Pohangina Valley

Manawatu Times, Volume 60, Issue 54, 6 March 1935, Page 10

Pohangina Valley

From Our Own Correspondent. A strong and representative meeting ol the Pohangina Valley branch of tiie Farmers’ and Dairy Farmers’ Union was held on Saturday evening, Mr. J. D. .Balraer presiding. The president, in moving a resolution of sympathy with the relatives of the late Mr. Wagstaff, said that liis passing was a distinct loss to the whole district. The Union had lost one of its staunchest supporters, tills branch ir. particular owing its very existence to his efforts and guidance in all matters pertaining to the welfare of his fellow-farm-ers. When the resolution was passed, members stood in silence as a mark of respect for their late comrade. The president reported that, in company with tiie organiser, ho had interviewed every farmer in the valley. The results of the canvass were most gratifying. Every farmer in the district, with the exception of two, had enrolled as members of the Union. Of the two exceptions, only one had refused to join up, tue other requesting time to think it over. A numbr of questions was asked regarding the amalgamation of the two unions, a detailed explanation being given by the president. The meeting expressed itself as being in complete accordance with the arrangements. The matter of the annual ladies’ and children's social was brought up, and it was decided to hold the function at an earlier date than in previous years, farther discussion on the subcct was held over until the .March meeting.

Following a discussion of the depredations of the white butterfly, diamondback moth and kindred pests, the following remit to the executive was carried:—

“That the Government be asked to provide funds for the purpose of importing parasites to combat the diamond-back moth.” It was explained that an effective parasite existed in Europe and the cost of importing a colony would be about £7OO. t Members felt that every effort should be made to procure the parasite, the sum in question being very small compared with the damage done by this pest. It was reported that a number of white butterfly parasites were to bo liberated in the valley shortly. The president remarked that it was high time something in that line was done. He did not think there was a single crop of swedes left in the valley as the result of the pest. A further remit to the executive was worded as follows: “That the Farmers’ and Dairy Farmers’ Union supports the Women’s Division in their endeavour to have an invalids’ pension made available,” or, alternately, “That invalids should be eligible for sustenance from the unemployment board, this branch feeling that the care of invalids and their dependents should be a national question and not a charge on the hospital boards." A lengthy discussion on tiie Mortgage Corporation followed, Mr. Turnbull giving a lucid explanation of the Act. It was decided not to express an opinion of the measure by remit, but to keep a close watch on the progress on the Act. The liberal rainfall of last month has

had a most beneficial effect on pastures and crops, almost a spring growth being evidenced. Dairy returns have responded better than most farmers expected. One valley farmer reports that his; milk yield has been doubled, with an increase, of nearly 30 per cent, in buUcrfat. Rabbit poisoning is being carried out on most ol the hill country. Favoured by, weather conditions, rabbits appear to have been on the increase, but it is hoped that poisoning operations will result in the numbers being speedily reduced.