li Lee from Fengshan Tropical Horticultural Experiment Branch of the Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute - this event marked a significant stride in international collaboration.
Over 2.5 days, thirty-seven participants from nine countries visited orchards that grow durian, rambutan, plum mango, banana, cocoa, and more, to see how local farmers are adapting to climate change and extreme weather. The group's interactions with farmers highlighted ongoing challenges and innovative solutions in tropical fruit cultivation.
Additionally, a half-day forum facilitated lively discussions among DFNet members from Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. They shared valuable insights into the fruit industry's response to climate change. The forum discussion was spirited, leading to a consensus on the project's final deliverables, including the development of an open-access database and a comprehensive guidebook, reflecting the group's commitment to information gathering, synthesis, sharing, and collaborative efforts.
A key highlight was the signing of a Letter of Agreement (LoA) between FFTC and the Faculty of Agricultural Production at Maejo University, facilitated by the DFNet Project. This agreement signifies a vital step forward in enhancing agricultural research and development in the face of climate challenge.
Looking ahead, DFNet members eagerly anticipate their upcoming field trip and forum in Taiwan, scheduled for May 28-30, 2024.
Durian orchard (A) on the hill, Uttaradit, March 21, 2024
Group photo of DFNet members and Durian Orchard (A) farmer/ owner (front in yellow shirt), Uttaradit, March 21, 2024
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Dr. Peerasak (right) introduces durian tree management, durian orchard (B), Uttaradit, March 21, 2024
Durian flower recipe and DFNet member goup, durian orchard (B), Uttaradit, March 21, 2024
Dr. Chinnapan, plum mango orchard farmers/ owners, and DFNet members, Chiang Mai, March 22, 2024
Plum mango fruits for taste and sale, Chiang Mai, March 22, 2024
DFNet members by plum mango tree, Chiang Mai, March 22, 2024
Cocoa varietal selection and Thai Cocoa Journey, Chiang Mai, March 22, 2024
Cocoa orchard, Chiang Mai, March 22, 2024
Banana farmer briefs fruit bagging and harvest process, Chiang Mai, March 23, 2024
FFTC Director Dr. Su-San Chang presents Taiwan pineapple cake to the banana farmer, Chiang Mai, March 23, 2024
Rambutan and durian orchard, Chiang Mai, March 23, 2024
Rambutan orchard owner/ farmer (left) and Dr. Chinappan (2nd to the left) and DFNet members, Chiang Mai, March 23, 2024
LoA signing, Director Dr. Su-San Chang and Dean Dr. , FFTC Director (left) and Dean Dr. Phutthisun Kruekum, Faculty of Agricultural Production, Maejo University