260 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE Off. Doc. 



The scarcity of western horses to consume the present satisfac- 

 tory corn crop has operated favorably to the eastern farmer who 

 was fortunate enough to have a stock on hand for fall and early 

 winter feeding. Prices ranged from $7.50 to $9.50 per cwt., with 

 corn at 50 cents per bushel offered a very favorable opportunity 

 to feed pork at a profit. We believe Pennsylvania was better pro- 

 A'ided with a stock of feeders than many of the Western states and 

 fared well in taking advantage of the favorable market conditions. 



The sheep industry of Pennsylvania does not enjoy the record of 

 progress that belongs to almost all other kinds of live stock, but 

 (shows a decrease at the last census of over 40 per cent, since 1890, 

 a condition that is rather a surprise. 



Since it is an acknowledged fact that the live stock is the base 

 of agricultural operations, the manufacturer of farm products into 

 marketable commodities, is it not necessary that we should more 

 thoroughly understand the fundamental principles of breeding, 

 feeding and caring for our brutes. The growing and feeding of un- 

 profitable animals is one of the greatest leaks on the farm, and 

 how many farmers are trying to prevent this leak? What is the 

 cause? It is not because we do not have suitable pastures, feeds 

 {>nd climates. It is not because we do not have within easy reach 

 suitable animals of all the breeds for breeding purposes. It is not 

 because we cannot find a fair market for a good animal of any breed 

 or kind, or for her product. 



Then, is it not because we do not give sufficient time and careful 

 study to the underlying principles of breeding, feeding and growing 

 animals so as to develop the best possible individual. The better 

 an animal is bred and grown to maturity the better it will pay for 

 its cost, be that what it may. 



Now, Mr. Chairman, we do realize that much credit is due to the 

 liirector of Farmers' Institutes for his untiring efforts in enlighten- 

 ing the dairy farmer and stock raiser. But we do wish to impress 

 upon the Director of Farmers' Institutes the growing importance 

 of employing on the institute force an increased number of men 

 who are well prepared to discuss with the farmers of this State 

 ''Animal Husbandry" in its various phases, and by their enlighten- 

 ment, dispel from their minds the prevalent impression that breed- 

 ing is a lottery, and assist them in proving to themselves by actual 

 experience that reasonable, definite result will follow intelligent 

 breeding, feeding and care. 



