THE METROPOLITAN SHOW.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21118, 27 February 1932, Page 10

THE METROPOLITAN SHOW.

With all that is heard daily about depression, especially among primary producers, it is cheering and stimulating to find the Auckland Metropolitan Show so firmly supported by the exhibitors of highquality stock. It suggests that the depression, however real financially, has not affected the spirit or the professional zeal of breeders and farmers. It could easily be understood, (hough it would have to be deplored, if the present level ol prices for primary produce had caused a slackening of interest in the eternal business of trying to evolve the best and most profitable types of cattle, sheep and pigs. The evidence the show offers in both the number and the high standard of exhibits that this is not happening is most reassuring. It should mean that when the clouds begin to lift the opportunity of taking full advantage of better returns will be at hand. Quality will have been maintained, and the level of yield per unit of production raised. For it must be realised that the choice stock penned and paraded for show competition is not for show alone. It serves both as an example and as an agent in producing a higher general level of flocks and herds. Choice blood can be diffused through many grades of animal, and the results, if selection and breeding are carried on with care and judgment, are beneficial over a wide area. It has often been urged, in support of systematic herd-testing, that a high-producing animal makes little if any more demand on the carrying capacity of the farm than the "robber" cow. This principle is capable of wider extension. Testing and culling are two methods of working toward a higher output per acre, but there must be careful breeding, too, so that something better can be substituted for the culls. As an incentive, and an educating force in the business of breeding for higher producing capacity, the show is an invaluable institution. Jt is therefore a hopeful sign to find (he Auckland Show so well .supported in this difficult year.