Mountain Foothill Gardening with Bear Precautions | Repairing Raised Rhubarb Beds and Wind Protection Measures

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 Good morning, everyone.

Today (April 15), I started work again at 6:00 a.m. for about two hours. Lately, I’ve been hearing and seeing more reports of bear activity. The garden where I work is located at the foot of a mountain at an elevation of about 1000m. Around December 2025 last year, an adult Asiatic black bear appeared within a 1㎞ radius of the garden.

Situation of carrying bear spray

Since then, I have made it a habit to always carry bear spray when going to the garden in the early morning or evening.

This spray is the SABRE FRONTIERSMAN･Bear Attack Deterrent.

It is said to have a maximum spray distance of up to about 12m.

Situation of soil preparation work

Today, I will be preparing soft soil mixed with chicken manure to restore raised rhubarb beds that have been damaged by rainfall. Rain is expected in the afternoon, so I will cover the area with agricultural plastic sheets to prevent runoff.

Covering agricultural plastic sheet

Here is something extremely important. It is essential to prevent windborne debris. In May last year, there was an accident in which a train collided with a metal pipe structure that had apparently been blown onto the tracks by strong winds, resulting in injuries and fatalities among passengers.

In my case, I use agricultural plastic sheets, but such materials can be carried over long distances by wind and may become hazardous objects that can obstruct railway lines, utility poles, or block visibility for trains and vehicles.

Even when strong winds are not expected, I always secure the sheets firmly by using weights or burying the edges deeply in soil, a method known as earthing up. This is extremely important to ensure that what should be a pleasant experience is not ruined.

Situation of raspberry plant with new leaves

Finally, fresh green leaves have begun to appear on the raspberry branches, which will eventually bear bright red fruit. I hope to harvest them before the deer do.

That’s all for today!

Summary: Today I worked on agricultural maintenance in a mountain garden and took safety precautions while carrying bear spray. Spring farming tasks continue as the season changes.