Story: Government and agriculture

Increase in livestock, 1950–65

Increase in livestock, 1950–65

Sheep and cattle numbers rose throughout the country due to government support for agricultural production, the development of topdressing, and the availability of cheap fertiliser. Some of the biggest increases were on land that was once considered marginal. Livestock numbers rose by over 500% on the Volcanic Plateau after scientists discovered that animal health problems there could be remedied by adding cobalt to fertiliser or salt licks.

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How to cite this page:

Tony Nightingale, 'Government and agriculture - Subsidies and changing markets, 1946–1983', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/map/18072/increase-in-livestock-1950-65 (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Tony Nightingale, published 24 Nov 2008