As a result of the Audit Office's investigation of the status of protective fences that were constructed using government subsidies to prevent forest damage by deer, it was found that they were damaged and not properly managed in more than 200 locations nationwide.
In fiscal 2021, forest damage caused by wild birds and animals exceeded approximately 4900,1000 hectares, equivalent to 7,2021 Tokyo Domes, and 6% of them were damaged by deer, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) subsidizes local governments and forestry cooperatives when they install protective fences to prevent the invasion of deer.
Regarding this protective fence, the Board of Audit surveyed the status of 19 locations in 623 roads and prefectures over the six years to fiscal 213.
As a result, it was found that 116 places remained damaged due to fallen trees and snow cover.
In 11 of these locations, forest damage was confirmed due to food damage by deer and other animals.
Inspections are important for maintaining the effectiveness of protective fences, but 1 locations did not conduct a single inspection, and 198 locations were carried out while mowing weeds, which was insufficient.
A total of approximately 1 million yen has been allocated for the development of these protective fences, and the Board of Audit requested the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries to advise on the consideration of maintenance and management methods suitable for the site.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) says, "We take these suggestions seriously and would like to make the importance of inspections known."