112 MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE. 



Mr. Metcalf having been very closely engaged the present 

 season with matters somewhat distinct from the usual routine 

 of farming — a part of his business having been the building of 

 one of the best barns in the county — did not avail himself to 

 the full extent of his advantages of irrigation. The wat.er 

 was, however, turned over a portion of the land which has been 

 prepared for that process. A newly-seeded tract of several 

 acres, irrigated for the first time, produced three crops of hay 

 this year. It was not weighed, but Mr. Metcalf states that the first 

 two crops were as large as he could make on the ground, that 

 the third crop was what would ordinarily be called a good one 

 for a second crop, and that even after this had been taken off, 

 a growth of considerable bulk sprang up. 



We may add, that extended observation from year to year, 

 only accumulates evidence in regard to the great advan- 

 tages which may be derived from irrigation, and it is to be 

 hoped that so important an object will receive increased 

 attention from our farmers. 



Sanford Howard, Chairman. 



PLYMOUTH. 



Report of the Commiltee. 



It is with much pleasure to the committee on farms that 

 they are able to report three entries for the society's premium 

 of one hundred dollars for the best cultivated farm, during a 

 four years' course, commencing in 18G2. The competitors are 

 Charles G. Davis, of Plymouth, President of the society ; 

 Austin J. Roberts, of Lakeville, and Albert G. Pratt, of Middle- 

 borough. It is very fortunate that all of these gentlemen arc 

 deeply interested in agriculture ; own farms of nearly equal 

 dimensions ; are possessed of liberal means for conducting the 

 work of their farms to the best advantage ; and, in all respects 

 are well suited to be competitors with each other. The 

 dwelling-houses are surrounded by tastefully ornamented 

 grounds, the barns and appurtenances are ample, and the 

 stock of horses, cattle and sheep are excellent. 



The annual statement of such competitors must give infor- 

 mation that will prove valuable to the agricultural community. 



