Capability of Large Scale Rice Farms by Community-based Group Farming in the Mountainous Area

Normative Analysis Considering Farmland Conditions in Yasaka Area, Hamada City, Shimane Prefecture

Abstract

This paper clarified the capabilities of large scale rice farms by community - based group farming in the mountainous area by normative analysis. Even in case of Yasaka-area in Shimane prefecture, which is one of the most mountainous areas in Japan, it is possible to cultivate all rice fields by increasing labor and capital without deficit under the direct payment. However, without direct payment, it is impossible to cultivate all rice fields. In this case, cultivating rice field with larger patches is prior to with smaller rate of rib or in the non distant area. Moreover, this analysis indicates the necessity of labor for grass cutting as seasonal farmers in addition to regular farmers.