CONSERVATION OF TIMBER

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 11159, 15 March 1922, Page 3

CONSERVATION OF TIMBER

ADVICE FROM CONSERVATOR OP FORESTS. A lengthy circular letter was received, by the Horowhenua County Council from tho Conservator of Forests stressing the. necessity for the conservation of timberproducing trees or the planting of such m areas where they could be allowed to jjrow to natuirity (writes the -Times’’ special correspondent). The scarcity of timber for use in the construction of bridges. oulverta, and transmission' poles was becoming more and more acute, the writer pointed but, and added that a policy such as indicated would have the effect of saving ratepayers* money in yearn to come, as well as providing in the meantime an asset in the aesthetics sense. The services of an instructor would be allowed gratis, ah<l as a world-wide shortage of timber was probable in 20 or 25 years, the matter was one worthy of attention. The chairman (Councillor Monk) said He did not think the council had many suitable areas for this purpose, but it was a matter Which might be impressed on the ratepayers, especially the settlers. Councillor Harkness said the fact that the oottnty. had already made use of timber from a reserve was a case in point illustrative of the advantages of having such areas. Councillor McLeavey mentioned that there were 3000 acres not far from Levin on which there was not a stick growing. ,

The chairman: You refer to tho sand dunes? Councillor McLeavey: Yes, and trees grow there like mushrooms. The chairman: Well, the Government has already made a 6tart at Himitangi. Councillor Rider agreed that forest conservation was very necessary. He was afraid very few people realised how near the world was to a timber shortage. It was’agreed that the council heartily endorse the statements made in the letter.