Black pine conservation and winter preparations underway in Japan

In Kanazawa, workers have begun the annual process of “yukizuri,” or snow hanging, to protect street trees from breaking under the weight of heavy snow. Approximately 60,000 trees, including black pines, camellias, and azaleas, will receive rope supports by December 18 to maintain the city's iconic winter landscape.

In Soma, Fukushima, conservation efforts are focused on restoring coastal disaster prevention forests at Matsukawaura. Following damage from the Great East Japan Earthquake, NTT East and local NPOs have been working to cultivate a forest of black pines. Recent activities included weeding efforts by approximately 60 participants to support the growth of trees planted to protect the region from tsunamis, sea breezes, and sand.