THE FARMING OUTLOOK

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21249, 1 August 1932, Page 5

THE FARMING OUTLOOK

SOUTH AUCKLAND DISTRICT FAVOURABLE INDICATIONS [from our own correspondent] I'UKEKOHE, Saturday Conditions in the district south of Auckland indicate a favourable farming season. The winter has not, been a severe one for stock. Pastures and crops are a little backward, but there are adequate supplies of supplementary winter fodder still available in the form of hay and ensilage. There has been an unusually large number of heavy frosts and consequently the growth of grass has been retarded. The pastures generally, however, are healthy as a result of autumn top-dressing, and with warm rain in early spring should rapidly reach a satisfactory condition. On most dairy farms practically full herds have come to profit and are being milked again. Ths calving progressed well and losses among cows have been few. In the saleyarcs there is evidence of an improvement in the quality of dairy stock. Good quality stock, particularly yearlings, is selling at values which, although lower than ill past years, are felt by many farmers to bo sounder. A noticeable feature at stock sales is that many breeders of fat stock are purchasing, heifers and are faking up dairying. Although the return from the sale of bobby calves is not very remunerative for farmers, the trade is increasing steadily. The lambing season is no'.r well advanced in most districts and, as there hf.s been an absence of wet weather and cold winds, mortality among ewes and lambs has been very light. The frosts have not had much adverse effect on the young lambs and the bright, sunny days have been highly beneficial. The Ryland breed is healthy and h.irdy in the district and is finding "further favour among sheepfarmers. Thostr who have already gone in for the breed have found that the wool returned comparatively good prices last season. Primary producers generally in the South Auckland area are well _ satisfied with the season so far and consider that if the conditions in the spring ar6 favourable a record in production will, be achieved.