Symbiotic Landscape Reflected on the Water Surface - Paddy Field Regeneration and Ecosystem Restoration in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture (2003)

Symbiotic Landscape Reflected on the Water Surface - Paddy Field Regeneration and Ecosystem Restoration in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture (2003)

In 2003, Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture, was in the midst of a full-scale effort to create a biotope for the purpose of ecological restoration, utilizing fallow rice paddies that had increased due to urbanization and changes in agricultural structure. Amidst a growing number of regions where the maintenance and management of rice paddies is becoming difficult due to the stagnant and aging agricultural industry after the collapse of the bubble economy, Azumino was attracting attention as an advanced model region aiming for a symbiotic relationship between nature and humans.

Against this backdrop, local residents and NPOs began working together to actively restore fallow rice paddies as wetland environments, rather than simply abandoning them. By digging out the land, filling it with water, planting reeds, toads, and other riparian plants, and creating habitats for dragonflies, gentians, waterfowl, and other species, the reestablishment of a diverse array of organisms was confirmed. The revival of quasi-endangered dragonflies was particularly symbolic, and the results demonstrated the effectiveness of the biotope.

This effort is not just environmental improvement, but also a revitalization of the local community. Local residents are regularly involved in the management of the biotope, and through mowing, cleaning, monitoring surveys, and other activities, the conservation of biodiversity is shared as a "personal matter. It also fulfills an educational function by accepting environmental studies in cooperation with urban schools, and has become a place for exchange between urban and rural communities.

Azumino's paddy field biotope is a good example of how the issue of abandoned farmland was transformed into an opportunity for ecological restoration and community revitalization, and it continues to serve as a model for many municipalities as a symbol of sustainable community development.