PRODUCTION
97
Development Committee, referred to earlier, under Land Utilization. Each Division is under a fully-qualified technical officer, and the staff includes 26 assistants and supervisors holding degrees from various Chinese universities.
A broad policy for the development of agriculture and animal industries was submitted to the Government by the Director and accepted in principle towards the close of 1955. This policy envisages the improvement of irrigation and communications throughout the New Territories, planned settlement of undeveloped land, the diversification of farming to include the extension of animal industries, a soil survey of the Colony, and planned experimental work directed to the introduction of new crops, the improvement of existing crop varieties, soil fertility, and the control of pests and diseases of crops and animals.
The headquarters of the department is at Laichikok, and there are eight agricultural stations, at Castle Peak, Tsuen Wan, Sheung Shui, Tai Po, Sha Tin and Sai Kung, on Taimoshan, and at Silver Mine Bay on Lantao Island. Forestry district headquarters and nurseries are strategically placed for afforestation and protection, and fisheries centres are located at Aberdeen, Shaukiwan, Tai Po and Kam Tin.
The Agriculture Division carried out investigation work on crops, including variety trials, seed selection, soil fertility studies, manurial trials, and pest and disease control, at Castle Peak Main Station and Sheung Shui Vegetable Station. Extension, advice, educational and observation work on crops and animal husbandry are the functions of district agricultural officers operating from the district stations. The extension staff is aided by two teams concerned with pest control and survey duties.
The Animal Industries Division is concerned primarily with the control of animal diseases. Animal husbandry is also a function of this Division which is endeavouring to improve
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.