FEED SHORTAGE IN NORTH

Evening Star, Issue 25730, 1 March 1946, Page 4

FEED SHORTAGE IN NORTH

POSSIBLE SHIPMENTS FROM OTAGO survey of Surpluses made Otago and Southland farmers will probably be able to make a useful contribution of supplies of surplus stock feed for the benefit of their colleagues in the North Island who have suffered severely as a result of the drought conditions. -This is the opinion of Mr A. G. Elliott, fields superintendent for the two provinces of the Department of Agriculture, as a result of a departmental survey of the position in his district. In a national broadcast last night, an appeal on behalf of the Government was addressed to farmers "more favourably situated " to save as much Rurplus feed as they could spare to assist farmers in the north. It was stated that baled hay, straw, and chaff would be most useful. with surplus feed were asked to inform their merchants what could he supplied. It is emphasised locally, however, that no official information has yet been received of any arrangements contemplated by the Government, apart from the instruction to make a survey of surpluses available in the south. Mr Elliott explained that the survey was purely an inquiry, and pending a Government statement of intentions, it was not yet possible to take any action other than the actual conserving of feed. The survey had indicated that there were some quantities of good quality lucerne, meadow hay, ryegrass, and clover straw surplus to local requirements which, if necessary, could be baled for transport to the North Island. In addition, there were small lines of oats, chaff, and straw which might be sent north if required. Ryegrass straw might also prove useful for shipment. " Many local farmers have shown their appreciation of the serious feed shortage in the North Island by stating their willingness to sell hay and other fodder at cost in an endeavour to assist their stricken colleagues." Mr Elliott said. The spirit of co-operation which was evident among district farmers was most creditable, he added.