Oyster farmers in northeastern Japan recover rafts after quake-caused tsunami
Three oyster farming businesses were deploying a total of about 130 rafts to raise oysters in waters between the mainland coast and Kesennuma Oshima Island in Kesennuma City. But the tsunami caused by the quake that hit Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula damaged or swept away many of the rafts. Ropes anchoring the rafts were loosened by the waves.
The farmers set off on board fishing boats early on Friday to recover the rafts that had drifted offshore. Some of the rafts had piled up on top of each other. They had to cut off some tangled ropes holding oysters. They also brought the rafts closer to the coast so that they will not obstruct other vessels traveling in the area.
They plan to continue collecting and repairing damaged rafts and take them back to the farming site. They said it may take a few years before the recovery efforts are completed.
One of the farmers said they had to cut some ropes laden with oysters which means that the harvest is certain to be smaller this year. He said he feels depressed, but will work hard to bring the farm back to its original state.
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