312 STATE BOARD OF AGRIOULTinRE 



problems which are brought up by farmers and the discussions of indi- 

 vidual problems in soil management. Lime drives consist of meetings 

 to discuss the liming situation, with special emphasis placed on the 

 Soiltex soil acidity method. Demonstration work with the use of dif- 

 ferent amounts of limes are carried on. 



The results of fertilizer on various soils and crops as brought out by 

 experimental work forms a bflsis for phases to be emphasized. 



The ultimate goal in the above projects is to have more farmers in 

 each community to practice the methods advised. 



The most successful method of teaching the subjects is at field meetings 

 Avhere results of demonstrations can be discussed. Simple soil tests in the 

 held also afford good methods of bringing about results. 



The County Agent is a very vital factor in keeping before the farmer 

 soil management methods, as well as assisting in demonstration work. 



Eesults from demonstrations are gratifying and their success toward 

 the state goal is as much as could be expected. Some extension schools 

 which are scheduled in connection with entertainments scarcely warrant 

 the time and expense necessary to carry them on. However, where 

 regular extension meetings are scheduled good results have been ob- 

 tained. 



The use of the Soiltex soil acidity method in community gatherings, 

 obtaining lime requirements and the extent of acid soils in the commu- 

 nity, serves as an illustration of the method emploj'ed. 



The amount of miscellaneous and emergency work carried on during 

 the year cannot be estimated. However, this is no small part of the work. 



The demonstrations now under way will be carried on for the next 

 year. Special emphasis will be placed on lime drives. 



REPORT OF EXTENSION WORK ON MUCK SOILS 



BY PAUL M. HARMER 



Outline of Work 



The extension work on muck soils in Michigan for the year 1023 has 

 been conducted by the writer. One-fourth time is assigned to extension 

 work, one-half to experimental and one-fourth to the teaching of a 

 course in Muck Soils. 



The extension work as now conducted falls into five separate phases. 



1. Work with the eountij agents ami farmers. Whenever county 

 agents or farmers are confronted with problems in the farming of muck 

 and ask for assistance, it is given either by letter or, if necessary, by 

 a personal visit to the area. 



2. Field demonstrations and field meetings. The field demonstration, 

 generally located through the county agent, is a means of carrying to 

 the community information on cultivation^ cropping and fertilization 



