The Utiliti/ of our Victorian Forest'^. 409 



on tlie other liaud, useful birds also find in them a sanctuary. Around 

 the large towns bird-life is being fast destroyed by persons who 

 possess a cheap gun. This wanton destruction is extending to the 

 country^ and already some forest areas are suffering severely from 

 insect pests, and a dearth of bird-life. The wholesale destruction of 

 trees also is tending to lessen the supply of these only true insect 

 destroyers. 



Should our Forests be Protected? 



In conclusion^ the question Victoria has to ask herself is — Is it a 

 wise policy to protect our forests or not ? 



If the State finds she can import her necessary timber, and if 

 she finds the direct beneficial effects of forests as shown in the fore- 

 going are not necessary, then she need not trouble. But if she finds 

 the timber to meet her requirements cannot be imported except at 

 enormous cost, and that climatic and mechanical effects are endangered, 

 then it is her duty to protect her forests and utilise them to the fullest 

 extent. 



