BLACKBERRY IN MANAWATU

Manawatu Herald, Volume L, Issue 40039, 14 December 1929, Page 1

BLACKBERRY IN MANAWATU

COUNTY OOUNICTL'S CONCERN

That there is no uncertain evidence of the rapid spread blackberry is making in the Manawatu County was expressed at ‘Wednesday’s meeting of the Council during a discussion on the traffic inspector’s report. The chairman (Cr. W. E. Barber) said that it was becoming increasingly obvious to him as he •travelled’ round the county that ratepayers were relaxing in their efforts to control the growth of the noxious weed. He could remember several .plots of land that previously had been quite clear of blackberry, but which now were practically given over to it. It was an alarming’ fact and the speaker would like to see the ratepayers give the eradication of the weed more attention.

-Cr. J. Boyce mentioned the Spread of ragwort, stating that, had as r blackberry was, ragwort was infinitely worse and farmers would be well advised to take every precaution in keeping this weed under control.

Other councillors spoke on the spread blackberry is- making in the county, and .it was resolved to draw-the attention of the Department of Agriculture to the growth the weed is making on farm lands, and the county inspector,was authorised to take steps to have the plant eradicated from the roadsides.