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Hokitika Guardian, 12 June 1929, Page 4

The recurrence of heavy flooding damage in the district is a matter for > cry general regret. The swilt-run-mng rivers in their short course from tlie hills to the ocean, carry an immense amount’ of debris, with the result that the beds of the streams are always in process of change—building up here, cutting down there. The result is a general vagary of action in hood-time which it seems difficult to iorsee or attempt to control in advance. • This recurring damage calls for a volume of expenditure which naturally is debited against the district and reduces the available sum for new wdrics. In such a way the advancement of many important matters and undertakings is retarded. There was in the past a desire to see a comprehensive report on river protection brought forward for the Dominion, but this was too large an order for the Government at the time. While it may not be possible to give attention to the matter as comprehensively as was desired, some attention might be given to the position in respect to districts. If that were pursued Westland might claim early attention, and seek to have a commission of investigation by experts as to ways and means for controlling the more unruly of the rivers. It will be admitted, no doubt that the streams subject to slips in the back country, are those most prone to damage, and with that as a basis, some choice of localities for special report can be decided upon, there are rivers in mind where damage to public and private property recur very frequently, and these are well enough known to suggest that hey might be first investigated, and some remedial measures considered to deal with possible further damage. With all tlie years that floou damage lias been recurring we do not know that engineers have any golden plan to pursue in respect to training a river in the least harmful course. Probably it is because each case must be dealt with on its merits. There is also the prospect or a. stitch in time being an economical success, if • a threatened position were dealt wfth betimes. But that requires closer investigation than is now the case, and it seems advisable that in connection with the Public Works Department something should lie done to set up a branch of those skilled with a knowledge of protection work to handle this important question. A very large sum must he involved annually in coping with flood damage, and expert advice or leadership in tackling the propositions would he a wise step in the public interests. It is certainly a matter worthy the closest attention.