H.—2l

Regarding the question of riparian rights, a number of the farmers on the north side of the main branch of the Tokomairiro Biver consider they have such rights. The land was surveyed in the earliest days of the settlement of the colony, and a reserve was left along the river-bank for a road. Subsequently, for the purpose of providing a better and more direct road than that following the banks of the river, the Provincial Government of Otago entered into an agreement with the different landowners to exchange the original road reserve along the river-bank for the present road. Several farmers have obtained titles to the portions of this road reserve fronting their respective holdings, but others have not had their titles issued. In dealing with the question, your Commissioners have only recognised as holding such rights those who now hold titles to this road reserve. * * * * * * :!< % Waipoei Eivee. Since notice was given of intention to proclaim this river as a watercourse under, section 152 of " The Mining Act, 1891," all the claims for compensation have been settled with the exception of three, namely: New Zealand Trust and Loan Company, £1,100; William Mclndoe, £100; John Shenan, £550. Your Commissioners have examined the properties belonging to these claimants, and recommend the payment of the following amounts as compensation: New Zealand Trust and Loan Company, £750; William Mclndoe, Clinton, £50; John Shenan, Berwick, £400. During the last three years mining operations have been conducted on a much larger scale in this locality than hitherto. At the present time there are being worked eight dredges, seven sluicing claims, and two quartz-mines, on which 170 men are employed. Several other dredging claims have been taken up, and dredges are under construction to work them. Your Commissioners would recommend that the Waipori Eiver and its tributaries to their sources be proclaimed watercourses into which tailings, waste water, and debris from mining operations may be discharged. All of which matters we respectfully submit to your Excellency. Given under our hands and seals, this 18th day of June, 1900. (1.5.) Henby A. Gobdon, Chairman. (1.5.) J. P. Maitland. (ii.s.) John Hayes. (1.5.) T. Y. Duncan. Dunedin, 18th June, 1900.

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