Development in Postwar Agricultural Policy and the Peopleʼs Response: A Case Study of the “Shiwa Model of Diversified Farming” in Urushitachi in Iwate Prefecture

<p>  This article aims at explaining why a local community chose to adopt a livelihood combining multiple farming activities during the period of rapid economic growth in Japan when mass production and consumption through single crop farming in agriculture accelerated. Through this analysis, it offers observations on how people responded to agricultural policy.</p><p> </p><p>  Field work was undertaken in the Katayose Urushitachi District in Shiwa Town, Iwate Prefecture (hereinafter, Urushitachi). Initiatives for the improvement of the production base and technical innovation were launched in this area, but due to the limited room for expansion of scale, the agricultural cooperative proposed an agricultural management method called the “Shiwa model of diversified farming.” This was a method where farmers combined multiple production activities, such as mushrooms, livestock, and vegetables and fruits.</p><p> </p><p>  Urushitachi had traditionally adopted a unique livelihood of combining various farming activities in a year and juggling these activities flexibly depending on the conditions. It is believed that this community was able to embrace the “Shiwa model of diversified farming” by building on this mode of livelihood.</p><p> </p><p>  On the other hand, the “Shiwa model” was actually accepted by each farmer only as “one option.” In addition to the issue of manpower in each family, the building of human relations based on this mode of livelihood, the application of knowledge, and other factors were the basis of their decision. It was found that this model was able to take root owing to individual diversity.</p><p> </p><p>  From the above, it is believed that a comprehensive analysis of the overall policy framework and how specific modes of livelihood developed is very important for understanding peopleʼs daily life in contemporary society.</p>