In Tairāwhiti, farmers near Tolaga Bay saw forestry slash and land damage from winds and heavy rain as a result of Cyclone Gabrielle. Photo: Supplied / Bridget Parker
Forest owners in the Tolaga Bay area have come in for stinging criticism from locals as logs and silt clog farms, rivers and beaches for the second time in recent weeks, and the third time in the last year. Yesterday Tolaga Bay farmer Bridget Parker spoke of her frustration and the belief forestry operations were responsible for the degree of damage to her farm. The Forest owners Association is now backing a comprehensive enquiry into forestry saying old rules are no longer suitable and new land use rules are needed for all vulnerable soils. Don Carson is spokesperson for the Forest Owners Association.
