Forest planting proposed

Press, 2 March 1984, Page 12

Forest planting proposed

The Canterbury United Council wants the Government to double forest planting in the region, to 1000 hectares each year. The policy and resources committee resolved on Wednesday that a deputation should meet the Minister of Forests, Mr Elworthy, to get a commitment on this, effective from the 198586 year to encourage and expand the forestry industry in Canterbury.

Last December the United Council set up a subcommittee to study the feasibility of its becoming involved in the promotion of, or participation in, a big forestry project in Canterbury. The conclusions were that forestry had the potential to bring long-term economic and social benefits to the region. It would diversify its economic base, help develop a range of viable export industries, create significant local em-

ployment opportunities, and maximise the use of a well established infrastructure. The committee’s chairman, Cr V. S. Buck, said the council should be seen identifying itself with this and acting upon it. She envisaged that the Forest Service would undertake the extra planting, but if the Government refused the United Council would then have to consider what it could do itself. Although this proposal would create only about 75 jobs she said it would provide a very sound base for big industries in 25 years. The development was envisaged for downlands and foothills, of which much is Crown land. United Council staff have also been asked to assess the establishment of hightechnology and science parks in Canterbury. A report is expected next month.