Regenerating 100-Hectare Forest in Mt. Fuji

Dear GlobalGiving Supporters,

This year, the Mt. Fuji Restoration Project reaches another milestone: its 20th anniversary.

As we reflect on two decades of efforts, we sincerely thank you for your continued and generous support. Your dedication is what made this work possible. In this report, we share how your donations power this year’s activities, as well as our initiatives for the next decade of this project. 

In winter, Mt. Fuji was closed due to harsh weather, preventing us from visiting the project site. However, in the end of April the mountain roads finally reopened and our team visited the project site for prior inspection. As you know, this project relies on the hands-on work of many dedicated volunteers - from organizations to individuals - who join efforts to repair protective nets, conduct thinning and other vital maintenance work. Because our project site spans across 100 hectares, each year we rotate maintenance activities to different zones, ensuring the entire area receives proper care over several years. The purpose of our recent inspection was to choose and assess this year’s working zones, ensuring they are safe and ready for the volunteer intake season.  

As part of our inspection, we also evaluated tree growth at the selected zones. In zones with abundant sunlight, our planted trees are growing exceptionally well. However, in other zones, the growth of our trees was hindered by wild-growing larches. Recognizing these varying conditions, we are developing tailored measures for each zone. For example, we are assessing whether competing wild trees need to be thinned, and if additional trees should be planted in emptier areas. As we build our 10-year plan, we will refine these strategies in close collaboration with key stakeholders, including forestry experts, prefectural administration, and local forestry workers.

Another thing we are considering going forward is being more active in sharing our project with wider audience. To that end, we filmed a short video on-site. For the video, our veteran specialist - who has been with this project since its inception 20 years ago - kindly agreed to be featured. Though naturally shy, he was happy to share his expertise on camera. Moving forward, we plan to launch similar initiatives to raise broader awareness of our restoration work and invite even more people to join our cause.

We always remain deeply thankful for your unwavering support and are committed to maximize the impact of your contributions going forward.

P.S. On the day of our inspection, Mt. Fuji was especially beautiful. Although it was already the end of April here in Japan, the top of Fuji was still covered in a familiar snow cap.