FARMERS LECTURED ON HOW TO DEAL WITH DISEASE AMONG LAMBS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18466, 18 May 1928, Page 4

FARMERS LECTURED ON HOW TO DEAL WITH DISEASE AMONG LAMBS.

At the Mid-Canterbury Provincial Conference of the Farmers’ Union at Ashburton yesterday Mr M. J. Scott, chemist, of Lincoln College, gave an address dealing with the mortality among lambs due to the disease known as pulpy kidney. Mr Scott outlined what had been done in the collection of data concerning the disease. Information was gathered about types of ground on which the sheep were pastured, the types of pasture, and kinds of sheep affected. No particular type of soil or pasture, or top-dressing seemed to have any effect, the deaths being practically evenly distributed on different land in the same localities. Chemical analysis showed that deaths and excessive nitrogen were associated, but further information was required in this connection. Of 150 lambs examined there was no preponderance of any particular breed. On seven farms where green feed was given there were deaths and on other farms where there was no green feed given there were no deaths, lie did not believe that rock salt was the cause of deaths, which started suddenly and stopped just as suddenly. Curative measures had been applied by farmers but as the deaths stopped within a sort period it was no indication that the cure was effective. For the future he would advise dividing the flock and putting one half on a mineral lick. Another way was to feed with feed rich in nitrogen, peas, beans, or oats, and so counteract excessive nitrogen, this being done for an expenditure of 6d per sheep. A third way was to divide the flock and feed one section on green feed. Ewes may be run down in winter, and the lamb may be too weak to weather the conditions.

Several members related their experiences with regard to deaths among lambs. A vote of thanks was passed to Mr Scott, who said the solution of the problem must come from the farmers, who he asked to co-operate with him as closely as possible.