Communication-Gap Issues in Conservation Activities Among Stakeholders in the Practice of Satochi (Domestic Woodlands and Farmlands)

Abstract

Recently, many communities are taking practical steps to conserve Satochi. Satochi are rural areas composed of Satoyama (domestic woodlands and farmlands). There are many issues involved in the conservation of the environment, requiring collaboration among different citizen activities groups. This study examines issues related to communication with stakeholders who participate in Satochi conservation activities,based on a case study of voluntary association A in a rural community near to an urban area. Human resources and technical information must be secured for the practice of the diverse activities involved in managing Satochi. However,during practical phases such as getting a landowner's assent and work assignment, a communications gap arising from different senses of worth and interests among stakeholders can bring activities to a standstill. We need to spend an adequate amount of time to resolve the communication-gap issues among the stakeholders in order to undertake diverse activities. Then following three aspects are necessary to build up communications. 1) Forge new partnerships among the stakeholders at the initial stage, 2)Share common values backed up with experience, 3)Build up a relationship founded on the trust.