Soviets Bumper Recent reports of weather and crop conditions from the USSR indicate that the grain crop for 1973 is progressing satisfasc torily, according to a report from the USDA As of July l, prospects point to a record output Barring unfavorable weather during the remainder of the growing season, the Soviet gross grain harvest this year could approach the USSR’s planned goal for 1973 of 197.4 million tons. The USDA currently estimates the Soviet crop at 195 million tons (gross weight) including 95 million tons of wheat Yields for the winter wheat crop are likely to attain record levels Much still depends upon the spring grain crop, particularly the wheat and barley in the New Lands area. The spring gram crop this year is expected to account for about three-fourths of total output assuming normal development of the crop. The area sown to grain in 1973 reportedly is 128 million hectares (316 million acres), 5 percent larger than last year. Given normal losses, an estimated 126 million nectares (311) million acres) will be harvested as grain, the largest such area since 1965. Also, plans called for a sharp increase in fertilizer on grains. Weather thus far in 1973 has been relatively favorable in the USSR. Damage to winter grains was no greater than normal. Spring arrived early permitting the abnormally large volume of field work to be satisfactorily completed this year. Precipitation and temperatures generally have been favorable Anticipating Grain Crop for both winter and spring grains through June. However, weather has been drier and hotter than normal in Northeastern European USSR, the Urals region, and m a part of Northern Kazakhstan. If the hot dry weather continues into July, it would result m a reduction of the 95 million ton estimate. Analysis of past disappearance trends and the current USSR livestock situation indicates that Soviet domestic requirements for grain in 1973-74 (July-June) appear to be about equal to the announced 1973 gram output target of 197.4 million tons. However, a strong drive to fully recover from the 1972 livestock setback and to meet 1974 and 1975 targets could increase this requirement level by as much as 5 million tons. Thus, in view of the generally favorable development of the Soviet crop, purchases for 1973-74 delivery may be used mainly for rebuilding of reserve stocks within the USSR and to protect against any deterioration m prospects of the size or the quality of the spring grain crops. Whereas earlier USDA reports had projected USSR grain im ports for 1973-74 at about 15 million tons from all sources, current prospects indicate a somewhat smaller amount. Be Careful While Mowing Ornamental plants and trees bruised by lawnmowers often become susceptible to attack from diseases and insects, say Extension ornamental hor ticultural specialists at The Pennsylvania State University. Such bruises may not be noticed until serious damage is done. Lancaster Farming, Saturday, July 21.1973 Octorara FFA Member Will Attend Institute Gerald Metzler, son of Mr and Mrs. Robert Metzler, Christiana RDI has been named to attend the 1973 American Institute of Co operation. He was selected at the annual Pennsylvania Summer Institute held July 8-12 at Shippensburg State College, Shippensburg, Pa. Gerald now goes to the National Institute held at Tulane University, New Orleans, La. August 6-9 The Pennsylvania Institute consists of three states, Penn sylvania, New York, and New Jersey. Approximately 250 scholars attended. Ten students are selected to go from Penn sylvania. They are chosen on the basis of leadership shown, scholarship, and ability to work with people. Gerald is a member of Oc torara FFA Chapter He was just elected to serve as State Treasurer. His FFA advisors are Ivan Stauffer, and William Trommer. Gerald Metzler 21
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