46 AGRICULTURE OF MAINE. 



This variance of results is in accordance with the many 

 methods used and when we note that only 8 of the sample^ 

 received a perfect score on sediment it is not strange that the 

 results vary. The use of the wide open pail was prevalent 

 and it was only the immediate cooling and keeping of the pro- 

 duct- cold that kept the count from going higher. This ex- 

 hibit is supposed to be indicative of the best methods of pro- 

 duction and in the varied results there is food for much thought 

 for our dairymen whose object is to produce a clean, sanitary 

 milk. 



It is planned to give the dairymen of the state an opportunity 

 to have their milk tested for bacterial content by holding milk 

 scoring contests in the communities where interest is evident. 

 As a means of knowing exactly what degree of purity can be 

 attained by the producer and as a basis for a fixed price fo'- 

 his product the bacterial test is conclusive. It is hoped that 

 when the opportunities are given, dairymen, and especially those 

 delivering milk to consumers, will endeavor to ascertain their 

 standing as dispensers of a proper product. 



The regular quarterly bulletins containing the results of analy- 

 sis and inspection of dairy products and numerous articles have 

 been published. The mailing list of these bulletins is gradually 

 increasing as the consumers become aware that the problem of 

 better milk is worthy of their attention and help. 



In these bulletins the articles have been prepared with the 

 object of enlightening all who are concerned in the production, 

 distribution and consumption of dairy products under the fol- 

 lowing heads : "The Sale of Oleomargarine ;" "Sanitary Dairy- 

 ing;" "Sanitary Conditions:" "Dairy Improvement;" "Facts 

 about Milk;" "Sanitarv Milk:" "Sediment in Milk;" "Price 

 and Value of Milk:" "Consumers' Responsibility:" "Cleanliness 

 in Milking." 



Numerous fairs were visited at your request and report.-^ 

 made as to the extent and quaHty of agricultural exhibits 

 and other attractions. 



During the first two months of the year my time was given 

 almost entirely to the examination and correction of weights 

 and measures that had been received and to a complete rear- 

 rangement of and extensive necessary additions tp the Weights 

 and Measures law, which were eventually passed. 



