NOTES FOR FARMERS.

Colonist, Volume L, Issue 12259, 3 June 1908, Page 4

NOTES FOR FARMERS.

Tnirty-two Clydesdale entire colts, bred by _Messrs O'Brien aad Mitchell, of Onrnaru and Studnohne, have been shipped to the Melbourne market. . Mr T. Elliot put through the Wai tara Freezing Works last week 224 fat bullocks from his Mahoenui property (says the t-Hawera "Star.") This is the greatest number received at the works from one own^r in one lot during the season. . . I A well-known New South Wales jpastoraiist states that he has found the rape plant of highest valuo in feeding sheep. No pasture can be Jroviaed that will fatten so quickly, t will also, fatten cattle, but they tread much of it down while grazing. The importance of providing rugs for their dairy cows is not fully re cognised by many farmers, the "Waikato Times" points out. Cows are turned out into cold wet pad^ docks, where there is little or no Shelter, week after week during the winter months. How much this affects the milk Supply it is rather difficult to state definitely, but one farmer who has provided rugs for his herd states that it makes a difference of about ££ per cow during the season. An interesting pappr, written by Mr E. Veala, was read at the last nre.tmg of the Farmers' Club at Caitt bridge. Mr Veale has bred fowls continuously for upwards of twenty years, and ia regarded as one of the best local authorities on the subject. He was firmly convinced the poultry industry was one that could be worked at a profit, and that it was destined to assume large proportions in this country. He gave the following estimates to show how the poultry businesswould pan out: — Initial cost or a 300 hen plant; 12 houses and bins £96; feed house and bins £15 ; incubator and brooder, £10 ; cost of raising 300 pullets, £37; total, £158 10s say, £160: cost of labour, one-third = less if done by owner. Profit and loss one year: Expenditure, rent five acres, £5; rates, insurance, sundries, £5; interest, sinking fund on houses, runs,etc, 10 per cent., £12 10s; interest on capital on raising fowls, £2 Ids; feed, grit, etc., £90; balance for labour, £90: total, £210. Income: 48,000 eggs, average 160 eggs pjpr hen, at la o^d per dozen, £210. Result, £2 per week to operator, even with phenomenal prices of feed. With small extra cost any capable man or woman could iocrease from 500 to 600 the second year, and be able to employ assistance; while 100 Indian Runner ducks could be added to any plant with surprising results.