DRAINING SWAMP LANDS.

Hokitika Guardian, 1 March 1921, Page 4

DRAINING SWAMP LANDS.

DESIRABLE WESTLAND SCHEME. The Organiser (Mr P. R. Climie) of the Canterbury Progress League, lias written the following letter to the Hon. Minister of Lands, under date, 24th February “The Canterbury Progress League has recently extended its field of activities to Westland, so that the partnership which hitherto existed between East and West, lias to some extent been restored. ‘One of the most urgent requirements of Westland which concerns your Department is the necessity for draining the swamp areas, particularly at La Fontaine, Mikonui, Kokatahi and Koiterangi. All these areas are worth special attention. The writer, with other representatives of the League, was recently on the Coast and had the opportunity of visiting some of the swamp areas referred to. When at Haii Hari in South Westland and close to La Fontaine, an inspection was' made of Duncan McLean and Company’s farm, which offers a most striking example of what can he done with swamp lands by means of drainage and scientific treatment by use of lime etc. Not more than a few years ago, this area was nothing more than a quagmire. To-day it is the most up-to-date farm on the West Coast, Many thousands of acres of similar swamp areas in Westland could no doubt lie easily converted into first-class dairy country, if they were drained and scientifically treated. “I am direted to ask von to have a survey carried out by your drainage engineer from which a report could bo prepared. Futhermoro, if you could spare tlio time yourself to visit Westland .at the dose of the approaching short session of Parliament, F would he pleased to arrange for you to visit the swamp areas referred to. T led sure that the first hand knowledge gained by inspecting these areas yourself would amply repay you for the short space of time involved. “Awaiting the favour of an early reply, which I trust will be favourable to the suggestions above contained.”