‘WAR’ ON LICE

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30653, 20 January 1965, Page 16

‘WAR’ ON LICE

Coromandel Plan "The Press” Special Service HAMILTON, Jan. 19. The first attempt in New Zealand to eliminate skin parasites, chiefly sheep lice, on a county basis is being made by the Department of Agriculture in Coromandel county.

Dr. S. Jamieson, director of the animal health division, Department of Agriculture, approved a scheme last August. It has the full approval and co-operation of livestock officers, the Federated Farmers and Young Farmers’ Club members and sheep owners. The Coromandel county is particularly suited to a programme of complete eradication of skin parasites on a county basis because of its boundaries. On three sides there is coast and on the remaining southern portion mostly dense bush. The disadvantages are that boundary fences between many sheep farms are not good and because of -the steep nature of the country complete musterings in certain areas will be difficult. The county, however, is suitable in that it is a breeding area. Sheep are sent out but few, mainly flock rams, are brought in. A check will be made of sheep taken into the county. Mr W. L. Stringer, of the Department of Agriculture at Thames, has the county covered by 12 farmer committees which are responsible for certain areas.

Neighbours have agreed to assist each other and several groups of farmers have combined to install community sheep dips.