MSU Develops Ban Koeng Operations Station to Elevate Nature Tourism

MSU has launched a significant initiative to develop the Ban Koeng Operations Station, Walai Rukhavej Botanical Research Institute, as a natural tourism destination and tourism service center. The project aims to promote ecological learning, with collaboration from university faculties, internal departments, and surrounding communities, to enhance tourism in Maha Sarakham Province and nearby areas.

Assoc. Prof. Prayook Srivilai, Acting President of MSU, stated that the university’s policy is to develop the Ban Koeng Operations Station into a premier natural tourism destination with global appeal. The project focuses on activities related to wetland conservation, scientific and biological research, and encouraging youth to engage with and experience the beauty of nature. Additionally, it promotes eco-tourism and innovative conservation tourism.

The development plan includes creating various facilities, such as floating houses, treehouses, and accommodation for nature enthusiasts. alongside wetland exploration to learn about ecosystems and their significance. Additionally, it involves wetland exploration to study ecosystems and their significance, biodiversity research for those interested in science and the environment, and nature-based recreational activities to provide relaxing and immersive experiences close to nature. These efforts aim to meet the needs of all tourists and establish the area as a leisure destination for locals in Mahasarakham, neighboring provinces, and international tourists.

Furthermore, this initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Promoting eco-tourism and enhancing local infrastructure by creating sustainable leisure spaces and supporting the local community
SDG 14: Life Below Water – Wetland conservation and research will the contribute to the protection and sustainable use of aquatic ecosystems
SDG 15: Life on Land – Conservation, biodiversity research, and education all aid in protecting and restoring terrestrial ecosystems

The Ban Koeng Operations Station boasts a unique geographical landscape surrounded by rivers and a central island rich in diverse plant species. This distinct feature makes it a key attraction and check-in spot, seamlessly blending the beauty of nature with conservation activities.

Images/News: Apiram Thamkaew
Aerial Photos: Jirasak Wongprombut
Translation/Edit: Jack Neill

ข่าวภาษาไทย (Thai article): https://www.msu.ac.th/%e0%b8%a3%e0%b8%b2%e0%b8%a2%e0%b8%a5%e0%b8%b0%e0%b9%80%e0%b8%ad%e0%b8%b5%e0%b8%a2%e0%b8%94%e0%b8%82%e0%b9%88%e0%b8%b2%e0%b8%a7/?hid=11687