IMPORTED TIMBERS.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19800, 27 May 1926, Page 6

IMPORTED TIMBERS.

I INTRODUCTION OF INSECT PESTS. PREVENTING THE EVIL. The problem of preventing the introduction of Merest and timber insect posts m imported poles and other classes of timber ia being faced by the department, the following letter leaving been forwarded to the Forestry League by the Commissioner of State toreats (the Hon. O. J. Hawken): ‘•During the year a careful survey was made of the classes of timber products imported into the Dominion. While introduced in practically all classes there ia little doubt that by far the greatest number are introduced by poles and other round log products. In view of this fact, particular attention has been directed to these products, and already considerable progress has been achieved by arranging, through cooperation with Government and local bodies that all bark is removed from poles and pdes before despatch to New Zealand. It is estimated that this action has resulted in the elimination of almost 70 per cent, of the forest and timber insects formerly introduced into New Zealand in all classes of timber products. “It is also estimated that a further 15 per cent of these posts may bo eliminated by prohibiting the importation of polos, piles, and othe r round log products exhibiting evidence of insect attack; and, to meet the situation, a proposal is under consideration to issue an Order-in-Council prohibiting the importation of all such timbers if (hey are infected with insects- “ The Forest Service will continue to review the problem at regular intervals, and to arrange for the necessary action to meet any special circumstances which may arise from time to time.

“In fairness to both importers and users, it should bo stated that all are fully alive to the dangers attached to the introduction of timber and forest insects; and, further, that their active co-operation mnv usually be scoured. Thus infested material is generally destroyed when once brought under their notice.”