WAIRARAPA FLOODS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 5 September 1932, Page 4

WAIRARAPA FLOODS

STOCK LOSSES 1000 SHEEP ON ONE ESTATE (By Telegraph—Press Association) MASTERTON, This Day. The flood waters in the lower Wairarapa valley are now receding rapidly and it is estimated that the level of the lake is dropping, thus affording relief to flooded stations on the slopes. With the water receding from properties the full stock losses are becoming known to farmers. The heaviest loss so far reported is 1000 sheep on the Elgar estate. DISPOSAL OF CARCASES CARTERTON, This Day. The floods in the Wairarapa are now subsiding rapidly. The northern end is entirely clear, but the lower valley is still covered with extensive sheets of water held back by stopbanks. No further losses of stock are occurring. It is probable that the banks will have to be opened to enable the water to run into the river and lake. Pastures where flood waters rested are covered in some places to a depth of a foot of fine silt, necessitating resowing. On other areas the deposit is much lighter and will be of benefit.

One trouble being experienced is the disposal of carcases of drowned sheep and cattle. The Elgar estate is the heaviest loser. The manager, Mr Stuart Reid, now estimates the Toss at 1500 sheep and 100 head of cattle. Many are being skinned before being buried or burned. Others are in positions of such difficulty of access that nothing can be done \Hth them.

Railway communication with Wellington is partially re-established. The gap at Taulierenikau bridge,- Fernside, has been temporarily bridged. Engines are not allowed to cross, but carriages are conveyed across to a waiting engine. Some semblance to time-table running is now assured.