r.>Y 



BOTANICAL 



ANNUAL REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF 



AGRICULTURE. 



The year 1910 has brought a good degree of prosperity to 

 the farmers of Maine. This is an indication of the general 

 prosperity of the State, as "When the farmers prosper all other 

 pursuits likewise prosper." The results of the steady progress 

 and development in the science of agriculture, which have been 

 greater during the last ten years than in the twenty years that 

 preceded them, are seen in all the farming communities. The 

 necessity of acquiring a knowledge of the principles which 

 underlie their farm operations, and conducting their farming 

 on a business basis, is well recognized by the majority of farm- 

 ers. The idea of co-operation in their efforts is constantly 

 gaining ground, and many co-operative associations have been 

 organized during the past year. The principles of co-operation 

 are as applicable to the farmer as to the members of any other 

 pursuit or profession, and much benefit is sure to accrue from 

 uniting their efforts. 



With all the aid that the United States Government is giving 

 to the agricultural population, directly and indirectly, and that 

 received from the State, and the many organizations in the 

 interest of agriculture, there is no reason why the farmers 

 should not take courage and avail themselves more of their 

 opportunities. 



That there is an increasing interest in agriculture in this 

 State is manifest from the numerous inquiries received by this 

 Department from parties all over the country, for information 

 in regard to procuring Maine farms, the best sections for dif- 

 ferent lines of farming, etc. It is evidently a widespread opin- 

 ion that Maine is a good state in which to follow the pursuit 

 of agriculture. 



CT5 FARM CROPS. 



' The abundance of rain in the early part of the season assured 



to the farmers a bountiful hay crop. Owing to the severe 



