Public Participation in “Iikawa” and “Iikawa-zukuri” in Japan

Abstract

For the last forty years, local residents who are familiar with river management have asserted that the environment is important for the river administration system as well as flood control and water use. Thirty years have passed since the “Environment” was added to the new River Law. However, preservation has been forgotten, and priority has been assigned to maintenance and construction all over the country. “Iikawa” (good rivers) does not refer to construction but the concept of preservation. A sense of dedication to the people of the local area is indispensable. “Iikawa-zukuri” (management of good rivers) has been initiated through public participation in the local area.