Leading Scientists To Study N.Z. Soil

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29894, 7 August 1962, Page 7

Leading Scientists To Study N.Z. Soil

tFmm Out Oir* Keporteif

WELLINGTON. August 6. Some of the world's most em.nent soil scientists will make a close s.udy of New Zealand’s soil structure during an in .ernational conference which is ;o be held at Massey College, Palmerston North, in November. From November 1 until December 2. groups of the scientists w 11 tour the North and South Islands examining soil profiles exposed at 50 sites. More than 50 nations will be represen ;ed by ;he 300 oelegates who have signified their intention of attendng The distinguished guests will include Mr Charles Kellogg 'head of the United States Soil Survey >, Dr. G. W. Cook (Great Britain), and the em.nent Russian women, Profe.sor M. M. Komova and Dr. H. Lobova. "We had hoped to meet the almost legendary figure. Professor I. V. Tiurin,” explained Dr. R B Miller. “However, we received the news that he had passed away only recently. The Russians have been work-ng on soil surveys for more than 80 years, and their contribution will be most valuable.”

Dr. Miller. of the Soil Bureau. Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, who is acting as secre.ary-general for the conference. sa.d that the bus tours, with their soil profiles, would be an integral part of the conference. The arrange'ment is for the scientists to be split up in.o groups of 25. each bus load to be accompanied by cne or more New Zealand officers to act as conductor and compere. Each group will have completed its tour of one island oy the time the conference s.arts on November 13. and will cover the o her island after the conference is finished on November 22. The South Island section of 'th? tours will include Invercarg.ll, Alexandra. Oamaru. Ashburton. Lincoln College and Christchurch.