H.—24

We think that afforestation should be vigorously prosecuted on poor lands unfitted for settlement but adapted for tree-growing, and that planting should be commenced and carried on over the extensive sand-dunes and wastes existing on the west coast of the North Island, particularly near Ilangitikei, Waitotara, Kawhia, and north of Auckland, whilst large tracts of river-beds now infested with noxious weeds might also be planted in this manner. This latter suggestion specially applies to the Canterbury District. The planting of trees along the upper regions of rivers and watercourses, where such areas are open and exposed, is also very desirable, as this planting would have the effect of mitigating disastrous erosion, and the gradual siltingup of adjacent streams. The policy of supplying settlers with tree-plants might, with advantage, be continued where there is a bona fide intention to plant and care for such trees. Many settlers, however, are unaware of the kind of trees best suited for their holdings, and an indiscriminate distribution of tree-plants is often wasteful. If settlers are to be supplied in this manner, extra quantities of plants must be raised to meet the demand, and special funds should be provided for this purpose. It has been found, however, that the best results have been attained when a small charge is made for plants, and that free distribution is not a success. And this, our report, we have the honour to respectfully submit to Your Excellency's consideration in obedience to the commission to us addressed. Given under our hands at Wellington, this 23rd day of June, 1909. T. Y. Duncan, Chairman. J. F. Arnold. W. H. P. Barber. S. I. Clarke. H. G. Ell. J. A. Hanan. W. H. Field. William Thomas Jennings. W. B. Leyland. Francis Mander. W t illiam Morris. John Stallworthy. W. R. Jourdain, Secretary. 23rd June, 1909.

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