170 



IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



selling is one of the most potent factors in encouraging the breeder to 

 bring his show stuff to the Iowa fair, the fundamental purpose of the 

 institution is to stimulate pure breeding and to show its results; there- 

 fore, the more breeders we can have represented the more beneficial the 

 show will be. 



A system of water distribution was installed, connecting with the 

 Des Moines water company's main at Thirtieth street. Six and eight 

 inch mains were laid and twenty-four fire hydrants put in, which not 

 only guarantees ample water supply for the future, but also affords 

 splendid fire protection. About $11,600.00 was expended for this improve- 

 ment. During the week of the fair the Des Moines fire department main- 

 tains a sub-station on the grounds. 



An electric light and power plant was partially installed at an expense 

 of $12,000.00. The necessity for maintaining a plant for this purpose 

 arises by reason of the management having been unable to get the 

 Edison Light company of this city to furnish the current for the neces- 

 sary light and power. 



First section of the proposed new Horse Barn at the lows State Fair and Exposition 



grounds, erected 1907. 



The first section of the proposed horse barn was erected at a cost 

 of about $10,500.00. New walks, streets and other minor improvements 

 were made, bringing the total amount expended for improvements the 

 past season up to over $116,000 .,00; $41,000.00 of this amount being avail- 

 able from the state fair surplus, $75,000.00 appropriated by the last 

 general assembly for the hog barn. 



During the past six years the management has put on improvements 

 to the amount of $140,000.00 out of the receipts of the fair. The surplus, 

 if any, is always used for bettering the exposition grounds. This money 

 has been judiciously expended, and where most needed. The people of 

 Iowa, especially those who attend the fair, may feel sure that all the 



