Page 386 - Bahrain Gov annual reports (V a)_Neat
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                   The vegetable seedling scheme which was first introduced in 1955 has become increasingly
               popular and although unsettled conditions in the Autumn prevented some of the growers from
               obtaining seedlings many farmers look advantage of the fact that tested seedlings were available.
                   Stock and Dairying. Interest in Stock and Dairy Farming increased appreciably in 1956
               and many enquiries were received with regard to the importation of pedigree stock.
                   Both the pedigree Red Sindhi and the local herd of cattle are being increased at Budeya.
               Results so far have been very encouraging and it has been possible to keep the animals in good
               condition throughout the year and also raise milk yields. Young pedigree bulls are being
               “brought on” as rapidly as possible and it is hoped that they will soon be available for up­
               grading local stock.

                   Poultry. Tremendous interest has been shown by local farmers .in the European poultry
               imported from the U.K.
                   Both the Rhode Island Red and Light Sussex chickens have done well under local cond­
               itions and have proved to be exceptionally good layers.
                   A small electric incubator was imported from the U.K. towards the end of the year and
               some hundreds of chickens were hatched out and sold to local breeders. Although fertility
               has been relatively low it is hoped that with the importation of a larger incubator to increase the
               supply of chicks for local breeders.
                   Experiments on crossing European breeds with local chickens have proved to be very
               successful and it has been possible to produce an excellent type of bird which “feathers up” and
               grows very rapidly and is exceptionally hardy.

                   Mechanization. Initial mechanization is still extremely popular with the local farmers.
               Unfortunately due to lack of funds it has not been possible for the Department to purchase
               another tractor and in consequence many farmers were disappointed as the Department was
               not in a position to help them with initial mechanization.

                   Plant Protection. * The free plant protection service provided by the Department has
               increased in popularity and numerous farmers took advantage of the fact that modern methods
               of control help to save crops.
                   The importation of a Mobile Micron Sprayer which can be used for both “blast” and
               “drift” spraying should help appreciably and it is hoped that more farmers will call on the
               Department for advice on pest control.
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