Control program of pine wilt disease for landscape conservation-the case of amanohashidate, Kyoto, Japan

Abstract

Amanohashidate in Kyoto, Japan, has been given many titles, and is well known as one of the three most beautiful scenic spots in Japan (Fig. 1), The Three Great Views of Japan. The others are Matsushima and Miyajima. For a long time, Amanohashidate has been best known for its coastline of white sands and green pines (Fig. 2) on a sandbar spreading 3.2 km long by 40-170m wide (Fig. 1). The splendid cluster of pine trees growing there has been the subject matter of books and theater over time. Amanohashidate is located in the innermost part of Miyadu-bay and is separated from land. This means that the pine community in Amanohashidate does not connect with the pine forests of surrounding mountainous areas that play an important role as background landscape (Fig. 1). Therefore, it is very important to preserve the entire area, including the surrounding mountainous area, from any damage to the pine forest. Japanese people highly appreciate such coastal sceneries since ancient times. Such a landscape is one of the typical Japanese sceneries. It is important that we leave the legacy of Amanohashidate in good condition for the next generation. In 2001, increase in severe pine death occurred in Amanohashidate, and when compared to 2000. Consequently, various measures have been implemented to prevent the spreading of pine wilt disease. These measures have been successful, and are highlighted in this paper. © 2008 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.