Ehime Prefecture’s Citrus Orchards Reap First Harvest After 2018 Flood Devastation
Image: [Image of farmers harvesting tangerines,sourced from NHK World]
Six years after the devastating 2018 West Japan rainfall ravaged citrus orchards in Uwajima City, Ehime Prefecture,the first harvest from replanted saplings has been celebrated. On November 17th, farmers rejoiced as they picked the first tangerines from trees painstakingly replanted after the catastrophic flood.
Uwajima City, renowned for its flourishing citrus cultivation, suffered immensely during the 2018 deluge. The torrential rains swept away countless orange trees, leaving behind a landscape of mudand destruction. The recovery has been a long and arduous process, requiring significant investment and unwavering resilience from the local farming community.
One such testament to this resilience is the story of farmer Toshimasa Nakajima. His orchard, amongthose decimated six years ago, now boasts approximately 220 thriving saplings planted in the second year following the disaster. These young trees, nurtured with meticulous care, have finally borne fruit, marking a momentous occasion for Nakajima and the wider community.
“Since planting the saplings, it’sbeen all expenses and no income,” Nakajima commented, his voice filled with emotion. “Today’s harvest is indescribably important. I will work hard to increase the yield year by year.” His words encapsulate the spirit of perseverance that has characterized the region’s recovery efforts. The first harvest represents notjust a return to productivity, but a symbol of hope and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
The successful harvest signals a significant step towards the complete revitalization of Uwajima’s citrus industry. While the road to full recovery remains long, this milestone offers a powerful message of optimismand underscores the dedication of the farmers who have tirelessly worked to rebuild their livelihoods. The sweet taste of these first tangerines is a testament to their unwavering commitment and a beacon of hope for the future.
Conclusion:
The first harvest from the replanted citrus trees in Uwajima City marks a significant turningpoint in the region’s recovery from the devastating 2018 West Japan rainfall. This achievement highlights the resilience and dedication of the local farmers, and offers a powerful symbol of hope for the future of the citrus industry in Ehime Prefecture. Further research could focus on the long-term economic impact ofthe disaster and recovery efforts, as well as the development of more resilient agricultural practices to mitigate the effects of future extreme weather events.
References:
- NHK World. (2024, November 18). Ehime Prefecture’s Citrus Orchards Reap First Harvest After 2018Flood Devastation. [Link to NHK World article – replace with actual link if available]
(Note: The provided Chinese text was used to inform the article. The image link was included as requested. A link to the NHK World article should be added for a complete citation.)
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