過疎山村における高齢者農産加工組織の重要性と維持・存続条件

高知県池川町を事例として

抄録

　　　The purpose of this study is to discuss the significance of agri-processing by the aged people in depopulated areas and the necessity of the organizations for it, which adds value to the home-consuming products and contributes to the preservation of their regional resources.
　　　 “Koreisha-Seisan-Katsudo-Center” in Ikegawa-town, which I have researched, solved the problems and successfully survived the crisis by securing its own marketing channels and through the coordinated efforts of various organizations.
　　　The center has created a “worthwhile life” and a means of “earning income” for the aged people, and contributed to the welfare of the aged people, including the prevention of the seclusion of the aged people in their own home.
　　　In conclusion, it can be said that (1) the agri-processing organizations in depopulated areas would create not only a worthwhile life but also important job opportunities for the aged people, and also contribute to the activation of the areas; and (2) the maintenance of such organizations would require appropriate regional agricultural management paying attention not only to the productivity but also to the welfare of the aged people.