STOCK MARKETS.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVII, 2 June 1928, Page 9

STOCK MARKETS.

an interesting time

GOOD ALL-ROUND BUSINESS

The touch of winter has reminded farmers that stock need extra, care, and tuat preparations must be completed for 100 King alter tiieir welfare during the next lour months. Practically every farmer has been alive to the position for some years past, and there are very tew who do not now lay in ample stores of winter teed so as to bring the cows into profit in July and. August in great condition, unaffected by the cola and wet of winter. This season tnere have been unusual conditions which had to be taken into consideration. The long spell of dry, not weatner drew: to some extent on the supplies of supplementary fodder, those, farmers who liad good areas of lucerne being most fortunately situated, and some will find themselves probably a bit short later on in the season. Ms against that, however, the grass is still showing strong growth, markedly so during the past few weeks, and pastures are looking wonderfully well. This will undoubtedly help the situation. In addition root crops are still growing, and have done well since they recovered from the drought, especially where cultivation was thorough. These features have all operated to make the present a good time for holders of stock of all kinds where* condition and quality are evident. In all such eases there has been shown a keen and continuing demand, which shows that much stock will be required to fill up the requirements of farmers. At the clearing sales so far there* have been very good, prices for good young dairy cattle. It is noticeable that, with* few exceptions, all offered have been in great •condition. Reports to* this effect come* from, all over the district, and one farmer from the Rawliitiroa district states that a. visitor to his farm was amazed at the size and* condition of his calves*. This is more* or less typical, and young stock generally show the benefit of the wonderful grass season. Store cattle, too, are being eagerly ■sought for because* of the heavy feed that is general through: the _ district. Farmers are naturally optimisic and able* to winter more, stock than usual. Pigs are selling well, and show a continued good* level of prices*. Most dairy farmers hold a. fair number, and are alike inclined to secure more than usual. The prospects in the pig markets look quite good. The dairy produce market is still steady at a good level, and this, too, is a promising feature. The position all round is bright, and promises well* for the coming season.