Hakodate’s Sardine Beaching Crisis: A Tale of Unwanted Fish and New Year’s Holidays

The Beaching Incident

A massive sardine beaching occurred in late December in the town of Matsumae, located in Japan’s northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido. The incident has left the town struggling to find a company to dispose of the fish due to the New Year holidays, according to town officials.

The Scale of the Problem

The beaching covered approximately 900 metres of shoreline along the Sea of Japan, leaving residents concerned about hygiene as more than a week has passed since the town was alerted to the incident on December 28.

The Cause Remains Undetermined

Despite the efforts of the Hakodate Fisheries Research Institute at the Hokkaido Research Organisation, the cause of the incident remains undetermined. However, the institute suggests that the sudden drop in water temperature may have forced the sardines ashore.

Residents’ Concerns

A female resident expressed her concerns about the situation, stating, “They’re starting to rot. The smell isn’t bad yet because the temperatures are low, but I hope they dispose of them soon.” The resident’s concerns are echoed by many others in the town, who are worried about the potential health risks associated with the rotting fish.

A Similar Incident in 2021

This is not the first time that Matsumae has faced a sardine beaching. In December 2021, a similar incident occurred, requiring the disposal of approximately 24 tonnes of fish. The town is hoping to avoid a repeat of the same situation this year.

Conclusion

The sardine beaching in Matsumae has left the town in a difficult situation, with residents concerned about hygiene and the potential health risks associated with the rotting fish. The town’s struggle to find a company to dispose of the fish due to the New Year holidays has only added to the complexity of the situation. As the town works to resolve the issue, it is clear that the situation will require careful management to ensure the health and well-being of the residents.

FAQs

Q: What caused the sardine beaching?

A: The cause of the incident remains undetermined, but the Hakodate Fisheries Research Institute suggests that a sudden drop in water temperature may have forced the sardines ashore.

Q: How many sardines are involved?

A: The beaching covered approximately 900 metres of shoreline along the Sea of Japan, but the exact number of sardines involved is unknown.

Q: Has this happened before?

A: Yes, a similar sardine beaching occurred in December 2021, requiring the disposal of approximately 24 tonnes of fish.

Q: What is being done to resolve the situation?

A: The town is working to find a company to dispose of the fish, but the New Year holidays have made it challenging.