FARMER’S PLAN FOR ELLESMERE LAND

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30793, 3 July 1965, Page 6

FARMER’S PLAN FOR ELLESMERE LAND

Four years ago, the board had endorsed a proposal to consider the reclamation of 6000 acres of land flooded by Lake Ellesmere, and had agreed to change from a passive to an active policy, said Mr D. R. Wilkie, at a meeting yesterday of the North Canterbury Catchment Board.

Mr Wilkie was commenting on a proposal by Mr A. H. C. Nutt .of Motukarara, to stoptank his land. He asked why nothing had been heard from the board committee set up to consider the broader scheme, and said that the time was opportune for the board to show leadership. For the rivers control committee. Mr A. T. Bell said that Mr Nutt proposed to stopbank at the 3.7 ft level. His plan was a big one, involving a 6ft high bank, 14ft across at the top and 42ft across at the base. The work would extend over some years, and Mr Nutt even thought of buying a dragline to do the work himself. Mr Bell said that two other landowners in the vicinity had put in their own banks. It was a pity that there could not have been joint action by all three farmers. as the work would have qualified for subsidy. It was doubtful whether Mr Nutt's job, alone, would qualify. “His scheme will affect 400 acres of leasehold land. It is an admirable idea, and should be regarded with favour by the board,” said Mr Bell. The chief engineer (Mr E. B. Dalmer) said that about three miles of bank and drains were involved in Mr Nutt’s scheme.

When the secretary (Mr W. W. Brough) said that the committee Mr Wilkie referred to had been an interdepartmental one, Mr Wilkie said that this was not so Subsequently, the board had set up its own committee. The board agreed that the district member (Mr E. J. Stalker) and members of the staff should inspect the area, and report back.