Since the 15th of June, Ms. Denny Gray from Beloit College, U.S. has been staying with us in Semboku!
She is here to research on how WWOOF Program can support the sustainability of Farm-inn experience in rural areas.
What exactly is WWOOF?
Well, WWOOF stands for “World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms,” and it aims to develop a community where visitors with organic farmers connect and collaborate to promote cultural and educational experiences based on non-monetary relationship.
Ms. Gray is currently staying in Farm-inn Furusato, helping the host to ship broad beans.
Here is a small interview with her.
Q. “How do you think the WWOOF program can spread in Semboku?”
“I think that WWOOF can support the aging population of farmers in Japan. Especially during the busy seasons, I believe it would be wonderful to have volunteers all around the globe, helping the farmers and experience the fantastic nature in rural Japan.”
Q. “Are there any troubles confronting the program?”
“I had less trouble since I learned Japanese for a long period. However, I think there will be troubles for those who don’t have any Japanese capabilities.”
Q. “How can such troubles be evaded?”
“My host Kawai-san sometimes uses a translation app to explain difficult words. Utilizing such technology will be one way to establish smooth communication.”
It would be wonderful exploration to have activities as global as WWOOF to start in Semboku City.
*Link to WWOOF Home Page is down below.
