Park Ranger

Park Ranger Tasks

The history of Park Rangers began when twelve individuals, following the system of American National Parks, were assigned to various National Parks in 1953 as "locally stationed managers." Park rangers have a wide range of duties.

Work Relating to Permission and Authorization

Authorization Meeting

In order to prevent environmental damage caused by acts of development and other activities in our National Parks, as well as to protect the animals and plants that inhabit and breed in these parks, various activities are subject to regulations. Reviews required for the granting of permission or authorization for such activities are conducted.

Operations Relating to the Formulation of Park Plans

Example of a Park Plan

Park Plans for such matters as zoning for the strict protection of the natural environment, the classification of restrictions by relative strength for the protection of the natural environment, and visitor facilities for use are formulated. These Park Plans are reviewed periodically in accordance with the changing natural environment and based on other relevant factors. Surveys and proposed plans are produced accordingly for this purpose.

Surveys and Inspections Undertaken for the Management of Protection Activities

Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park: Iriomote Cat Behavior Study

Park rangers conduct surveys aimed at protecting the natural environment and animals and plants found on park grounds, investigate park usage conditions, verify whether activities on park grounds comply with the Natural Parks Act, and patrol the national parks while performing safety checks for trails and other facilities.

Upgrading Visitor Facilities and Engaging in Their Management and Operation

Senjogahara Nature Trail (Nikko National Park)

Visitor centers, nature trails, restrooms, observatories, and other facilities are developed, upgraded, and managed and operated to help visitors to National Parks gain a better understanding of nature and safely and comfortably come into contact with nature.

Promoting the Restoration of the Natural Environment

Eco Tour Participants Collaborating in Nature Restoration Project (Sarobetsu Nature Restoration Project)

Nature restoration projects to proactively restore natural environments that have been damaged in the past are being carried out and promoted in collaboration with a wide array of local actors, including NPOs and residents.

Beautification and Clean-up Programs

Saikai National Park: Cleaning Activities Led by Volunteers

Clean-up activities are undertaken nationwide at all National Parks and other Natural Parks on Natural Parks Clean-Up Day, which falls on the first Sunday of every August. Efforts are made to protect the natural environment and create and develop parks that are comfortable for users through such clean-up programs.

Promoting Contact with Nature

Taking advantage of national parks' natural environment, rangers use visitor centers, etc., as a base to organize nature observation groups, craft workshops, and other activities, thus promoting environmental education.

With the cooperation of NPOs and local residents, they also engage in nature protection activities outside of national park grounds, including the protection of wildlife and preservation of forests, rivers and Satoyama (community-based forest area).

• Management of Protection in Nature Conservation Area and World Natural Heritage Sites
• Protection of Endangered Species and Regulation of Alien Species
• Conservation and Restoration of Satochi (rural landscape) and Satoyama (community-based woods)
• Promotion of environmental education