Vegetable cultivation is also being studied and many varieties of both Chinese and European vegetables are being tried out on a field scale. Fertiliser trials are being conducted and also experi- ments in the pruning and staking of tomatoes. In order to encourage the growing of vegetables more than 100,000 tomato seedlings have been sold to the local farmers at a nominal price.
Sheung Shui Pig Station.
A census carried out just before the war showed that there were 40,000 pigs in the New Territories; one carried out im- mediately after the war showed but 8,000 including only nine boars. In order to improve the type and number of pigs, the Agricultural Department obtained the use of Sir Robert Ho Tung's piggery in 1946, repaired it and established a stud with crossbred boars obtained from the Dairy Farm. The stud farm, which now possesses four boars, has proved popular with the farmers who are able to have their sows serviced there on payment of a small fee. Figures taken during the present census which is only half com- pleted show a distribution of 14 boars and a noticeable improve- ment in the conformation of pigs being raised.
Experiments in breeding have also been carried out and reveal that the Berkshire boar crossed with local sow is the type which appeals most to the people. Colour is a factor which has to be considered, the black and white spotted or black with a white underline being preferred.
Accommodation at the Sheung Shui Piggery is being ex- tended as the demand for pure-bred boars and improved gilts is far greater than can at present be supplied.
Rinderpest.
Annual financial loss and inconvenience caused by this disease cannot be too greatly stressed and a survey to deter- mine its extent is at present being carried out. It has been the practice of farmers, immediately the disease is noticed amongst their cattle to dispose of them to the local butcher.
Valuable assistance has been given by the Veterinary Officer of the Dairy Farm in supplying serum and vaccine to deal with outbreaks as they have occurred, but until measures controlling the introduction of cattle from China and a general inoculation of all the cattle in the Colony are carried out, no change in the existing state can be expected.
Regulations in connection with disease control and a full scale inoculation campaign are under consideration for combat- ing the disease in the near future.
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