The Khao Hin Sorn Royal Development Study Centre was founded on August 8, 1979 at Phanom Sarakham District in Chachoengsao Province. This area was formerly affected by forest encroachment, cultivation of corn and cassava, and erosion of topsoil caused by water and wind, all of which led to soil degradation. Hence, the Centre focuses attention on conducting study, research and experimentation on land development to ensure its fertility by means of land and water sources development, forest rehabilitation as well as promotion of agricultural knowledge on the planning of crop cultivation and animal husbandry among the farmers in an attempt to increase production. The Land Development Department serves as the major coordinating agency. There are now 15 surrounding villages and two Centre Branches which are: