Since 1974 His Majesty has launched several reforestation projects. Now the work is jointly
carried out by his Chai Pattana Foundation and the Princess Mother’s Mae Fah Luang
Foundation. His Majesty sees reforestation and forest conservation as a way to realise another
goal which he holds most dear to his heart, that of the development of water resources.

Increasing acreage of lush forests would ensure that his people will have a steady supply of
water for consumption and cultivation. As he said in one of his speeches : “To preserve
watersheds for eternity, it is important that we maintain and replant forests in watershed areas.”

For the King, the well being of his people begins with an abundant supply of water.
He recognises that the Thai way of life has been inextricably linked with agriculture, and that
today, water is even more important to its continuance.

His Majesty looks at problems in a holistic manner. Any development programme must take
account of all aspects of the local environment--geographical, sociological, psychological,
and natural. His Majesty applies this principle when considering how best to help poor farmers
stand on their own feet and retain their self-respect without upsetting the natural balance.
It has led to what he calls “the new theory.”

Finding that most farmers possess an average of 10 to 15 rai of land, he suggests that the plot
be divided into four portions. A farm pond, a rice field, and fruit and fuel-wood trees would
each take up to 30 per cent of the land. The remaining land goes for a house, roads, vegetable
gardens, and animal farming.

With this “30-30-30-10” formula, the farmer would be self-sufficient, and possibly able to
produce enough to earn extra income. The variety of food sources in his farm provide security
against loss to any part of his venture.