4 BULLETIN 117, U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



Immediately upon planting their crops the settlers began to use the 

 water of the stream for irrigation. A number of farmers joined to- 

 gether and by their united labors constructed a canal that brought 

 water to their farms. These were among the first steps toward irriga- 

 tion in the West. 



The first attempt at agriculture by the new settlers was not very 

 successful, as Indian troubles during this time were frequent and the 

 men could not give their crops the attention which they required. 

 The second year was more successful, and good crops of wheat, corn, 



Fig. 3. — A wide irrigation ditch, entailing much waste of water. 



rye, and barley were obtained. In the years that followed, more 

 settlers came into the country, taking up land in different parts of the 

 valley. For many years corn, wheat, barley, and potatoes were the 

 principal products. 



By far the most important crop in the valley at the present time is 

 the sugar beet, this industry having started about 20 years ago. Fruit 

 growing, especially apples and peaches, is of more recent introduction, 

 having had a great impetus about five years ago. The farms as a rule 

 are small in area and are intensively worked. Large numbers of 

 owners live in town and have land on the outskirts of the village. 



