Community Efforts for Environmental Preservation
On July 10, 2023, Hino First Junior High School and the Hino Discovery Squad will come together to participate in a significant cleanup operation of the Hino Waterway. Located around Hino First Junior High, this event aims not only to clean the waterways but also to raise awareness about the importance of preserving local resources that have historical significance.
The Hino Waterway was constructed long before the Edo period, specifically in 1567, serving as a crucial water source for the region. Spanning over 455 years, this waterway has facilitated agriculture and has been an essential lifeline for the local community. It has not only nourished the fields of Hino, often referred to as the “granary of Tama,” but has also been instrumental in supporting historical figures such as the Shinsengumi during the late Edo period, thereby contributing to the region’s economy.
While the rice paddies that once flourished beside the waterway have diminished over the years, the ecological significance of the Hino Waterway remains. Numerous species of wildlife have made their homes in the area, and it is not uncommon to spot ayu fish swimming in its waters. Today, the waterway serves as a peaceful retreat for the community, emphasizing the need for its ongoing care and preservation.
The initiative is part of a broader community effort that began in 2016, with the involvement of passionate students from Hino First Junior High School and local citizens through the Hino Discovery Squad. This group is dedicated to rediscovering the treasures of Hino and disseminating their unique charm to the wider community and visitors alike. The squad collaborates with local government bodies such as the Hino Library to support their endeavors (more information can be found at
Hino Discovery Squad and
Hino Library).
Event Details
- - Date & Time: July 10, 2023, from 2 PM onward
- - Cleanup Location: Around Hino First Junior High School (7-7-7 Hino Honcho) and the adjacent Hino Waterway
- - Hino First Junior High School Website: Hino First Junior High
This cleanup event not only promotes a cleaner environment but also fosters a spirit of cooperation and responsibility among students and local residents. By joining together to care for the Hino Waterway, participants are not just cleaning a water source; they are preserving a vital piece of their heritage for future generations.