NATIVE FOREST TREES

Evening Post, Volume XCV, Issue 13, 15 January 1918, Page 2

NATIVE FOREST TREES

TO THE EDITOR. ' Sir, —I have to thank "Sylyiculturist" for his interesting criticism of my letter oh the above subject, but regret that his modesty or,shyness has prevented myself and those interested ,in the above from knowing his name. I. suppose, however, that the fact of all others who Have had to do with the forestry Here are called "foresters" has iiiade him bashful. I [hope he will'soon get- over it. I admit I ds not know anything of sylviculture or forestry, but know many of the forests that were and the tees that grew in them, gained from an experience of over 50 years.

I am sorry "Sylviculturisf is not qiiite fair in his criticism, as he has chosen the "Government House oak," but did not mention the "Domain ones" which is the same age as the kauri'he alludes to and beats ..that tree by 7ft in height, but is less by 2in in circumference. lam niost grateful to liim,'however, for his agreeing with me as to the inadvisability of planting native trees for forest purposes.

I may mention that 1 am preparing another paper oh this subject, using the works of others who have had the special knowledge I lack; such knowledge ac 1 quired by actual experience gained by residence in the country for a considerable number of years, and using their reports to the Governments then' in office, and who were infinitely more able than "the stranger within the gates."—l am, etc., HENRY H. TRAVERS. 14th January.