In the picturesque Niigata prefecture of Japan, a delicate balance hangs in the balance as agricultural traditions face an uncertain future. Known as the birthplace of Koshihikari rice—a prized variety celebrated for its sticky texture and sweet flavor—Niigata has a storied agricultural history spanning over four centuries. However, a significant challenge looms: the region’s aging farming population is not being replenished by younger generations, who increasingly opt for urban lifestyles in bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
The decline in the number of farmers has become alarmingly apparent. In a community that once boasted nearly 60 farming households, only six remain today, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Fumikazu Nakamura, a farmer near Nagaoka, the second-largest city in Niigata, voices the sentiment of many: “If this situation continues, there will only be one or two farms left here in 10 years.” This not only threatens the livelihoods of those who remain but poses a broader risk to the land itself. The terraced farms, dependent on water flowing from the mountains, create a ripple effect; the closure of a single farm can negatively impact those downstream.
The crisis extends beyond just the loss of farmers. Shigeyuki Osabe, another local farmer, points out the potential degradation of the land if farming ceases altogether. He notes that as the agricultural workforce dwindles, related industries—such as rice confectionery and sake brewing—also suffer, perpetuating a cycle of decline and further exodus from Niigata.
In response to this pressing issue, a coalition of researchers, government bodies, and industry leaders is coming together to revitalize the agricultural landscape of Niigata. Central to this effort is Wataru Ogasawara, a bioengineering professor at Nagaoka University of Technology. Ogasawara, who hails from a farming family in Iwate prefecture, was compelled to return to a similar agricultural crisis in Niigata. His mission is clear: to leverage scientific innovation to breathe new life into farming, making it a viable and attractive career for younger generations.
A Collaborative Approach to Agriculture
Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable solutions, Nagaoka has been designated as one of Japan’s “biocommunity towns,” an initiative designed to foster sustainable, circular, and bio-based economies. This recognition was part of the broader Japan Bioeconomy Strategy, bringing together 59 organizations—ranging from academic institutions to industry and government—to work collaboratively on revitalizing local agriculture.
A key player in this movement is the KOME-DOKORO COI-NEXT project, a 10-year initiative funded by the Japan Science and Technology Agency. Launched in 2022, the project aims to tackle the pressing issues faced by Niigata’s rice fields by uniting various stakeholders, including farmers, researchers, government entities, and industry leaders. The overarching goal is to make agriculture not only profitable but also appealing to the younger generation, ensuring the preservation of the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
The COI-NEXT project has set two primary objectives: establishing sustainable rice production methods and creating high-value products from previously unused resources, such as waste generated during rice processing. These objectives reflect a dual approach that emphasizes both the sustainability of rice farming and the innovative use of by-products.
Sustainable Rice Production
The first objective focuses on enhancing the sustainability of rice farming. Farmers in Niigata face unique challenges due to the region’s topography, which features rice fields situated along streams and mountains. Osamu Ikeda, a farmer in Nagaoka, highlights the inefficiencies associated with farming in these areas, which often result in lower yields. To address this, the COI-NEXT project is exploring various innovative technologies and practices.
Among these initiatives is the development of robots designed to perform labor-intensive tasks, such as weeding. These advancements aim to reduce the physical burden on farmers, making the job more manageable and less daunting for newcomers. Additionally, the project involves creating designer compost enriched with beneficial microorganisms to optimize crop yield. By employing multiomics—an integrated approach to studying multiple biological data sets—and machine learning, researchers seek to glean insights that can further enhance rice cultivation practices.
Transforming By-products into High-Value Products
The second objective of the COI-NEXT project shifts focus towards maximizing the potential of unused resources from rice production. The concept of “hakko,” or microbial fermentation, plays a crucial role in this endeavor. By harnessing the power of microorganisms, the project aims to convert by-products from rice cultivation into high-value-added products, such as aquaculture feed, detergents, and functional foods. This approach not only minimizes waste but also creates new economic opportunities for local farmers and businesses.
For instance, the transformation of rice husks and bran into functional foods can tap into the growing market for health-conscious consumers. These innovations are expected to stimulate local economies and foster the development of new industries, creating a more resilient agricultural ecosystem in Niigata.
Fostering a Biocommunity
A pivotal aspect of the COI-NEXT project is its emphasis on co-creation and collaboration among farmers, researchers, government officials, and industry representatives. Ogasawara envisions a future where rice fields are seen as communal assets, with local citizens actively engaged in their stewardship. “We hope this project inspires citizens to see rice fields as their own,” he asserts, emphasizing the importance of fostering a sense of ownership and pride within the community.
This collaborative approach also extends to education and outreach initiatives. Shigeyuki Osabe has taken it upon himself to transform his family farm into a center for food education, welcoming children and tourists alike to learn about agriculture. By engaging the community and promoting awareness of the value of farming, these initiatives aim to inspire a new generation of young people to consider careers in agriculture.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As the COI-NEXT project progresses, its leaders are optimistic about the potential to transform rice farming in Niigata. By combining cutting-edge technology with centuries-old agricultural traditions, the project seeks to create a sustainable and attractive future for the region’s rice fields. Ogasawara’s vision for a thriving biocommunity is not merely about preserving the past; it is about innovating for the future.
Farmers like Osabe share this optimism, recognizing the urgency of the moment. “Now is the time for us to create a future where those who wish to try agriculture are set up well to face the challenge,” he asserts, echoing the collective resolve of a community determined to adapt and thrive.
In conclusion, the challenges facing rice cultivation in Niigata prefecture serve as a microcosm of broader issues affecting agriculture globally. However, through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability, Niigata stands at the forefront of a movement to revitalize not only its agricultural heritage but also the future of farming itself. As the community rallies around these initiatives, there is hope that the centuries-old traditions of rice farming will endure and flourish for generations to come.
