October issue Greening activities in the region

　In Yokohama-shi, we perform "local green town development" business to support local tree planting activity. We used this project to cover the activities of Motomachi Kawagishi Dori CRG, which is engaged in greening activities in Naka Ward. The Motomachi Kawagishi Dori CRG is an organization that has been active since FY2021 with the goal of creating a city where rivers and people are connected by greenery. CRG is an abbreviation of "Close to the RIVERGREEN".

―What kind of activities are you carrying out?
　We carry out tree planting activities along the Horikawa River in Motomachi. In addition, we are working to have hanging baskets installed at storefronts along the street.

―How did you start your activities?
　In the past, vegetation was planted unplannedly, but over time the river was growing so large that the river could not be seen from the street, so the streets became dark and feared, illegal dumping was seen, and people approached It was a difficult situation. The desire to improve such a street was the reason why I started my activities.

─Specifically, what are you doing in the planting zone?
　We maintain greenery such as caring for the planted flowers, watering and weeding.

―Do you have any awareness of your activities?
　Since there are many store owners, it is difficult for all of them to work together, so we can easily participate without burdening them.

―What kind of ideas do you make to participate easily?
　Without deciding the activity day, we do not decide the activity day, and at the time of each time is free. Toolboxes are installed in the planting belt, and sometimes non-members can take care of it. Previously, it was necessary to make a round trip between the store and the planting zone many times for watering, but by installing a water storage tank using rainwater, the hassle of making round trips I was able to save it.

―Do you have anything else you are aware of?
　The types and colors of flowers do not become too large. Planting flowers of various colors make them colorful, but we try not to increase the color of the flowers, taking into account the subtle greenery tailored to the local environment. The main plants we are planting Tamasudare and rosemary, but Tamasudare is a vegetation grass that grows from bulbs, so there is no need to replant, and rosemary can be expected to have an insect repellent effect.

―Is there anything you do to have a hanging basket installed?
　We hold workshops on hanging basket production. By making a hanging basket on your own and having them decorate it at the storefront, etc., not only will the street brighter, but also give you a chance to feel green nearby and be interested in greenery.

―Is there anything that has changed since you started working on as a business?
　I was able to come up with a long-term plan, and I was able to produce an "original rainwater storage tank device" that could not be done without a subsidy. Although the time of three years is long, many people became interested in participating by feeling the actual street changing up close, many people became interested and participating.

―Do you have any thoughts in your future activities or how you want to make the streets green?
　First of all, we hope that anyone can easily participate in the activities. Even if it is simple, participating once creates a consciousness of "green at yourself", from which not only participates in activities, but also leads to feeling close to greenery, including actions other than activities . Participation in activities not only protects greenery, but also triggers involvement with many people and leads to the revitalization of local communities. In the future, I would like to be a place of relaxation where you can feel the greenery and spend a pleasant time.

　According to a Environmental Planning Bureau official, "If there are more than 10 people who wish to participate in the community development, they can apply if they are willing to work independently. Not only does the greenery of the area, but also the number of acquaintances increases and it will also be a chance to get closer to the community, so we invite friends in the neighborhood and look forward to the participation of many people. "

　Although it was a short interview time, I had the impression that I enjoyed casually in my daily life and touched the greenery, rather than working as an activity. During the interview, I saw many times when people who passed by accident were called out and waving their hands, and I was able to get a glimpse of how the activities were rooted in the area and interested in greenery.

　As for the details about "local green town development", please see the following page.
https://translate-en.city.yokohama.lg.jp/kurashi/machizukuri-kankyo/midori-koen/midori_up/3ryokuka/chiikimidori/chiikimidori2.html