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Launch of Biodiversity Monitoring in Karatsu

On August 7, 2026, biodiversity monitoring commenced at the first natural coexistence site in Saga Prefecture, located in Yokomaku, Aichi Town, Karatsu City. This initiative is led by the NPO Karatsu Farm & Food, represented by Nozomi Hamaguchi. The significant project aims to assess and safeguard biodiversity in the area, which has recently been certified by the Ministry of the Environment as a natural coexistence site.

The initial survey was conducted in collaboration with Professor Makoto Tokuda from Saga University’s Faculty of Agriculture and members of the Systems Ecology Laboratory. Equipped with nets and tools, the team explored a range of environments—from riverbanks to forest edges—documenting various species encountered during the process, including a kingfisher with a small fish in its beak. Additionally, infrared sensor cameras were installed in the forests to capture data on elusive mammals and nocturnal creatures, which might go unnoticed by human observers.

Importance of Monitoring

The Yokomaku area has become a significant location following its recognition as Japan's first natural coexistence site by the environmental authorities during the second half of the 2023 fiscal year. However, previous monitoring efforts have relied heavily on the anecdotal experiences of local residents, lacking a systematic and scientific approach to evaluate and manage local biodiversity.

To address this gap, scientists and students designed a comprehensive monitoring plan that selects target species and survey sites while considering seasonal variations. The goal is to perform multifaceted monitoring three times a year, integrating data from infrared cameras, aquatic life studies, and insect assessments.

This initiative aims to build a scientific understanding of the area's ecological value—documenting what species inhabit the area, their seasonal patterns, and ecological dynamics. The ultimate objective is to empower the local community, high school students, and university students to continue monitoring efforts autonomously even after the project's completion.

Field Insights and Experiences

Shota Kinoshita, Vice Director of the NPO, expressed his thoughts about the project: “We work closely with the rice fields and forests every day. While we may intuitively understand the local biodiversity through our experiences, it is vital to document this knowledge so it can be conveyed to others. This collaborative effort with university experts and students marks a significant step towards achieving this goal.”

The survey witnessed various species, such as the immature dragonflies spotted near fallow fields, alongside the green frog near ponds and the hard-to-find grasshopper at Yokomaku Shrine. These identifications were aided by the collaboration with Professor Tokuda and his research team's expertise.

Ongoing Efforts and Future Projections

Biological surveys are scheduled to occur three times a year, adapting methods with each season. The next survey is planned for the fall, followed by another in late autumn. By accumulating records over these seasons, the project intends to establish indicators tailored to the environment of Yokomaku for effective management and support of local biodiversity.

The Yokomaku Natural Coexistence Area is situated in Aichi Town, Karatsu City, covering approximately 36.67 hectares. It has been recognized for its ecological richness, with about 140 species documented in previous surveys, including the critically endangered Kasumi salamander. This site reinforces the belief that traditional agricultural practices can coexist harmoniously with natural ecosystems, contributing significantly to the local environment.

As the project progresses, it promises to foster a collaborative environment for continuous monitoring and preserving the ecological integrity of the area. The initiative not only works towards data collection but also aims to establish a sustainable community-led approach to biodiversity conservation.

Organization Overview

NPO Karatsu Farm & Food
Location: 3-7-22 Higashi-Karatsu, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture
Focus: Environmental education, biodiversity conservation, and promotion of a circular economy.
Website: Karatsu Farm & Food
Instagram: @preciousplastic_karatsu