TREE WHICH MAY END RIVER EROSION

Dominion, Volume 31, Issue 153, 25 March 1938, Page 13

TREE WHICH MAY END RIVER EROSION

Aider’s Characteristics ACCLIMATISATION SOCIETY MEMBERS IMPRESSED Dominion Special Service. Masterton, March 24. A tree which promises to put an end to river erosion was inspected to-day by members of the council of the Wellington Acclimatisation Society, headed by Dr. G. F. V. Anson, on the property of Mr. J. C. Holmes, Mata hi wi, Masterton. This tree, the alder, the chief characteristics of which are its quick-growing, prolific seeding and ability to establish strong roots in the poorest soil, was first grown on the Holmes property some twenty years ago. Colonies of young trees have sprung up on both banks and have done'excellent work in curbing the erosion of the swift-running Matahiwi Stream.

Members of the party expressed the opinion that if these tre.es were established at the headwaters of Wairarapa streams they would not only help to prevent erosion, but would also improve the'rivers for fishermen. Mr. Holmes said that the 1934 hurricane had made no impression on this Canadian conifer, which was remarkably strong and produced seeds in less than six years. All the members of the party were impressed with the possibilities of the tree and were of the opinion that it would be far more effective than the willow, at present used almost exclusively in this country. Dr. Anson said the tree would be invaluable to farmers in all parts of New Zealand. “All we need to do is to lay the foundation and Nature will do the rest,” he said.