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Hokitika Guardian, 9 April 1926, Page 2

Tim aim of the of Agrieiih tore to enlarge tho vision ol the farmer is a praise-worthy one. Particularly .happy is the idea to catch him voting- ‘-to see that a great deal more

instruction is given to t lie young people who intend to take up iainiing. The officers of the Department have often preached on the subject- ol herdtesting, but, we do not, know that the results in seeming converts have been satisfactory. The average fanner is inclined to judge his herd greatly by guess work. Vet under an efficient scheme of testing, herds could Im so over-hauled that there would soon be a considerable increase in production. It appears to us that on this subject alej-io the Department could do a great deal by sending officers into a. dairying district, and studying local conditions, and then advising the settlers. II a study were made of one farm, and a record of its return before and alter the intiodiution of testing, practical proof would tin forthcoming which would have a convincing effect. Wo fancy, too, that were the centralising project carried out here, the reinforced company would be in a position to have art independent official to do testing for the whole of Die suppliers, not only as to beads, but-also as to butter tut- contents. An official with scientific knowledge of the subject would be a great asset to a farming community, for it is from the application of research work that- perfection is to be brought about in the. dairying industry. The Alinister wants to see men thoroughly skilled in farming going about the district and helping with their advice and knowledge, it. is a worthy ideal and any advance along such a line will lie of great- benefit to production. New Zealand has proved its worth as a dairying country. With the land and the stock, and the men to handle them efficiently, the Dominion should eclipse its rivals in the dairying worlds for the reason that our equable climate will give us a great advantage against countries where rigorous cold and trying heat- are experienced. The tiormtil conditions here are such that dairying is practicable all the year round, and by proper instruction as to organisation, the industry must, advance by leaps and bounds. The Minister’s aim in this national matter is to be commended greatly.