Floyd I. Lower

Floyd I. Lower, Columbiana County, devoted 42 years to the betterment of Ohioans through his efforts as an extension agent in Carroll and Columbiana counties. His specialization in agricultural marketing and leadership with potato variety testing brought him recognition throughout Ohio and beyond. Although retired for many years, his contributions to Ohio agriculture are very evident. His research papers, “Potato Reports,” are utilized by growers and potato breeders throughout the United States and Canada.

Lower’s early beliefs in the need to promote and engage in aggressive marketing are best demonstrated by his leadership in organizing in 1930 the forerunner of the Ohio Potato Growers Association and in 1936 the Salem Fruit Growers Association. His extensive, pioneering use of on-farm demonstrations to teach useful agricultural technology was a model for other extension agents elsewhere in Ohio and beyond. His contributions to agriculture have brought him gratification and many rewards.