Evening Republican, Volume 18, Number 141, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 16 June 1914 — DUTIES OF COUNTY AGENTS [ARTICLE]

DUTIES OF COUNTY AGENTS

He Is /4ot a Mere “Adviser” but a Field Secretary to Encourage a Community of Action. County agricultural agents are some times referred to as “county advisers? This implies a misunderstanding of the real work of the agent. Advisory work is a part of the agent’s duties, but is a minor part. The county agricultural agent has about half a dozen principal functions: - (1) He studies the agriculture of the county to learn what is being done and what is worth while agriculturally in each part of it. This study Includes farm financial and organization surveys. (2) He gives the results of his studies to farmers, not in the way of advice, but as facts observed and conclusions drawn. This is, done through the local press, lectures, institutes, circulars, short courses, and personal interview. ' } (3) Based on these local studies and the ascertained needs of the county, clubs,* associations, and the like'are organized and the Individuals solicited to undertake definite lines of agricultural improvement on their own farms. Organizations are also formed fcr co-operative buying and marketing and the standardization of farm products. (4) He endeavors to co-ordinate all existing agricultural agencies within the county, so that all may work unitedly" and efficiently. (5) He develops local leadership. The task .of improving the agriculture of an entire county, is so stupendous that the agent must be primarily an administrator. He must inspire and accept the help of voluntarily assist-ants-in work. (6) He acts as the connecting link between the scientists of the research institutions of the state and nation and the farmer, presenting the results of investigations in such a way that the farmer can use them, and calling attention of scientists to-the local agricultural problems of the county and soliciting their assistance. (7) He gives advice. This may relate to spraying, seed treatment, mixing fertilizers, combating insect pests, cultural practices, or other miscellaneous matter which is the stock in trade of every well-informed agent The giving of advice is seventh on the list, because in actually improving the agriculture of the county it is probably of least importance, though in point of time it may be the first work undertaken. —Warsaw Daily Union.