Experience Fresh Harvest: Summer Agriculture Events in Takasaki City

Hands-on Agriculture Experiences in Takasaki City

The Palsystem Gunma Cooperative, led by Chairperson Makiko Ohira, is set to host exciting agricultural experience events on August 23 and September 6 in Kurabuchi Town, Takasaki City. As part of the Gunma Direct Sales Council's initiative "Megurunma," these events aim to connect families with nature while promoting understanding of local produce and farming practices.

Emphasizing Real Interaction with Farms

The venues for this engaging experience are the fields of "Kurabuchi Grass Agricultural Society," located at the western foot of the Haruna Mountains, at an altitude between 400 to 900 meters. The first event will involve participants divided into teams to engage in seasonal farm work, while the second event will focus on the harvest and tasting of fresh spring greens, mizuna, and mustard greens. As families collect vegetables, they will participate in a salad party, sharing the joy of harvest and the flavors of freshly gathered produce with the farmers.

This series will continue till November, offering a total of three sessions, enabling about 30 participant families to grasp the time and processes involved in growing food.

Event Details for "Real Farming Experience at Kurabuchi Grass Agricultural Society"

First Session

- Date: August 23 (Saturday), 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (Gathering at 8:45)
- Details: Participants will experience seasonal farm work divided into teams with designated farmers.

Second Session

- Date: September 6 (Saturday), 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM (Gathering at 7:45)
- Details: Harvesting experience of spring greens and a salad party utilizing the harvested vegetables.

- Meeting point: Kurabuchi Grass Agricultural Society collection point (5344-185 Gonda, Kurabuchi Town, Takasaki City)
- Participants: Approximately 30 families from Palsystem Gunma

Note: The third session is scheduled for November 15, focused on carrot harvesting, a cooking class, and a lunch交流会.

Stick Broccoli Cultivation Challenge

Palsystem Gunma is also offering an initiative, delivering stick broccoli seeds to interested participants, enabling them to grow these vegetables at home. About 350 households have started their growing journey in August, aiming for a bountiful harvest in November. During this initiative, participants are encouraged to share their cultivation experiences and any challenges in a dedicated LINE chatroom, fostering community interaction.

The distribution of stick broccoli seeds also extends to local kindergartens and nurseries in the Shibukawa Center delivery area, allowing for a community-centered approach to nurturing these crops.

Strengthening the Bond between Producers and Consumers

"Megurunma," the Gunma Direct Sales Council, was established collaboratively by Palsystem Gunma and three local production areas: "Vegetable Club (Showa Village)," "Kurabuchi Grass Agricultural Society (Takasaki City)," and "Tonegawa Producers Group (Isesaki City)." This initiative aims to deepen mutual understanding through interaction between consumers and producers, promoting local consumption. This effort supports sustainable agricultural development, healthy living for community residents, and the vibrant growth of local areas, while continually showcasing the charm of Gunma.

Palsystem Gunma, in partnership with Megurunma, is committed to organizing agricultural experience events that foster children's personal growth. Additional initiatives such as the "Mame Mame Course" for growing edamame and the "Negi Negi Course" for cultivating red onions are also being offered in Isesaki City. In July, an exciting corn harvesting experience was conducted at a field in Showa Village.

A Growing Heart With Vegetables

Palsystem Gunma endeavors to bridge the gap between producers and consumers, advocating for sustainable agriculture and local foods. With various activities planned to deepen the connection and excitement surrounding farming and fresh produce, the community stands ready for enriching experiences ahead.