Westland Acclimatisation and Tourist Society.

Hokitika Guardian, 18 June 1927, Page 2

Westland Acclimatisation and Tourist Society.

CONSERVING THE WHITEBAIT INDUSTRY.

The Westland Acclimatisation Society is in receipt of the following letter from the Marine Department, which explains itself:— The Department lias under consideration the question of the best means of conserving the whitebait industry. One difficulty that confronts the Department in framing regulations is that the big runs of whitebait occurr at different times in different livers, and even at different times in the same river, hence a regulation that would apply to one place would be unsuitable for anotlitr.

'l'lie fact is recognised that before the question can be fullv considered the Department must have all the information it can obtain regarding the conditions which exist in any district that will lie effected by proposed regulations. Tt is considered that the Acclimatisation Societies are in a position to give the desired information, therefore, it lias been decided to ask each Society if it will supply information on the following points:— 1. The present condition of whitebait fishing In the more important rivers in your district, giving so far as is possible ail idea of the quantities now obtainable.

2. How present conditions compare with the past. 3. If depletion has occurred, to what causes ascribed.

4. Approximate dates of:— (a) the beginning (b) the height

(c) the end of t.he whitbait run. 5. Whether you favour a limited whitebait fishing season. 6. Suggested dates for opening and closing such season in your district.

In connection with the foregoing the Acclimatisation Society proposes to call a public meeting of all interested in the industry to gleam local views on the matter. The meeting will be held at an early date of which notice will be given by advertisement.