PIAKO SWAMP.

Dominion, Volume 2, Issue 465, 25 March 1909, Page 7

PIAKO SWAMP.

THE WORK OP RECLAMATION. [Br TELEGIUra-SrECUL CORMSSPONMNT.) m.\ i ' c -, • . AUBklant| . March 24. ine task of draining the huge Piako Swamp, consisting of some 90,000 acres, is proceeding apace, and there is every indication that an undertaking which was regarded as being somewhat venturesome will prove a big success. Since the work of reclamation began something over a year ago, over 120 miles of drains baye been cut, and one is in full flowing order, with the result.that some 20.000 acres of land, which formerly was under water is now completely dry. In fact, it could, for the most part, be opened for selection any day, and being generally of very rich quality it is considered there would be a Lie demand for it. But it is necessary first to construct roads-and provide means of access. This will bo dono as quickly as possible, and it is anticipated that by next yoar a very considerable portion of the whole area will be opened for settlement. Over about half of tho reclaimed area, which a short time ago was under water, flax is coming up in every direction, and in strong growth. A very largo number of roots of the best white flax were procured from tho Makerua Swamp Company, and theso have taken root splendidly. Under tho Hauraki Plains Act, 1908, tho Government is empowered to issue debentures to the amount of 80,000 for the purpose of draining tho swamp, which, it will be recalled was purchased by tho Crown from the Natiyos somo years ago at a very small cost It is now considered probable that, the wholo of the work of reclamation will ho carried out for something like £00,000, and tho result will bo tho addition to tho landed estate of tho Crown of 90,000 acres of very reliable country. Most of it is suitablo for close settlement, and it is hoped tho noxt year quite a large area will bo put on the markot