A USEFUL TREE

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 19597, 31 March 1938, Page 7

A USEFUL TREE

MAY END RIVER EROSION ALDER’S CHARACTERISTICS A tree which promises to put an end to river erosion was inspected by members of the council of the Wellington Acclimatisation Society, headed by Dr. G. F. V. Anson, on the property of Mr. J. C. Holmes, Matahiwi, Masterton. This tree, the alder, the chief characteristics of which are its quick-growing, prolific seeding and ability to establish strong roots in the poorest soil, was first grown on the Holmes property 20 years ago. Colonies of young trees have sprung up on both banks and have done excellent work in curbing the erosion of the swift-running Matahiwi Stream. Members of the party expressed the opinion that if these trees were established at the headwaters of Wairarapa streams they would not only help to prevent erosion, but also would improve the rivers for fishermen. Mr. Holmes said that the 1924 hurricane had made no impression on this Canadian conifer, which was remarkably strong and produced seeds in less than six years. All the members of the party were impressed with the possibilities of the tree and were of the opinion that it would be far more effective than the willow, at present used almost exclusively in this country. Dr. Anson said the tree would bo invaluable to farmers in all parts of New Zealand. “All we need to do is to lay the foundation and Nature will do the rest,” he said