RAISING THE COW'S YIELD.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVII, Issue 185, 6 August 1936, Page 6

RAISING THE COW'S YIELD.

A few years ago 2501b of butterfat per cow was the recognised standard aimed at in herd averages; the common objective to-day is 3001b. The extent to which this further objective is being reached and passed is illustrated in the analysis, published to-day, of the returns of the New Zealand Co-operative Herd Testing Association for the 1935-36 season. There were' 1630 herds, comprising 97,556 cows, under test, and of these 976 exceeded 2501b and 309 exceeded 3001b. The largest group, with 667 herds, Avas in the 250-3001b class, and the average for the whole number tested was 262.041b, a level only once exceeded, and then in a season when the autumn was exceptionally favourable. For many years the slogan of herd testing officials, breeders and leaders of the dairy industry has been "Increase your cow yields," and their combined efforts have had an effect. Needless to say, much remains to be done. The range of production differences is still extraordinarily wide. Last season, in the Association's area, one cow exceeded 7001b, and one large herd averaged 410.441b. Against these performances may be set the Dominion average in 1933-34 of 216.31b. But the value of the efforts of the herd testing associations in setting a standard, helping farmers to attain it, and then raising it, is being proved by results.