Scientists visit

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 36, 24 February 1987, Page 3

Scientists visit

Seven hundred limnologists from around the world met in Hamilton recently for a weeklong congress — the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Limnology is the study of bodies of fresh water, their plant and animal life, their physical properties and their geographical features. The scientists — from Europe, England, North America, USSR, USA and New Zealand converged on Hamilton for the 23rd annual conference of the International Society of Limnologists. Last week the scientists were offered the chance to tour various areas of New Zealand with the purpose of studying water resources. Fourteen members of the group opted to spend a week touring the central North Island travelling from Hamilton to Wanganui and taking in the Waimarino area. The group visited Waitomo Caves, Taupo and Taumarunui and spent an entire day jetboating on the Wanganui River which was "extremely enjoyable" despite the poor weather conditions.

Half a day was spent looking at aspects of the Tongariro power development scheme in Turangi and a neighbouring trout hatchery. A local river and fishing authority Harry Brown accompanied the group during their inspection of the Manganui o te ao River. Some time was spent in Waiouru at the QE11 Army Museum and looking at some nearby lakes. The group carried on to the Rangitikei River and

spent their last night in Wanganui before flying out of New Zealand last Friday. The scientists were given a demanding itinerary that gave them little time for leisure but several of the group managed a helicopter ride over Mt Ruapehu and the crater lake before their departure. The excursion was extremely tiring for some — not surprisingly after covering 1800km in just 5 days. Resources scientist for the Wanganui Rangitikei catch-

ment board Chris Fowles and catchment board engineer Ron Minnis, both of Marton, accompanied the group and explained what actions the board is taking to achieve a balance between water users and conservationists. Botanist Dr Hakumat Rai, of the Max-Planck Institute for Limnology in West Germany, was particularly impressed with the Tongariro power scheme which he described as one of the world's best. He expressed the group's thanks for the "excellent guidance" they received from the various experts who accompanied them and toColin McLauchlin, McLauchlin's Bus Service Raetihi, who took the group to see some of the 'sights', including Ohakune's famed giant carrot.