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Embrace Nature with 'Everyone's Farm' in Isesaki City

This April, the pulsating heart of agricultural enthusiasm will beat strongly in Isesaki City, Gunma Prefecture, as the 'Everyone's Farm' initiative hosts a captivating family farming experience on Saturday, April 26. Beginning at 10 AM, this engaging event is organized by the Pal System Gunma Cooperative, led by Yuki Sakamichi, alongside the Gunma Produce Direct Council, known as 'Megurumma.' The initiative aims to create meaningful connections between families and the land, bringing them closer to nature through hands-on experiences in farming.

A Longstanding Favorite: Sowing the Seeds of Knowledge

The 'Everyone's Farm' initiative features the highly anticipated first event of the year titled 'Mame Mame Course,' centered on cultivating edamame beans. Approximately 60 family participants will gather to sow seeds of edamame and radishes, while engaging in insightful exchanges with local producers. The experienced farmers from the Tone River Producer Group, under the leadership of Katsushi Kurabayashi, will guide families through the processes of net covering and planting row covers, essential steps to ensure the health of these crops.

With a rich legacy of fostering agricultural appreciation in the region, this initiative will also pave the way for upcoming activities, including weeding in June and harvesting experiences scheduled for July.

Nurturing Young Hearts through Agriculture

Pal System Gunma, in collaboration with Megurumma, is dedicated to providing children with opportunities that contribute to their emotional development through farming activities. In addition to the 'Mame Mame Course,' there are plans for a 'Negi Negi Course,' where families will engage in cultivating red onions throughout the year.

A Collaborative Effort to Enhance Gunma's Appeal

The Gunma Produce Direct Council, 'Megurumma,' marks a collaborative venture between Pal System Gunma, three local farming groups—'Yasai Club' (Showa Village), 'Kurabuchi Grass Association' (Takasaki City), and 'Tone River Producer Group' (Isesaki City)—and the Pal System Federation. This partnership aims to foster deeper interactions between consumers and producers while promoting the principles of local production and consumption. Such initiatives are pivotal in advocating for sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring the health of both the community and the environment, ultimately enhancing the attractiveness of Gunma Prefecture.

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Agricultural Workshops

With roots firmly planted in the community, Pal System Gunma commits to bridging the gap between producers and consumers. The organization prioritizes sustainable practices that elevate the future of food and farming.

Event Details:

• - Date: April 26, 10 AM - 12 PM (Conducted in light rain; Cancelled during inclement weather)
• - Location: 'Isesaki City Sakaigawashin Community Center,' near the 'Everyone's Farm'
• - Parking: Available at the adjacent 'Sakai Comprehensive Sports Park'
• - Participants: Approximately 60 families utilizing Pal System Gunma services
• - Activities: Seed sowing for edamame and radish, net covering, row cover installation.

Future Plans:

• - Mame Mame Course Event 2: June 14 – Weeding edamame fields
• - Event 3: June 21 – Potato digging, weeding green onion and sweet potato fields
• - Event 4: July 12 – Weeding, harvesting edamame and radish

Pal System Gunma continues to inspire and empower families through agricultural experiences, translating nature’s lessons into tangible growth for future generations. The upcoming year, 2025, is designated as the International Year of Cooperatives—signifying the importance of community and collaborative efforts in ensuring a sustainable future.