About Kiso Forest

The abundant forests of Kiso have been protected and nurtured by human hands over many years. However, in modern times, various challenges have arisen in the forestry industry that supports these forests.

One of the major challenges is the declining number of people working in forestry. With few young workers and an aging workforce, it is becoming difficult to pass on the skills and knowledge that have been handed down to the next generation. In addition, mountain work is dangerous and physically demanding, making it difficult to secure workers.

Furthermore, continuous maintenance, such as thinning and undergrowth clearing, is essential to keep forests healthy. However, due to labor shortages and cost-benefit issues, the number of forests that are not adequately maintained is increasing. As a result, trees can become too dense, preventing sunlight from reaching the forest and weakening its natural vitality.

To address these challenges and ensure the future of Kiso's forests, several initiatives are necessary. For example, it is important to widely communicate the appeal and value of forestry and cultivate new workers; to adopt technologies and systems that improve the safety and efficiency of work; and to re-evaluate the value of timber and ensure its distribution at a fair price, thereby enabling forestry to become a sustainable industry.

Forests don't grow overnight. That's why it's crucial for us, who live in the present, to confront the challenges and act with the future in mind. In order to continue protecting the forests of Kiso, the relationship between people and forests is being re-examined.