Extension also promotes labor-saving devices and custom harvesting. In 1943 alone, imported workers shock 450,000 acres of grain in 29 counties. Another 5,600 U.S. Army airmen and soldiers awaiting equipment and assignments are brought in. In the late 1940s, extension workers helped organize emergency hay lifts into western North Dakota due to tough winters. Agents help farmers with soil bank a new strain of wheat stem rust.
Livestock is on the upswing because of automation.
Livestock specialist Mel Kirkeide starts performance-testing beef herds. Oil funding improved extension funding in several counties. That year, an Extension Soils Specialist is hired. Farm and home planning programs intensify. Homemakers clubs peak at 1,633 clubs and 23,040 members in 1955.