Farmers in Fukushima are struggling to revive their livelihoods. The 2011 nuclear accident and subsequent evacuation devastated farms — the area’s main source of jobs. Some areas, like the village of Iitate, have lifted most of their evacuation orders. But getting back to normal is taking some time. More than 200 farmers used to raise cows in this region. But 2 months after authorities lifted their evacuation order, few farmers have tried to return to raising animals. Six cows were released into a paddy field to graze. It’s a step to revive the farm work that was widely seen in Iitate village. One farmer is using his cows as an experiment that could bring hope to others. After the animals eat these fields for 2 months, they’ll have their blood tested to check if they have been influenced in any way by radioactive material.
Fukushima 311 11th June 2017 read more »