III. Development of Forestry and Mountain Villages
1. Trend in forestry management
The stumpage price of Sugi (Japanese Cedar : Cryptomeria japonica) in 2004 was one-fifth of the price in 1980, and in 2005 one-sixth of
the price. Forest owners' motivation towards forestry activities is diminishing
due to the depressed profitability of forestry.
It is necessary to promote the use of local wood by intensifying the forestry
practice and operation, providing a steady supply of raw wood, and implementing
the activities of building the most appropriate distribution and processing
systems that meet the demand of customers. Consequently it is important
to properly circulate the forestry cycle through these new systems aimed
at forestry revival.
2. Trend in forestry labor
Because of the Midori-no-Koyo Ninaite Ikusei Taisaku Jigyo (Forestry New-Employment Training Project) which has started in fiscal year 2003, the number of new workers increased. In fiscal year 2004, 3,538 workers were newly employed in the forestry sector. It would be necessary to secure new employment in forestry by continuing to provide training courses required for working in forestry.
3. The State of mountain villages and the maintenance of their vitality
The decline of forestry and other primary industries in mountain villages
is affecting the economy and society there. There are also fears that declining
population of mountain villages, downsizing of communities, and increasing
number of forest owners who live in the distant places from their forest,
would have a negative effect on the appropriate management of the forests,
as well as the vitality of the mountain villages.
In recent years, positive effects of forest bathing such as lowering
blood pressure, relaxation, and the activation of immune cells have been
scientifically elucidated, and they are expected to contribute to the development
of mountain villages as forest assisted therapy activities.
It is important to build attractive communities that are appealing for
both mountain village people and city residents by promoting the symbiosis
and interaction of cities and mountain villages, as well as the securement
of employment opportunities and improvement of living conditions.
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