Westland forests

Press, 5 March 1982, Page 14

Westland forests

Sir,—Your editorial article on South Westland forests (March 1) recognised the importance of alternative employment for the region after the Government’s decision to add South Okarito and Waikukupa forests to the Westland National Park. That decision recognised the non-viability of selection logging of podocarp forests as the basis for a longterm industry. The Government should now turn its attention urgently to the alternatives of its compromise package (exotic forests, land development, etc.). Although indigenous timber supply contracts will not expire for another five to 10 years, it is manifestly unfair to leave local South Westland residents in a state of limbo for that time. It is important that the Government take firm initiatives now, in partnership with local people. If satisfactory alternatives for South Westland people are not found, there is little chance of similar compromises being reached in other forthcoming decisions which may entail potential conflicts between conservation and local employment.—Yours, etc., ROSS W. OFFICER. March 2, 1982.