Merino caution advised

Press, 30 December 1988, Page 9

Merino caution advised

A Rangiora Merino breeder, Mr lan Stevenson has warned farmers to think carefully before they launched into Merino farming. The Merino breed was in fashion now and farmers should be cautious about buying into the industry at the top end of the market, he said. There was no point in ruining in one swing a good quality Corriedale or crossbred flock which had taken many years to develop if farmers later decided they did not like farming Merinos or could not do so successfully and profitably.

Mr Stevenson told a fine-wool field day at Waikari that every sheep breed has its day in the popularity stakes. “It’s surprising how quick that time comes around,” said Mr Stevenson, who runs several sheep studs in partnership with his brother, Graeme.

Their main sources of income come from the sale of two-tooth stud rams including Merinos, Border Leicesters, Dorset Downs, and Halfbreds. For Merino farmers, the object was to grow high quality wool.

Fleeces in the bottom quality bracket were severely discounted when sold so it was imperative that maximum effort be placed on growing wool with the right characteristics. If the Merinos were not going to be managed with the goal of high quality wool, then farmers should not change to Merinos, suggested Mr Stevenson.

Minerals were very important for wool growth and quality and the Stevensons have had a tremendous response in wool colour from using mineral supplements.