Abstract
The true picture of regional forest management was clarified from historical facts acquired through an analysis of the development of the two forest management councils in Akita and Yamagata prefectures according to forest policy during the occupation (1945-1952）. Under the leadership of the prefectural governor, the Akita Prefectural Forest Management Council, which tried to manage national and private forests regionally by the prefectural government, demonstrated the potential for new regional forest management practices. However, conflict between the national and prefectural governments eventually reduced the independence of the prefectural administration. In addition, the Yamagata Prefectural National Forestry Management Council performed unique activities as part of the prefectural comprehensive development plan that preceded the national comprehensive development plan. However, its activities were subordinate to national forest policy and lacked a general forest management perspective on managing private forests. Both councils have converged on the grasp of national forest authority, while the aspects as regional forest management have faded.
