James Sharon Watson Conservation Trust Applications for 1986 Grant

Forest and Bird, Volume 17, Issue 2, 1 May 1986, Page 33

James Sharon Watson Conservation Trust Applications for 1986 Grant

The Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society of New Zealand Inc., as trustees for the J. S. Watson Conservation Trust, invites applications from individuals or groups for financial assistance for conservation projects starting or current during the year ending 31 May 1987. The Trust was established to support ‘‘the conservation of the flora and fauna and natural features of New Zealand, the advancement of knowledge in these matters by way of research, literary contribution, essay, articles or other effort and generally the education of the public to give them an understanding and a love of the earth on which they live." The total funds available for distribution in 1986 amount to $5000 and, at the sole discretion of the Trustee, this sum may be awarded in whole or in part to one or more applicants, or held over for distribution in a subsequent year. In deciding grants for 1986, the selection committee will give priority to projects in the field of ornithology. Further details and application forms may be obtained from the Secretary, Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society, P.O. Box 631, Wellington. Applications close 31 June 1986.

Kea ... Clifftop King Mountain monarch. . . regal bird, Jester... (to the common herd), In your lofty alpine home, Where humans seldom dare to roam. Mountain monarch . . . regal bird, The wrath of man you have incurred. They swear you swoop to slaughter sheep, Yonder in the snowdrifts deep. Mountain monarch . . . regal bird, Though your reputation has been slurred, Shepherds really have no claim. The snowy-tors are your domain. Mountain monarch . . . regal bird, You are at risk, (or so I’ve heard). A hex on those with peanut-brains! A pox on them with guns and chains! Mountain monarch . . . regal bird, Protectionists have lately stirred. They hope to vouchsafe legal-cover, For you and your green-plumaged lover. Mountain monarch . . . regal bird, I'll stand by you. You have my word. Thus... my full support I offer thee. May you and yours fly ever . . . free. Free .. . the tussocklands to roam, Free... to fly your mountain home, Flaunting all your feathered-charms, Secure ... within the legal-arms. One of our readers has been moved to compose this poem dedicated to the kea. It is by Marlborough member Mrs Von Murrell.