On August 28, 2024, MORIUMIUS FARM, a general incorporated association based in Ogata Town, Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, announced that with support from The Nippon Foundation, it will begin construction of a new “Sea and Food Learning Experience Facility” in the fall of 2025. Through the construction of this new facility, the organization aims to further promote regional revitalization and sustainable natural regeneration. As part of this project, they are now recruiting “vineyard owners” to help develop the vineyard, starting from September 1, 2024.
Learn About Grape Cultivation and Wine Production at a Vineyard and Cultivate a Sustainable Future
MORIUMIUS FARM has been working towards recovery and sustainable community building in Ogata Town, which suffered significant damage from the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. With support from The Nippon Foundation’s “NAGISA Police Station Project,” the organization is advancing to a new phase. The newly established facility aims to help visitors experience the cycle of nature and living through diverse activities related to food and nature.
The recruitment of “vineyard owners” for the wine farm is a key focus of this project. As a “vineyard owner,” participants will learn about grape cultivation and wine production at MORIUMIUS FARM’s vineyard and have the opportunity to cultivate a sustainable future with their own hands.
Recruitment for vineyard owners will run from September 1 to October 31, 2024, requiring a 50,000 yen investment for a five-year contract. Contract holders will have their names displayed in the vineyard, and enjoy benefits such as receiving original wine and restaurant invitations.
Additionally, a new community called “OGATSU SHIZUKU TEAM” will be established for vineyard owners. This community will offer programs to experience the full range of activities from grape cultivation to wine production. Through both online and on-site learning, vineyard owners will gain a deep understanding of the farm’s background and goals, and have opportunities to grow together. An annual activity schedule will be provided, allowing participants to experience all stages of wine production, including harvesting, bottling, and labeling.
MORIUMIUS FARM has previously engaged in activities to restore biodiversity through regenerative agriculture and raised approximately 4.65 million yen through crowdfunding focused on agriculture and community building. In 2023, they conducted a large-scale event planting around 1,300 grape seedlings.
The new facility, scheduled for completion in the fall of 2025, is expected to become not only a place for learning about the sea and food but also a symbol of new regional development in harmony with nature.
Press release available here