Background of Research
This study is designed to introduce forest management by people’s participation in Japan and suggest some implications derived from a case study of Miyazaki and Saga prefectures. The forest management system by people’s participation is based on the slogan suggested by the NLAPO(National Land Afforestation Promotion Organization) in 1986. A wide range of general people, companies and organizations are willing to participate in voluntary forest management activities. Legal, systematical, and financial supports as well as background of this system are reviewed and introduced.
Method of Research
This study was carried out by internet, literature and field surveys. To collect the information of forest management policy, laws and systems by people’s participation, internet and literature surveys were conducted. To collect information and data related to the case study of this system, field surveys were conducted in the Forest Management Commission, the responsible departments in charge, the Private Forest Associations and forest owners of Miyazaki and Saga prefectures.
Research Results and Implications
Forest management activities by people’s participation in Japan have been carried out under the legal and systematical supports like the “forest and forestry basic law” and the “forest and forestry basic plan”. This system is supported by the “Greenery Fund” and “Greenery and Forest Fund” in national side and by the “Forest Environment Tax” in local side. A total of 33 prefectures in 2012 had introduced this tax system for the purpose of supporting forest management activities by local people’s participation.
Implications from field surveys on Miyazaki and Saga prefectures are as follows: Management activities on local forest are carried out by the volunteer groups who are composed of local residents, NPO and CSO. Also, many private companies are participating in forest maintenance and conservation activities as a part of their CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility). The public awareness of the necessity and importance of forest management and conservation should be raised through the forest environment education from childhood.
Through the case study of Miyazaki and Saga prefectures, we found some important implications for the Korean forest management policies. Forest management activities have a significant role in maintenance and improvement of the multi-functional roles of forests. In some private forests like small-scale forests, proper management activities including thinning and replanting are urgently needed. Forest management activities by cooperation between local residents, volunteer groups, and private companies should be considered. For the purpose of the introduction and revitalization of people’s participation in Korean forest management, the whole society"s continuous awareness and interest are required and then legal, systematic, and financial supports should be prepared.