CHEAP IRRIGATION

Press, Volume LXXI, Issue 21404, 21 February 1935, Page 9

CHEAP IRRIGATION

TO THE EDITOR OF THE MESS. Sir, —The possibility of finding, and distributing, not less than 40,000 tons of rain-water on each square mile of South Canterbury's surface area, at a few days' notice, seems an utter impossibility, yet this was apparently accomplished on February 13 and 14, by the unanimous desire of the settlers who asked for and obtained 69 points of rain on those dates, silently, and 'without the slightest interruption to North Canterbury's adopted drought attitude. The needy and progressive settlers of North Canterbury have at last determined to ask for "refreshing rains," and unite with their neighbours south of the Rangitata for general rain throughout Canterbury on February 24 and 25. Abundant rain for immediate requirements is assured on dates named, provided your numerous readers help to carry out the only necessary conditions:—"Ask and ye shall have." They can absolutely depend on the support of South Canterbury settlers —the pioneers of rain-making in New Zealand. The city, with its stationary 88 points of rain for the year to date, may carry on indefinitely, owing to iLs unfailing domestic water supply, but how does the farmer manage to exist under such conditions of apathy, while Timaru, with its record of 308 points of rain for the year to date, is demanding further rain as indicated? I regret the necessity of broadcasting our inanities, but feel certain that this brief reference to the position will prove helpful and, that before the end of this month, all our weather problems will have ceased to worry. At the time of writing the wind, now south-west, would ordinarily cause precipitation, but, owing to the band contest's outdoor activities, the tendency—the creative thought of the community—is to defer the rain till the end of the week. Perfect unanimity is not yet attainable, but we know that our prayers do not return to us void, but must accomplish whereunto they are sent.—Yours, etc., C. H. MASON. Timaru. February 20, 19^5.