wildlife reserve.

Officials from both the Parks and Health departments supported the unusual move in order to reduce the spread of mosquitoes -- including those which carry the deadly Dengue fever.

As a result, the Planning Department has given in principle approval to excavate a field at Windswept Farm near Frank's Bay, Southampton.

Planning documents stated that a 0.9 acre of land "has historically flooded after heavy rains'' and has worsened over recent years.

The chronic flooding and stagnant water has destroyed the farm land and created a periodic mosquito problem.

According to David Wingate, conservation officer of the Parks Department, the problem has been caused by a slowly rising sea level.

Dr. Wingate cited studies which suggested an approximately 7.3 inch rise in the sea level since 1932.

But conservation officers will excavate an existing mini pond and use the soil to raise the level of the nearby field.

And two islets will be created in the centre of the new 70-by-60 metre pond to create a resting place for birds.

Furthermore, conservation officers will stock the pond, which will range from .3 to one metre in depth, with a special breed of fish -- gambusia -- to control the mosquito population.

PLANNING PLN