Factors of the Continuation of Regional Activities in Hokkaido Rural Area

Abstract

Communities in rural areas have functions that help the lives of residents in the community. These functions are necessary for maintaining agriculture and forestry. However, these functions tend to decrease because of the population decline in rural areas. It is essential to continue regional activities because they are necessary for supplementing community functions and maintaining communities. Despite the success of regional activities, some organizations have suspended these activities. In this study, we analyzed the previous questionnaire results for the present state and problems of regional activities. Additionally, interview research was conducted on actual suspension factors to investigate the continuation factors of regional activities. A satisfaction survey was also conducted using a questionnaire survey, and the factors that promoted the continuation of activities were discussed It was confirmed that securing human resources was the top priority improvement problem. Furthermore, why securing human resources does not advance in regional activities was analyzed by paying attention to social capital using the two-factor theory.