JERSEY COMPETITION AT THE SHOW

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 29 November 1927, Page 4

JERSEY COMPETITION AT THE SHOW

THE progress made by Jersey breeders in tlie Nelson district was reflected at the A. and P. Show last week. Gradually interest in this breed of dairy cattle lias forged ahead and to-day there are Nelson-bred beasts able fo take a prominent place in any show ring in New Zealand. The advancement lias been due to the initiative and enterprise of a few individuals. They have been rendering good - service to the district as well as to themselves. The number of enthusiasts is increasing steadily and already there are emerging from the ranks other breeders who will have to be reckoned with at any show. In the past, too -high a price has been asked and paid for mediocre pedigree stock, causing many an experienced dairyman to look askance at the whole business. That has not been in the interests of the breed or of the district. Outstanding animals will always command outstanding prices, but buyers should be on their guard against paying too much for ordinary pedigreo cows. There must he several hundred pedigreo Jersey cows in the district, and the more extensive tho distribution the greater will be the interest in the breed and in the achievements of those at the top of the tree. What has been done with Jerseys should bo possible with other breeds of cattle. Tlie general consensus of opinion appears to be that the Jersey is more profitable in tlie Nelson district than the “Black and White.” This, however, is keenly combatted by tho Friesian owners. It would he of* interest, if the A. and P. Association or some other organisation took evidence and expressed a definite opinion-if possible. It would at- any rate direct attention to the all-important matter of production per acre, which, after all, is that- which really matters. Too much time, however, should not be given to discussion of the breeds of cattle, i lmprovement in the actual herff of whatever breed is the essential requirement. A recent inquiry in North Taranaki showed an increase of butlerfat production of 82 per cent, in the last seven years. The main factors in this splendid result were put down as bettor husbandry and better herds.