Tree-planting by rivers approved

Press, 20 October 1978, Page 5

Tree-planting by rivers approved

The Land Settlement Board has permitted suitable stable land on the riverside of stopbanks to be leased for afforestation. Announcing this the board said that where there was no risk of flooding there could be potential for planting. This would comply with the board’s wish that best land use should be encouraged. The decision followed a review by the board of its policy for the use of riverbed areas. The decision would apply, in particular, to Canterbury because, with its large number of wide riverbeds there were considerable areas of land lying between stopbanks and the rivers. At present some of this land was occupied by adjoining farmers under licences for grazing. The board recognised that there would be some risks involved and envisaged that planting would only be carried out when there was good river control. It recognised that few trees had root systems that could withstand prolonged submergence, and Pinus radiata, the most common

species tor production, was no exception. Also, because of the high water tables, trees planted on riverbeds would have shallow root systems and would be prone to windthrow; a problem in Canterbury. The board said that while afforestation of riverbed areas could play a part in future timber production, it recognised that each application to plant would require careful consideration and would have to be dealt with on its own merit. Essentially, the board saw that it was an opportunity for adjoining landowners to plant small woodlots, with some potential for larger projects. However, the board made it clear that there was no intention of disturbing arrangements where - adjoining owners already have grazing licences and the land is being used efficiently. Any proposals would have to have the support of the catchment authority and the Forest Service and should not restrict access or cause obstruction of floodways.