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3rd Water Cycle Symposium 2026 in Rusutsu: A Step Towards a Sustainable Water Future

The 3rd Water Cycle Symposium 2026 will take place at the Rusutsu Resort in Rusutsu Village, Hokkaido, from September 26 to 27, 2026. This event aims to connect the realms of industry, academia, government, and civil society in their efforts to foster a healthy water cycle. As a highlight of this year’s symposium, a collaboration agreement will be signed by six parties involved in this initiative.

This symposium marks a new milestone, transitioning past research and observation efforts into actionable practices within specific communities. Following the theme "Understanding Water, Nurturing Forests, and Protecting Our Community – From Practices in Rusutsu to the Future of the Mt. Yotei and Shiribetsu River Basins," attendees will share achievements in various studies, such as hydrogeological surveys and environmental monitoring. Researchers, local government officials, corporate representatives, and community members will gather to discuss dedicated efforts to protect and nurture a healthy water cycle.

Engaging with the Environment

On September 27, a fieldwork session will follow the symposium, where participants will visit water spring locations, monitoring wells, and environmental monitoring sites. This practical aspect aims to link symposium discussions with real-world applications.

A significant event will occur on the morning of September 26, when the six stakeholders will formalize their agreement: "Collaborative Efforts for Healthy Water Cycle Practices Through Green Infrastructure Utilizing Natural Functions." Transitioning from earlier focuses on research and observations, they aim to advance these activities into environmental education and practical implementations within the Rusutsu region. Knowledge gained here will also extend to nearby areas around the Mt. Yotei and Shiribetsu River basins, contributing to a broader understanding and management of the water resources.

Rising Needs in the Rusutsu Region

The Mt. Yotei and Shiribetsu River basins are rich in natural resources, supporting agriculture, forestry, and tourism. However, changing climates have raised concerns about fluctuating precipitation, snowfall, and snow depth, increasing risks of water and snow-related disasters. The past symposia, alongside ongoing hydrogeological research and continuous environmental monitoring, have aimed to establish a foundation for understanding and measuring local water cycles.

This third symposium not only represents a continuation of these efforts but also serves as a pivotal point to respond to regional challenges. It aims to protect resident safety and promote sustainable development in agriculture, forestry, and tourism. The collaboration agreement will leverage the diverse natural functions available, aiming at implementing green infrastructure for a healthy water cycle.

With continuous monitoring as a foundation, they aspire to build one of Japan's most advanced sustainable water cycle programs.

Event Overview

• - Name: Water Cycle Symposium 2026 in Rusutsu
• - Theme: Understanding Water, Nurturing Forests, and Protecting Our Community – From Practices in Rusutsu to the Future of the Mt. Yotei and Shiribetsu River Basins
• - Date: September 26-27, 2026

- September 26 (12:30-18:00): Symposium; (18:00- Networking)
- September 27 (9:00-14:45): Fieldwork and site visits

• - Venue: Rusutsu Resort Hotel & Convention, Rusutsu Village, Hokkaido
• - Participants: Open to community residents, government officials, business representatives, researchers, students, and media personnel.
• - Registration: Free but requires prior registration. More information and registration can be found at Rusutsu Sustainable.

Collaborative Agreement Highlights

The collaboration will utilize the Rusutsu Village watershed as a research and demonstration field, advancing efforts for healthy water cycles through effective management practices. This includes initiatives in land and forest management, sustainable freshwater practices, and urban and infrastructure development to address climate change.

The stakeholders involved will share essential data and information, contribute to public education, co-develop learning programs, and support research and field studies necessary for enhancing environmental outcomes.

Conclusion

The 3rd Water Cycle Symposium in Rusutsu embarks on a crucial phase aimed at the ongoing sustainable development of local communities reliant on balanced water management, ensuring future generations can thrive in a harmonious environment. This symposium promises to be a transformative gathering, connecting diverse stakeholders towards a shared vision of environmental stewardship and resilience.