218 Report of Farmers' Institutes 



the quality of the products furnislied by each. This fact is of 

 considerable moral value as it is bound to keep the producer in- 

 terested in increasing his net profits for his products. 



5. The interchange of ideas and accompanying discussions 

 nearly always develop a more intelligent purchasing of supplies, 

 such as feed, fertilizers and machinery. One member's experi- 

 ence with certain purchases will help to guide the others. 



6. By proper management, some of the necessary supplies can 

 be purchased in combination so that one large order can be sent to 

 the supply dealer, and reduced prices obtained and more stand- 

 ard quality guaranteed. 



7. Other pieces of cooperative work might be carried on in 

 order to secure expert help in mating up the stock ; doing the 

 hatching and possibly the brooding; supplying breeders for the 

 community ; and inspecting and possibly testing the. flocks for 

 health, vigor and productivity.- 



8. A community which is thoroughly organized usually de- 

 velops a reputation for certain definite products which it is pro- 

 ducing and guaranteeing. Such- a reputation gradually becomes 

 the pride of all residents; and, if the work can be continued 

 through the early and often discouraging stages, it will gain the 

 helpful support of everyone. 



QUALITY OF PRODUCTS SHOULD BE IMPROVED 



If anyone has been in the large markets and noted the quality 

 of the eggs which are being received direct from the farmers, 

 they will be shocked at the apparent willful neglect on the part 

 of the farmer to produce even reasonably decent food stuff. Eggs 

 containing large percentages of absolutely rotten ones are shipped 

 from ISTew York State farmers into the ]^ew York market. 

 Such cases have been seen by the writer. Until the farmers can 

 be brought to realize their responsibility in taking care of the 

 eggs and poultry, and assuming responsibility for the quality of 

 these eggs and poultry until they are accepted by the customers, 

 they cannot expect any increase in the price which they receive. 

 A large part of the high cost of living for the consumers is due to 

 the loss in the quality of the products while they are on the farm. 

 It is hardly fair to blame the transportation companies and the 



