Gum tree protest

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 8, Issue 381, 9 April 1991, Page 3

Gum tree protest

The Mangawhero Terrace gum trees should be felled following storm damage, the Waimarino Community Board confirmed last week. Board chairman Colin Webb read a letter to the board last week, from a local resident who was concerned that the trees were to be cut down. The writer said the trees should stay, that if the crown were pruned they would survive and not be a public hazard. Also, the writer said a ditch which has been dug close by was more of a hazard to the public.

But Council area manager Don Sattler said he would not put his men at risk by taking on the job of pruning the trees. He said it was much safer to fell the trees. As to the djtch, Mr Sattler said there was earth piled up on one side so it was clear the ditch was there. He said the staff responsible for the ditch works had other urgent priorities but that the work would be completed soon. The ditch was dug to investigate a blocked drain, which was found to be clogged its full length with gum tree roots.