Discovering Agricultural and Fishery Treasures: 12th Selection Results Announced

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) along with the Cabinet Office has officially announced the results of the 12th selection for the 'Discover Agricultural and Fishery Treasures' initiative. This program recognizes and promotes successful examples that contribute to regional revitalization and income enhancement in 30 districts across Japan. The Grand Prix award was presented to Local Revolution, a general incorporated association based in Hakodate City, Hokkaido.

Objectives of the Initiative

The main goal of the 'Discover Agricultural and Fishery Treasures' initiative is to realize a strong agriculture, forestry, and fisheries industry while enhancing the beauty and vitality of rural areas. By highlighting the local resources of these agricultural and fishing communities, MAFF aims to inspire other regions to engage in similar efforts for revitalization and income improvements.

Results of the Selection

On November 18, 2023, experts convened at the 12th selection meeting of 'Discover Agricultural and Fishery Treasures.' Here, they evaluated and selected the 30 districts that exemplify community revitalization and income growth through innovative initiatives. The detailed list of selected regions includes:

1. Hokkaido, Hakodate City: Local Revolution - Capturing the hearts through fresh food industries.
2. Hokkaido, Noboribetsu City: Yume Mirror - Engaging children in agriculture from planting to eating.
3. Aomori, Hirakawa City: Introduced Japan's first apple brandy in a bottle.
4. Iwate, Takizawa City: STUDIA – Combining horses, agriculture, and welfare for future cultivation.
5. Miyagi, Natori City: High school students revolutionized fertilizer creation for the agriculture sector.
6. Miyagi, Tōmiya City: Protecting the earth with initiatives focused on honeybees.
7. Yamagata, Yamagata City: Promoting the unique culture of the Yamagata Prefecture flower, Benibana.
8. Ibaraki, Hokota City: Creating the tastiest vegetables as a farmer.
9. Tochigi, Utsunomiya City: Engaging in agriculture, tourism and local stone activities.
10. Shizuoka, Nishi-Izu Town: Digital developments for sustainable fishing villages.

Grand Prix and Excellence Awards

From the selected cases, the Grand Prix and Excellence Awards were established, recognizing outstanding initiatives:

- Grand Prix: Local Revolution (Hokkaido, Hakodate City).
- Excellence Awards in the Business Innovation Sector:

- Umigo Co., Ltd. (Shizuoka, Nishi-Izu)
- Oyama Dairy Cooperative (Tottori, Kotoura).

- Community and Local Produce Sector:

- Ama Promotion Association (Mie, Toba and Shima).
- Hikigata Interesting River Club (Nagasaki, Higashikawan).

- Individual Sector:

- Katsumi Fukazawa (Ibaraki, Hokota).

Upcoming Events

The award ceremony for the selected examples will take place on December 19, 2023, at the auditorium of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

For more detailed information and updates on previous winners, you can visit the official website. More about the selection and its criteria can also be found in the press release issued on June 2, 2023, and subsequent updates through various links provided by MAFF.

This initiative is a part of a larger movement to uplift rural communities and is crucial for their growth and sustainability in the face of modern challenges. The highlighted successes serve as an inspiration for other districts, paving the way for a future where rural areas thrive through innovative practices and local engagement.