FARMERS DISCUSS PLANTING SCRUB LAND ON WAIMAK BANK.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17854, 24 May 1926, Page 7

FARMERS DISCUSS PLANTING SCRUB LAND ON WAIMAK BANK.

The afforestation of scrub lands on the north bank of the Waimakariri River, the question of farmers' freezing works, ear marks for sheep and telephonic , connection between Oxford and Sheffield were discussed at a rtieeiing of the Oxford branch of the Farmers' Union. Mr H. G. Parish presided. A letter was received from the secretary of the North Canterbury Freezing Works, and also a circular letter to shareholders of the company oh the question of farmers' freezing works, 'and attendant matters. The 'proposals were heartily supported, and it .was decided to consider the matter at a later meeting. The importance of sheepowners being able to identify ear marks, and discover ownership of stray sheep was stressed, but the difficulty of. having easy access to a book of brands and ear marks was emphasised. It was decided to ask the Provincial Conference to consider the remit—- '• That the Stock Department issue u book of 'ear marks and brands at a nominal cost, and that all sheepowners be requested to possess a copy, or as an alternative, that a book of registered ear marks and brands be issued, and made easily available for inspection by all sheepowners.” The Cust-West Eyreton branch of the union asked support fob the motion—- “ That the Minister in charge, of tlie Forestry Department he asked to instruct his officers to inspect and l'epo.ct upon the waste manuka scrub lauds on the north bank of the tVaimakarirl River with a view to acquiring the same for afforestation purposes.” It was pointed out that the area consists of about 16.000 acres of unproductive land, eminently suited for afforestation. It was unanimously decided to support the proposal. The Malvern, branch of the Farmers’ Union wrote in regard to direct telephonic connection between Oxford and Sheffield, and it was decided to continue to urge that the connection be made. A discussion took place on the importance of having standard sacks of good quality; on secondary industries ami the effect on the farming community of protective tariffs; on the registration and taxing of sporting dogs, and on the danger of the increase of rabbits and the measures that should be adopted to exterminate them.