#Japan #Survey #Tokyo #Feed Rice #WCS Rice

Overview of the Feed Crop Survey

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is conducting a crucial survey aimed at understanding the production and utilization of feed rice, WCS rice, and other feed crops. As part of revising the paddy field policy starting from fiscal year 2023, the ministry emphasizes the importance of collecting feedback from producers and users of these crops. This survey plays a vital role in shaping future support measures for these crops, ensuring that stakeholders have a voice in decision-making processes.

Purpose of the Survey

Taking into account the revision of the water paddy policy, it is fundamental to gather insights from key stakeholders. Therefore, an online survey targeting the following groups has been initiated:

• - Livestock farmers utilizing feed rice and WCS rice
• - Producers who are availing direct payments for paddy field utilization
• - Recovery consultation committees overseeing these crops

WCS rice refers to crops harvested before the grains fully ripen and undergo lactate fermentation, aimed at optimizing quality for livestock feed.

Target Respondents

The survey is addressing the following groups:
1. Livestock Farmers: Those who utilize feed rice, WCS rice, and other feed crops. This includes various livestock categories such as dairy cows, beef cattle (both breeding and fattening), pigs, egg-laying hens, and meat chickens.
2. Producers Seeking Direct Payments: Farmers who cultivate feed rice, WCS rice, and other feed crops under the direct payment system known as `Mizukatsu`.
3. Recovery Consultation Committees: Groups that oversee production conditions and structural improvements in the region regarding feed crops.

Survey Methodology

The survey will take place from September 16, 2023, to October 31, 2023. An online questionnaire form will be utilized for ease of response. Below are the main areas covered in the survey:

Areas of Inquiry

1. For Livestock Farmers: The survey will delve into utilization patterns, procurement methods, the significance of using feed rice and WCS rice, and future utilization intentions. Questions will also explore how feed rice contributes to branding livestock products.
- Access the farmer's survey

2. For Producers Qualifying for Direct Payments: Questions will focus on the cultivated area of feed rice and WCS rice, the reason for cultivation, land conditions, future production intentions, and challenges faced.
- Access the producer's survey

3. For Recovery Consultation Committees: This section aims to assess the production conditions of feed rice and WCS rice within the region and its impacts and challenges.
- Access the committee's survey

Handling of Personal Information

The information collected through this survey will be managed strictly according to laws and regulations. It will only be used for assessing the future of paddy field policies and will be aggregated in a way that does not allow for the identification of individuals. Insights gathered will be shared with relevant organizations, ensuring transparency and collective progress.

Respondents are encouraged to participate actively by sharing their experiences and opinions, as it will significantly influence the direction of agricultural policies regarding these essential feed crops.