C.—3

8

In conclusion, if national forestry is to progress along with national development and to carry its full burden, the following lines of action are advised:— (1) The splendid results in forest conservation and culture that are being secured by several local bodies throughout the Dominion point the way to a wider interest in community forestry. The Forest Service is ready and willing to assist in the furtherance of this profitable and worth-while objective. (2) Early establishment of a forest-products laboratory adequate to New Zealand needs. (3) Unification of administration of all. governmental forest and timber activities (including administration and management of rights, licenses, concessions, forest lands, and all other kindred reservations) in the Forest Service. (4) Centralization of the statutory administration of the Dominion's wild forest life in the Forest Service.

Expose of State Plantations established from 1896 to 1927 and Forest Service Tree-planting Objective to Year 1935.

CHAPTER lI.—THE STATE FOREST SERVICE. At the 31st March, 1927, the total number of permanent Service staff officers was 111, as compared with 106 at the 31st March, 1926. During the year six permanent appointments were made, six officers resigned, and one was transferred ; six permanent officers were added by transfers from other Departments. The annual course of instruction for junior officers was held at Rotorua in July, and was attended by twelve forest rangers and guards who had not the opportunity of attending previous courses. The benefit of these short intensive courses is very noticeable in the increased efficiency of the field staff.