In 1927, the agricultural extension work in Wadena county is ably directed by A.W. Jacob, county agent, and financed from several sources.
State and Federal aid in the amount of $1,800.00 comes to Wadena each year to help carry on this work. The Board of County Commissioners appropriated $1,800 for this work. The Farm Bureau membership also contributed funds.
The object of the agricultural extension program is to conduct experiments to help determine the best methods to follow in growing good crops and the best kind of crops to grow for the most economic production of dairy products. The cooperation of twelve active farmers' clubs, 16 4-H boys' and girls' clubs, business men's clubs and many individual farmers and businessmen has been a decided factor in the success of this work, as well as the able efforts and untiring enthusiasm of the county agent in charge.
Through the work of this business it has been possible to demonstrate that alfalfa and sweetclover can be grown anywhere in Wadena County and every assistance is being given to farmers to help them establish more alfalfa and sweetclover on their farms.
This practice will reduce the cost of production per pound of butterfat as better practices in dairying have shown the true value of alfalfa as a dairy feed. They have been taught the value of feeding the dairy cow all she needs of the proper kind of feed and also the importance of proper management and breeding of the dairy herds. These schools have also stimulated the organization of cow-testing associations where farmers get a definite record of the production of each cow.
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In addition, through this extension work, every effort is given to help sheep raisers. Through the assistance of specialists, they can raise better sheep, give them better care, and get a better price for their wool through pooling their marketing.
Poultrymen are given demonstrations and help in building up their flocks for better production, better housing and feeding and meeting the problems of disease.
Boys' and girls' club work is assisted through the agricultural extension work. This year (1927), 400 boys and girls have been registered in this club work and have made a splendid showing at the state and county fairs.
From the 50th Anniversary Number of the Wadena Pioneer Journal Dec. 15, 1927. Lina Belar is the interim executive director of the Wadena County Historical Society.
