Oaw interior

Page 1

Farming Farming in the second half of the twentieth century was far more complex than in previous eras. Agricultural technology—both mechanical and chemical‚changed rapidly and increased farm productivity. Self-propelled combines and circular irrigation systems were two types of mechanical advances. Chemical herbicides, insecticides, and fertilizers became widely used. However, many farmers—especially those on smaller farms—either couldn’t afford the new technology or didn’t want it. The number of farms in Oregon actually fell by 43 percent between 1945 and 1982 while the average farm size rose by 60 percent. Farming became big business, and farmers sold much more of their produce to out-of-state or even foreign customers. Some smaller farmers got the best of both worlds, keeping away from automation (because they couldn’t afford it) but still running efficiently (because they were resourceful). If they didn’t have something, they invented it. A case in point: Austin Warner.

Farm buildings probably near Woodburn in 1950 – courtesy Oregon State Library Section Three 1950-2009 | 1


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.