_ .—No. 26.

6

PAPERS RELATING TO THE

The Waiwera Ponds are on a tributary of the Molyneux, which offers a splendid river system, provided the quantity of mica in a fine state of subdivision, which is constantly suspended in the water owing to the digging operations, will not be prejudicial to the fish. The Waiwera itself, on which the ponds are erected, is quite free from this possible objection. The Waiwera Ponds, however, are more difficult of access than either of the others. The Makarewa Ponds are connected with a small-sized stream, the water of which drains from sandstone country, and not likely to be rendered turbid by diggings. It enters a large estuary with which several streams are connected, and it is separated only by short stretches of sandy beach from other large rivers, such as the Jacob and Wairau, the last-mentioned being admirably adapted for salmon, as it has a short, rapid course over a gravel bottom from the Te Anau Lake—into which many streams flow —that would afford spawning ground. If new ponds have to be erected, it would be better to place them on one of these streams than any other place in New Zealand. The temperature of the sea water and rivers on the south part of the coast of New Zealand has also been shown by observation to be the best suited for the salmon. From these considerations, I am therefore of opinion that the renewed attempt to introduce salmon ova, if made at all, should be confined to the Makarewa Ponds in the first instance. When the depot has been decided on, it will only be necessary to forward to the Agent-General the attached correspondence, together with authority to incur the expenditure, and to request him to confer with competent persons. I quite agree with the suggestion of the Hon. Secretary of the Southland Society that the shipment should bo made from the liiver Clyde in a selected vessel; and, if possible, an arrangement be made, say by a premium to the captain, for the shipment of ova being landed at the Bluff if weather permits, so as to avoid transhipment from Port Chalmers, which is the usual destination of the Clyde vessels. [On reconsideration, Ido not think that this could be arranged without great extra cost, but a ship direct to the Bluff might be obtained.] 29th February, 1872. James Hector.

No. 11. Dr. Hector to the Secretary, Acclimatization Society, Invercargill. (Telegram.) 4th March, 1872. In what condition are the Makarewa Ponds ? How long a time, and what expenditure, is required to put them in order to receive ova? Mr. Gisborne requires to know before communicating with the Agent-General. J. Hectob.

Invercargill, sth March. —Prepared at once to take over everything. Eeply. Dr. Hector, Wellington. Butts.

No. 12. Memorandum for the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. 7th March, 1872. I think the instructions should be sent by the first opportunity to the Agent-General, and that the time of shipment should be decided on in England. Draft letter to Agent-General herewith. The Hon. Secretary of the Southland Acclimatization Society reports that the Makarewa Ponds are ready. See telegram attached. It will be necessary to ascertain (by telegram ?) if the Christchurch Society are still willing to contribute to the experiment £100 as they proposed, if it is to be limited to Southland. If not, the total funds available will only be £800. James Hector.

No. 13. The Hon. W. Gisborne to Dr. Featheeston. Sib, — Colonial Secretary's Office, Wellington, 13th, March, 1872. I have the honor to forward a copy of correspondence relative to the introduction of salmon into this Colony, to effect which the sum of £500 has been voted by the General Assembly, and further aid to the extent of £400, guaranteed by certain Acclimatization Societies, is available. Government propose to confine the experiment of hatching the ova to one locality, and have selected the Makarewa Ponds in Southland as best adapted for the purpose. I have to request that you will be good enough to place yourself in communication with Mr. Buckland, Dr. Toul, and any other recognized authorities on the subject, and consult with them as to the best way of carrying the scheme to a successful issue. Tou might especially draw their attention to the suggestions of the Honorary Secretary of the Southland Society, that the shipment of ova should be made from the Clyde, taking advantage of the liberal offer of Messrs. Patrick Henderson and Co., of Glasgow. If the shipment could be made to the Bluff instead of Port Chalmers, transhipment of the ova would be avoided ; but I merely suggest this, without having any hope that you will be able to effect such an arrangement, and at the same time secure the fastest vessel. The ponds are now ready for the reception of the ova, but it would be advisable that you should give me the earliest possible notice of when the shipment will be likely to arrive, so that the final arrangements may be made.