LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Press, Volume LXXXII, Issue 24768, 8 January 1946, Page 2

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

1. Letters sent to the Editor for printing must be written in ink on one side of the paper only, and writers must send in their names and addresses in full, whether they wish .these to be printed or not. 2. Writers must say clearly whether or not their letters are being or have been sent to other papers. 3. The Editor cannot return or keep any letter which for any reason is unsuitable for printing, nor can he acknowledge unsuitable letters, although this will be done where it seems to be needful, or enter into any correspondence about letters sent in. 4. Letters must not be of more than 150 words in length.

Waiting.—Adds nothing to previous letters and statements on the subject.

AFFORESTATION AND FARMING Sir,—With an average rainfall below that of natural forest country, shelter belt planting on the Canterbury plains is undoubtedly essential. Nine acres of sheltered land will probably produce more than 10 acres of unsheltered; so one acre in 10 might be used for shelter with advantage. Well managed shelter belts produce r uality timber yielding up to 100 per cent, more than larger stands. From farmin? annual incomes are derived; but forest production is a liability and an asset for a life-time. In 50 years the accrued forest production from correct shelter belts should equal the whole farm in value. Unfortunately, such production has been despised, farmers not getting the advice, financial assistance, or remuneration due. As a result there is a corresponding loss to the whole community. Its failure to provide this service suggests that the State forest organisation has operated on wrong lines.—Yours, etc., ALF. G. HOLLAND. January 7, 1946.