Shifting from apple to peach farming in Kazuno, northern Japan: perceptions of and responses to climatic and non-climatic impacts

摘要: Apple farmers in Kazuno, northern Japan, have started to grow peaches the northernmost climatic region suitable for peach farming. Here, we investigate process from initial introduction of cultivation its diffusion focusing on farmers’ perceptions and non-climatic stimuli their actions respond these stressors. Interviews with identified three distinct groups. Four (Group 1) initiated transition production, which then spread other 2) via personal connections. Later, after provision various means support local government producers’ cooperative, many more apple 3) decided begin production. Most recognized risk damages production as a result typhoons drought. However, only Group 1 farmers, who depend direct sales customers, mentioned climate-related reason shift toward order maintain customers. The fruit was specifically chosen replacement because it is less vulnerable For 3 financial losses associated events could be compensated by insurance. Their decision largely due higher price immunity against specific disease affects apples but they shifted once institutional available, thereby reducing cultivating new species. Our findings suggest that role institutions not drive adaptation itself rather provide relevant enable them crop varieties easily. We argue such process-based understanding crucial formulating strategies increase adaptive capacity agriculture.