Growing interest in the Borderdale

Press, 8 November 1978, Page 33

Growing interest in the Borderdale

Several new breeds of sheep have been developed in New Zealand in recent years. Among them is the Borderdale, bred up by crossing .the Border Leicester with the Corriedale.

Although it is the most •ecent breed, an estimated 700 rams were used in Canterbury flocks last season, and it is expected the figure will grow to 1000 ,iext autumn.

At present there are 20 registered breeders, and because of growing interest in their stock, they will have a stand at the show, with five pens of sheep of varying ages.

The New Zealand Borderdale Sheep Society was officially formed in 1977, although some members been breeding Borderdales since 1971.

The need for an established breed became clear when higher lambing percentages and easy-care lambing characteristics became evident in the Bor-der-Corriedale cross.

By using Borderdaie ram's, the need to maintain two flocks, or buy in replacement ewes, is eliminated. There has been particular demand for this class of sheep in irrigated areas — areas which previously were dry-land farms running fine-wool flocks. Under irrigated conditions, a farmer is able to move into a stronger-woolled sheep with little capital outlay — simply the purchase of Border Leicester rams.

Being well aware of farmers’ needs, the society is putting much emphasis on high fertility and production standards. Each stud sire and dam mated must have a 150 per cent lambing background; sires must be above average for wool and weaning weight in the studs from which they are drawn.

High lambing percentages are allowing ample scope for selection for both skeletal and production traits.

All sheep must be inspected and passed by society inspectors before registration, and stud breeders must be members of • sheeplan" or a similar recording system.

Most of the Borderdale wool falls within the 48/50s quality, or 34 on the micron range. In terms of clean fleece weight, it compares very favourably with Corriedale wool. The society has placed considerable emphasis on sound, crimpy backw.ool, and is also emphasising the need to maintain a well-formed bulky staple. The society’s stand at the show will include a ewe hogget with a set of twins: also suitable Border Leicester rams for breeding Borderdale sheeep.

An interesting side development recently has been the demand from home-spinners for this type of wool. The reason for this is its soft-hand-ling qualities.