PRODUCTION FROM LAND

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21155, 3 July 1940, Page 6

PRODUCTION FROM LAND

Nothing but good can come from the thorough overhaul of the means of increasing production from the land which has been brought about by the war emergency. Never before has so much thought and energy been put into the problem, and the result is almost certain to be a substantial increase in output in the coming seasons. Production from New Zealand’s agricultural and pastoral lands has on the whole been too easy, and although the output of produce has increased by leaps and bounds for many years, it is still true that nothing like maximum capacity has ever been reached. There is still a great reserve to be called upon, and in this great struggle fo r existence that reserve may be of inestimable value to New Zealand and the Empire. * Dozens of schemes to increase production have been put forward and many of them arc worthy of prompt action. The most valuable licheme is that which will give an immediate return and continue io operate successfully over a long period. Speed, however, is one of the essentials. It is desirable that in the coming season the farmers should increase their herds and flocks and the return from them; that more land should be placed under cultivation and that pastures should be extended and improved. Pigs offer a means of producing meat perhaps more quickly than by any other . method. If the farmers are not in a position, through lack of either finance or of labour, to attack the problem on the lines mentioned, obviously they must be given the facilities to make increased production possible. Among the proposals advanced is one presented by Mr H. Valder in the conference of farmers at Hamilton on Monday. Mr R. A. Candy remarked that this scheme was an excellent one from a longrange point of view but that what was wanted was a plan to increase production in the coming season. That is true, but a temporary acheme is not sufficient. Certainly results must be achieved at once, but at the same time a long-range plan should go into operation to give the farmers a sense of security and continuity of support. In that respect several of the points enunciated by Mr Valder are well worthy of investigation and action. Further tabulation of the problem is necessary so that the campaign can be undertaken in a scientific manner and with a full knowledge of all the facts and the opportunities