Livestock scheme

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32702, 3 September 1971, Page 19

Livestock scheme

A proposal to form a centralised livestock improvement organisation is being considered, according to the Direc-tor-General of Agriculture, Dr A. T. Johns. It is proposed that most of the livestock improve-

ment functions of the producer boards. Department

of Agriculture, and allied organisations might be . combined into one Livestock Improvement Corporation; Specific functions of such a corporation are still under discussion and could include the administration of performance - recording schemes and the. operation of national progeny-testing schemes. The Dairy Board already has a very efficient performance and progeny recording scheme. . Although the present flock recording scheme was set up by the Department of Agriculture, the intention from the beginning was that it should eventually become independent of the department. The Sheep and Beef Cattie Survey is already an independent organisation. Under the proposal now being discussed all these recording schemes would become part of the Livestock Improvement Corporation, thus concentrating all the required facilities. data, and specialised staff. Dr Johns added that such a body could offer a much more effective service to New Zealand agriculture.