RAIN WANTED

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 83, Issue 35, 11 February 1939, Page 8

RAIN WANTED

FARMERS’ NEED PARCHED PASTURES EFFECT ON PRODUCTION The dry weather which has been experienced in the Wanganui district since the New Year has not been welcomed by sheep or dairy farmers. In the case of dairy farmers it has resulted in a falling off in production, which is regarded as a serious matter in view of the heavy operational costs. Pasture growth has been considerably hampered by the dry weather and several days' rain would be welcomed by farmers, some of whom have had to resort to carrying watei for their domestic supplies until their tanks are replenished. Pastures have taken on a parched appearance of recent weeks but would soon freshen up with a good heavy rain. Farmers who have crops ot oats and wheat to harvest, however, have found the spell of dry weather most opportune for ripening and harvesting. The good prices for wool during the past two seasons was responsible for a failing off in the number of dairy herds throughout the district with a corresponding decrease in production. The dry weather this season is having its effect on butterfat production which will not improve until pastures freshen. ’’The farmers are always having a rough time of it. If we want rain it is too hot and if we want fine weather for shearing and harvesting it rains too much,” declared a farmer yesterday. "Under present conditions it is necessary for farmers to keep then production at. a high figure if they wish to make ends meet.” While the farmers may find the present dry spell unseasonable weather it is much appreciated by people in the city. January was a comparatively dry month and this monthly only five points have been recorded at Cook's Gardens.