THE RABBIT PEST.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2597, 3 September 1909, Page 2

THE RABBIT PEST.

THE PROPOSED FENCE. Tlie Mayor,Mr AA 7 . D. Lysnar,yesterday received a letter from the Opotiki County Council, stating that the Wliakatane County Council had considered the rabbit question at a meeting held last Saturday, and wanted to know what would he the starting and ending points of the proposed rabbit fence and the route it was proposed to take; also whether it would traverse valuable land or not, and also some idea as to what their share-would he. In reply, Mr. Lysnar telegraphed,:— “Replying yours 24th to Opotiki County. No fixed line fence now, being decided on, that will remain with Board when set up after collecting full information, b.ut it is not suggested here that there should be any fencing m your district at present, only about 40 miles Mohaka side with short lengths on Galatea stock track and Motu track, but it is suggested and desired here that whole of stockowners in suggested district from Mohaka t-o Rangataiki river to East Cape contribute towards destruction of any rabbits now in suggested district in equal proportions, but by section 23 R-abit Act 1886 _ contribution of any stockowners is limited to Id .’per sheep. Levy for first year in this area, not including your County, would with Government subsidy give about £12,000, which should be more than sufficient to erect any fences necessary and leave substantial’sum towards cost eradicating pest anywhere within boundaries. You Understand unless boundary extends to your district, this district cannot legally expend money m assisting to eradicate your rabbits, which, if destroyed, will protect this district. Please arrange to get final decision your County early as possible and wire same, as people here and Wairoa most anxious for initial steps to form Board should be taken immediately, but this cannot be done until boundary of suggested district is settled. Local committee have decided to set up Board under part 2 of Act.”