Function of “Non-collaborative” Community-Based Group Farming at Paddy Field Area in Tohoku, Japan

A Case Study of Hiraka District in Akita Prefecture

Abstract

This research aims to clarify the function of “non-collaborative” community-based group farming at a paddy field area in Tohoku through a case study. A strong sense of trust and a firm relationship were established among the group’s members, and the group functioned as a “place” to secure future labor force for family farms and regional agriculture.
Although “non-collaborative” community-based group farming is at its nascent stage, it has historical significance in terms of being able to provide sustainability to family farms and regional agriculture.