The copper era., 1909-10-28
Secretary Wilson Challenges Methods of
 Western Dry Farmers.

Secretary James Wilson of the de- partment of agriculture has shown deep interest in the progress of dry farming in the west and has devoted considerable attention to it in his re- port published in the Yearbook of the department, but he takes issue with many of the opponents of certain system of so-called dry farming, and t is likely that his expression of opinion on the details wherein he differs from the western experts will precipitate animated discussion at the Fourth Dry Farming Congress at Billings, Montana, October 26 28. Secretary Wilson was invited to at tend the coming Congress, but in letter to Governor Norris of Montana, president of the Dry Farming Con- gress, has expressed his regret that he will be unable to be present in person. However, he will send mes sage to the Congress to be read at the opening session. An idea of his posi- tion regarding certain details of dry farming methods is given in his letter to Governor Norris, in which Secre- tary Wilson says:
 "I have just returned from months visit to the mountain states where we nave numerous dry farming expert ments going on and I have been visit ing them. It is one of the most prom inent and interesting studies of this time. We know what is wanting to some extent and are close students of the conditions in the light rainfall districts of the west. We began some years ago getting plants from dry lands in foreign countries, where they have severe winters, that would be suitable for our conditions west Of the tooth meridian and are having success. We have hardy alfalfa brought last year from Siberia, also clovers and other plants. That is one thing that has to be done, and an- other thing that needs careful study is the dry farming countries where very gross errors are being made and
 
 being pursued, that is, they blow two years for one crop, the plan being that the precipitation of two seasons will be grouped toward the growing )f one good c1op. This will succeed for number of years. but it cannot succeed permanently. That is why this department has been securing the world for plants that will grow during the year that is now occupied in following. I have been a close student of this practice during my recent visit in the west.
 ''I would be delighted to be present with you and discuss these matters, but really have to direct the move ments of SO many scientists here and in many different parts of the country and in so many varied lines of enter prise, that it is rarely that I can leave my desk. What time I could spare this summer has been given more to the study ot dry land farm ing than anything else. l know we will eventually solve these problems, but 1t requires the ability of the best men we have to do it, and it requires federal money to pay these men. It also requires looking over the ha bit able globe where it is hot in the sum- mer and very cold in the winter to get plants suitable. This we are do- ing. would be entertained by meet ing your people and discussing these matters with them, but my dear governor, I cannot get away, very much to my regret. Wishing you profitable and enjoyable meeting, I remain, "Very cordially,
 JAMES WILSON,
 ''Secretary."