FLOODS AND WILLOWS.

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume X, Issue 185, 21 July 1920, Page 2

FLOODS AND WILLOWS.

I LI L REGULATED PLANTING. For many years the various districts throughout New Zealand that are troubled with the flood question have at the same time had to realise that the matter of willow planting has had considerable effect on the position. This has been particularly so in Hawke’s Bay, where the willow trouble has at times been great. The Public Works Department, has also realised the seriousness of illregulated planting and has forwarded the following letter to the Hawke's Baj’ County Council concerning the matter: — “The New Zealand Rivers Commission which has recently been investigating the question of river erosion and flood damage in various parts of the Dominion, has brought under my notice the urgent necessity for the proper control of willow planting along the river banks. The commission states that it has been struck with the damage that has been, is being, and will be caused by injudicious willow planting, and by the absolute neglect to control ■willows and other exotic vegetation on the banks and in the rivers in New Zealand. Numerous instances in respect to rivers _outside thb scope of the commission were brought under notice in which similar conditions obtain. I particularly desire therefore, to emphasise the great danger and loss likely to accrue to the local bodies and the State by this action and neglect of action, and I shall be glad if you will give this matter your earnest and immediate attention. Furthermore, I wish to emphasise the fact that no applications for assistance to repair flood damage will be entertained by the Government in any case where it can be shown that such damage is wholly or partially due to the wrongful planting or non-removal of willows from positions where they unduly restrict the flow of flood waters. .Engineers from my department are being communicated with on the matter and they will at all times be only too pleased to render every possible® advice as to the most economical method for the destruction and removal of willows where they are doing harm, and also regarding the proper method of planting and regulating the growth of willow plantations which are or have been necessary for river bank protection. Signed) J. G. Coates, Minister for Public Works.’’