PACKING DAMP WOOL

Auckland Star, Volume LXI, Issue 227, 25 September 1930, Page 4

PACKING DAMP WOOL

MENACE TO INDUSTRY,

WARNING TO GROWERS

A matter calling for the urgent attention of farmers and graziers, is the exercise of utmost care In the packing of their wool. Throughout New Zealand last season an appreciable quantity of wool came into store in a damp state, due to the sheep having been shorn whilst wet. Sometimes part only of a clip was damp, probably the result of a shower during shearing operations. The question gave rise to considerable trouble, and a large number of complaints, and buyers have made it quite clear that during the coming season they will not bid for wool showing signs of having been packed damp. In these circumstances any such wool sent into store will have to be reconditioned, which will cost growers approximately 2d per lb, a very heavy penalty on to-day's prices. Should by any chance the fact that the wool is damp escape the notice of both broker and buyer, the excessive moisture is the cause of discolouration and shrinkage during transit, with subsequent claims from the other side of the world. There is also the serious risk of fire due to spontaneous combustion. At the present time it ie more essential than ever that market requirements should be studied, and growers are urged by woolbrokers throughout New Zealand, in their own interests to do everything possible to prevent the packing of wool in a damp condition,