Dairying Methods

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 38, 15 February 1938, Page 10

Dairying Methods

LORD COCHRANE’S INNOVATIONS Par Press Association. AUCKLAND, Feb. 12. One of the most progressive dairy farmers an d agriculturists in Britain, Lord Cochrane, of Cults, father of Group-Comjnander Cochrane, arrived on the Rangitane this morning. In an interview he admitted that many of his ideas in dairying were so revolutionary that they represented a complete breakaway from established practice, but he held the view that in time they would be widely adopted, not only in Britain but also in New Zealand. One of Lord Cochrane’s innovations was a system of moveable milking sheds which, drawn round the farm, would overcome the handicap of boggy winter conditions. The system, he said could be applied without difficulty on a dairy farm of averugo size. He also 3aid that his Ayrshire herds remained cut of doors without covers throughout the winter and were splendidly healthy. The Department of Agriculture in Scotland had expressed the view that his herds were the freest from mamitis in the country, and they were also :free from tuberculosis. Besides other experiments, Lord Cochrane i:j the pioneer of the grass drying, which has superseded haymaking on his farm and is gradually being adopted by farmers in England and Scotland. The method retains the greenness in grass, which is one of its most valuable qualities. The cost is heavier than haymaking, £4 5s as against an average of £2 for hay. Lord Cochrane is anxious to see as much of fa rming operations in New Zealand as possible.