Forestry slash: what is the solution?

As flooding from recent Cyclone Hale brought down more slash, causing damage to farms, properties and infrastructure in Tairāwhiti, the Environmental Defence Society has called for a formal Commission of Inquiry into forestry practices.

Slash is a forestry waste product, and debris and logs can be swept downstream during heavy rain, causing further flooding. It has been an ongoing problem for the East Coast, and Tolaga Bay in particular.

The Minister of Forestry Stuart Nash has rejected calls for an inquiry, but suggested forestry companies sit down with key stakeholders to understand how the sector could operate better.

The society says it is unjust that private landowners and councils are continuing to bear the costs of damage caused by slash.

Kathryn speaks with Gary Taylor, the chief executive of the Environmental Defence Society and Grant Dodson, the president of the New Zealand Forest Owners Association.