H.—34a

7

excessive heat of a bare sunbaked soil drives away the rain from a drought-stricken district, and thus diminishes that " probability of rain " which could from time to time otherwise be reasonably forecast. So far as one can see, the only objections which can be urged against the planting of trees are the occupation of fertile lands by comparatively unproductive trees, and the possible harbouring of the small-bird pest. The losses, however, would undoubtedly be more than compensated for by wider general benefits, and the whole question is one which assuredly concerns the community at large, and could with advantage be dealt with by local or General Government regulations. Action with regard to both the planting the destruction of trees is a matter of vital importance to the country. Whether forest-trees increase the rainfall, or are themselves the result of an abundant precipitation, is not the question one would raise at the present time, but, rather considerations of evaporation, shelter, run-off, &c, as affected by tree-planting, and which are of more than passing interest to the people of Oatnaru. In conclusion one would like to remark that, though our seasons are usually so temperate, regular, and fruitful, yet the climatic conditions are of the greatest concern to the country.

Approximate Cost of Fa/per,— Preparation, not given ; printing (1,300 copies), £iJ 16s.

Price 64.]

By Authority": John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington. —1908.