The Food, Agriculture, Forests and Rural District of Saitama, 2004
Governor's GreetingsMaking use of it's rich natural resources and location next to Tokyo, Saitama cultivates a wide range of agricultural produce, such as vegetables, rice, cattle, plants and flowers. Saitama's vegetable production ranks 6th out of the 47 prefectures. One-third of Saitama's land is made up of forests, which do not only provide timber, but also help water resources and absorb carbon-dioxide. Therefore by producing food and contributing to the preservation of our land, the Agricultural and Forestry Industry protects Saitama citizens' health and our environment.
The Saitama Prefectural Government's philosophy for all administration fields is ‘safety and peace of mind’. In regards to the Agricultural and Forestry Industries and the Management of the Rural Districts, it is especially important to protect the safety and peace of mind of citizens and promote the further development of Saitama.
In March 2004, the Food, Agricultural and Rural Districts' Vision to protect the health of Saitama citizens was decided upon. This vision is to increase Saitama's self sufficiency from 12% to 15%, through the independent approaches of consumers, farmers, and all parties related to food production, and the support of these strategies by the Saitama Prefectural Government. These strategies and support aim to increase farmers' motivation and citizens' trust of food from Saitama. Together with our citizens, the Saitama Prefectural Government plans to implement these strategies in order to achieve this vision and the long term forestry vision.
This homepage provides information on the policies and trends of Saitama's food, agricultural and forestry industry, and rural districts. We hope this site, with its graphs and photographs, depens your understanding of Saitama's agricultural and forestry industry.
Kiyoshi Ueda
Governor, Saitama Prefecture
