EXPERIMENT STATION RECORD. 



Vol. 38. February, 1918. No. 2. 



For the first time in history the United States, along with several 

 others of the allied countries, has drawn up a working program for 

 agriculture, to secure adequate production. This is one of the many 

 unusual features gTOwing out of war conditions, and particularly of 

 our relations and responsibilities to the allied countries. The new 

 memorandum, issued by the Department of Agriculture in February, 

 supplements the one published in August of last year relating mainly 

 to cereals. 



Like most of the measures in this country pertaining to food pro- 

 duction, this is not a prescribed program but comes in the form of a 

 carefully weighed suggestion as to the needs and the means of meet- 

 ing them. It is voluntary, of course, but it is hoped that it may serve 

 to give general direction to the season's campaign and stimulate 

 efforts in the lines in which they are most desirable. Its appeal rests 

 primarily on the necessity of the situation, and the understanding of 

 agriculture's part in the great war. 



In a word, the outline is " a statement of conclusions concerning 

 the agricultural situation and the planting needs. ... It is offered 

 as a recommendation for those engaged in crop and animal produc- 

 tion, especially for the many farmers who are in a position to read- 

 just their agricultural program in accordance with the national 

 necessities." In the main it is general rather than specific, except for 

 wheat, and it is considerate of farming conditions and specialized 

 branches. It is in no sense an office program made up on statistical 

 and theoretical considerations, but it embodies the judgment and sug- 

 gestion of agricultural leaders throughout the country. The needs 

 and the possibilities have been viewed in the light of the conditions 

 which prevail at this time. It is designed therefore as both practical 

 and practicable, barring untoward developments of the season. It 

 is therefore something to work to, and to join hands in seeking to 

 attain. 



While the situation is such that chief emphasis is laid on the pro- 

 duction of the great staple food products, with special stress on 



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