THE BUSINESS OF FARMING 369 



It is true that many share renters never "get ahead," but 

 bright young people with some knowledge of modern agri- 

 culture must remember the numerous opportunities to gain 

 where the average renter loses. 



Going in debt at the outset for part of the cost of the 

 farm and equipment is usually justifiable. The most prosper- 

 ous farmers in the best agricultural States are usually the 

 heaviest borrowers. 



The operation of the national farm loan associations has 

 reduced interest rates to farmers, has made the terms easier, 

 and eliminated commissions. The borrower can either 

 join such an association, or he may secure similar terms 

 from other agencies. It is therefore easier than ever be- 

 fore for young farmers, or others with little capital, to 

 borrow money and make a better start hi the farming 

 business. 



Choice of a Farm. There are many things to be con- 

 sidered in the choice of a farm: (1) topography or surface; 

 (2) suitability of soil for the crops to be grown; (3) location 

 of buildings with reference to fields; (4) shape of fields; (5) 

 prosperity of community; (6) nearness and character of 

 neighbors; (7) farm improvements; (8) water supply; (9) 

 roads; (10) markets; (11) church; (12) school; (13) granges, 

 unions or cooperative associations; (14) taxes; (15) labor 

 supply. 



Probably no farm will ever be found that will suit the 

 most critical hi all these details; yet all these and other points 

 should be considered when a farm is selected. The farm 

 should be thought of as a home as well as a place of busi- 

 ness. 



EXERCISES. 1. Classifying Farms. Make a list of ten to 

 twenty farms hi your neighborhood. Classify them as to the 

 chief business of each dairying, swine raising, grain farm- 

 ing, and others. 



2. Opposite the name of each write the numbers of the 



