Forest parks

Press, 4 October 1977, Page 40

Forest parks

Sir, — M. and D. Bamford (“The Press,” September 29), failed to mention another submission, signed by over 65 per cent of the permanent adult residents in Franz Josef. It “supported the forest park concept in relation to the Waikukupa and Okarito forests,” and “no further extensions to Westland National Park boundaries.” — Yours, etc, D. MOIR. September 30, 1977.

Sir, — I feel I must respond to your correspondents M. and D. Bamford, (“The Press,” September 29). To say that 30 per cent of the adult residents of Franz Josef support the inclusion of the Waikukupa State Forest into Westland National Park does not mean anything. If we count the numbers of park staff, civil servants (who have no worry about their jobs anyway) and a few short-term residents, we find we have accounted for that 30 per cent. A submission signed by 65 per cent of the permanent, long-term residents of the area objected to any further expansion of the Westland National Park. These people support the forest park concept and feel that the very contentious Waikukupa Forest should come into this category. Finally, can I please correct any impression that the people of South Westland are wanton vandals. We are also concerned about the future of our forests, but we are concerned as well about the well-being of the people in our province and their livelihoods. — Yours, etc..

M. G. RICHARDS. September 30, 1977.