BUCKLAND.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 1, Issue 30, 25 September 1912, Page 3

BUCKLAND.

Tho continued wet weather has considerably hampered all outsido farm work during the past fortnight, tho soaked condition of the land putting a stop to planting of both grain and potato crops. The greater part of the crops were, however, rushed in during the fine spell last month, and in the case of cereals a good growth is nQw discernable. The acreage devoted to the latter crops this season is about the same as that planted last year, but potatoes are being gone in for more extensively, in somo instances areas totalling twelve to fourteen acros being under cultivation by individual growers.

Since its inception the opening of the creamery in August, to commence the new dairving season, has been of an annual order, but the old order changeth, and for the first time in its history the creamery has this season remained open throughout the winter, the only approach to cessation from work being a ri duction in skimming to four days per week when tho keeping qualities of the milk were assured. Altogether a large number of cows have been milked during tho period under review, and farmers are in the jyoud position of having supplied a larger quantity of milk than was anticipated. Mr S. J. Morris, manager at the Pukekohe Central, informed me last month that Buckland was then well to the fore in the quantity of cream being received from the Association's creameries, and the supply had been well maintained for weeks previously. Mr Todd, the local manager, states that he is now receiving milk from 40 suppliers, representing an aggregate of 1000 gallons or 10,000lbs. per day. The test sheets periodically posted up disclose that extremely good tests have been obtaining for weeks past—some as high as s.o—and with butter-fat at Is per lb. (tho advance price being paid by the Association at the larger creameries) this should pan out well for suppliers and shareholders, who express satisfaction, and aro all agog at the bright outlook. In addition to the milk supply, a quantity of home separated cream is also being handled. Thanks to the watchful members of the Pukekohe East Road Board, almost all the roads in the locality are metalled and in good repair, a paramount factor at this period of the year in the quick transit of milk to the creamery.

In liou of tho usual arrangement whereby the output from the creamery has in the past been forwarded to Pukekoho por medium of rail, the cream is this season being carted direct to tho butter factory.