Development and utilization of GIS-database as a tool for effective local farmland management

The case of Kanakura, Machino-machi, Wajima city, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan

Abstract

We developed a simple Geographic Information System (GIS) database for local communities in Kanakura, Machino-machi, Wajima city, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan to share information on the paddy fields, irrigation ponds, and water channels. Workshops have been held in the use of GIS and its operation so that the database can be managed by the local communities. Moreover, a survey was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the GIS adoption by local residents through interviews and questionnaire. Results reveal that local residents considered the database as a useful tool to strengthen the farm production, and the database utilization by village organizations is expected in the future.