Travis Swamp

Press, 11 September 1989, Page 20

Travis Swamp

Sir, — In the August “National Geographic” magazine it was reported that the United States Environmental Protection Agency has adopted a plan that any newly converted wetlands must be offset by the creation or restoration of wetlands elsewhere. If it is quality of life we want here, we should think again before we squander our beautiful wetlands, which nurture wildlife, offer protection from flooding and erosion and produce organic material to support the food chain. We also shall pay for it dearly with development. — Yours, etc.,

BETTY DIXON. September 6,1989.

Sir,—lt is encouraging to see the local councils and Government department? meeting to plan a strategy for the conservation of the Travis Swamp area. Christchurch’s population is not increasing rapidly and there is ample provision for new housing by “in-filling” within existing residential zones. The drainage problems of Travis Swamp do not make it suitable for housing development. Visitors to Christchurch admire the birdlife attracted to the sewage pond

reserves. Far more still could be achieved by the development of the Travis Swamp as a reserve for the preservation of wildlife. This zone of 80 hectares would mean a continuous area of open space and recreation including Clare Park, Queen Elizabeth II Park and Rawhiti, each complementing each other. — Yours, etc.,

DON ROWLANDS. September 6, 1989.