Wool Research

Dominion, Volume 27, Issue 297, 12 September 1934, Page 11

Wool Research

Sir, —It seems to me that the present is a golden opportunity for the farmers of New Zealand to compel the ram breeders to comply to certain rules in regard to the “get up” or, I might say, faking of rams for sale. No one, I think, would bo bold enough to assert that research can do no good or that our wool generally is what it might be. Probably research will do a lot of good, in any case it can do no harm. Personally lam satisfied it will do a great amount of good. One lias only to go to Massey College to see What has been done already. I suggest that the sheep-farmers should agree to the levy provided tho Government will pass a Bill making It illegal to (1) shear any ram before October 1 In any year; (2) in any way trim or fnke any sheep for sale Or show; and when shorn all sheep must be shorn on the skin evenly all over the body. I have often suggested to certain members of the Romney Marsh Breeders’ Association that they should themselves get such a Bill passed, but they assert it would be impossible. They sny they are quite willing to cpmply with what I suggest provided all breeders will do likewise; otherwise they cannot afford to do so.

What an admission from an association which claims that it is out to “educate and help the farmer.” If the breeders are genuine in their desire to help and educate they should be the first to want what 1 have suggested—but no, they say it is impossible. Most rams that are bought now have at least eight to nine months’ wool on when they are turned out with the ewes —some a great deal more, having been shorn anything up to two inches off the skin in places. Is it fair to expect them to climb about hill Country ns they have jo, especially in the hot, dry autumns we have had during the last few years? No, Sir. I maintain the breeders should themselves go and ask for such a Bill, but if they will not I think the farmer should compel them to.—l am. etc.. ONE BEING EDUCATED. Carterton, September 9.