Conservation of terraced paddy fields engaged with multiple stakeholders: the case of Noto GIAHS Site in Japan
Qiu, Zhenmian, Chen, Bixia and Takemoto, Kazuhiko, (2013). Conservation of terraced paddy fields engaged with multiple stakeholders: the case of Noto GIAHS Site in Japan. Paddy and Water Environment, 12(2), 275-283
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Sub-type Journal article Author Qiu, Zhenmian
Chen, Bixia
Takemoto, KazuhikoTitle Conservation of terraced paddy fields engaged with multiple stakeholders: the case of Noto GIAHS Site in Japan Appearing in Paddy and Water Environment Check publisher's open access policy Volume 12 Issue No. 2 Publication Date 2013 Place of Publication Berlin, Heidelberg Publisher Springer Japan Start page 275 End page 283 Language eng Abstract Demographic changes, such as aging and depopulation in rural areas, are major reasons for the recent abandonment of the terraced paddy fields in Japan. In addition, the low productivity of terraced paddy fields, due to their small area and the difficulty of using machinery on the plots, further abet this trend. Recent research has shown a growing interest in multifunctional conservation and maintenance of the ecosystem and traditional agro-culture of terraced paddy fields. This paper aims to elaborate on the conservation activities of endangered terraced paddy fields in Japan, by using the case of Shiroyone Senmaida to discuss conservation experience and lessons, and recommend future strategies for adaptive management of the rice terraces under the GIAHS framework, as well as the next necessary steps for research. As an outstanding cultural landscape and tourist attraction in Noto Peninsula, the conservation scheme combining financial support from governmental subsidy, the “owner system” of interaction with urban dwellers, and labor support by conservationist volunteers has contributed to the conservation of traditional farming on Senmaida’s terraced paddy fields. Still, as is the case in other parts of Japan, lack of financial support and an aging farming population threaten conservation of terraced paddy fields in Noto Peninsula. Keyword Terraced Paddy Field
Dynamic conservation
Disadvantaged area
Cultural landscapes
Traditional agriculture
Multi-stakeholder engagementCopyright Holder Springer Japan Copyright Year 2013 Copyright type All rights reserved ISSN 1611-2490 DOI 10.1007/s10333-013-0387-x -
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