A SUGGESTION.

Evening Star, Issue 6334, 5 July 1883, Page 4

A SUGGESTION.

TO THB EDITOB, Rlß.—lt would appear from published reports that the main difficulty in using dredge 222 on the bar arises from the heavy swell experienced on the line of the "leading lights." Might I suggest the following as comparatively inexpensive experiments:—lst. To moor some heavy booms, floating on the line of Sir John Ooode's south wall, which I presume he intended for the purpose of deflecting the ocean wave from running inside of his proposed wall across the north channel, or again, weaken the effect of the wave-power on the tidal current. 2ad. To use oil-bags v. lien dredging, which have been found by experience to be effectual in calming troubled waters during storms. Srd. To cut the channel close under Taiaroa Head, retaining its protection to the tidal scour from the incoming wavepower as far as possible, and which would also tend to cauoe the ebb-tide to deflect towards the south channel 4th. Reduce the sandbanks in the harbor to low water wherever required, to give a freer and more direct course to the tides to fill the harbor area, and thereby increase the volume and scour of water passing in and out. I take it that the shorter the distance and the less obstructions there are the greater the range of tides would bo experienced, and if so, the greiter the resistance offered by the tidal power lo that of the wave power; the relative fitrengths of these two powers being tho factors determining tho existence and position of tho bar. I will bo glad to see these views criticised in a logical way by those competent, from their training or otherwise, as I am willing to be taught, and only exercising my brains on the subject as A Novice. Dunedin, July 4.