Experience Summer Agriculture in Isesaki City: Edamame Harvest Day

On July 12th, a unique agricultural event will take place in Isesaki City, Japan, where families can participate in a hands-on edamame harvesting experience. This event is organized by the Gunma Direct Produce Council 'Megurunma' and is the culmination of a series established to connect consumers directly with producers, allowing them to engage with nature and the farming process. The council is affiliated with Palsystem Gunma, based in Takasaki City, and has gained attention as a significant community initiative to promote local agriculture.

Edamame Journey Begins

This harvesting experience is part of the 'Mame Mame Course,' aimed at educating participants on the entire growing process, from seed sowing to harvest. Approximately 60 families will join in this session, taking place at the community-managed 'Minna no Hatake,' where the edamame plants have been nurtured. Participants will engage in activities such as weeding and picking edamame, learning directly from local farmers who guide them through each step of the process.

In April, families planted the seeds and have since tended to the crops. Now, they will experience the joy of harvesting and tasting freshly boiled edamame, creating memorable moments while sharing the flavors of their hard work with farmers.

Building Connections and Learning

Palsystem Gunma, in conjunction with Megurunma, is committed to providing agricultural experiences that foster children's growth and understanding of food origins. Through these hands-on activities, families learn about the care that goes into growing food as well as the agricultural challenges faced by producers. They will have the opportunity to express gratitude to the farmers who dedicate time and effort to provide fresh produce.

This season's activities aren't limited to edamame alone. The 'Negi Negi Course,' which focuses on cultivating red onions in preparation for a November harvest, is also currently underway. This variety enriches the community and showcases Gunma's agricultural diversity.

Strong Community and Sustainable Agriculture

The Gunma Direct Produce Council 'Megurunma' was established in collaboration with Palsystem Gunma, along with three local agriculture groups: 'Yasai Kurabu' (Showa Village), 'Kurabuchi Grass Association' (Takasaki City), and 'Tonegawa Producers Group' (Isesaki City). This initiative enhances mutual understanding among producers and consumers while promoting local sourcing, sustainable agriculture development, and healthy living. By engaging all parties, the council aims to contribute to a vibrant and sustainable community.

Event Overview

- Date: July 12, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM (Will proceed in light rain; canceled in severe weather)
- Location: Next to 'Minna no Hatake' at Isesaki City Sakai Takashi Community Center (Sakai Shitaba 862-3)
- Parking: Available at 'Sakai Comprehensive Sports Park' (Sakai Kamimusashi 846)
- Participants: Approximately 60 families from Palsystem Gunma
- Activities: Weeding, harvesting edamame, tasting and sharing

Mame Mame Course Schedule

- 1st Session: April 26 – Sowing seeds, net installation, mulching, thinning potatoes, and harvesting lettuce.
- 2nd Session: June 14 – Weeding and harvesting potatoes.
- 3rd Session: June 21 – Weeding and harvesting potatoes.
- 4th Session: July 12 – Weeding, harvesting edamame, and tasting exchange.

Palsystem Gunma is committed to bridging the gap between producers and consumers, continually promoting sustainable food practices and agricultural experiences within the community.

For more information, check out Palsystem Gunma’s official website.