Regenerating 100-Hectare Forest in Mt. Fuji

Mt. Fuji is one of the sacred symbols of Japan. It always has an image of “snow-capped mountains” with pure snow on the top. In the past, it was considered as a mountain of faith wherein the general public was not allowed to enter. Before, it can only be viewed from afar. Now, everybody could freely access it, particularly hikers. After the climbing season, the mountain is now in its quiet period.

Personally, whenever I see Mt. Fuji in its dignified snow-covered form, I always am reminded of its sacredness. I felt the need to protect and conserve this beautiful mountain to be able to pass it on to the next generation.

In my previous report, I mentioned that local forestry workers supplement the work lacking in our volunteer activities. Before the winter season, from October to early December, local forestry workers replaced the fallen nets to protect the growing trees from deer damage.

In December, due to the low temperature and frozen grounds, it is tough for forestry workers to drive bamboo poles into the ground to support the nets. However, they worked diligently to protect the trees that we had planted.

This year, we were able to mobilize 74 people who helped reinstall more than 1,200 protection nets. Once repaired, the planted trees will be able to safely survive the harsh winters, strong winds, and heavy snowfall. Moreover, as we are tapping the services of forestry workers and providing them with jobs, we somehow contribute to the circulation of the local economy.

Please be assured that your support is being used to restore the forests of Mt. Fuji. As we involved local forestry workers, we support regional development, as well as the forestry industry.

Sixteen years have passed since the start of our activities, and we have somewhat left many footprints in the community. We hope that more people would be aware that regenerating forests, takes a lot of time, initiative, effort, and commitment. Moreover, Japan is a country full of forests, so it is important to promote further the importance of forestry management to be able to engage more people.

Thank you for your continued support.