DESTRUCTION OF LAND

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVI, Issue 8186, 30 July 1912, Page 5

DESTRUCTION OF LAND

HARMFUL EFFECT OF DREDGING. A point of considerable importance in these days of land-hunger and. monopoly whs raised at the 'Municipal Conference yesterday, when Mr R. Scott, M.P. (Alexandra), moved: —"That, in view ot the fact that much valuable land in various localities has been permanently rendered useless by dredging and mining operations, the Mining Act, 1908, be amended to provide for protection from the destroying effects of dredging and other forms of mining of all lands suitable for cultivation.” He said a large amount of valuable agricultural land was being destroyed by mining operations, and drastic measures were required for the preservation of other land that might be threatened. The return from mining claims often amounted to no more than the value of agricultural land destroyed. 'The people of Alexandra had realised that something ought to bo done. Mr Foot (Wairoa) seconded the motion. It- was unfair to destroy land for a temporary benefit to individuals. He trusted that some legislation would be introduced to deal with this matter. The remit was carried.