FORESTRY BLOCK

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLIX, Issue 112, 11 April 1929, Page 6

FORESTRY BLOCK

INSPECTION CONTEMPLATED. QUESTION QF SETTLEMENT. MINISTERIAL VISIT PROBABLE. An inspection of the gj a “* a #°“ controlled at Kanoi by the Sttate * orestry Department’s office at Jraimerston North is, it is understood, contemplated by Hon. G. W. (Minister of Agriculture and Lands) and Hon. W. B. Taverner (Minister of Railways). Arrangements were made for the visit to eventuate to-day, .but other circumstances arose which Preluded the inspection. It will, however, in all probability, be carried out at a later date. . , Although no official intimation has been made, it is suggested that the proposed inspection has been actuated by' a desire to ascertain whether the land being planted is suitable for settlement, opposition to the plantation haying . been expressed by a section of farmers who considered that the afforestation block could be adapted for a more productive purpose. The area in question is one of 30,000 acres, and about 6000 or 7000 aci es have already been planted at a cost,, it is estimated, of about £12,200.. The work has been in hand for two years, the question of settlement having previously been considered by the Reform Government, which decided to proceed with afforestation. No intentions have apparently been signified concerning inspections or other afforestation centres or reserves, but it seems likely that a visit may be paid to Kaiangaroa. Following recent developments ui connection wiith the policy being pursued by the new Administration regarding various Government undertakings, the inspection of the Karioi area will be awaited with interest, although no.' action in the direction of stopping •.. the work at the plantation is as yet anticipated.