The biodiversity and ecological functions of reed beds have drawn considerable attention, and it is broadly accepted that human activities and conservation of reed beds are interdependent. Common reeds (Phragmites australis) are used as materials in thatched roofs, blinds, and fuels. However, the use of reeds has decreased and many reed beds have deteriorated during the last decades. Moreover, large-scale burning of reed beds that remain unharvested has resulted in complaints of residents.

In this study, we discuss how to avoid social conflicts and sustain the burning practice. we compared four reed beds in which burning was or is being conducted: the Iwaki River downstream basin, the Kitakami River downstream basin, the Watarase Retarding Basin, and the Udono riverside of the Yodo River.

In each area, the burning is conducted for many purposes such as conservation of traditional and cultural activities, biodiversity and landscape, prevention of bonfire, and illegal dumping. Many stakeholders shared these views and collaborated in the burning operation. Thereafter, burning is regarded as a public activity by the neighborhood, decreasing the number of complaints in each area. It suggest that it's important to understand and communicate the multiple benefits of reed bed burning.