Dialogue on the Future of Forests and Rivers in Hokkaido: Dialogue in the 1970s" - Late 1970s

Dialogue on the Future of Forests and Rivers in Hokkaido: Dialogue in the 1970s" - Late 1970s

A village in the mountains surrounded by the magnificent nature of Hokkaido. One day, the residents gathered in the community hall and began discussing the forests and rivers. The main topic of discussion was the ongoing deforestation project and the pros and cons of building a new dam. Everyone was faced with the choice of the future, burdened with a past of living with the land.

The first to open his mouth was an elder fisherman. This river is life itself. Without fish, our lives will end." His words carried deep weight. The young farmer replied with determination, "But if the dam is built, the town will be conveniently flooded. But if the dam is built, it will prevent flooding and make the town more convenient. But if we think about our children's future, shouldn't we adapt to the new era? The air in the meeting hall was heated by the clash of opinions that transcended generations.

The next speaker was an elementary school teacher. I know it is important to protect nature," he said. But without economic stability, it is difficult to have hope for the future. We need to find ways to coexist with nature." The teacher's calm words created new thoughts among the residents.

In the midst of the discussion, a local shopkeeper quietly suggested. "Couldn't we minimize logging by letting tourists know about this beautiful nature?" This comment changed the entire atmosphere of the meeting. Instead of merely opposing the project, the residents began to think of ways to secure a new source of income while protecting the area's natural resources.

The residents then worked with NGO groups to incorporate ecotourism, thereby balancing the economy and the environment. In addition, local schools began teaching children about the importance of nature, fostering hope for the future.

This discussion is a story that should be passed down through the ages. The village residents' search for coexistence with nature, along with the historical background of the late 1970s, is a message to the present day that resonates in our hearts.