The A.L.V. Process of Conserving Green Fodder

Abstract

IN these days of economic nationalism and of devalued currency in terms of gold, it is a cardinal principle to produce as much at home as natural conditions allow. Although only the Dr. Panglosses believe that Great Britain could feed her people entirely and adequately from her own resources, yet all who have studied the question think that we could go a long way towards this goal. Great Britain, for example, is one of the most favoured nations in regard to grass production, yet it imports many million pounds' worth each of butter, cheese, eggs, meat, and concentrated feeding stuffs which could be produced at home. The annual bill for imported concentrated foods is so high that efforts have been made recently to dry artificially the young, protein-rich grass and so conserve it for winter ‘keep’. Up to date, experiments made with this object in view in Germany and Great Britain have failed to bring conviction to the economist, and it now looks as if the desired end is to be achieved by a modification of the old practice of ensiling. The ensiling of green fodder crops for use as winter keep has made great headway in New Zealand, the United States, Holland, and Germany, but the English farmer has been slow to realise its advantages. However, he has now an opportunity. Thanks to the enterprise of Imperial Chemical Industries, Ltd., a new chemical method of ensiling, which hails from Finland, has been launched in Great Britain, large-scale experiments having been undertaken at the company's research station at Jealott's Hill, Berks, and at various other places.