70 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



There would be much truth in this statement, were we sure 

 that each animal would prove entirely satisfactory for the pur- 

 poses of the dairy, and could be insured against the many ills 

 and accidents to which every dairyman finds them so much 

 exposed. 



When we take into account all these drawbacks, and especially 

 the fact that of every three heifers raised, not more than two 

 are at all suitable to be kept as dairy cows, it is of the utmost 

 importance, that they possess those qualities which will enable 

 the farmer to realize their cost for beef. 



With a view to ascertain whether young- stock can be raised 

 in Massachusetts, for the purpose of beef, at a cost which will 

 remunerate the farmer, we have solicited information from 

 individuals in various parts of the State. 



From the information thus obtained, the committee are fully 

 convinced that with suitable care in breeding, and by liberal 

 feeding, this branch of husbandry may be made a source of 

 profit to the farmers in portions of the State, and is worthy to 

 receive much more attention and skill than has hitherto been 

 allowed. 



We give below an estimate, from a farmer in Franklin County, 

 of the cost of raising neat stock to an average age of three 

 years, wiiich we think a very fair one. The time of fattening 

 is longer than is usually profitable, and if that were lessened 

 by two, or even four weeks, the additional expense would be 

 fully realized in an increase of the average weight. 



His estimate is as follows : — 



Calf when dropped, ...... 



Expense of keeping, 52 weeks, at 22 cents. 



Cost at one year old, . . * . 

 Pasturing 1 yearling 32 weeks, at 12\ cents, 

 Wintering ditto 20 weeks, at 22 cents, 

 Interest on cost of first year, .... 

 Taxes, 



Cost at two years old, .... 

 Pasturing 1 two-year old, 30 weeks, at 16| cents. 

 Interest on the same 8 months, 88 cents ; taxes, 33 cts.. 



Cost at two years and eight months, . . $28 09 



