“…One should pay close attention to and observe individuals and objects around him, no matter how small they are. Wisdom arises through concentration even on something so trivial like grass. There are many kinds of grass plants – some are poisonous, whereas some are functional, such as “vetiver grass” which is potential for soil and water conservation. Its roots can go deep down in the earth boosting the capacity in absorbing water and preventing erosion. Also, the fact that it has a gregarious habit and grows in bunches can solve the problem of the loss of topsoil…”
His Majesty the King's remarks on the 24th of July 1997
The loss of topsoil and soil erosion is one of the country’s major problems leading to the deterioration of earth resource. Recognizing how urgent and necessary it is to find measures to alleviate such problem, His Majesty the King initiated the use of vetiver grass for soil and water conservation, land rehabilitation, and embankment stabilization because its roots penetrates deep down into the soil at great depth. On the 22nd of June 1991, the King ordered the use of vetiver grass for soil conservation and water quality management to be investigated and experimented. Then the Office of the Royal Development Projects Board (RDPB) will coordinate with and monitor various agencies involved.