8 



AGRICULTURE OF MAINE. 



one of the very best lines of farming. It is something that 

 demands his attention, and something that in return brings him 

 a good liveHhood. 



The apple industry has grown to such proportions that it is 

 probably recognized today as one of the chief branches of 

 farming. Throughout our state, wherever we go, we see the 

 great orchards, especially in that section of Maine which is com- 

 monly known as the apple belt, running from Turner right up 

 through to Waterville. That great section of Maine is rich in 

 soil and the climate is just right for the production of apples. 

 And so the Maine farmer, particularly in that section, is giving 

 his time and attention to this most important branch of agricul- 

 ture. It is certainly a most promising thing to see such a 

 change in the State of INIaine. because it means so much to our 

 industrial prosperity that this particular branch of agriculture 

 should receive encouragement, and I am sure we are all glad to 

 do everything we can to lend our assistance in promoting the 

 interests of the Maine State Pomological Society, 



The apple is one of the most important things for the table. 

 It enters in different forms into a great variety of food. It is 

 prescribed by the physician. I have no doubt that people in 

 considering the advantages of apple raising have thought of 

 these different things, and that it has been a means of stimulat- 

 ing the interest in that particular line of industry. I am sure 

 that it is a very attractive branch of farming. It is something 

 that I, personally, have had a little experience in. I am the 

 possessor of quite an orchard, so I know whereof I speak. I 

 have a real interest in the success of the Maine Pomological 

 Society from personal contact with the work. I know how 

 important it is and I know what it means to this great state. I 

 am very glad indeed to see that the farmer is taking an interest 

 in this line of work, along the proper scientific lines, and it is 

 important that he should do so. The apple industry demands 

 as much thought and attention and skill as that of any other 

 branch of farming. Years ago the farmer, as I have said, paid 

 little attention to his apple crop. Today he gives it his attention 

 by careful pruning, spraying, and cultivation of the land, and 

 he is getting the results, and we find today that the Maine apple 

 is the best in the world. It has no superior, no competitor. If 

 the Maine farmer will only give his attention to the careful 



