The threats were highlighted to Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Norikazu Suzuki, during his visits to multiple sites in Akita and Aomori.
The purpose of the visit was to in inspect orchards severely affected by sudden, concentrated snowfall.
At several locations, fruit trees were found split in half or heavily damaged. Many growers struggled to reach their orchards in time because of the heavy snow, resulting in widespread destruction.
Suzuki noted that the situation was extremely serious, with some producers uncertain whether they can continue farming.
“I saw many places where trees had been split in two, and I imagine that because of the sudden snowfall this time, farmers were overwhelmed with snow removal at home and found it difficult to get to their fields. I think that the damage is severe in these difficult circumstances, and I believe that some farmers and orchards are wondering whether they will be able to continue farming.”
Seedlings and the survival of orchards
Suzuki highlighted that Japan was facing a broader structural problem of an ageing population, prompting the need for a system that ensures orchards can be passed on to the next generation smoothly.
“With an aging population, the question of whether orchards can be passed on to the next generation is becoming a challenge not only for apples but for all crops. In fruit tree cultivation, it takes several years – often around five – from planting to the first harvest, so it is crucial to establish a system that ensures well‑maintained orchards are properly handed down.”
He emphasised thatsimply replanting damaged trees would not be enough if Japan experiences the same heavy snowfalls again.
“Even if we replant, the same level of snowfall would cause the same damage again. Rather than repeating that cycle, we need to shift toward producing fruit trees that can withstand heavy snow.”
With so many trees needing to be replanted, Suzuki said the supply of seedling was concerning issue.
The situation was even more challenging as the recommended practice for making orchards more resilient to snow is high‑density planting, which required more seedlings than traditional planting methods.
“These seedlings also need to be specifically produced for high‑density cultivation rather than using ordinary stock. Looking ahead, I would like us to consider how we can secure a stable supply system for these seedlings across Japan.”
Given the urgency, especially in Aomori, Suzuki urged national support.
“In Aomori Prefecture, which is a leading apple producer, I am concerned that the supply of seedlings will become insufficient in the future. To support the region’s production base, I believe this is an issue the entire country must address.”
In the meantime, Suzuki highlighted the urgent need to make Japan’s fruit‑producing regions more resistant to snow damage.
“I believe we must promote the development of fruit‑producing regions that are more resistant to snow damage. In the first half of next month, the Tohoku Regional Agricultural Administration Office will establish a study group with the participation of the Tohoku prefectures that have repeatedly suffered heavy snow. This group will examine measures to introduce snow‑resistant cultivation methods and to strengthen the supply capacity of seedlings.”
