s 451 .§gA5 Pass, S4AJL Book., r^ M, 5 AGRICULTURAL SERIES N?5 AGRICULTURAL SERIES N9 6 UNIIED STATES RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION UNITED STATES RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION tfrapff SOUTH DAKOTA rV FOREWORD Pierre, South Dakota Any achievement of a state is the fruitage of the labors, sacrifices and activities of her people, to whom she has given sympathetic and intelligent aid, and those of us who have lived in South Dakota the past few years have witnessed remarkable results following upon a state's entire cooperation with her citizens in their aims, needs and aspirations. The object of the present state government is to efficiently co-operate with our people in working out their problems, to assist them in their struggle toward success, to give them aid and protection, and to elevate and advance them along all lines. Already the trail has been blazed in this direction by much beneficial legislation. Standing prominently among the many con- structive laws that have been enacted, causing the agencies of government to operate directly for the general and individual good, are our state rural credits system, the guaranty of bank deposits, "blue sky" protection, workmen's compensation, highway construction, and others. Further, the legislature in its last session effected the soldiers' land settle- ment act, the hail insurance law, a provision for state handling of coal and cement products, gave definite aid to rural schools, created a child welfare commission, and in various other measures con- cretely evidenced the interest which South Dakota has in her whole people. Equal freedom and opportunity we have for all. Our prairies are broad and invite home-makers; our cities are making gigantic strides; industry is thriving; rural community life is improving; roads are being bettered and new highways formed. Development possibilities are numerous and varied; our people are hospitable, cultured and patriotic; continued endeavors will be made to carry on the work of government with efficiency and intelligence, — with a spirit of service, a devotion to duty — and, altogether, no state in the Union can offer a brighter opportunity or more decisive encouragement to the prospective homeseeker than does South Dakota. Brookings, South Dakota The accompanying sketch is an attempt to set forth in an honest and uncolored manner, a state- ment of the opportunities that South Dakota offers to possible homeseekers. As one reads this booklet, he cannot help being impressed by the great natural resources of the state — by the vast food-producing power of her farm lands and her enormous store- house of minerals. That she does indeed offer advantages to the industrious is evident from the fact that she has the greatest average production per capita of any state in the Union. South Dakota has no paupers and her people are practically all in comfortable circumstances. But the glory of South Dakota is not alone in her material wealth. The scenic beauty of her Black Hills is in some respects unsurpassed. Her early history abounds in romance woven about the pioneer and the red man. Her people have made notable contributions to science, literature and art. In legislation she has always been progressive, but sane, and has enacted laws for helping the laboring man. Here, all are workers — there are no drones — and the broad prairies with their almost unobstructed view have bred into the people high ideals, unwaver- ing loyalty and a God-fearing spirit. This publication has been prepared under the direction of the Agricultural Staff of the South Dakota State College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts, Brookings, South Dakota, State Commissioner of Immigration, Pierre, South Dakota, and Agricul- tural Representative of the United States Railroad Administration. Those interested in available lands should write for information. The State College stands ready at all times to help the farmers of the state in connection with any of their agricultural problems. /n^c/c r Governor Dean and Acting President, College of Agriculture GOOD LAND IS STILL CHEAP The diversified farm is rapidly replacing the all grain farm South Dakota Some of the best indications of opportunity for newcomers in South Dakota are the following facts: (1) Her residents have gained prosperity from intelligent use of the state's resources. The sum of $392.57 for every man, woman and child was depos- ited in the state banks alone on March 4, 1918. South Dakota farmers each averaged last year 1,735 bushels of corn, 1,000 bushels of oats, 1,205 bushels of wheat, and had a total sale of about $150,000- 000 worth of livestock, thereby maintaining a record of producing more new wealth per capita than any other state. The last assessment of property in the state was $1,441,181,835, which amount if equally divided among the population would make $2,401.96 for each man, woman and child, or $12,009.80 for the average family of five through the state. And this is property actually assessed for taxation. (2) There are millions of acres of undeveloped land awaiting the settler in the state, which will produce crops equal to those which have made the 1918 record, where the nutritious native grasses grow in abundance, offering opportunities for the cheap production of beef and dairy products, and where thousands of people who started with very small means are becoming independent. (3) South Dakota lawmakers have had the fore- sight to help farmers get started on the road to prosperity. For instance, her Rural Credit system enables the farmer to borrow cheap money from the state for the purchase of land, or for the making of WEALTHY FARMERS STARTED WITH SMALL 1 1 I'M 8 South Dakota produced 84.240,000 bushels of oats improvements, buying livestock and other purposes at a low rate of interest for a term of years. This booklet will develop the foregoing ideas and show that a real welcome is extended to every pro- spective resident, a welcome that says more than "Come"; in fact, a welcome that says, "Come and we shall help you." DIVERSIFIED FARMING^SUCCESSFUL Soils. The soils of South Dakota may be divided into two great provinces, namely, one east and the other west of the Missouri river. In the region east of the Missouri river, the soils are largely of glacial and loessial origin, although there are con- siderable areas which lie in basins formerly occupied by glacial lakes. This area includes soils of several types, the chief of which are clay loam, silt loams, sandy loams and sands. They are well supplied this crop ranking second to corn in number of bushels with organic matter and by proper methods of farming the supply can readily be maintained. The soils west of the Missouri river are closely related to the underlying rocks from which they have been weathered and are classed as residual soils, although there are limited areas which occupy ter- races along streams where they have been deposited by running water. The types of soils vary from heavy clay to sand. The soils of this region in general contain a medium amount of organic matter and nitrogen as the rainfall is somewhat less here than in the eastern part of the state. However, legume crops grow well and it is entirely practicable to increase the amount of nitrogen in the soil by proper methods of farming. There are areas in the western part of the state which are being brought under irrigation and other areas will undoubtedly soon be supplied with water. It must be borne in mind that irrigation is desirable in only a small restricted area. CAPITAL AND ACQUIRED A COMPETENCY A CORN BELT STATE South Dakota produces more bushels of corn than wheat. Accordingly, it is no over-statement to point out that this rich farming area is a part of the corn belt. Every real feeder of livestock appre- ciates the fundamental importance of the corn crop as a basis for a livestock industry, whether it be cattle, hogs, sheep or poultry. Livestock depends upon crops. Corn production in South Dakota as an essential part of farming has, therefore, a place of strategic importance from several standpoints, in that corn is produced as a commodity for export outside of its own territory, and furthermore it can be utilized for livestock production within the state itself. FOURTH WHEAT STATE Hundreds of persons throughout the United States and the world have gained an impression that the great Northwest, of which South Dakota is a most substantial part, is made up largely of bonanza wheat farms. These persons have gained their impressions partly from what they learn from an older generation. It is true that South Dakota is a wheat state, rank- ing fourth in total production in 1918, being only exceeded by Minnesota, North Dakota and Kansas. Not only does the state rank well toward the top in total production of wheat, but it is a well known fact in the central markets that South Dakota wheat grades higher as an average than other wheat coming in from the great spring-wheat granary of the Northwest. It is notably true in such central markets as that of the Twin Cities (St. Paul-Minne- apolis) that the percentages of so-called "wild pea" in South Dakota wheat are low. Moreover in bread-making quality, its wheat ranks absolutely first, along with that from other limited portions of the earth known as the hard wheat areas. The section of country whose people occupy a position of importance in the production of the world's leading cereal is pivotal. South Dakota is that state. See the following table of cereal pro- duction for several states for 1918: A good silo is a valuable asset to any farm and the increasing number of silos in South Dakota is an evidence of prosperity SOUTH DAKOTA STANDS EIGHTH Substantial binlHlni;s are an evidence of good crops and efficient management CEREAL PRODUCTION IN 1918 BY STATES PER CAPITA PRODUCTION Iowa Illinois Minnesota , . South Dakoti North Dakot; Kansas South Carolii Corn Wheat Oats Rye Barley 375,624 19,650 229,572 1,026 11,340 351,450 60.991 198,352 3,800 9,000 110,000 79,710 134,562 8,700 43,400 108,188 71,305 84,240 10,350 41,300 9,196 101,010 60,512 20.422 37,281 43,523 102.008 51,238 2.431 6,040 68,850 3,631 12,000 176 38,250 2,255 11,000 202 637.212 623.593 376.372 315.383 228,421 205.240 84,657 51,707 Multiply figures by 1,000. The table above serves to make clear the fact that this state ranks well toward the top among a number that are usually mentioned as leading cereal producers. The comparative figures of total pro- duction in bushels may be observed from the last column. The following table shows further South Dakota's standing in per capita production: Population in 1918 Total Bushels of Cereals in 1918 Bushels per Capita 735,434 791.437 2,224,771 2,345,287 1,874,195 6,317,734 1,660,934 2,935,617 315,383,000 228,421,000 637,212,000 376,372,000 205,240,000 623,593,000 51,707,000 84,657,000 428.8 Iowa 286.4 Kansas 109.5 98.7 31.1 28.8 It will be noted that South Dakota plays a leading part in the world's per capita production of bread and meat crops. For one thing it means that the state and its average citizen contribute abundantly to the world's support in war and in peace. It means that this average South Dakota citizen is vitally interested in the world, arid that the rest of the world is interested in South Dakota. It means that the basic importance of South Dakota in world affairs looms large. The opportunity for constructive citizenship is unsurpassed, for the most constructive citizen is the one that feeds the world. INTHE PRODUCTION OF CORN Corn is the important crop in South Dakota. Large fields produce about the same acre yield as the older corn belt states (J RAGE CROPS More of the evidence of productiveness in this excellent state may be added as contributory. In ad- dition to helping supply the world's bread in the form of cereals, the state every year tucks away over 1,000 square miles of hay in bales and beef — an increasing proportion is alfalfa. Much of it is common clover or sweet clover, the rest is native hay. NATIVE PASTURE LAND For it must not be forgotten that there are more than 25,000 square miles of rich native pasture that, properly handled, form an almost permanent resource. These pastures, partly east of the Missouri river and mainly west of the Missouri, are a deciding factor in the arrangement of the farming systems. The past- ures and the native and cultivated grasses that grow thereon are destined always to contribute a vast share to the livestock wealth of the state and nation. It is evident that South Dakota is peculiarly fortunate in having pasture lands situated virtually in the Corn Belt. POTATOES In speaking of the soil and crop opportunities of South Dakota, one is not confined to cereals and alfalfa. As an example of crops of newer but rapidly increasing importance, the state produces within a bushel of as many potatoes per acre as Maine, and the quality of South Dakota potatoes is excellent. FRUIT CULTURE AND GARDENING The early settlers found the land so fertile and abundant that they had little or no time for garden- ing and fruit culturfe. They were more interested in their cattle, horse and sheep ranches and in large grain farms. The limited tree planting done was only for home use. As population increased and the land grew more valuable and the farms smaller, more A STATE RURAL CREDIT SYSTEM In 1918 South Dakota produced IU».I«^,UUU bushels ol work was done in horticulture, especially in the southeast and northeast part of the state and in the sheltered valleys of the Black Hills region. There was much loss in these earlier plantings as most of the varieties were from states far south and east and not adapted to prairie conditions. The progress of this work is noted in the annual reports of the State Horticultural society. HARDY FRUITS South Dakota has discovered or invented what are considered sufficiently hardy varieties of fruits for general planting in each part. In addition, the ex- tensive fruit-breeding experiments at the State Col- lege of Agriculture for more than 20 years have resulted in developing many varieties of apples and crab apples, plums, sand cherry hybrids, raspberries, gooseberries and strawberries which have proven hardy and productive. Market Gardening is beginning to receive more attention, and most of the immense amount of garden truck now shipped in from other sections could easily be raised here. There is an excellent field open for smaller truck farms near the cities and towns. Peo- ple are learning that gardens, bees and poultry go well together. Much more could be done at present in supplying the demand for tomato and cabbage plants in the spring. The canning industry will no doubt see great extension in the near future. Sweet corn is canned extensively at Big Stone City, in the northeast corner of the state, the 1915 pack being about 41,000 cases, the farmers receiving about $32,- 500 for the corn. Potatoes raised in the state usually command a premium in the eastern markets, owing to high quality. While potatoes are more a farm crop, the gardeners also find them profitable. LOANS CHEAP MONEY TO THE FARMER Sugar beets are a profitable crop in the western part of the state LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY One of the leading industries in South Dakota is that of producing livestock. It is not confined to any particular locality or section but is engaged in throughout the state generally. The livestock may be divided into two classes, those produced where mixed farming is practical, and second, those coming from the range. Of these two probably the largest profit is derived from the first mentioned class be- cause of the improved quality of the animals thus produced. It is estimated that about half the animals on the range are raised there and the other half are shipped in during spring for summer grazing; but the proportion of home grown stock is increasing rapidly on account of the gradual change that is being made from the extensive to the intensive system of farming. This state is admirably located for the production of livestock. There is sufficient rainfall in most sections to produce a luxuriant growth of very nutri- tious grasses which ripen and cure while standing. This supplies an excellent feed for stock in the winter. Since the introduction of hardy varieties of alfalfa in the western section more attention is given to the production of pork than formerly. It is found that with the addition of some small grain pork can be produced economically. There are good market centers for South Dakota stock and, while now it is being shipped to other states, time will come when she will have her own markets. The livestock exhibit at the state and county fairs is one of the principal attractions. The breeder makes known to his fellow breeder the quality of his animals. He exchanges breeding stock. Nearly every county east of the Missouri river has a pure- bred livestock association. The state association meets once a year at Mitchell. The object of these CORN IS KING IN SOUTH DAKOTA Turning under corn stubble in a modern way. Note the rich black soil for which South Dakota is famous associations is the improvement of livestock. This is accomplished by bringing together representatives of the flocks and herds and selling at public auction. By doing so, acquaintances are made, types are compared and the small or new breeder becomes known among his fellow breeders. This state ranks among the first in breeders' associations and encour- aging the production of good stock. The livestock industry is still in its infancy, but the future is bright and shortly it will rank with the best in the production of livestock. The estimates on livestock released by the Bureau of Crop Estimates show a considerable increase in the value of meat animals on the farms. A study of these movements to terminal markets indicate that more than 600,000 cattle were shipped out of the state during 1918 for slaughter. This is almost 200,- 000 more than during 1917. About 1,700,000 hogs went from the state during 1918 to the large packing centers, an increase of about 200,000 over the previous year. One feature worthy of notice is that the average weight was about 25 pounds heavier than the year before. There is a slight increase in the number of cows and also of other cattle. Sheep increased about 60,000, the total at the end of the year being 810,000. Swine also increased, the number on hand January 1, 1919, being 1,654,000. POULTRY RAISING According to the Bureau of Markets, South Dakota poultry in 1917 was worth $15,600,000. A recent survey by the United States Department of Agri- culture credits the state with a 20 per cent increase in 1918, making the value of poultry something more than $18,000,000. The State College of Agriculture is conducting an educational campaign to increase the egg yield per hen to 120 eggs, which will add 10 BEEF AND DAIRY CATTLE THRIVE $3,000,000 to the annual income. Eggs are produced in South Dakota at a profit. State aid is granted to the many county and district poultry shows to stim- ulate the industry. ANIMAL HEALTH SERVICE The Animal Health laboratory established at the State College issues a series of free animal health bulletins dealing with the cause, methods of spread and methods of controlling various contagious and infectious diseases. These bulletins are free to all residents. Another service of the Animal Health laboratory is the free examination of blood and tissues from animals that died under circumstances that suggest the probability of the presence of a con- tagious disease. From 400 to 500 specimens are examined annually. This service makes the adoption of prompt preventive measures possible in those cases where the symptoms and post mortem evi- dences are inconclusive or misleading. The use of practically all the serums and vaccines that are of demonstrated efficiency is becoming widespread in all parts of the state. Accredited tuberculin tested herds are being established with the co-operation of the United States Bureau of Animal Industry, the State Livestock Sanitary Board and the individual cattle owners. Insect and Rodent Control. The State College maintains a department of entomology which inves- tigates important insect troubles with a view of controlling them. The offices of state entomologist and nursery inspector is also located there. One of the principal duties of the state entomologist is to aid the farmer, gardener, orchardist, dairyman, stockman and nurseryman to avoid or reduce the losses caused by insects, rodents and birds. This is brought about through correspondence, bulletins, circulars or by personal visits of a specialist. The office of nursery inspector is maintained in order A RICH SOIL SUITED TO Ample facilities for storing grain crops are provided throughout the state that the people may be reasonably certain that when they buy nursery stock, it is true to name, of good quality and free from dangerous insect and plant diseases. DAIRY FARMING A productive soil adapted to the raising of forage crops, especially leguminous roughages, a climate that escapes the extreme heat of summer, land adapted to grazing, and railroad facilities which make easy the problems of marketing, are some of the fac- tors that make the state well adapted to dairy farming. The most economical production of dairy products can only be obtained in those localities where it is possible to raise all the roughages and a large part of the concentrated feed required by the dairy cow. Pasture has long been recognized as one of the best feeds, and a perfectly balanced ration. Practically every section is well supplied with prairie grass. Silage made from corn and some legumes supply a succulent feed during the winter months. These crops growing on a soil that has never been taxed to the limit yield the largest tonnage per acre. Enough silage may be grown on 30 acres to provide succulent feed for 60 dairy cattle the year around. The average yield for nine years has been twelve tons an acre with a maximum yield of seventeen tons. Of all the leguminous crops raised for dairy cattle alfalfa is generally considered the most desirable, because it will grow for several years. From the extreme eastern part of the state to the irrigated regions in the west, alfalfa of the finest quality is grown. Even in those sections where the silo has not come into common use, good dairy cows will produce economically on alfalfa alone. But these roughages alone are not the only feeds the dairy cow consumes. Oats, wheat, barley, flax and their by-products are raised in very large quan- tities. The fact that South Dakota in the past has produced so much more of the small grain crops LIVESTOCK AND GRAIN FARMING Potatoes are an important farm product and the quality is excellent than has been consumed within her borders gives evidence of the vast amount of by-products produced in milling that can be most economically used by the dairy cow. All of these by-products can be pur- chased at a much lower cost than in eastern markets, as the large expenses for long shipments is done away with. So for the reason that she can utilize feeds that can be produced as cheaply as in any other state, the dairy cow has the best possible opportunity here to produce economically. Climate is a factor in getting the largest and most economic production. If the weather is too hot, it is impossible to give the cow comfort, while if it is cold she can be comfortably housed. Over seven years ago a South Dakota Holstein cow, College Belle Wayne, produced 126 pounds of milk in one day, and 145.6 pounds of butter in thirty days. This was the largest production ever made by any cow at that time. Two years ago, Hester Aaltje Korndyke, in a section that is under irrigation, made a world's record by producing 46 pounds of butter in seven days. She still holds the world's record for production for 120 days. Other cows have made large records, showing that this is one of the best sections of the country on account of climatic conditions, for making large records. The destruction of such large numbers, over thirty millions, of cattle in European countries and the recent purchase of some dairy cattle in this country by the French government make us believe that for the next few years the breeder of dairy cattle will reap a profit in supplying a foreign trade. The demand for purebred cattle has been increasing very rapidly in the northwestern states. The western farmer can command large prices for average pure- bred animals because he has a large field for selling. Combining with this the low cost of raising, it is easy to see where the greatest profits can be made. Let us look at the opportunities for marketing the products. Milk in the large cities of the state AN AVERAGE WEALTH PRODUCED IN 1918, FOR Alfalfa does well in all parts of the state has been selling at a higher price for the past few years. During the last year, the 78 creameries in the state churned more than 35,000,000 pounds of butter. These creameries are located in all sections, so that no farmer has to haul or ship any great dis- tance. The main lines of railroads afford excellent service to St. Paul, Minneapolis and Chicago, where it finds a ready market. VALUE OF DAIRY BUSINESS IN 1918 Summary from reports of State Dairy Expert for fiscal year ending June 30, 1918: Creamery butter $12,102,000 Estimated ice cream 1 ,050,000 Estimated dairy butter ,. 2,684,000 Estimated milk and cream used in households 4,720,000 Estimated skim milk and buttermilk 4,189,600 Total $24,753,600 CROP RECORD FOR 1918 The farmers have received more than the prices in this estimate for much of their product when it was sold. CROP SUMMARY, 1918 Bushels and Tons Corn 108,188,000 $119,007,000 Wheat 71,305,000 141,896,000 Oats 84,240,000 49,702,000 Barley 41,300,000 32,214,000 Rye 10,350,000 14,594,000 Flax 1,368,000 4,446,000 Potatoes 8,190,000 7,617,000 Wild Hay 3,282,000 40,040,000 Tame Hay 1,235,000 12,350,000 Vegetables, fruit, honey, etc 6,500,000 Dairy Products (State report) 24,753,600 Poultry products (State report) 18,000,000 Livestock products (based on assessment) .... 150,000,000 Total $621,119,600 Average wealth produced, counting every man, woman and child, for 1918 $844.56 EVERY MAN> WOMAN AND CHILD, Or ;},a44.56 Dairying is an important industry who engages in it HE LAY OF THE LAND South Dakota is mostly a rolling prairie, well watered by the Missouri, James, Sioux, White, Bad, Cheyenne, Moreau and Grand rivers and their numerous tributaries. Along these streams the land is slightly more rolling, while between are large stretches of table lands and in some sections there are nothing but farms and groves to obstruct the view as far as the eye can see. The Black Hills in the extreme western part is a mountainous country. Among the hills are large fertile valleys watered by mountain streams which provide water for numerous private irrigation plants. Alfalfa and fruit growing is the principal industry of people in these valleys. Some of the largest commercial orchards in the middle west are located in the valleys in the Black Hills. Southeastern South Dakota, watered by the lower Missouri, James and Sioux rivers, is the prin- and insures a steadv income I he farmer is sure to be successful cipal corn and mixed farming section. This is one of the richest agricultural sections of the middle west and land is getting comparatively high, but much lower in price than similar land in older states. Wheat and Grain Section. The upper valleys of these rivers, or the northeastern part, is the prin- cipal wheat and small grain section. While a large amount of corn is raised and stock raising is as im- portant as any other line, this section produces a large per cent of the immense wheat yield of the state. This is the section of large stretches of level prairie with waving grain fields and prosperous farm homes. Land is somewhat cheaper than in the southeastern part, but values are rapidly advancing. Alfalfa Land. Between the Missouri river and the Black Hills is a rolling prairie land where are found several small streams, between which are large plateaus or table land. This section is the old home of the buffalo and free cattle range of days now past. THESE PICTURES TELL THE STORY Ideal conditions for the production of alfalfa are Increasing the acreage of this important and valuable crop llcv .-. of the Black Hills district IG OF PROSPERITY IN SOUTH DAKOTA The level lying lands permit the raising of wheat and corn m large field: The silo makes an additional profit, and a large per cent of the better farms have the 17 ^fe^^^i^^ ..LlJllIl.T]Jif:'^ ^ MAP OF SOUTH DAK CLIMATE, SUNSHINE AND RICH GRASS PUT Richard Fdul Suuth Dakota farm, 1919 houth Dakota is well adapted to the production of pure- bred livestock, and breeders' associations are constantly raising the quality Threshing a part of the state's wheat 20 FRAME AND FINISH ON LIVESTOCK In the Black Hills district lumbering is an important industry A characteristic scene in the range section of western South Dakota 21 AS A CORN AND ALFALFA STATE South Dakota pre r:-fc- 1 g^S^\^ ^2 ^^^^1 HB ^^^BEi*^ -'■■t "^ n^' ^^1 South Dakota produces summer apples for the market jshels of com than wheat Dairying, stock raising and the growing of alfalfa, com, cane, fodder crops are the lines of endeavor which are developing this section. While alfalfa does well in all parts of the state, the western part is especially adapted to the growing of this crop for seed which is increasing the production of alfalfa all over the United States. The hardiness of western South Dakota alfalfa seed is well recognized and it brings a premium on the market. Irrigation. Along some of the streams in the western part private irrigation plants have been established, especially to aid in the alfalfa produc- tion. By irrigation one or two extra crops of hay can be harvested. In the Belle Fourche valley in the northwest is located the govcnment Belle Fou!-che irrigation project, where the largest dirt dam in the world stores an abundance of water for 100,000 acres of rich land. All kinds of grain are grown under this project, but probably the most profitable products are alfalfa and sugar beets. The SOUTH DAKOTA PRODUCES HOGS CHEAPLY Corn and hogs mean Urge b.mk accounts for the farmer farmers here also raise large numbers of hogs, pastur- ing them on alfalfa during the summer. They also make a business of feeding sheep in winter. Corn is a successful crop here. AREA, CI IMATF AND RAINFAII The Area of the state is about 77,000 square miles, as large as several of the New England states, and two-fifths larger than Iowa, with 55,000 square miles. The population is estimated at 735,000, mostly engaged in agriculture. The Climate is mild and invigorating, neither exceedingly hot in summer nor very cold in winter. The normal mean temperature is 45 degrees, and January, the coldest month, averages 16 degrees above zero. Records of the United States Weather Bureau at Pierre, the center of the state, compiled for 28 years, show the average date of the last killing frost in the spring is May 1, and the average date for the first killing frost in the fall is October 6. The Rainfall varies from more than 25 inches in the southeastern part to less than 20 inches in the western part, with an average of 22.3 inches. More than 17 inches of this comes during the five growing months. NATURAL RESOURCES The state is a treasure house of natural resources. The first in importance is the rich soil suited to the support of a population several times as large as now. The Black Hills, called by a great American, "the richest one hundred miles square on earth," yields 182 minerals, which have been classified, and there are likely others. Here are found great deposits of gold, silver, mica, tungsten, lead, wolframite and tin. The Homestake gold mine of the northern hills is the largest producer in the world and there are many smaller mines. 23 THE SURFACE SOIL PACKS INTO GOOD Fuel. The western part has sufficient Hgnite coal deposit to supply all fuel needed in the state for a century. Residents of that section mine their own coal as it lies near the surface. It has not been shipped for large commercial use, but it is antici- pated that this will be effected in the near future. At the recent election the voters authorized the develop- ment of the coal fields by state aid, thus promising a cheap fuel. Artesian Water is secured in many sections at a depth of from 200 to 1,000 feet, and through the central section this water brings up a natural gas, utilized by cities and farms for heating and lighting. The Black Hills are covered with a growth of pine comprising a valuable resource for lumber. The state has a timber reserve of 80,000 acres, a part of which is also fenced for a game preserve and stocked with buffalo, elk and deer. A forester is in charge as the state sells a large amount of timber each year and practices reforestration, thus conserv- ing this great resource. The United States also has a timber reserve in the Hills with several lumber mills in operation. Timber is found along the streams, especially on the Missouri, James and Sioux rivers. Hunting and Fishing. There are numerous small lakes in the northeastern part, where ducks abound as they find breeding places along the streams, lakes and ponds. Grouse and the prairie hens are found on the prairies, while the Black Hills afford splendid deer hunting, with an open season of 30 days. Three fish hatcheries are maintained and excellent fishing is found in all the suitable waters. AN ABUNDANCE OF RICH UNDEVELOPED LAND The rich virgin soil where the vegetable mold of centuries awaits the farmer offers a wonderful oppor- tunity for purchase. The state contains millions of 24 GRADED ROADS ALWAYS PASSABLE South Dakota leads all states in the production of wild hay acres undeveloped in the central, northern and western portions. The recent months have seen more land sales than for the past decade. New farmers are developing these lands with their natural fertility and giving them wonderfully increased values. Land prices are rising rapidly, thus invest- ment today will be greatly enhanced with each year. The government has no free land to offer its people in the state and the opportunity for men of limited means is in the purchase of this new land. Cheap land will soon also be a matter of history and if present opportunities are neglected the next gen- eration will be condemned to labor for others for wages or as tenants. The undeveloped land is prairie ready for the plow and requires no reclamation. This is the reason that it offers the best opportunity remaining for the prospective settler. Those who desire improved lands may secure them, producing the same acre yield of the same crops as land far- ther east, priced two or three times as high. Settlement came to South Dakota in the south- eastern section in the early '80's and that part of the state is now well developed. It progressed gradually through to the western section with much of the west half still only sparsely settled. The best devel- oped and least improved sections are showing a rising value of lands and it is clear that this is the land of present opportunity. The Price of Land varies from $10 an acre for some of the land in the western section to more than $200 an acre in the best developed southeastern section. In the northeastern part good land can be purchased for $50 to $100 an acre and in the central section east of the Missouri river, land averages from $20 to $50 an acre. Just west of the Missouri river good, level, unimproved farm land sells for $15 to $25 an acre, with improved land somewhat higher. The exception to this is the former Rosebud Reservation land lying west of the river in the southern section. This section is better developed COMFORTABLE LIVING CONDITIONS ARE Comfortable farm fiomes are found in all parts of the state and land values run from $50 to $100 an acre. Some of the land in the western part located con- siderable distance from railroads sells for approxi- mately $10 an acre. The valley land in the Black Hills is some of the highest priced in the state — some having sold for more than $300 an acre. AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION South Dakota lawmakers have adopted progres- sive ideas in keeping abreast of the times in modern agricultural operations. One of the early acts was the founding of an agricultural college and experi- ment station at Brookings. Four sub-stations for experimental work were placed at various points in the state. No sooner had these been well established when the farmers asked their agricultural college to conduct farmers' institutes, short courses and farm tours, resulting in the organization of the Agricul. tural Extension Division of the State College. Since its organization in 1912, greater demands have been placed upon the division from year to year until now almost every agricultural county in the state has a local agricultural extension agency known as the Farm Bureau. The County Farm Bureau is an organization for the development of a county program of work in agriculture and home economics, and for co-oper- ating with state and government agencies in the development of profitable farm management and efficient and wholesome home and community life. There are 56 county farm bureaus in the state. All have a local program of work and 45 of these are at present employing county agricultural agents to assist in developing their program. In nine of these 45 counties the program is so thoroughly worked out by the local farmers and their wives that the bureau is also employing either a county home demonstration agent or a county club leader. FOUND IN ALL WELL-SETTLED SECTIONS Wheat is second in importance with a yield of 71.305.000 bushels in 1918 During the recent war period the farm bureaus performed a service of inestimable value to the nation and its allies in organizing communities for greater food production and conservation. It is clearly recognized that the weather and labor conditions are two of the most important problems in profitable farming in any region. Over the former we have little or no control, but during 1918 the county farm bureaus placed a total of 17,403 farm laborers or an average of 362 per county. At the beginning of last year's crop season the biggest problem confronting increased crop production throughout the corn belt was the seed corn shortage. The problem in South Dakota was not so acute, but to relieve the situation the bureaus were instrumental in securing the testing of 78,083 bushels of seed corn and located and dis- tributed an additional 46,707 bushels of first class seed corn. This service meant that one acre out of every six that was planted to corn in the state was planted with seed that had been tested or secured through the efforts of the bureau. The grain cam- paign inaugurated by the bureau later in the year meant a saving of at least one-half million dollars to the farmers. Through the efforts of the bureaus 9,532 head of purebred livestock were obtained for the farmers and 38 purebred livestock breeders' associations organ- ized. In all livestock sections throughout the United States there has always existed a need for local co-operative effort in the prevention of contagious diseases. This duty has been willingly assumed by the South Dakota county farm bureaus and they stand ready at all times to assist communities in the stamping out of these diseases should they occur. Home and Community Life Problems have also received the earnest thought and effort of the farm bureaus. During 1918, 18,857 boys and girls were organized for supervised club work, in either corn, liberty food, sewing, sheep or sow litter clubs. THE POULTRY AND DAIRY INDUSTRIES The farm flocks in the state produced about eighteen million dollars last year The bureaus held 800 meetings for farm women at which demonstrations were given featuring food preservation, wheat substitutes and sugar saving. Nearly 400,000 quarts of fruit and vegetables were canned as a result of these meetings. The state agricultural extension division is organ- ized to assist in the local development of farm, home and community problems. It assists the county farm bureaus in the development of their agricul- tural programs, assists communities in the organ- ization of farmers' clubs, livestock associations, insti- tutes and short courses, while through its corps of specialists it stands ready to render further assist- ance along special problems of farm and home prac- tice, particularly such problems as those pertaining to crop and livestock production, the prevention of contagious animal diseases, crop insect control, soil drainage, farm building construction, orchard plant- ing, management and farmstead planting. FARMERS' CO-OPERATIVE ASSOCIATIONS The farrners here have not only been applying thought and effort to the production of crops and livestock, but have also been engaged in seeking the best possible outlet for their products through such co-operative enterprises as co-operative elevators, livestock shipping associations and co-operative creameries. Seventy-five livestock shipping asso- ciations organized among the farm bureaus, supple- mented by 25 county purebred breeders' associations, are assisting greatly in the production of better livestock. In 1918 there were 37 local farmers' co-operative creameries, 28 local individual cream- eries, 12 centralizing and stock creameries, and one centralizing farmers, co-operative creamery, the latter being the first creamery of its kind in the United States and for a time the only one of its kind in this country. The work of the state market department has already been considered in another section. 28 ARE IMPORTANT WEALTH PRODUCERS There are many good creameries in South Dakota and the number is rapidly increasing Other farmers' organizations are operating success- fully in various communities, in some cases as functions of the farm bureaus for the purpose of developing county programs in agriculture and home economics. THE IMMIGRATION COMMISSION The State Immigration Commission consists of the Governor, Secretary of State, and Commissioner of School and Public Lands. An executive, known as Commissioner of Immigration, is appointed by this commission, who has active charge of the work of the department. The object in creating the department was to advertise the resources of the state and to hasten the development of its unoccupied lands. This department is at all times ready to give reliable information on any part of the state. Money for the support of the department is appro- priated by the legislature and derived from general taxation. The department has nothing to sell and confines its advertising to plain statements of facts regarding opportunities, accomplishments and re- sources. Its purpose is as much to protect settlers from mistakes of location as to secure the settlers. It is the state's service for its prospective citizens. STATE AND COUNTY FAIRS The State Fair at Huron is supported by appro- priation to stimulate interest in producing better crops and livestock. The investment by appro- priations is $218,859.94 and including earnings a total of $327,184.00 is invested in permanent equip- ment. From the standpoint of attendance and man- agement the South Dakota State Fair ranks among the best in the United States. The annual machinery show and tractor demonstration attract farmers from three states. County fairs are successfully conducted in many counties, with special attention given to the members of boys' and girls' clubs. SOUTH DAKOTA IS VERY PROGRESSIVE Agricultural Hal! — One of the many buildings of the State College of Agriculture MARKETS The gradual development of South Dakota has brought a corresponding growth of its markets, and the great staples of agriculture produced which are needed in every good market follow the well estab- lished channels of trade in as satisfactory a manner as with any other state. For instance, butter may be marketed in Chicago from many districts of the state in carload lots at one cent a pound, giving a very great advantage for South Dakota when the prices of feeds are considered. The state has established a marketing department with a liberal appropriation which co-operates with the federal government and all other agencies in correcting marketing abuses and advancing the sale of farm products. The grain producing sections have ample elevator facil- ities, thus giving the farmers an assurance of a market. RURAL CREDITS South Dakota is one of the few states in the Union with a successful plan of rural credits in operation. By this system, which is simple, direct and prompt in its workings, farmers and prospective settlers can obtain cheap money from the state for the purpose of buying land, paying off indebtedness, erection of buildings and purchase of equipment. The law permits loans on first mortgages to farmers or prospective farmers up to 70 per cent of the appraised value of their lands, not to exceed the assessed valu- ation of the three preceding years and 40 per cent of the improvements with a maximum loan of $10,000 to any one person. Payments are made by the amortization plan and by this system the entire loan may be wiped out in thirty years' time on easy annual payments or any part may be paid any year. The state issues its bonds to get this money. IN BUSINESS AND LEGISLATION The state has sufficient lignite coal near the surface, to keep every home warm for a hundred years The system has met with astonishing success dur- ing the 16 months that it has been in operation. Farmers in practically every part of the state have availed themselves of its privileges and up to April 1, 1919, loans to the amount of $10,500,000 have been closed or are awaiting approval. Applications are usually acted on in less than 30 days after being received. This legislation is not only a boon to the man of moderate means, but it has been most beneficial in promoting development. This plan requires no stock subscription, no joint liability and the borrower receives the full amount of his loan. His only expense is the recording and the abstract which he must supply. At present the borrower pays 5}^ per cent and it is not expected this will be increased for the "good faith and credit" of the state are pledged in securing the funds. In addition to the Rural Credit loans the state has over $13,000,000 of its school funds loaned at 5 per cent. LAND SETTLEMENT AID The recent legislature appropriated $100,000 and authorized $1,000,000 in bonds for land settlement. With this fund land may be purchased, developed, stocked and sold to settlers without profit to the state. The purchaser will be required to pay only 10 per cent of the land value and 20 per cent of the amount spent for improvements and long time may be given. It is expected desirable lands will be offered and such improvements made as the settler may desire. It was designed especially to open the door of opportunity to our soldiers and sailors, with the hope that in agricultural life they may reap quiet victories of value to the state and comforting to themselves. South Dakota has an excellent law for the organ- ization of co-operative business associations, a guarantee of bank deposits, and a "blue sky" law. The state has a department of markets and also a THE FIRST HOMESTEADERS STILL The flax crop often pays for the land the first year State highway department which is working in co-operation with the federal department in high- way construction. Legislation has also passed to establish state hail insurance, to take preliminary steps looking forward to the development by the state of the magnificent water power possibilities of the Missouri river, to develop the great lignite coal fields in the north- western part, and also to manufacture cement. Hail insurance under the new state law covers corn and grain crops, including alfalfa, at the rate of from 35 to 45 cents an acre for a loss up to $10 an acre. The state has been divided into zones, the rates apply in accordance to the liability of loss. A half-rate option is available to the man who desires to pay only the half rate. SOIL SURVEY The state also appropriated funds to conduct a soil survey through the agricultural college. This project is designed to improve and maintain the already excellent soil fertility of the state. A bounty of $5 an acre was authorized for growing trees, up to 12 acres a year. GOOD COMMUNITIES IN WHICH TO LIVE South Dakota, being essentially an agricultural state, has no large cities, but the small cities and the towns are up-to-date, hustling business centers developed by the farm support, in which town and country alike have just pride. The country roads are good and the state is back of the movement to make these natural and for the most part level roads equal to any in the country. Churches representing all religious denominations are found in every city. The country and town schools are well graded and efficient teachers are provided. The common schools LIVE ON MOST OF THE FARiviJ) The prcduition of alfalfa seed is becoming an important industry were endowed with 2,775,560 acres of land. None of it can be sold at less than $10 an acre. Most of it is selling now at $50 and $100 an acre. The interest on money from school lands sold, together with the rental on the unsold, goes far toward the support of the common schools. Above these are the State University at Vermillion, the State Col- lege of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts at Brookings, the State School of Mines at Rapid City, and four state normal schools at Aberdeen, Madison, Spear- fish and Springfield. South Dakota has also a large number of colleges maintained by the various religious denominations, the most prominent being: Dakota Wesleyan University at Mitchell; Yankton College at Yank- ton; Huron College at Huron; Sioux Falls College at Sioux Falls; All Saints (for girls) at Sioux Falls, and Augustana College at Sioux Falls. Rural telephones and free mail delivery reach out The children go to and from the consolidated schools in free busses into nearly every farm community of the state. About 400 daily and country newspapers keep their readers in touch with both world and local news. There is no modern convenience of life known to rural communities of other states that are not com- mon to South Dakota farms. PUBLIC HIGHWAYS South Dakota being largely a prairie country with a black sandy loam surface soil, substantial dirt grades for highway purposes can be constructed with machinery at a comparatively small cost. The sur- face soil contains sufficient sand to make the dirt grade a splendid roadway for travel, except in the most extreme wet season. Hence the road problem is less a handicap here than in some of the other states. By the organic law every section line is a public highway. In 1912, a great impetus was given to highway construction by the projection of several trunk high- THE BLACK HILLS AND MANY LAKES 1^ Ah. ilia aiiil liogs — They both work while ways running across the state, both east and west, north and south. These highways meet similar projects in adjoining states, thus connecting the principal towns and cities by roads well marked at all turns and highly improved. Some of these roads have more recently been covered with a gravel surface. Hence strangers have no difficulty in find- ing their way in any direction they may choose to travel. In Lawrence County a large amount of macadam road construction has been accomplished. Legislation recently passed authorized the state to engage in hard surface road construction on an extensive scale by a bond issue of $6,000,000 to be used with a like appropriation by Congress. TRANSPORTATION AND MARKET The state is favored by having many miles of rail- road within its borders, affording its people ample means of transportation for the great volume of products. The following railroads with their many branches traverse practically the entire state: Chicago, Milwaukee fit St. Paul, Chicago & North- western, Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis fit Omaha, Chicago, Burlington fis Quincy, Minneapolis fis St. Louis, Great Northern, Illinois Central, Chicago, Rock Island 8b Pacific, Minneapolis, St. Paul fis Sault Ste. Marie and Rapid City, Black Hills 8b Western. The railroads are provided with ample facilities for taking care of products and transporting same to the many large markets, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, Superior, Sioux City, Omaha and Chicago. Good service is rendered in transporting livestock to all the principal markets of the North and West, such as Sioux Falls, Sioux City, Omaha, St. Paul and Chicago. New packing houses are being constructed at Huron and Rapid City, both of which are within the state, and when completed will add very materially to the splendid AFFORD SPLENDID RECREATION GROUNDS The lakes of South Dakota are well stocked with fish and invite recreation markets now offered for stock. The farmer and the railroads are dependent upon each other, and the railroads operating in this state have well organized agricultural departments working in conjunction with the Agricultural College and the Commissioner of Immigration with a view of assisting the new settler in his agricultural problems. HOW TO SECURE RELIABLE INFORMATION Those desiring information in regard to South Dakota land should write to the Railroad Agricul- tural Supervisor, named on last page of this booklet, or State Immigration Department, Pierre, South Dakota, South Dakota State College of Agriculture at Brookings, or the county agent of any county in the state will give specific information relative to farm matters. Vacation Outings in the National Parks "The Nation's Playgrounds" Your National Parks are a vast region of peaks, canyons, glaciers, geysers, big trees, volcanoes, pre- historic ruins and other natural scenic wonders. VISIT THF.M THIS SUMMFR for fishing, mountain climbing and "roughing it." Ask for descriptive illustrated booklet of the National Park or National Monument you are specially interested in — here is the list: Crater Lake, Ore.; Glacier, Mont.; Grand Canyon, Ariz.; Hawaii; Hot Springs, Ark.; Mesa Verde, Colo.; Mt. Rainier, Wash.; Petrified Forest, Ariz.; Rocky Mountain, Colo.; Sequoia, Cal.; Yellowstone, Wyo. ; Yosemite, Cal., and Zion, Utah. Address Travel Bureau, U. S. Railroad Administration 646 Transportation Bldg., Chicago, III., or 143 Liberty St., New York Citv, or 602 Healey Bldg., Atlanta, Ga. SOUTH DAKOTA INVITES THE AMBITIOUS ISSUED BY United States Railroad Administration AGRICULTURAL SECTION J. L. EDWARDS, Manager WASHINGTON, D. C. FOR THE USE OF ALL RAILROADS IN THE STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA For Further Information, address POOLE BROS.. CHICAGO LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 003 220 683 9