The forestless slopes of Aso remind me of my home state, California - but my home state is forestless due to lack of water, whereas Aso is so due to their autumn burns. These kill off any tree saplings yet leave other plant root systems active, and these plants return quickly.
After the autumn burns, the ranchers harvest the fresh brush for winter forage. Kumanichi reports that this has been completed. We’re halfway through fall, and winter is bearing down. That the cows will be well-fed is comforting. - William