The Hokkaido University Forest Research Society, a student group which engages in a variety of activities with "forests" as the keyword, held a citizen participation event, "Hokkaido University Lost Wood Market," on October 26th.

This event included a forest tour, tree felling, lumbering, and simple wood processing. Through these experiences, participants were able to feel closer to forests and trees.

At the event, members of the Hokkaido University Forestry Research Society and others toured the forests on the Sapporo Campus, followed by a felling demonstration by technical specialists Field Science Center for Northern Biosphere and a lumbering demonstration by technical specialists Research Faculty of Agriculture. Afterwards, a woodworking workshop was held, where participants made pencils, cutlery and straps using unused wood from the campus. Participants enjoyed the wonders of trees around them and the experience of felling and sawing, which was different from their everyday lives. The experience of processing things with their own hands allowed the participants to take home small items that they felt even more attached to. There was also interaction with members of the Forestry Research Society, and it was a great opportunity for the participants to fully enjoy the charm of forests and trees.

Photo: Aki Kawakami, Institute of Higher Education (top right and top left), Kai Ezawa, Institute for the Advancement of Graduate Education Academic Affairs Planning Division (bottom right and bottom left)