Abstract
We analyzed the sizes, structures, motivations and problems faced of private companies that pursue forest related activities at a prefectural level. The results are based on a postal questionnaire survey conducted in October 2013 in which questionnaires were sent to 501 companies and 227 responses were received. Additionally, interviews were conducted to individual companies from manufacturing, finance, and construction sectors. Ishikawa Prefecture has roughly 0.9% of population and gross domestic products of Japan. Breaking down Ishikawa Prefecture's GDP, percentage of each economic sector is similar to that of the nationwide GDP. We can say that economic structure of Ishikawa Prefecture is national average. This study focuses on a prefectural level and on small and mid-sized companies. Private companies tend to prioritize the convenience of the activities and readiness of permits, rather than the natural elements such as tree species. Furthermore, different trends within the prefecture were analyzed, suggesting need for area specific policy support.
