[Event Report] Wild Bird Forest Maintenance Team

" " holds lectures and workshops under the theme of "enriching life in Karuizawa."Hoshino Community BaseFrom ", held on October 9thWild Bird Forest Maintenance TeamWe will report on the situation at "[event name]".

This time, we were joined by residents of nearby vacation homes. Under a beautiful autumn sky, we set off. In front of the sign for the Wild Bird Forest, we received explanations about today's maintenance route and why we are able to carry out maintenance work in a national forest. Today, we will be clearing the undergrowth along the "Wren Stream," which is located a short distance from the visitor center along the Kose Forest Road.

We arrive at the Wren Stream and receive an explanation. The purpose is to clear the bushes between the walking path and the stream to improve visibility. This prevents unexpected encounters with animals, allows sunlight to reach the ground and new grass to sprout, and makes it easier to observe the wrens singing loudly in early spring, thus enhancing the enjoyment of walking along the path. The shrubs are highly prolific and will grow back in 4-5 years, so regular maintenance is necessary.

The participants wear rubber boots and gloves, and are equipped with tools such as saws and pruning shears.

While they boldly cut down trees like the Deutzia family, which vigorously grow branches and leaves, and large Magnolia and Zelkova trees, they instructed, "Don't cut down the mountain hydrangeas." Apparently, they are a favorite food of the increasing deer population, and a lot of them have been eaten. Indeed, many mountain hydrangeas have no branch tips.

From the walking path down to the stream, we spotted several animal trails. Many animals must be coming down to the stream. We also observed wallowing areas for wild boars and deer. Clean water naturally collects there.

Now, this is what it looked like before the bushes were cleared. Animals could easily hide themselves here.

Carefully checking our footing, we descended to the stream and continued our work. The visibility improved dramatically.

While working mindlessly, I enjoyed chatting about plants and animals in between, and was able to complete my work a little past the wren's resting place. On the way back, I cleared away branches on the mountainside, and with a light step, it turned into a pleasant stroll on a fine day.

Thank you to everyone who participated. I believe we were able to improve the environment so that visitors to the Wild Bird Forest can enjoy their walks even more. We're looking forward to next spring! The next "Wild Bird Forest Maintenance Team" meeting is scheduled for November. We will inform you as soon as the date is decided.