Arbor Day.

Manawatu Herald, 12 June 1894, Page 2

Arbor Day.

We have rauoh pleasure in giving publicity to tlio following letter yt

have received from Mr Bitchie, Secretary to the Department of Agriculture, it speaks for itself. In our next issue we shall publish the practical suggestions on tree-planting taken from the Prairie Farmer, in the following issue : " Suggestions " made by the Department, and a "programme." The letter is as follows : — Sir, —Following the practice established in 1892, the Government has proclaimed Arbor Day a holiday throughout the colony; and, as Wednesdayis in many towns observed as a partial holiday by business people, Wednesday, the Ist, has been selected instead of the 4th August as hitherto. In order that the movement may be made as successful as possible, I am directed to request that you will be good enough to bring prominently before the residents of your district the advisability of planting the public reserves and other available lands, both public and private, with trees suited to the locality, and, in order to assist settlers, a somewhat extensive and reliable classified list ot trees and shrubs adapted to the following purposes is attaohed here to:— 1. Trees for timber. 2. Trees suitable for shelter, but affording timber of small dimensions or inferior quality. 3. Trees and shrubs for seaside planting. 4. Ornamental trees and shrubs for general planting. In conclusion, I am directed to say that the members of the Government desire to see Arbor Day become thoroughly recognised, and trust that all local bodies, school teachers, &c, will do their utmost to promote tree-planting in suitable places. '