142 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



SHEEP HUSBANDRY FOR AROOSTOOK COUNTY. 



By George Flint, North Anson. 



It is very convenient in all matters under discussion to 

 receive ideas which can be proved as clearly and concisely as 

 a demonstration in geometry. In farming, we want to know 

 what to plant, how to plant, and the result ; but this is im- 

 possible. The diiference in the soils, the seasons, and in the 

 previous management,' combine to vary the result. General 

 principles only can be learned. The application must be 

 varied according to every man's means and surroundings, 

 guided by judgment, skill and executive ability. 



Farming is not and never can be an exact science. Every 

 varying shade affects the picture, and circumstances beyond 

 our control will often determine the result. It is unfortunate 

 that the first settlers of a new country practice an exhaustive 

 system of tillage, thus leaving worn-out farms to succeeding 

 generations. It has always proved bad economy to sell hay, 

 grain and potatoes. No country ever did it and prospered, 

 and no country ever can do it and increase its wealth. The 

 products sold should be such as will bring the largest income 

 with the least impoverishment of the soil. In this, sheep 

 husbandry comes to the front and bears off the prize. It is 

 not a business in which a novice can win ; but with study and 

 effort any one can make progress with varying results. Both 

 knowledge and judgment are required in selecting stock and 

 crossing breeds to produce animals of desired qualities. One 

 should understand the habits of sheep, their disposition and 

 temperament, in order to know their wants, and derive from 

 them the greatest profit. 



Here in Aroostook county you have all the requisite condi- 

 tions of first-class sheep husbandry. You have a new and 



