DAIRYING IN NORTH

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21878, 14 August 1934, Page 12

DAIRYING IN NORTH

NEW SEASON'S PROSPECTS IMPROVEMENT INDICATED BETTER GROWTH OF PASTURES [FROM OCR OWN correspondent] WHANG AT? EI, Monday The dairying season throughout the North Auckland district is now practically in full swing and most farmers nro milking herds equal in numbers to those of last year, and in some instances considerably more. Generally tho herds are not in as good condition as at this time last year. Although rain has fallen on seven days during August and the total fall was 2.Mi11., the rain was warm and there has been a decided improvement in the outlook for production and the growth of pastures, as compared with the end of last month. Should the present warm weather continue, there will be a rapid growth of grass. Several farmers have used up their winter supply of feed and are seeking supplies to carry on until there is a sufficient growth of grass to supply tho needs of tho stock.

Cases arc reported of losses of dairy stock, but the cause has not yet been definitely determined. In one herd six newly milking cows have died. A dairy factory director gives as a probable reason tiio shortage of feed, causing the cows to eat an excessive amount of rough feed, which is mostly dry, resulting in severe indigestion. The low condition of the animals has also reduced their power of vitality and resistance. Fortunately, tho losses of milking stock are not general in the district.

The supplies of cream to the factories have increased this month, but, in most instances, arc not equal to the supplies at this time last year. In one of tho largest dairy factories in North Auckland, however, the supplies are greater than last season.

Although the recent floods caused considerable inconvenience and loss to farmers, they will not bo without their advantages. For the past seven years, it is stated, there has been an absence of heavy floods and the rainfall has been insufficient to penetrate deeply into tho ground. Springs, which had previously never run out, became dry last year, making the problem of watering stock difficult. Tho heavy rains and floods have brought back these springs to a full flow.