Wise Management or Mismatch? Lessons from Japan

As a precious resource, wetlands support human life in various profound ways, either explicitly or implicitly. However, the values of have not been sufficiently recognized and greatly appreciated. Their management approaches are often sectoral, wise use is still more catchphrase than well-used practice. This paper presents cross-sectoral case study for evaluation primary practices Ramsar-registered wetland Japan. It employed literature review, field laboratory experiments, questionnaire survey as well assessing conditions identifying problems. revealed that flood regulation–oriented, without sufficient consideration bird habitats, water level drawdown operation Lake Yanaka inside may lead to mass fish deaths. Furthermore, reed burning practice effective maintaining plant structure but controversial from different perspectives. Moreover, results indicated public were informed convinced appropriateness burning. Based on these findings, it was concluded registration under Ramsar Convention did new strategies conservation wetland.