This project is a joint research initiative between Kasetsart University and IRD (ex-ORSTOM) (French Research Institute for Development), and a sub-project of DORAS Center. It aims at studying the agricultural transformations of the Chao Phraya delta, focusing on the process of intensification and diversification, together with water related issues at the different levels (basin, delta, sub-project, on-farm). It favours a systemic and multi-disciplinary approach of agrarian systems and seeks highlighting current trends, constraints and margin for progress, in order to provide decision makers with relevant information.

The Chao Phraya Website is managed by Dr. Francois Molle and Dr. Thippawan Srijantr, co-ordinators of the "Delta Project" at Kasetsart University.

The first phase of the DORAS-DELTA Project (1994-1996) has been devoted to the study of the agricultural dynamics and of water management in the Central Plain of Thailand : this includes a first step macro-approach of the delta (condensed in the report Agricultural and Irrigation Patterns in the Central Plain of Thailand : preliminary analysis and prospects for agricultural research and development") and the undertaking of several in-depth specific research (see database on Research projects).

The second phase of DORAS Project (1997-1999) will continue these activities, develop networking and comparative research with scientists working in other Southeast Asian deltas and promote training. The "DELTA Project" within DORAS Centre benefits from the participation of more than 12 KU staff, 10 master students of all disciplines, with collaboration from other institutions, such as the Royal Irrigation Department or the Office of Agricultural Economics. Increased interaction with decision-makers is sought, in order to adapt research to their questions and provide them with relevant information.

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This is a collaborative site, and the active participation of all is encouraged. Indeed, without the participation of researchers and those interested in deltas, this site would have little to offer. So after perusing its files, statistics, maps, and data, leave something for others as well. Become a part of the Delta research community by uploading your own work, or sending us information about yourself

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