The Functions and Voluntary Management of Public Wells and Springs in Central Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan

Abstract

This study aims to clarify the internal factors that contribute to the sustainability of public wells and springs, from the perspective of local residents’ voluntary activities. This objective will be achieved by analyzing the current functions and management of public wells and springs in central Matsumoto City. The analysis takes into account both the policies of the local government and the awareness and actions of the local residents. Following numerous well-drilling projects and the installation of pumps and faucets by local governments in the 1990s and 2000s, public wells and springs in central Matsumoto City have gained popularity. They are now valued not only for providing drinkable water, but also as water-friendly spaces and tourist attractions. Clean-up activities are conducted by neighborhood associations or individual volunteers. There are two internal factors that can be considered for the sustainable management of these public wells and springs. The first is the development of a sense of ownership among local residents, as these spaces have evolved into communal areas for communication activities such as tea drinking. The second is the emergence of normative consciousness among local residents, stemming either from a sense of responsibility towards the community or from an increase in the number of tourists and well users. The increase in motivation and enthusiasm of local residents to participate in clean-up activities, driven by these two factors, has enabled the sustainable continuation of voluntary activities.