WEATHER AND CROPS.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 64, Issue 148, 3 April 1944, Page 2

WEATHER AND CROPS.

IN THE ANAMA DISTRICT. ACREAGE INTENDED FOR WHEAT The rainfall at. Anama during March was 401 points, against 229 points last year. The total for the year to date is 12SG points, that over the same period last year being 950 points. A very cold snap was experienced on Sunday, March 20. Snow fell on the back ranges, reaching almost down to the foot hills. Later in the day warmer conditions prevailed and the snow quicklv disappeared off the lower portions of the hills. During foggy weather a few days later, the ranges, too, were clear again.

Last month there were few equinoxal gales. There were several light frosts, hut much sultry and foggy weather conditions were exceptional for the growth of pastures and newlysown green feed. Roots also improved considerably. The weather was very much against the harvesting of any late crops. Only small areas were left, hut suitable conditions for heading late wheat and peas did not come, and although all is now bagged its condition is not at present satisfactory. Warm winds oi bright sunshine are required to put the grain in good condition for storing. Some areas of green feed have been sown in the district and some land has been prepared for the sowing of wheat but along the foothills the soil is too waterlogged at present for working and cultivating. The area that will he put into wheat this year depends to a large extent on the weather during the next few weeks. Possibly the intended acreage is about the same as last year. The roads in the Anama district are very rough at present, more particularly where the heavy Public Works Department lorries use them frequently. The County crushing plant Is at present stationed just across the Hinds River, at Montalto, and a good supply of metal would benefit the district roads very much.

The harvest thanksgiving has been held. The schoolroom was nicely decorated and a good display of grain, fruit and vegetables was made. The Rev. W. W. Avery (Willowby) preached a suitable sermon. Special harvest hymns were sung, Mr W. Currie played the piano. The teachers of the local school arranged with members of the committee to convey some 23 scholars to the County school sports at Ashburton. Although not a large number of prizes were gained a good day was spent by the children and the experience gained will he of benefit in future gatherings.