FIREBLIGHT

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIV, 24 February 1931, Page 5

FIREBLIGHT

DISCOVERY IN CHRISTCHURCH SEVERAL AREAS AFFECTED At a meeting of the Christchurch Tomato and Stone Fruit Growers Association on Saturday night, reports “The Press,” in answer to a question whether outbreaks of fireblight had been discovered elsewhere in Christchurch than in Gloucester street west, where the original outbreak had been discovered, Mr B. G. Goodwin, chief orchard instructor for the Department in Christchurch, said that it had been found in St. Albans, Armagh street, Salisbury street, and in two places in Riccarton. There could he no doubt, he said, that it was spreading. It was not a danger that could he trifled with, and must he attacked at once and stamped out. or else next season it would ho in the commercial orchards, lie was glad to be able to say that no one who owned affected trees had raised the slightest objection to their complete removal and destruction. “The sooner we can get on to this job,” he said, “the more chance we have of eradicating the disease. Unfortunately this is one of the busiest times of the year, as the export season is just beginning, and not only are the growers busy but the inspectors are engaged in giving them advice about the packing and dispatch of fruit.” Mr Pope asked Mr Goodwin if if was not a fact that it had been known for two years that the tree in Gloucester street was infected with fireblight, Mr Goodwin : No, no ! Continuing, Mr Pope said the growers bad not the to do the work of inspecting orchards for fireblight. It should be done systematically by wholelime paid men, who would be able to do it thoroughly, lie suggested that the Government should be asked to act without delay, and lie moved that the Department of Agriculture be written to and asked to appoint paid inspectors.

Mr Crow seconded the motion, remarking that it might be possible to get a grant from the Unemployment Board. The motion was carried, and it was decided to telegraph il to the Department.