Forest Training.

Hokitika Guardian, 12 April 1922, Page 1

Forest Training.

THE PROPOSED RANGERS’ SCHOOL. AUCKLAND, April 10. To-day’s “Herald” says:—“The G»dernent has made another negative contribution to the subject of technical forest training in New Zealand by with-holding its support from the proposed Rangers’ School in Christchurch. There may be good reason for tins decision, but the time has long since passed when a merely negative attitude to forestiy education would satisfy the people of New Zealand. It is hut stating the obvious to say that the whole superstructure of the Forestry Department will fail in its purpose if it is denied technicians with local knowledge. The Director of Forestry laid great emphasis on this j joint when he made his first report on New Zealand conditions in 1920. . . Unless the judgment of tb e Director is to bo challenged, no excuse can be offered for the delay of two years in giving effect to this recommendation. TDie whole forest policy depends upon the provision of trained men and though this Department cannot claim to be exempt from the demands of economy, its savings should take form other than delay in establishing a School of Forestry. This is a central and pivotal necessity, and it is waste of money to attempt to establish a forest service until the School is in operaion. The rivalry between Christchurch arid Auckland for the honour of accommodating the school is not the reason for the delay. Sooner or later the Government must decide between the claims of the two' cities—the sooner the better.”