ACCLIMATISATION.

Taranaki Daily News, 1 May 1930, Page 8

ACCLIMATISATION.

The work of the Acclimatisation Societies throughout the Dominion has been somewhat brought into the limelight during recent years. The introduction of game from other countries has brought in its train difficulties which were unforeseen, but which have created and are creating conditions that need close attention. The much 'debated effect of deer and opossums upon the native forest is but one instance of the more general interest that is being taken in acclimatisation matters. hit while errors of judgment have undoubtedly given rise to trouble, there still remains a large amount of public spirited work to be placed to the credit of acclimatisation societies in New Zealand. In the ease of the North Taranaki society a forward move has been made during the current year in the erection of a suitable fish hatchery and the acquisition of sufficient land for the purpose of rearing game birds for ultimate release in country districts. The society has succeeded in the establishment of its own headquarters without any appeal to the public for financial support, and is actuated solely with the purpose of adding to the attraction of the province so far as the sporting, public is concerned. As in most affairs it is beginning to be Recognised that acclimatisation -work is no rule of thumb business. It requires considerable study of natural history and of the effect of the liberation cf strange fauna upon that indigenous to the country. The North Taranaki Society, which has. concentrated upon the work of stocking the rivers with brown and rainbow trout, has x record of success that must be very cheering to the enthusiasts who have undertaken the work. With improved equipment and knowledge at its disposal the society should be able to go further with its good work. Apart altogether from the naturalist’s point of view, there is an economic value in the work of acclimatisation. With increased facilities for sport comes more tourist traffic, and there is no better advertising agent for any district than the satisfied sportsman. Properly organised and supervised acclimatisation has its place in the development of the Dominion. It is satisfactory to note that progress upon scientific lines is now recognised as being essential to success.