Final Report of the Participation of the
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Letter June 5, 1942
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
Karl R. Bendetsen, Colonel, G. S. C.
Assistant Chief of Staff
Civil Affairs Division
Room 447, Whitcomb Hotel
1231 Market Street
San Francisco, California
In accordance with the request contained in your letter of May 19, 1942, I am transmitting herewith a report of the functions performed by the Farm Security Administration for the period March 15, 1942 to June 1, 1942, under the authority and orders of Lieutenant General J. L. DeWitt as stated in his letter to me dated March 15, 1942. These activities, as you know, pertain to the agricultural phase of the Japanese evacuation in that area designated by the Western Defense Command as Military Area No. 1.
The duties incumbent upon me and the Farm Security Administration in Military Area No. 1 resulting from General DeWitt's order are now almost entirely completed. A very large proportion of the work has been accomplished. On behalf of the organization which I represent, I wish to state definitely that with the exception of such continuing details as collection of loans which have been made and final withdrawal of personnel from special field offices that the work which we were ordered to undertake has been accomplished. In view of this fact and of the report which is herewith tendered, it is my wish that the conclusion of the assignment of the Farm Security Administration with respect to the evacuation of Military Area No. 1 be formally and officially accepted. I request that the appropriate steps which should be taken to establish such a status be considered by you and that arrangements be made accordingly in the very near future.
We shall be very glad to continue our functions under existing or additional authority in other portions of the Western Defense Command should new or additional evacuations be decided upon, and shall await specific advice from you in this respect.
The attached report gives a complete description of the functions and activities performed. It also indicates the many aspects and phases into which the agricultural phase of the program was necessarily divided. The Table of Contents will serve as a ready reference to indicate where the separate types of activity are discussed.
In order to facilitate your review of the report, however, I call your attention specifically to the portions which deal with progress in completing the disposal of farm properties, progress in making loans, the effects of the evacuation on agricultural production, the use of the freezing power, and the disposal of farm machinery.
Finally, and in conclusion, I wish to say that we have appreciated the opportunity of working so closely with the Western Defense Command and the many courtesies which you have rendered to us and which have so facilitated our work. On behalf of myself and my associates, as well as the organization which I represent, I wish to state that we have enjoyed the relations with the personnel, both civilian and military, composing the Wartime Civil Control Administration.
For purposes of historical interest and the record, it should be borne in mind that the undertaking involved, namely that of transferring, during a period of ten weeks, the farming interests of 6,789 farm operators and 231,492 acres of intensively cultivated land is probably one of the most dramatic events in the agricultural history of the United States. No function heretofor [sic] performed in so short a period in the domestic affairs of the United States can compare in magnitude and intensity with the Japanese evacuation in Military Area No. 1.
Under the prevailing circumstances it is our conviction that the greatest credit is due to the qualities of foresight, vision, and general competence which have been so much in evidence during this period on the part of the commissioned personnel of the United States Army assigned to this duty.
Attachments
Regional Director
I
Introduction
The Farm Security Administration was authorized and ordered on March 15, 1942 to participate as a member agency of the Wartime Civil Control Administration. This administration was created to evacuate any persons designated by Lieutenant General J. L. DeWitt from Military Areas to be proclaimed by him. The agencies included were the Federal Reserve System, the Federal Security Agency and the Farm Security Administration. These civilian agencies operated under the supervision and direction of the Civil Affairs Division of the Western Defense Command and Fourth Army.
The Farm Security Administration was charged with the responsibility for all agricultural phases of the evacuation. This report describes the authorities, organization, functions, operations and results of the program instituted to carry out this responsibility
The period of activities reported is March 15, 1942 through May 31, 1942, when the evacuation of all Japanese persons from Military Area No. 1 was substantially completed.
II
Basic Authorities Delegated to the Farm Security Administration
The basic authority ordering and authorizing the Farm Security Administration to administer the agricultural phases of the evacuation program is contained in a letter from Lieutenant General J. L. DeWitt to Laurence I. Hewes, Jr., Regional Director, Farm Security Administration, Region IX, March 15, 1942. A copy of this letter is attached as Exhibit 1.
The responsibilities of the Farm Security Administration were clearly set forth in this letter, namely (a) to insure continuation of the proper use of agricultural lands evacuated by enemy aliens and other persons designated by Lieutenant General J. L. DeWitt and (b) to insure fair and equitable arrangements between the evacuees, their creditors and the substitute operators of their property. To discharge these responsibilities the FSA was empowered first, to employ personnel and incur necessary administrative expense and, secondly, to make loans to substitute operators of lands vacated by evacuees. One million dollars of the Chief of Staff's contingent funds was made available for such loans.
In connection with the request and order from Lieutenant General DeWitt, the Department of Agriculture designated the Regional Director as its authorized representative with reference to all matters relating to the evacuation program. A copy of the telegraphic instruction to the Regional Director, dated March 19, 1942, directing him to act as the Department's representative is attached as Exhibit 2.
After a brief period of operation it became apparent that the authorities contained in Lieutenant General J. L. DeWitt's letter of March 15 would have to be supplemented to permit the full or approximate achievement of the results intended. The premise underlying General DeWitt's original order and the limited authority granted therein was that the Farm Security Administration through intermediary action and the extension of credit could induce and promote continuity of production and fair dealing. Instances were soon encountered where the interests of landlords, creditors and potential purchasers of crops and farm assets came into conflict not only with the interests of Japanese farmers, but also with those of each other, and where because of this or other reasons, the completion of transactions upon a satisfactory basis could not be effected through the normal processes of negotiation and bargaining.
Specifically, situations were encountered in which landlords by virtue of non-assignability clauses in leases sought to deprive Japanese farm operators of their crops and forfeit rental payments, and to do so by preventing transfers between Japanese tenants and substitute farm operators offering fair prices and whose proposed plans of operation
Additional problems were presented by the lack of time. Thus, despite the complete willingness of all persons to cooperate, in some instances the imminent evacuation and departure of the Japanese and, in other instances, the inability to contact all interested parties made it necessary that the Farm Security Administration or some agency or entity created by it be available and empowered to provide temporary management and to act for Japanese evacuees until satisfactory substitute operators could be found and placed in control.
This problem was recognized after the first two days of Farm Security Administration field operations. A letter from Mr. Laurence I. Hewes, Jr., Regional Director, to Colonel Karl R. Bendetsen, Assistant Chief of Staff, Western Defense Command, describing the situation and requesting an interpretation of authority to cope with it, is attached as Exhibit 3. A later statement concerning the problems presented and the additional authorities necessary to meet such problems is contained in a memorandum addressed by Mr. Gilbert Sussman, Office of the Solicitor, to Mr. Hewes under date of March 27, 1942. Copies of this memorandum and of the subsequent letter from Mr. Hewes to Colonel Bendetsen are attached as 4 and 5. Colonel Bendetsen's reply appears as Exhibit 6. The foregoing request was supplemented by an express request, under date of April 2, 1942, to Colonel Bendetsen for permission to use the loan funds made available to the Farm Security Administration for loans to corporations or other entities, including a corporation organized at the instance of the Farm Security Administration for the purpose of enabling it to accept powers of attorney from Japanese and to operate and maintain their agricultural properties until substitute operators might be found. A copy of this supplemental request is attached as Exhibit 7.
As a result of the requests for additional authority which were made, there was delegated to the Regional Director authority to exercise powers (the so-called "freezing power") under section 5 (b) of the Trading With The Enemy Act as amended by Title III of the First War Powers Act of 1941. A copy of the telegraphic authorization to the Regional Director is attached as Exhibit 8. This telegraphic authorization was confirmed by a letter dated April 8, 1942, from C. B. Baldwin, Administrator, Farm Security Administration, to the Regional Director. A
The request for additional authority with reference to the use of loan funds made available out of the Chief of Staff's contingent funds was granted on April 4, 1942. A copy of a memorandum from Colonel Bendetsen granting such authority is attached as Exhibit 15. The granting of such authority was construed to permit the use of such funds as might be lent to an association to pay the nominal administrative and organizational expenses incurred incidentally to its establishment and operation. (See Exhibit 16.) As a result, the California Evacuated Farms Association was incorporated on April 8, 1942, for the purpose of acting for the Farm Security Administration in instances in which authority under the so-called freezing power might be exercised or powers of attorney accepted. Copies of the articles and the by-laws of the association are attached hereto as Exhibits 17 and 18. The corporation was subsequently qualified to operate in the States of Oregon and Washington.
It was pursuant to and in accordance with the authorities thus granted to the Regional Director that the Farm Security Administration proceeded to discharge its responsibilities as a cooperating agency in the Wartime Civil Control Administration.
III
Characteristics and Importance of Japanese Agriculture in Military Area No. 1.
Nearly one-half of the Japanese working population evacuated from Military Area No. 1 had been engaged in agriculture. The total number of Japanese workers over 14 years of age was 48,926. 1940 Census Seven thousand of these were farm operators or managers, and 13,000 were farm laborers, making a total of 20,000 deriving their livelihood from agricultural pursuits.
The number of farms operated by Japanese in the four states contained in Military Area No. 1 was 6,170. These were distributed as follows: California, 5,135; Washington, 706; Oregon, 277; Arizona, 52. Since Military Area No. 1 included practically all of the farming localities containing Japanese operators, these figures give a substantially accurate indication of the distribution of farms affected by the evacuation. Actually when the Japanese farms were registered by the Farm Security Administration it was found that their number exceeded the census figures. The total number of farms evacuated was 6,664.
The number of farms operated by Japanese in the Pacific Coast region comprised only 2 percent of all farms, and their acreage involved only .3 percent of the total farm acreage. These percentages, however, give an entirely misleading indication of the importance of Japanese farming enterprise in the area. The average value per acre of all farms in 1940 was $37.94, whereas that of Japanese farms was $279,96. This difference in value is due primarily to the fact that Japanese agriculture has been a highly intensive and productive enterprise. Three out of every four acres of Japanese farm land were devoted to actual crop production, whereas only one out of every four acres of all farm land in the area was planted in crops. The average size of the Japanese farms was 42 acres, and 85 percent of them contained less than 50 acres.
The estimated value of crops grown by Japanese farmers in 1940 in California was $32,317,700. The values for certain specific crops were: lettuce, $5,942,100; celery, $4,667,250; tomatoes, $4,182,000; cantaloupes, $2,720,000; carrots, $2,326,000; and strawberries, $2,181,600 Bureau of Agricultural Economics, Special Report
An analysis of Japanese farm enterprises showed that the types of crops grown were largely inter-tilled truck, fruit, and speciality crops, and often each acre was planted and harvested several times during the same year. These crops were invariably of an intensive type such as strawberries, tomatoes, lettuce, onions, celery, nursery stock, peas, beans,
The Secretary of Agriculture had established certain 1942 production goals for vital farm products in the prosecution of the war. The Japanese farmers in California had been expected to contribute a very large proportion of certain of these commodities in 1942, such as 92 percent of the snap beans, 54 percent of the tomatoes, and 30 percent of the peas. It was anticipated that they would produce over 40 percent of all California truck crops.
The specialization of Japanese farming is very significant and presented an important problem to an agency which contemplated the removal of the Japanese farm operators. Floriculture, greenhouse operation, and oyster farming are other examples of specialized operations in which many of the Japanese were engaged.
The Alien Land Law of May 19, 1913, has had a decisive effect upon the farm tenure status of Japanese in California throughout the subsequent period. This law prohibits ownership of property by aliens and restricts the conditions under which agricultural lands may be leased. Primarily as a result of this law most Japanese farmers on the Pacific Coast operated their land under some form of lease tenure. Seventy percent were classed as tenants in 1940. Both the legal status of Japanese people and their habits in conducting business have resulted in a complicated farm tenure system. Minor sons and daughters of aliens are found to be the owners or renters of farms. Japanese who report themselves as being farm laborers are often found to be the tenants and operators of land. Tenants and share croppers in many cases operate their farms subject to the vaguest kinds of verbal agreements. Often the remittances for rent or land payments are paid by third parties who from a superficial standpoint would not seem to have any interest in the farm enterprise. These factors are basic to the Japanese tenure situation which was necessarily involved in the evacuation.
In summary it may be fairly stated that the Japanese people were the most important racial minority group engaged in agriculture in the Pacific Coast region. Their systems of farming, types of crops, and land tenure conditions were such that their replacement by other farmers would be extremely difficult. Highly technical personnel would be required to handle such a transition, a credit program would have to be adapted to the peculiar problems presented, and some shifts in the future use of land would undoubtedly be involved.
| All Four States | Arizona | California | Oregon | Washington | ||||||
| Amount | % | Amount | % | Amount | % | Amount | % | Amount | % | |
| Total Japanese Population | 112,985 | 100.0 | 632 | .6 | 93,717 | 82.9 | 4,071 | 3.6 | 14,565 | 12.9 |
| Total Employed (Over 14 years) | 48,926 | 100.0 | 235 | .5 | 40,374 | 82.5 | 1,771 | 3.7 | 6,546 | 13.3 |
| In Agriculture | 22,162 | 45.3 | 135 | 57.4 | 19,289 | 47.7 | 759 | 42.3 | 1,979 | 30.2 |
| Farm Operators | 7,076 | 75 | 5,807 | 349 | 845 | |||||
| Farm Laborers | 13,199 | 60 | 11,646 | 405 | 1,088 | |||||
| Paid | 8,334 | 27 | 7,692 | 220 | 395 | |||||
| Unpaid | 4,865 | 33 | 3,954 | 185 | 693 | |||||
| All Others in Agriculture | 1,887 | 0 | 1,836 | 5 | 46 | |||||
| In Other Occupations | 26,764 | 54.7 | 100 | 42.6 | 21,085 | 52.3 | 1,012 | 57.2 | 4,567 | 69.8 |
| Source of Data: 1940 Census. | ||||||||||
| Number Of Farms | Farm Acreage | Cropland Harvested | Value of Farms Land & Buildings | |
| Four-State Total | ||||
| Total - All Farms | 294,641 | 89,345,723 | 13,454,852 | $3,390,312,675 |
| Japanese Farms | 6,170 | 261,722 | 198,470 | 73,272,370 |
| Percent - Japanese | 2.0% | 0.3% | 1.4% | 2.2% |
| Arizona | ||||
| Total - All Farms | 18,468 | 25,651,092 | 525,974 | 153,676,675 |
| Japanese Farms | 52 | 3,648 | 3,164 | 629,370 |
| Percent - Japanese | 0.3% | 0.14% | 0.6% | 0.4% |
| California | ||||
| Total - All Farms | 132,658 | 30,524,324 | 6,534,562 | 2,166,453,000 |
| Japanese Farms | 5,135 | 226,094 | 174,942 | 65,781,000 |
| Percent - Japanese | 3.9% | 0.7% | 2.7% | 3.0% |
| Oregon | ||||
| Total - All Farms | 61,829 | 17,988,307 | 2,624,316 | 476,817,000 |
| Japanese Farms | 277 | 11,654 | 8,318 | 2,548,000 |
| Percent - Japanese | 0.4% | 0.06% | 0.3% | 0.5% |
| Washington | ||||
| Total - All Farms | 81,686 | 15,182,000 | 3,570,000 | 593,366,000 |
| Japanese Farms | 706 | 20,326 | 12,046 | 4,314,000 |
| Percent - Japanese | 0.9% | 0.1% | 0.3% | 0.7% |
| Source of Data: 1940 Census | ||||
| Average Size Of Farm (Acres) | Average Cropland Harvested (Acres) | Average Value Of Farms | Average Value Per Acre | |
| Four-State Total | ||||
| All Farms | 303.2 | 45.6 | $11,504.42 | $ 37.94 |
| Japanese Farms | 42.4 | 32.2 | 11,875.58 | 279.96 |
| Arizona | ||||
| All Farms | 1389.0 | 28.4 | 8,321.00 | 5.99 |
| Japanese Farms | 70.2 | 61.0 | 12,193.00 | 172.52 |
| California | ||||
| All Farms | 230.1 | 49.3 | 16,331.00 | 70.97 |
| Japanese Farms | 44.0 | 34.1 | 12,810.00 | 291.14 |
| Oregon | ||||
| All Farms | 290.9 | 45.7 | 7,712.00 | 26.51 |
| Japanese Farms | 42.1 | 30.0 | 9,198.00 | 218.46 |
| Washington | ||||
| All Farms | 185.9 | 43.7 | 7,264.00 | 39.07 |
| Japanese Farms | 28.8 | 17.1 | 6,110.00 | 212.15 |
| Source of Data. 1940 Census | ||||
| Farms | Acres | Average Size of Farm (Acres) | ||||
| Number | % | Number | % | Principal Crops Grown | ||
| Four-State Total | 6,789 | 100.0 | 231,492 | 100.0 | 34.1 | Strawberries, Onions, Tomatoes, Lettuce |
| Arizona | 31 | .4 | 1,438 | .6 | 46.1 | Lettuce, Cantaloupes, Strawberries |
| California | 5,560 | 82.0 | 198,572 | 86.0 | 35.7 | |
| Irrigated Desert | 254 | 3.7 | 12,730 | 5.5 | 50.0 | Tomatoes, Cantaloupes, Peppers |
| Southern Coastal | 2,226 | 32.7 | 63,397 | 26.6 | 28.5 | Celery, Onions, Strawberries |
| Central Coastal | 394 | 5.8 | 15,019 | 6.5 | 38.1 | Lettuce, Tomatoes, Sugar Beets |
| San Joaquin Valley | 1,644 | 24.3 | 65,746 | 38.3 | 40.0 | Nurseries, Melons, Tomatoes |
| Sacramento Valley | 1,042 | 15.4 | 41,680 | 18.0 | 40.0 | Strawberries, Tomatoes, Peas, Beans, Fruit |
| Oregon | 368 | 5.4 | 14,135 | 6.0 | 38.4 | Cranberries, Oysters, Lettuce, Celery, Fruit |
| Washington | 830 | 12.2 | 17,347 | 7.4 | 20.1 | Cranberries, Peas, Oysters |
| Puget Sound Area | 715 | 10.1 | 10,635 | 4.6 | 14.9 | Cranberries, Peas, Oysters |
| Yakima Valley | 115 | 1.5 | 6,712 | 2.8 | 58.4 | Tomatoes, Fruit |
| Source of Data: Farm Security Administration Field Reports. | ||||||
| Crop | California (%) | Oregon (%) | Washington (%) |
| Asparagus | 25 | 15 | 50 |
| Snap Beans | 73 | - | 70 |
| Brussel Sprouts | - | 90 | - |
| Beets | - | 20 | 90 |
| Cabbage | 40 | 45 | 60 |
| Cantaloupes | 47 | 20 | - |
| Carrots | 40 | 40 | 90 |
| Cauliflower | 60 | 90 | 80 |
| Celery | 75 | 75 | 77 |
| Cucumbers | 63 | 40 | 65 |
| Lettuce | 30 | 65 | 74 |
| Onions | 36 | 25 | 65 |
| Spinach | 57 | 65 | 60 |
| Strawberries | 90 | - | 60 |
| Tomatoes | 45 | 50 | - |
| Source of data: Tolan Committee Report, May, 1942, Pp. 126, 132, 138. | |||
| Total 1942 Goals | Japanese Share of Goals | ||
| (Acres) | Acres | % | |
| Total Truck Crops | 519,200 | 218,064 | 42.0 |
| Tomatoes | 111,500 | 60,595 | 54.4 |
| Peas | 47,500 | 18,200 | 37.6 |
| Snap Beans | 11,700 | 10,807 | 92.3 |
| All Other Truck Crops | 348,500 | 128,462 | 36.8 |
| Source of data: Bureau of Agricultural Economics Special Report. | |||
| Total | Full Owner | Part Owner | Manager | Tenants | ||||||
| Number | % | Number | % | Number | % | Number | % | Number | % | |
| Four-State Total | 6,170 | 100.0 | 1,204 | 19.5 | 379 | 6.1 | 262 | 4.3 | 4,325 | 70.0 |
| Arizona | 52 | .8 | 7 | 13.4 | 1 | 1.9 | 1 | 1.9 | 43 | 82.7 |
| California | 5,135 | 83.3 | 1,977 | 19.0 | 293 | 4.8 | 249 | 4.8 | 3,596 | 70.0 |
| Oregon | 277 | 4.5 | 77 | 27.8 | 23 | 8.3 | 2 | .7 | 175 | 63.3 |
| Washington | 706 | 11.4 | 123 | 17.4 | 62 | 8.7 | 10 | 1.4 | 511 | 72.4 |
| Source of data: 1940 Census | ||||||||||
IV
Outline of Program Organization
Within the framework of the Wartime Civil Control Administration, the Farm Security Administration required an organization which could discharge the duties and responsibilities which it was ordered by the Army to assume. It established the administrative and servico [sic] [service] units hereinafter described. A chart showing in detail the organization which was set up is included as Exhibit 19.
WFA At inception the Farm Security Administration entitled its program the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program. It soon discarded this name but retained the symbol WFA to identify certain activities, functions and documents.Unit
The functions of the WFA unit were as follows:
- To promote, supervise and assist in the completion of transactions between evacuee farmers and their landlords, creditors, and purchasers or renters of agricultural properties (including crops, livestock, farm machinery and other farming chattels or interests).
- To provide credit or arrange for the provision of credit to substitute operators who might occupy farms relinquished by evacuees.
- To exercise, if need be, authorities with respect to the acceptance of powers of attorney, the invoking of the freezing power, or the assumption of management or disposal of farm property through the California Evacuated Farms Association.
- To provide accurate information and reports concerning:
- a The number of Japanese farms in field areas.
- b The number of prospective substitute operators.
- c The progress made in effecting transactions between the two above groups.
- d The characteristics of the farms, evacuees, substitute operators and crops which were involved.
The WFA Unit was operated by a WFA Program Chief, his Headquarter's staff, nine District Officers, and Field Agents in 56 field offices. These field offices were established in every area where any appreciable number of Japanese farmers were known to reside. They were usually located in U. S. Employment Service offices so that the representatives of all three WCCA civilian agencies might be stationed at the same
Special Negotiations Unit
The functions of the Special Negotiations Unit were as follows:
- To conduct negotiations with agricultural associations, processors, marketing agencies, cooperatives, or corporations which might contemplate or actually assume the operation of evacuated farm properties or assist others in doing so.
- To aid in the preparation of loans to corporations or associations who contemplate taking over evacuated farm land, crops, or chattels, where alternative sources of credit were not available.
- To assist WFA Field Agents in conducting especially difficult negotiations which might arise in the completion of individual transactions.
The Special Negotiations Unit was operated by a Chief who administered the activities of seven Special Negotiators. It was the duty of these Special Negotiators to visit any point within the area, under the direction of their chief, where their services could effectively be used in accomplishing the functions enumerated above.
Evacuation Control Unit
The functions of the Evacuation Control Unit were as follows:
- To determine at the time of evacuation the status of all Japanese farm operators with respect to the transfer of or other arrangements relating to their land, leases, crops, farm machinery, livestock, or any other agricultural property.
- To assist in the closure or final disposition of any incompleted transactions disclosed during registration (above) in civil control stations.
- To exercise, if need be, authorities with respect to accepting powers of attorney or invoking the `freezing power.'
It should be noted here, parenthetically, that the WFA Field Agents assisted in preparing farm operators for evacuation throughout the period between March 17 and the date when a civilian exclusion order, applying to a specific portion of Military Area No. 1, was issued by Lieutenant
The activities of the Evacuation Control Unit were administered by a Chief, a small Headquarter Staff, five District Evacuation Agents and approximately 50 Evacuation Agents, Assistant Evacuation Agents, Interviewers and Clerk-Stenographers. The latter field personnel discharged their functions in civil control stations and moved from area to area as civilian exclusion orders were issued and civil control stations established.
Information and Public Relations Unit
The functions of the Information and Public Relations Unit were as follows:
- To interpret the policies and the program of the Farm Security Administration to evacuees, prospective operators and the public by means of news releases and radio programs, and by contacts with news reporters, editors, etc.
- To inform the public concerning progress of the program.
- To coordinate and reconcile the publicity of the Farm Security Administration with publicity issued by any other agency included in the WCCA.
- To instruct and give guidance to field employees of the Farm Security Administration in the handling of their local publicity and public relations program.
The Information and Public Relations Unit was administered by an Information Specialist, with a staff of three assistants. He was immediately responsible to the FSA Regional Director.
Service Sections
To facilitate operations, the following service sections were created:
- Loans and Operations Section.
- Administrative Services Section.
- Personnel Section
The Loan and Operations Section processed loan applications through various servicing sub-units.
The Administrative Services Section handled a variety of detailed functions including provision of arrangements for travel, supplies, space, furniture, equipment, and mail and files. It worked closely with the Farm Security Administration Regional Finance Division which performed the accounting and fiscal functions. It also handled records, reports, and procedure releases.
The Personnel Section was made a part of the regular Farm Security Administration Personnel Division and operated in such a way that its functions were specifically adapted to the needs of the evacuation program.
Regional Director
The Regional Director of the Farm Security Administration in Region IX, with headquarters in San Francisco, assumed active direction of the entire operation. Each Unit Chief was responsible directly to him. Coordination of the program was obtained through his leadership.
Hours of Duty and Location of Headquarters
During the six-week period of heaviest activity the Headquarter's office maintained staffs on duty from 8:30 A.M. until 10:00 P.M., with the exception of the Liaison Office which was established in the Whitcomb Hotel at WCCA Headquarters. This Liaison Office opened at 8:15 A.M. and closed at 10:00 P.M. each day.
The headquarters of the Farm Security Administration organization was established in the regular Regional Headquarters at 30 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, California.
V
Program Operation
WFA Unit
Initiation of Activities:
On Friday, March 13, 1942, the Regional Director met with his Division Chiefs to organize the activities required by the participation of the Farm Security Administration in the WCCA evacuation program. Key FSA employees were chosen to set in motion and administer the new organization. By Monday evening, March 16, 1942, all basic policies and routine necessary to commence operation in field offices throughout Military Area No. 1 on the following morning had been prepared and mimeographed. All procedure, forms and supplies required to register Japanese farm operators and qualified substitutes, assist in negotiations, and make emergency loans, were airmailed to 48 field locations.
That day, Monday, March 16, 1942, 48 FSA Rural Rehabilitation Supervisors in five states received two letters. The first ordered them to report for duty as field agents at 48 field offices which had been established throughout Military Area No. 1. The second gave concise instructions to field agents concerning the work they would immediately undertake upon arrival at their respective stations, Tuesday, March 17, 1942. Copies of these letters, dated March 15, 1942, are contained in Appendix C.
The 48 field offices which commenced operation on March 17, 1942, were located in United States Employment Service offices throughout the military area. Thirty-nine of these offices were in California, five in Washington, two in Oregon and one in Arizona. During the succeeding ten weeks, eight additional field offices were placed in operation. Special offices were established in principal metropolitan centers to serve as information bureaus and direct Japanese farm operators and prospective substitutes to appropriate field offices.
Upon arriving at their new posts of duty on March 17, 1942, the Field Agents arranged with the local United States Employment Service office managers for desk space, furniture, telephone facilities and secretarial services. Their supplies and instructions arrived the same day, enabling the Field Agents to commence registering Japanese farm operators and prospective substitutes, and otherwise initiating field operations.
During this first day of operation each Field Agent was visited by a member of the Headquarter's office staff which had organized the program during the preceding days. At these brief visits the Field Agent was further instructed in his new duties and his most immediate problems were discussed. Typical problems included the defining of boundaries between field offices, clarifying the methods to be used in supervising transfers of farm tenure and properties, defining the roles of the members of the three-agency field team (Federal Reserve System, Federal Security Agency, and Farm Security Administration) familiarizing each agency with the duties and responsibilities of the other agencies, and providing emergency measures for continuing crop production in cases of abandonment.
| OFFICE | Date Opened | Date Closed | OFFICE | Date Opened | Date Closed |
| Arizona | San Diego | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. | ||
| Phoenix | March 17 | May 26 | San Fernando | March 17 | April 30 |
| California | San Jose | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. | ||
| Alameda | March 17 | March 30 | San Mateo | March 17 | May 29 |
| Alhambra | March 17 | May 21 | San Pedro | March 17 | April 20 |
| Bakersfield | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. | Santa Ana | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. |
| Berkeley | March 17 | March 27 | Santa Maria | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. |
| Burbank | March 17 | May 21 | Santa Monica | March 17 | May 21 |
| Chico | March 17 | April 15 | Santa Rosa | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. |
| El Centro | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. | Stockton | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. |
| Florin | May 11 | May 29 | Torrance | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. |
| Fresno | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. | Ventura | March 17 | May 18 |
| Gardena | April 16 | May 14 | Visalia | March 17 | May 23 |
| Hayward | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. | Watsonville | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. |
| Indio | March 17 | May 23 | Whittier | March 17 | May 16 |
| Inglewood | March 17 | May 21 | Woodland | May 11 | May 29 |
| Long Beach | March 17 | April 23 | Oregon | ||
| Los Angeles | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. | Astoria | March 23 | April 27 |
| Marysville | March 17 | May 20 | Hood River | March 17 | May 30 |
| Merced | March 17 | May 23 | Portland | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. |
| Oakland | March 17 | March 30 | Salem | March 17 | May 29 |
| Oceanside | April 11 | May 16 | Washington | ||
| Pasadena | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. | Auburn | May 2 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. |
| Pittsburg | March 17 | May 23 | Bremerton | March 17 | April 15 |
| Pomona | March 17 | May 29 | Kent | May 28 | May 30 |
| Redlands | March 17 | April 30 | Raymond | March 17 | April 14 |
| Richmond | March 17 | March 30 | Seattle | March 17 | May 30 |
| Riverside | March 17 | May 29 | Sumner | May 2 | May 18 |
| Sacramento | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. | Tacoma | March 17 | May 30 |
| Salinas | March 17 | May 29 | Yakima | March 17 | Offices still open as of May 31, 1942. |
After one week of field operations the four-state military area was divided for Farm Security Administration administrative purposes into nine districts, each under the jurisdiction of a District Officer.
Registration of Japanese Farms:
Obviously the Field Agents' first task was to establish contact with Japanese farmers, who would be evacuated, and with qualified substitute operators. During the first week of field operations only those Japanese farmers were registered who voluntarily visited FSA field offices to request assistance in disposing of their farm properties. It was then recognized that immediate complete registration of all Japanese farms was essential and that this registration must provide an accurate record of the location and description of every farm subject to evacuation.
Accordingly on March 22, 1942, all Field Agents were telegraphically instructed to make a systematic census of all Japanese farms in the military area. A deadline of Friday morning, March 27, 1942, was set for the completion of this survey. Upon that date 6,307 Japanese farms had been listed, of which 5,436, totalling 151,063 acres had been actually contacted. The process of registering Japanese farms continued throughout the program, although 80 percent of the task was accomplished within the first week.
The actual registration was recorded on a yellow card, Form WFA-1, Form WFA-1, "Request to Relinquish Farm". See Appendix B to this report "WFA Forms". which provided space for a description of the farm property and for recording progress in accomplishing the transfers to substitute operators of the farms, leases, crops, farm machinery, or removable assets. By filing these cards according to location, Field Agents were able to refer prospective substitute operators to Japanese farmers.
Registrations were performed in the field offices, at Japanese farms, and occasionally at meetings sponsored by Japanese-American societies. These societies, the USDA County War Boards, local organizations, and agricultural commissions gave valuable assistance in completing this census.
The registration of Japanese farmers proved a very important factor in promoting the orderly transfer of farm properties, as well as in providing an absolutely indispensable groundwork for the various activities which were later undertaken during the involuntary evacuation.
As the program progressed, it was possible for field agents to compare registration lists, eliminate duplication, and by thoroughly exploring their territories, validate the accuracy of information contained in Form WFA-1. The registration of Japanese farmers in civil control stations during the involuntary evacuation also provided information which was useful in correcting and reconciling field office records.
| Reporting Period Ending Friday - | Four-State Total | Arizona | California | Oregon | Washington | |||||
| Farms | Acres | Farms | Acres | Farms | Acres | Farms | Acres | Farms | Acres | |
| March 27 | 5,436 | 151,063 | 30 | 1,820 | 4,341 | 138,462 | 381 | 11,457 | 626 | 11,574 |
| April 3 | 6,225 | - | 30 | 1,820 | 5,017 | - | 432 | - | 716 | - |
| April 10 | 6,274 | 214,712 | 30 | 1,820 | 4,976 | 180,347 | 457 | 14,982 | 811 | 17,563 |
| April 17 | 6,572 | 217,674 | 30 | 1,820 | 5,333 | 190,243 | 375 | 15,073 | 834 | 10,538 |
| April 24 | 6,460 | 227,783 | 30 | 1,820 | 5,281 | 194,482 | 357 | 14,960 | 792 | 16,521 |
| May 1 | 6,527 | 233,510 | 30 | 1,820 | 5,341 | 200,160 | 358 | 14,990 | 798 | 16,540 |
| May 8 | 6,540 | 233,566 | 31 | 1,438 | 5,293 | 200,422 | 366 | 13,974 | 850 | 17,732 |
| May 15 | 6,647 | 227,779 | 31 | 1,438 | 5,399 | 194,941 | 368 | 14,135 | 849 | 17,265 |
| May 22 | 6,789 | 231,492 | 31 | 1,438 | 5,560 | 198,572 | 368 | 14,135 | 830 | 17,347 |
| May 29 | 6,664 | 232,159 | 31 | 1,438 | 5,437 | 198,675 | 366 | 13,974 | 830 | 18,072 |
| Source of Data: Farm Security Administration Field Reports. | ||||||||||
In light of the special factors involved, the comparison of the registration data with the 1940 census indicates that virtually complete coverage of Japanese property was attained.
NOTE: The final figures for farms registered (6,664) exceeded the 1940 census report of Japanese farm operators in the four states by 494, or about eight percent. This variance of figures, as well as the fluctuation in total registrations reported from week to week, may be accounted for by the following factors:
- Individual farm units were registered, whereas the census enumerates as a farm all tracts of land cultivated by a single operator.
- Duplicate registrations often occurred when a Japanese landlord registered all the land that he owned, and his tenants registered separately.
- Some Japanese registered at more than one field office believing that this multiplied their opportunities for advantageous disposal of their farm property.
- On the eastern limits of Military Area No. 1, some Japanese farmers held and registered land on both sides of the boundary.
- A small number of Japanese farms in the four states lie east of Military Area No. 1.
- The status of some Japanese farm operators with respect to the Alien Land Law caused them to avoid registration if possible, and in some instances to register through friends or family members, who were not in a position to give completely accurate information.
Registration of Prospective Operators:
The second most important phase of routine activity performed by Field Agents was the registration of prospective operators qualified to assume management of evacuated farms, and of prospective purchasers of crops, farm machinery, and other types
Prospective operators were registered on form WFA-2. Form WFA-2, "Request to Acquire Farm". See Appendix B to this report, "WFA Forms". On this was entered information regarding the sizes, types and locations of farms which such operators desired to acquire. In the first weeks of the program, only those who came voluntarily to the field offices were registered. After the voluntary phase of the evacuation program ended, on March 31, 1942, Field Agents were instructed to go aggressively into the localities where a shortage of prospective operators appeared to exist and to recruit through publicity, individual contacts or organizational contacts the necessary qualified operators for evacuated farms.
Furthermore, Field Agents were instructed to complete form WFA-2 for each new operator previously unregistered, who took over a Japanese farm, whether or not the Farm Security Administration actually supervised the transaction. These cards were cross-referenced with the WFA-1 cards representing farms which had been transferred and a separate file set up for each farm transaction. During the first ten days of field operation 1,487 prospective operators were registered. One week later this number had doubled, (3,151). By May 15 it had doubled again (6,455). At this time Field Agents were instructed to eliminate from their files prospective operators who had registered in a casual way without serious intention of taking over farms, or who lacked specialized experience in the type of agriculture involved. The removal of these groups reduced the number of registered prospective operators so that on May 22 it stood at 5,897.
At the present time the completed WFA-2 forms which are retained in the files constitute a virtually complete record of all farm operators who replaced the Japanese.
Promotion of Transfer Transactions:
In addition to the registration of Japanese farms and of prospective operators, various other methods were used to stimulate the orderly transfer of Japanese-operated farm properties. Field offices proved convenient places in which Japanese and substitute operators could arrange the details of transfer. As former FSA Rural Rehabilitation Supervisors, the Field Agents were familiar with most details of farm operation and tenure, as well as farm financing, and they could assist both parties in arriving at satisfactory terms and in handling special problems of negotiation.
The orderly transfer of all Japanese-operated farm property in a given area to qualified substitute operators was considerably hampered by the following:
| Reporting Period Ending Friday - | Four-State Total | Arizona | California | Oregon | Washington | |||||
| Farms | Acres | Farms | Acres | Farms | Acres | Farms | Acres | Farms | Acres | |
| March 27 | 676 | 28,042 | 12 | 260 | 561 | 25,030 | 76 | 2,421 | 43 | 742 |
| April 3 | 1,512 | 59,653 | 24 | 1,343 | 1,259 | 50,130 | 115 | 3,681 | 114 | 4,499 |
| April 10 | 2,624 | 100,927 | 26 | 1,680 | 2,230 | 86,194 | 146 | 4,805 | 222 | 8,248 |
| April 17 | 4,173 | 157,755 | 28 | 1,759 | 3,541 | 133,487 | 294 | 12,166 | 310 | 10,343 |
| April 24 | 4,949 | 179,932 | 28 | 1,759 | 4,290 | 154,891 | 354 | 14,021 | 277 | 9,461 |
| May 1 | 5,419 | 198,087 | 28 | 1,765 | 4,667 | 171,380 | 354 | 14,403 | 370 | 10,539 |
| May 8 | 5,774 | 211,846 | 31 | 1,438 | 4,819 | 182,658 | 362 | 13,800 | 562 | 13,950 |
| May 15 | 6,302 | 221,554 | 31 | 1,438 | 5,172 | 189,633 | 365 | 14,033 | 734 | 16,450 |
| May 22 | 6,505 | 225,165 | 31 | 1,438 | 5,325 | 192,726 | 368 | 14,135 | 781 | 16,866 |
| May 29 | 6,596 | 230,248 | 31 | 1,438 | 5,415 | 197,162 | 366 | 13,974 | 784 | 17,674 |
| Source of Data: Farm Security Administration Field Reports. | ||||||||||
- The serious shortage in some localities of qualified operators to carry on the specialized type of agriculture practiced by the Japanese.
- The reluctance of many Japanese to transfer their holdings until they were finally convinced by Civilian Exclusion Orders that they actually would be removed from the area.
- The reluctance of shrewd substitute operators to conclude deals until the time factor had placed the Japanese in an adverse bargaining position.
- The tenuous nature of Japanese farm tenure agreements associated with their fear of prosecution if they declared themselves as farm operators.
- The wide-spread fear of a farm labor shortage which deterred many substitute operators from assuming responsibilities or risks involved in the Japanese farm enterprise.
Field Agents were instructed to overcome these obstacles. An important instrument was the dissemination through field offices of information to the public and to the Japanese accurately describing the facilities and opportunities available, and the gravity of the problem which would confront the communities if transactions were not completed in a prompt and orderly manner. Where it was advantageous to do so, the wartime importance of the food crops and the responsibility placed upon the communities were used as the basis for direct appeal and contacts. The joint action of War Boards, agricultural agencies, marketing agencies, community organizations, and other organized groups was freely resorted to and proved to be a most potent factor which solved many serious problems. The extension of credit, and referral of prospective operators to suitable credit agencies, which will be discussed fully hereafter, were also indispensible [sic] instruments in the completion of transactions.
Progress in Completing the Disposal of Farm Properties:
During the first ten days of field operation when voluntary evacuation was still possible, 734 deals were closed and 28,042 acres, (10%) transferred to new operators. One week later, April 3, 1942, 1,776 deals had been closed, embracing 59,653 acres. By May 31, 1942, over 6000 deals had been completed, involving 230,248 acres and 6,596 farms. For all practical purposes the transfer of Japanese farms in Military Area No. 1 had been completely accomplished. The crops and land were in the hands of the most qualified substitute operators who could be selected under the circumstances.
The disposal of farm machinery was handled under a policy which sought to insure the retention of this machinery on the farmland evacuated. This subject is separately discussed and reported in an appropriate section hereafter.
Providing Credit to Substitute Operators:
Short term agricultural credit was absolutely indispensable to many substitute operators desiring to take over evacuated properties. The FSA made 722 loans in the period
In instances where the prospective operator of a Japanese-operated farm needed such a loan, and any serious doubt existed concerning his competence to operate the type of enterprise involved, Field Agents were instructed to obtain the judgment of county war boards as to the qualifications of the applicant.
The authority and procedure for making WFA loans were in the hands of all FSA Field Agents on Tuesday, March 17, 1942, when their offices first opened. WFA Instruction 931.1 (3-16-42). See Appendix A to this report, "WFA Procedure." WFA loans were authorized "for the purpose of meeting any expense or charge in connection with land use, feed and fertilizer, livestock, farm machinery, equipment and tools, or supplies and/or services." They were not authorized for land acquisition or for the construction of real estate improvements. Loans were to be made for a period of one year or less with the definite expectation that renewals of notes at maturity would be permitted where the purchase of durable goods, such as livestock or machinery, was involved. The interest rate was five percent per annum. All loans were secured by first liens upon crops and chattels purchased with loan proceeds, and in some instances by liens upon additional property possessed by borrowers. Each loan application included a concise farm operating plan which specified the types of farm enterprises to be continued or established by the substitute operator, and the estimated expenses and incomes involved in the individual farm program.
All loan applications were prepared either directly by, or under the supervision of, the Field Agent, with whose recommendation they were submitted to the Headquarter's office. During the first weeks of the program no intervening examination and field approval of loan applications was provided between the Field Agent's office and the Headquarter's office since speed was an important objective. By the first week in April, WFA field office operations were sufficiently routinized so that it was compatable [sic] with efficient handling of the loans to provide for field examination by District Officers. District Officers were then authorized
Established Farm Security Administration loan processing standards and routines had been drastically simplified in preparing WFA loan procedure. This was essential in order to obtain maximum speed of action. By the end of March it was apparent that additional safeguards and essentially sounder loan policies could be employed without sacrificing efficiency of operation. Consequently, on April 5, 1942 the entire loan procedure was revised and elaborated to incorporate better standards of eligibility, tenure, security, farm management criteria, and processing WFA Instruction 931.1 (4-5-42). See Appendix A. The volume of loans and the record of completed transactions give evidence at the present time that this tightening of loan policies represented sound administrative judgment. Simultaneously with the creation of the Special Negotiations Unit, appropriate loan policies and procedures were established to handle corporation or group loans. A considerable number of such loans were made involving a large sum of money. This phase of loan activity is reported in appropriate sections hereafter.
Progress in Making Loans:
The first two WFA loans were submitted from the field on March 23, 1942. By the end of March, 35 loans had been received totaling $235,312. At the end of the first week in April, 155 loans had been submitted and 33 approved. During the entire period to June 1, 789 loans were submitted totaling $4,450,140. Of these loans 722 were approved, totaling $3,120,243. Forty-two of the loans provided for an advance of funds at future dates. The amount involved in such advances will be $320,411. The average size of all loans approved was $4,321.67; 77 percent were for amounts under $5,000, 22 percent for amounts under $50,000, and less than 1 percent for sums exceeding $50,000. The distribution of sizes of loans and the average size is influenced by certain large corporation loans which were made and which involved the assumption of the operation of several farms by a single borrowing agent.
Special Negotiations Unit
The evacuation of Bainbridge Island demonstrated conclusively that larger scale private agricultural enterprises might assume the operation of evacuated land. In this instance the processors and marketing agencies actually concluded agreements with many of the evacuating Japanese farmers whereby responsibility for production and harvesting of the crops would be assumed by the processing and marketing organizations. Concurrently, situations developed in other areas which showed the necessity of having a small, highly-trained group of special negotiators to concentrate on the successful completion of larger scale deals and especially difficult individual transactions. Processors, marketing agencies, real estate companies, cooperative associations, and local corporations were bound to enter into crop production and property management since their interests were directly involved. It appeared that the most practical way to review, and in an appropriate degree, supervise these larger scale transactions was through a functioning unit such as the one which was set up.
| Four-State Total | Arizona | California | Oregon | Washington | ||||||
| Number | Amount | Number | Amount | Number | Amount | Number | Amount | Number | Amount | |
| March 27 | ||||||||||
| Submitted | 12 | 52,398 | - | - | 10 | 34,898 | 1 | 10,000 | 1 | 7,500 |
| Approved | 1 | 2,085 | - | - | 1 | 2,085 | - | - | - | - |
| Rejected | 1 | 10,000 | - | - | 1 | 10,000 | - | - | - | - |
| April 3 | ||||||||||
| Submitted | 82 | 503,641 | - | - | 62 | 406,452 | 12 | 61,185 | 8 | 36,004 |
| Approved | 28 | 89,122 | - | - | 25 | 73,892 | 2 | 7,730 | 1 | 7,500 |
| Rejected | 3 | 30,000 | - | - | 2 | 20,000 | 1 | 10,000 | - | - |
| April 10 | ||||||||||
| Submitted | 167 | 920,384 | - | - | 115 | 606,901 | 20 | 80,465 | 32 | 133,018 |
| Approved | 84 | 326,135 | - | - | 62 | 255,946 | 6 | 12,725 | 16 | 57,464 |
| Rejected | 10 | 55,362 | - | - | 6 | 18,820 | 2 | 21,690 | 2 | 14,852 |
| April 17 | ||||||||||
| Submitted | 292 | 1,506,392 | 3 | 2,715 | 183 | 1,034.398 | 35 | 152,283 | 71 | 316,996 |
| Approved | 233 | 1,129,365 | 2 | 2,250 | 135 | 730,783 | 31 | 113,323 | 65 | 283,009 |
| Rejected | 17 | 171,250 | - | - | 14 | 139,560 | 2 | 21,690 | 1 | 10,000 |
| April 24 | ||||||||||
| Submitted | 465 | 2,747,977 | 3 | 2,715 | 270 | 1,417,052 | 58 | 222,187 | 134 | 1,151,705 |
| Approved | 376 | 1,668,516 | 3 | 2,715 | 210 | 1,021,252 | 43 | 148,884 | 120 | 495,665 |
| Rejected | 28 | 250,419 | - | - | 22 | 194,335 | 4 | 38,960 | 2 | 17,124 |
| May 1 | ||||||||||
| Submitted | 550 | 3,094,605 | 3 | 2,715 | 328 | 1,697,746 | 66 | 242,439 | 153 | 1,151,705 |
| Approved | 479 | 2,013,259 | 3 | 2,715 | 277 | 1,278,533 | 59 | 196,429 | 140 | 533,562 |
| Rejected | 37 | 686,453 | - | - | 27 | 205,294 | 5 | 41,795 | 5 | 429,364 |
| May 8 | ||||||||||
| Submitted | 635 | 3,515,617 | 3 | 2,715 | 376 | 1,998,002 | 74 | 266,467 | 182 | 1,248,433 |
| Approved | 566 | 2,328,289 | 3 | 2,715 | 327 | 1,513,340 | 69 | 224,672 | 167 | 587,562 |
| Rejected | 42 | 893,739 | - | - | 31 | 272,580 | 5 | 41,795 | 6 | 579,364 |
| May 15 | ||||||||||
| Submitted | 706 | 4,214,226 | 3 | 2,715 | 415 | 2,539,972 | 77 | 281,972 | 211 | 1,389,567 |
| Approved | 630 | 2,666,161 | 3 | 2,715 | 367 | 1,776,974 | 70 | 225,727 | 190 | 660,745 |
| Rejected | 46 | 934,636 | - | - | 33 | 289,677 | 5 | 41,795 | 8 | 603,164 |
| May 22 | ||||||||||
| Submitted | 761 | 4,346,365 | 3 | 2,715 | 436 | 2,598,821 | 83 | 291,499 | 239 | 1,473,330 |
| Approved | 695 | 3,016,056 | 3 | 2,715 | 395 | 1,978,445 | 77 | 238,754 | 220 | 796,142 |
| Rejected | 51 | 949,473 | - | - | 35 | 291,112 | 5 | 41,795 | 11 | 616,566 |
| May 29 | ||||||||||
| Submitted | 789 | 4,450,140 | 3 | 2,715 | 458 | 2,632,090 | 83 | 291,479 | 248 | 1,526,571 |
| Approved | 722 | 3,120,243 | 3 | 2,715 | 415 | 2,010,050 | 77 | 238,734 | 230 | 871,459 |
| Rejected | 52 | 979,473 | - | - | 35 | 291,112 | 5 | 41,795 | 12 | 646,566 |
Frequently the prevailing sizes of Japanese farm enterprises made successful operation by individual substitute operators uneconomical, and consequently some consolidation of the operation of these small farms was found to be necessary. In other instances the highly specialized character of these enterprises made the assumption of management by smaller individual substitute operators impracticable. Where either of these two sets of circumstances were encountered, Special Negotiators were assigned to supervise the completion of transactions.
In some instances landlords or creditors sought to insist upon exercising technical legal rights, based upon non-assignability clauses in leases or abandonment clauses in conditional sales contracts, and to prevent the consummation of deals between evacuees and their possible successors without regard to possible loss of agricultural production. In a considerable number of cases lack of agreement on values hindered or delayed consummation of deals. Members of the Negotiation Unit staff were frequently assigned to assist Field Agents in the negotiations and adjustments which had to precede the conclusion of transactions.
The preservation of crops in some areas made it necessary to interest local leaders and established agricultural groups and organizations in the operation of numbers of evacuated farms. Some of these groups and interests were, through their field men, intimately acquainted with the farms and their problems and they were in the best position to undertake continuance of operations. Since many agricultural interests had a stake in the agricultural production from Japanese-operated farms as a source of supply, it was logical for them to find substitute operators or to undertake themselves to provide for the handling of these properties. In instances where existing agricultural concerns did not care to involve their packing or processing organizations with the task of and financial responsibility for agricultural production or the management of properties, special operating corporations were organized for such purposes. Many of the Japanese farming groups had confidence in these concerns since they had the reputation of conducting their business affairs with fairness and responsibility over a period of years.
The usual plan has been for such organizations to provide competent super vision, management and labor, care for equipment and agree to produce crops in the normal manner of the area, subject to limitations which may arise under wartime conditions. Loans were made where necessary to finance continued production and to enable such organizations to acquire the interests of the Japanese in crops, leases, or operating equipment and materials. Each such organization undertook to operate a number of farms.
Subject to the principles and methods discussed above, the corporations named in an accompanying table were formed to operate the farms and acreages indicated, and loans in the amounts shown were made. These organizations have taken over 124 evacuated farms, totaling 4,023 acres, and they have been loaned $617,987.17. The Farm Security Administration is convinced that the successful disposal of farm properties and preservation of crops would have been impossible in certain areas without the approach which was made under the special negotiations program. The cooperation and action of such agencies and interests in coming forward lent stability to the entire program of the FSA and meant, in a very real sense, the assumption of responsibility for and the taking over of particular farming enterprises which, because of their size and character, could not have been taken over by individual substitute operators.
To handle this work a staff of seven highly-trained men, some of whom were loaned to the Farm Security Administration by the Farm Credit Administration, was organized under the direction of a Special Negotiations Program Chief.
Evacuation Control Program
The process by which the Army accomplished the evacuation of Military Area No. 1 was to issue public proclamations, more properly termed civilian exclusion orders, which served in effect as instructions both to the entire population of the area and more particularly to persons of Japanese ancestry. These orders, which were issued beginning March 25, 1942, required people of Japanese ancestry, both alien and non-alien, to leave prescribed portions of Military Area No. 1 under the detailed instructions contained in the orders. As a rule each civilian exclusion order embraced an area which included approximately 1000 to 1500 Japanese persons.
The release of a civilian exclusion order created an evacuation project, and it established within that project one or more civil control stations which were headquarters for both the civil and military agencies of the WCCA. A responsible member of each family affected by an order, and each individual living alone, was instructed to report at the civil control station or stations established within the project, for registration on specified days and for final clearance. These stations were the operating centers for the evacuation process.
On March 24, 1942, Civilian Exclusion Order No. 1 was issued by Lieutenant General J. L. DeWitt. This order embraced Bainbridge Island, Puget Sound, State of Washington. It established a civil control station at Winslow, Washington, and required the registration of the Japanese family heads or single people on Wednesday, March 25, 1942. The operation of this civil control station was the first activity of its kind in Military Area No. 1. The Farm Security Administration, as well as other agencies included in the Wartime Civil Control Administration, used this experience as the basis for planning to meet the organizational requirements imposed by this type of operation.
| Name of Corporation | Amount | Units | Acreage |
| Fruit Farms, Inc. | $148,471.27 | 20 | 756 |
| Farm Management, Inc. | 60,540.00 | 5 | 500 |
| Northern Farms, Inc. | 98,077.38 | 20 | 910 |
| Loomis Agencies, Inc. | 61,934.80 | 12 | 524 |
| California Fruit Canners, Inc. | 37,711.00 | 1 | 150 |
| California Fruit Canners, Inc. | 38,510.50 | 1 | 155 |
| Placer Orchards, Inc. | 87,756.67 | 13 | 600 |
| Placer Farms, Inc. | 23,000.00 | 14 | 460 |
| Ingalls Gardens, Inc. | 20,523.00 | 4 | 166 |
| Western Farm and Produce, Inc. | 32,107.00 | 33 | 473 |
| Deciduous Farm Lands, Inc. | 9,355.55 | 1 | 29 |
| Total | $617,987.17 | 124 | 4,723 |
Following this first evacuation project, a planning meeting was held at the request of the Western Defense Command in the Whitcomb Hotel, San Francisco, on March 27, 1942. The methods and policies to be used during the involuntary evacuation through the issuance of civilian exclusion orders were discussed. Each civilian agency was informed that it should be prepared to conduct its necessary functions in at least five civil control stations operating simultaneously for an indefinite period in the future. It was determined that a period of at least five days would usually be allowed for the actual involuntary evacuation of any area. It was also decided that approximately 1500 people would be the usual maximum number to be handled by a single civil control station and that if an exclusion order affected substantially more people than this number additional stations would be established within the same evacuation project. It was contemplated that at least ten WCCA evacuation crews would be required, since transportation of the crews to new stations and brief rest periods would undoubtedly be involved.
On Sunday, March 29, the Regional Director established a special administrative unit, the Evacuation Control Unit, within the evacuation organization of the Farm Security Administration to handle the functions of this agency in civil control stations. A chief was designated and instructed to assemble the requisite staff and prepare all necessary operating instructions.
On March 30, 1942, Exclusion Order No. 2 was issued, establishing civil control stations at San Pedro and Long Beach, California. On the same day Order No. 3 was issued establishing a civil control station in Los Angeles. On April 1, 1942, Orders 4 and 5 were issued, establishing control stations in San Diego and San Francisco.
Shortly thereafter the Federal Security Agency at the instance of the Western Defense Command suggested the immediate provision of sufficient personnel within Military Area No. 1 to handle the simultaneous operation of 15 civil control stations in various portions of the area. Their distribution was to be on the basis of known Japanese population and it was apparently intended that the staff in a given area would handle the work of all civil control stations operated in that specific area.
The Evacuation Control Unit of the Farm Security Administration recognized that the total Japanese population embraced by a civilian exclusion order was not an accurate measure of the number of farms within a specific evacuation project. The responsibility of the Farm Security Administration was directly associated with the number of farm cases being evacuated rather than the total population, both urban and rural. An analysis of the entire military area was immediately conducted, therefore, to determine by townships and precincts the distribution of Japanese farms. These data were placed upon county maps so that it was possible to determine more or loss precisely the number of Japanese farmers affected by any civilian exclusion order which was issued.
The Evacuation Control Unit personnel were distributed on the basis of the above information and operations were geared accordingly. A policy was adopted whereby at least one Farm Security Administration representative would be assigned for duty at each civil control station, with additional personnel assigned to a particular station in proportion to the number of Japanese farmers known to reside in the area.
When the evacuation of Military Area No. 1 was approximately one-third completed, the Farm Security Administration received a revised statement from the Federal Security Agency suggesting that the number of evacuation crews be increased in order that 30 control stations might be operated simultaneously. This suggestion was made at the time the Western Defense Command publicly announced that the tempo of the evacuation would be sharply increased and that Military Area No. 1 would be cleared of Japanese people by May 31, 1942.
It was possible by concentrating Farm Security Administration evacuation personnel at stations embracing rural areas, and by assigning a minimum number of personnel to stations embracing urban areas, to operate throughout the evacuation program with a total control station staff not exceeding 55 field employees.
The personnel problem was also met in part by utilizing the Farm Security Administration personnel in Field Offices to supplement the evacuation personnel in civil control stations.
The experience obtained in the San Pedro and Long Beach evacuation projects demonstrated the effectiveness of a plan whereby any cases of incomplete property transactions revealed by initial interview in the civil control stations could be subjected to intensive treatment by all Farm Security Administration personnel in the area in an effort to complete any such transactions during the final 72 hours prior to the actual clearance of the area. It also demonstrated the necessity for thoroughgoing work in some of the areas immediately after the evacuation to inspect properties, handle any transactions yet unclosed, and otherwise insure that every precaution had been taken to avoid abandonment of land, crops, and machinery.
The basic instruction which was issued for the guidance of evacuation control personnel, entitled "Organization and Operation of Evacuation Control Units", and bearing the symbol WFA Instruction 940.1, is contained in Appendix A to this report. It explains the basic procedures which were carried into effect.
On June 1 evacuation control program work in 112 civil control stations had been completed. A complete breakdown by stations of the number of farm cases registered, the status of property transactions at the time of evacuation, the total acreage operated by registered evacuees, the acreage with arrangements completed at the time of evacuation, and the acreage with arrangements incomplete, is attached as Exhibit 20. A summary of the above data follows:
- Civil Control Stations Operated
- 112
- Farm Cases Registered
- 5,349
- Cases with Property Arrangements Completed When Stations Closed
- 5,266
- Farm Cases with Property Arrangements Incomplete When Stations Closed
- 83
- Acreage Operated by Registered Evacuees
- 210,179
- Acreage with Property Transactions Complete
- 207,942
- Acreage with Property Transactions Incomplete
- 2,237
It should be clearly understood that the above summary gives the condition at the time of evacuation. After the evacuation of Japanese was accomplished in any area, field workers concentrated their attention upon all incomplete cases and acreage. As of June 1, 1942 not over 40 cases in the entire area were classed as still incomplete and the total acreage involved did not exceed 1,000 acres.
On the basis of the above reports, the provision of substitute management and operation was over 99 percent accomplished as of June 1. A qualitative analysis of this phase of the program is included in an appropriate section later in this report.
Regional Director's Staff
Regional Director:
Throughout the evacuation program the Regional Director of Region IX, Farm Security Administration, was personally responsible for the agricultural phases of the evacuation, and he was also the authorized representative of the Department of Agriculture. He directed the formation of policy and the coordination of all separate program units.
Liaison Officer:
In compliance with the Army's request the FSA had a personal representative on duty at the Whitcomb Hotel Headquarters from 8:15 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. each day. This representative was responsible for maintaining a close relationship between the operations of the total organization and the activities of his particular agency.
The Farm Security Administration Liaison Officer conveyed information and handled relationships applying to three major sets of circumstances:
- After the planning division of the Army had determined an area to be evacuated, the Federal Security Agency was made responsible
for locating within the boundaries of the area a suitable building for the establishment of a civil control station. The Federal
Security Agency Liaison Officer and the Farm Security Administration Liaison Officer were then charged with seeing that necessary
arrangements were made by their representative agencies to discharge their functions in the civil control station. The Liaison
Officer in performing this duty observed the utmost discretion, since the premature disclosure of information handled would
have seriously interfered
― 23 ―with orderly field operations. - Planning conferences were frequently held to determine action or to inform civil agencies of action expected of them by the Army. The Liaison Officer attended these conferences, occasionally accompanied by appropriate operating chiefs or the Regional Director of the Farm Security Administration, and determined that program activities were adapted to fit the policies or agreements which were developed or announced.
- Either Army officers or the Regional Director frequently required statements or opinions from each other. The Liaison Officer made arrangements for such exchanges of opinion or information.
Information and Public Relations Activities:
Immediately after the inception of the evacuation program, the Regional Director arranged for meetings with the Chairmen of the State Agricultural War Boards in each state, together with the members of these War Boards who were leaders in the U. S. Agricultural Extension Service, the Bureau of Agricultural Economics, the Agricultural Adjustment Administration, and the Farm Credit Administration. The purpose of these meetings was to explain clearly the circumstances surrounding the evacuation of Japanese people, the facts concerning the Wartime Civil Control Administration, and the policies and procedures which would be used by the Farm Security Administration in handling the agricultural phases of evacuation. A thorough discussion of the entire problem was held at these meetings. The War Boards in each case agreed to give complete support and all possible assistance to the work of the Farm Security Administration. In addition the Regional Director was in more or less continuous communication with the War Boards by correspondence, keeping the chairman constantly advised of policies, programs and procedures and requesting comments and suggestions. See letters to State War Boards Chairmen attached as Exhibits 21, 22, and 23.
Throughout the evacuation program field agents were instructed to rely principally for advice and recommendations concerning local problems upon the County War Boards. Instruction letters giving concrete suggestions for handling this relationship were issued from time to time as new problems of a general character arose. See letters dated April 1, April 3 and April 4 in Appendix C, "WFA Letters". The War Boards were particularly helpful in assisting field agents to complete the registrations of Japanese operators and prospective substitutes. They were relied upon in many local areas to stimulate the recruitment of substitute operators.
The California State Chamber of Commerce arranged a special meeting on March 28, 1942, to discuss agricultural problems created by the evacuation. Leading representatives of agricultural agencies and interests in the state were present. The Regional Director gave a comprehensive statement to this conference discussing the character of the problem which had
The concentration of Japanese in the Los Angeles area required some special public relations activities. On April 1 the California State chamber of Commerce sponsored a meeting, attended by representatives of leading agricultural agencies in the Southern California area, where the policies and methods of the Farm Security Administration were presented by the Regional Director and discussed. Later the State Chamber of Commerce sponsored a meeting in Los Angeles which was attended by the representatives of leading agricultural concerns, produce companies, and packers. The agricultural program was presented at this meeting by the Regional Director, and the special problems of interest to companies, produce handlers, and packers considered.
By May 1, 1942, it was apparent that recruitment of substitute operators in the State of Washington was lagging due to peculiar circumstances applying to the area. Some local leaders, and particularly some of the newspapers, were not thoroughly in accord with the program for immediate evacuation because of the possible adverse effect upon the production of crops and the supply of farm labor. Moreover, undue reliance had been placed in the area upon the organization of farming groups to take over evacuated properties. There had been unwarranted pessimism as to the possibility of recruiting enough individual substitute operators. This situation required special handling of public relations by the Regional Director, his Associate Information Specialist, and field agents. The assistance of the State War Board was solicited and obtained in meeting this special problem. It was possible by releasing suitable publicity and holding special meetings to establish a public attitude in which the policies successfully used throughout the coastal area were made effective in the Puget Sound area.
An Information Division was created on March 16, 1942. The established public relations policy of the Farm Security Administration was carried into the evacuation program; namely, responsible local personnel were authorized to give wide dissemination of factual information regarding the program to all public media. The nature of the evacuation work made the handling of publicity a cardinal responsibility and function of field agents. Policy decisions rested with the Regional Director and the program chiefs. Responsibility for reliable and aggressive public relations activities within this policy framework was placed upon the field agents.
The Information Division operated through a chief and three assistants. At the Regional Headquarters the Information Division devoted primary attention to general news releases for metropolitan papers, farm radio programs, releases for wire services, and a radio campaign for local areas to reach the greatest possible number of farmers. Early efforts included daily contact with the agricultural department of the Japanese-American
The Information Specialist stationed in Southern California spent considerable time assisting the agricultural coordinator in Los Angeles with publicity. He also arranged radio programs and, at their request, conferred with Filipino, Mexican, and Negro groups to inform them of the program.
The files of the Information Division show that 79 press releases were issued between March 18 and May 27, as follows:
- General releases from Regional Headquarters
- 26
- Fill-in releases sent to the field
- 13
- Special field releases in Northern California
- 20
- Special field releases for Los Angeles vicinity
- 12
- Special field releases for Puget Sound
- 8
- Total
- 79
Since the local releases were duplicated and re-issued widely, the agricultural phase of the evacuation received complete and frequent local coverage.
The radio programs which were especially prepared and broadcast to give wide public understanding of the critical situation created in agriculture by the evacuation, and the methods which were being used to handle it, included broadcasts over the Western Agricultural Hour, Western Blue Network; the Farm Hour, KIR, Seattle; the Farm Hour, KQW, San Francisco; and KFI, Los Angeles. One broadcast was also released through the National Farm and Home Hour.
Administrative Services Emergency authorities with respect to personnel, travel and procurements are reproduced in Exhibits 25 and 26.
The WFA program at its inception contained sections to handle the information, personnel, mail and files, reporting, procedural, loan process, information, liaison, and administrative detail functions. As the evacuation work progressed, and when the Farm Security Administration organization was subdivided into WFA, Special Negotiations, and Evacuation Control branches, certain of these functions were redistributed. The Liaison Officer and Information Specialist were attached to the Regional Director's staff. The Personnel Section was made directly responsible to the Farm Security Administration Personnel Adviser. Other functions enumerated above were combined into an Administrative Services Unit which performed necessary work for the Evacuation Control and Special Negotiations Programs, but which for convenience was administered directly by
Reports:
Reports of operation progress and of special situations were submitted by the Regional Director to Colonel Karl R. Bendetsen, Assistant Chief of Staff, Civil Affairs Division, daily during the first weeks of the evacuation. Comprehensive weekly statistical summaries were submitted throughout the operating period. These were prepared from telegraphic reports received from all Field Agents. These reports tabulated the progress made in registration, transfers and loans. A copy of the final weekly report, dated June 5, 1942, is attached as Exhibit 27. The evacuation agents also submitted daily telegrams during periods of registration in civil control stations, and final reports on individual evacuation progress when the stations were closed. The summaries prepared from these reports were submitted weekly to Colonel Bendetsen. The final report as of May 29, 1942 is attached as Exhibit 20.
Personnel:
Personnel was recruited from three major sources: (a) Assignment of regular Farm Security Administration personnel from Regions IX, XI, X and VIII, which embrace the Western portion of the United States; (b) appointment of new personnel, and (c) borrowing of specialists from the Farm Credit Administration. The number of regular personnel contributed by each region of the Farm Security Administration was as follows:
- Region IX (California, Arizona, Utah and Nevada)
- 73
- Region XI (Oregon, Washington and Idaho)
- 60
- Region X (Colorado, Wyoming and Montana)
- 14
- Region VIII (Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico)
- 1
- Total
- 148
The selection of Farm Security Administration personnel assumed that the evacuation program would require intensive, high-grade work. Those selected were employees who in their regular Farm Security Administration assignments had shown capacity to work intelligently and rapidly on difficult assignments and under changing conditions.
Rural Rehabilitation Supervisors were necessarily used to head field offices because of their thorough acquaintance with loan procedures and with technical problems of crop production, farm tenure and agricultural credit.
The appointed personnel used in field offices were placed under the direction of regular Farm Security Administration people. It was necessary and possible to staff the Evacuation Control Program largely with newly-employed personnel since the character of operations departed more from usual Farm Security Administration activities.
Table 13
Personnel of the Farm Security Administration Engaged in the WCCA Program March 15, 1942 - May 31, 1942
-
Table 13
- TOTAL EMPLOYED
- 521
- Source:
- Detailed from Farm Security Administration
- 148
- Loaned by Farm Credit Administration
- 6
- Specially Appointed
- 367
- Classification:
- Administrative Personnel
- 317
- Clerical Personnel
- 204
- Distribution:
- Headquarter's Office
- 96
- Field Offices
- 352
- Evacuation Control Units
- 73
Personnel of the Farm Security Administration Engaged in the WCCA Program March 15, 1942 - May 31, 1942
The Special Negotiations Unit was staffed mainly with specialists obtained from the Farm Credit Administration. This unit was headed by a Chief obtained from that agency.
A breakdown of the Farm Security Administration evacuation operations staff by program units and by source of recruitment shows that a total of 521 employees were used, 148 detailed from the Farm Security Administration, 367 newly employed and 6 borrowed from the Farm Credit Administration. The above figures apply to total numbers of personnel used. At the high point in operations, during the week ending April 26, 1942, 375 people were on duty. Exhibit 28 attached gives a comprehensive weekly analysis of the employment and disposition of these employees.
Communications, Procurements and Travel:
Communications necessarily required heavy use of telephone and telegraph facilities. The Evacuation Control Program especially involved a time schedule which made the use of mail service impractical. All reporting was by telegraph and to a very large extent instructions to field employees involving program control were given either by telegraph or telephone. Daily telephone or telegraph reports were required from District Officers and from District Evacuation Agents.
Office furniture for Headquarters use was secured through rental arrangements. Equipment and certain facilities for field offices were provided by the United States Employment Service. Procurements of supplies and material were handled through regular Farm Security Administration channels.
Authorization was obtained immediately after the inception of the program to use airplane travel whenever necessary. (See Exhibit 29.) Field personnel necessarily traveled by automobile. Private cars owned by employees were generally used. Serious problems resulting from the rubber shortage arose and had to be handled without the benefit of any blanket provision to meet emergency tire needs. Employees who used their private automobiles in the discharge of their field duties did so at a personal sacrifice and in a spirit of patriotic duty.
Participation of WFA Field Agents In Evacuation Projects:
By the time Civilian Exclusion Order No. 7 was issued it had become apparent that the most effective work in areas actually under evacuation could be accomplished by arranging for Field Agents and Evacuation Agents to combine their efforts under a flexible plan of action to give prompt attention to any cases of incomplete property transfer transactions disclosed by civil control station operation. Accordingly the Chiefs of the WFA and the Evacuation Control Units constantly arranged for the assignment of personnel to areas requiring special attention. It was thus possible to assign a task force to any area where the completion of transactions was lagging. Specialized personnel capable of handling difficult transactions, as for instance green-house specialists, appraisers, attorneys, or farm crop specialists, were assigned as needed to specific localities. This arrangement proved to be particularly productive in the Puget Sound and Sacramento Valley areas.
Concluding Activities:
As rapidly as areas were evacuated under civilian exclusion orders, the functions of Field Agents were necessarily changed. Instead of promoting transactions and making loans, Field Agents devoted primary attention to the satisfactory conclusion of pending deals, to the delivery of loan checks, to the preparation and filing of securities, and to the inspection of properties and conditions in evacuated areas.
As areas were evacuated, offices were closed and plans made to redistribute such areas to remaining offices which could handle these concluding activities. During the month of May, 26 field offices were closed and the areas served by them were included in the areas of the remaining 17 offices.
Throughout most of the area the major activities from this date forward will be the servicing and collection of loans. Since Farm Security Administration Rural Rehabilitation offices are located throughout the area and are in a position to service the entire area, this function is being made the responsibility of Rural Rehabilitation Supervisors in certain of these offices. It is contemplated that loans made in Oregon and Washington, which area is normally administered from the Regional Farm Security Administration office at Portland, Oregon will be serviced from that regional office. The loans in California and Arizona will be serviced from the Regional Farm Security Administration office at San Francisco.
VI
Analysis of Operations and Results
Effects of the Evacuation on Agricultural Production
Land Use:
The utilization of land for agricultural purposes at any given time is determined by a variety of factors including skill of management, available markets, costs of production, prices of commodities and labor supply, as well as the character and fertility of the land itself. The adjustment of land utilization prior to the evacuation was a reflection of these factors. It would be impossible to conduct an evacuation of Japanese farmers from the Pacific Coast area without materially influencing the future use of the evacuated properties. The specialized character of Japanese farming would tend to accentuate such a change. It was the purpose of the Farm Security Administration to ameliorate as far as possible the forces and factors which would cause a drastic and immediate shift in the previous pattern of utilization of agricultural lands, especially where strategic food crops were involved.
Particularly around Puget Sound, in the vicinity of Los Angeles, and in the Sacramento Valley, the size of Japanese farm holdings and the types of soil made evacuation without a change in land use particularly difficult. Many of the Japanese farms near Seattle were in suburban districts, where intensive crops were produced on city lots without fences to separate the individual holdings, and where any departure from the system of farming already established would undoubtedly result in the consolidation of operating units together with entirely different management and labor utilization.
In some areas, particularly in the Sacramento Valley and near Puget Sound, it was only the customarily heavy use of Japanese family labor together with a painstaking use of farm resources which permitted the profitable production of intensive crops on relatively poor land. Gravelly soil was farmed for strawberry production. Irrigation water was frugally expended under a management plan seldom found except in the case of Japanese operation.
These and similar factors almost inevitably led to some changes in the utilization of land, although such changes were encountered principally in highly subdivided suburban districts or where poor soil was present. In a few instances Japanese farm units which had previously been city lots have reverted to the utilization which prevails on neighboring tracts; namely, pasture or even complete withdrawal from agricultural use. In a few poor soil areas a reversion of crop land to pasture or to extensive crops has occurred.
In general, however, the agricultural phase of the evacuation has been handled in such a way that the tendency to change the use of the land
Shifts in Crop Production:
Traditionally, an American farmer may exercise free choice in determining what crops he will plant and harvest. The skill and experience of the farm operator are important determinants of the types of crops which are produced, as well as the success which can be achieved under any crop planting program. The Japanese farmers possessed certain peculiar skills and experiences with reference both to farm practices and marketing of products which would be practically impossible to duplicate among any other group of farm operators. In certain instances the retail as well as the wholesale markets for products from Japanese-operated farms were controlled exclusively by Japanese. The evacuation program thus effectively eliminated not only the farmer but also the marketing facilities for products from the farm. New arrangements and new marketing channels will have to be established. While such a situation existed only in certain particular localities and not generally it will undoubtedly influence the production of certain crops in such localities.
The general apprehension among Western farmers concerning the labor supply during the war period is a potent factor which is causing them to plant crops which require less seasonal labor. In general the labor supply for Japanese farm enterprises was provided largely by Japanese laborers or by family labor. In some instances Caucasians, Filipinos, Mexicans or Indians were employed by the Japanese, but the presence of 12,000 adult Japanese who continuously derived their income from farm work was an important auxiliary feature of Japanese agriculture. The evacuation has effectively removed this labor supply. In some localities Japanese workers possessed specialized skills which will be extremely hard to replace. For instance, in certain orchard areas Japanese pruners were able to perform their job with such skill that they could predict and control with a high degree of accuracy the crop production per acre. The crop produced each year was adjusted by these skilled pruning operations with reference to price and marketing conditions. In other instances Japanese irrigators were able to distribute water in such a way that crops were produced year after year under difficult natural conditions.
The Farm Security Administration received numerous emergency communications from landlords, community leaders and other persons interested in the farming of particular areas to the effect that removal of the skilled Japanese would paralyze certain farming operations and urging that the Farm Security Administration intercede to have the evacuation postponed. Such requests were not acted upon but were regarded as indications that potential shifts in types of crops and in land utilization might be expected unless drastic measures were applied.
Crops differ in importance with relation to the wartime food needs of
For most individual farm programs the choice of crops had been fairly well established for the present year. The time of evacuation came during the period of growth rather than before planting. Consequently a material shift in the kinds of crops cannot occur until harvesting has been completed. Wherever perennial crops are grown little change in kinds of crops is possible. It therefore should be expected that shifts in crop production, to the extent that they do occur, will take place sometime subsequent to the present date. Where several crops are customarily grown in succession on the same acreage it is possible that the substitute operators will shift to more extensive use of the land after the first harvest has been completed. In other instances these shifts may occur prior to the next major crop season.
It may be safely said that continuity of production for the present year has been fairly well insured but no guarantees have yet been established which will permit a prediction that future shifts are not in prospect or if they occur, the extent and character thereof.
Shifts in Farm Tenure:
Since most Japanese farmers were tenants, the usual agreements executed were (a) sale or assignment of leases, (b) relinquishment of tenure to landlords, (c) employment of substitute managers for the duration of the war, or (d) arrangements providing for division on a share basis of crop proceeds either for the present year or for the duration of the war. Where the Japanese operators were real estate owners, leasing of their properties or management on a share or salary basis sometimes occurred. In a few instances owners of farms sold their real estate. It is believed that the Japanese have assumed they will return to their home communities after the war and, consequently, where possible, most tenure arrangements made during the evacuation are of a more or less temporary nature. If the Japanese do not return to the communities from which they have been removed, numerous farm tenure transactions will indubitably have to be made to effect the final disposal of their interests.
Labor Shortage:
Regardless of whether the basis is real or imaginary there exists throughout Military Area No. 1, as elsewhere, a general feeling among farm operators that a farm labor shortage either exists or is impending. There is no question but that 12,000 skilled farm laborers have been removed from the area, in addition to those taken by defense industries and military conscription. This factor was a serious detriment to the conclusion of deals on an equitable basis.
The Farm Security Administration has considerable evidence, through the operation of its migratory labor camp program, of the fact that numerous farm workers particularly in the State of California are still unemployed, or only partially employed. There is no certainty, however, that these workers can, due to transportation problems, be made available to areas where labor demand peaks exist, or that these workers possess the specialized skills generally required by Japanese-operated farm enterprises.
The demand for farm labor to produce and harvest crops on evacuated properties is undoubtedly but a small part of the total demand for the area. There is no reason to conclude therefore that the general farm labor situation on the Pacific Coast has been basically affected by the Japanese evacuation. On the contrary the most that can be said is that its effect has been to aggravate somewhat whatever problem would otherwise exist. This phase of the problem must be answered in terms of a more systematic and efficient distribution and use of the existing farm labor supply, for the evacuated properties constitute only a small part of the total agricultural enterprise on the Pacific Coast.
Summary:
It is the opinion of the Farm Security Administration therefore that the first objective, namely, to insure the continuity of agricultural production, has been accomplished beyond original expectations. To the limits of practicability, Japanese-operated farms are in the hands of competent management and the transition has been made without any serious interruption of farming operations. This, however, is a short-run accomplishment and there is no assurance that some future shifts in land use and types of crops planted will not occur.
Equity and Fair Dealing
The circumstances under which the evacuation occurred inevitably placed the Japanese in an adverse bargaining position. Knowledge was widespread that they would have to dispose of their farming assets and interests within a relatively short period and under conditions where buyers would have to assume considerable risks.
There is much evidence to support the statement that the Japanese who disposed of their assets early did so on very satisfactory terms. As the date of evacuation approached the circumstances surrounding the completion of transactions became more adverse. The Farm Security Administration early adopted a policy that intervention to a degree which would
Widespread publicity was given to the fact that the Farm Security Administration was committed to a policy of promoting fair dealing. The Japanese farmers availed themselves of the service of this organization when they felt that they were being placed in unfair bargaining positions or were being mistreated by creditors or landlords. Throughout the evacuation program, Field Agents and Evacuation Control personnel handled a large number of cases where supervision of transactions was necessary and where the absence of such supervision might have resulted in unfair treatment of the Japanese. All responsible field personnel were instructed to report by telegram the essential facts involved in specific cases which in their judgment required emergency action or possible intervention. In most of these instances the assignment of special negotiators or subsequent instructions given to field personnel resulted in a satisfactory solution of the problems. In some instances the cases were reported to the Department of Justice for field investigation through their organization. Such cases were extremely few in number. The possession of the freezing power was undoubtedly the outstanding single factor which promoted fair dealing in those cases in which the usual processes of bargaining and negotiations appeared to have broken down. A full discussion of that subject is presented immediately hereafter.
In summary it is the opinion of this agency that the achievement of the second objective, namely, to insure that fair and equitable arrangements between evacuees and the operators of their property, was accomplished to a degree exceeding the expectations at the outset of the program. Losses sustained were in general those which are normally involved when sale values and use values of property are compared.
Use of The Freezing Power
Conditions encountered at the outset and before authority to exercise the freezing power had been given the FSA were of such a character as to suggest that the actual use of this authority in many individual cases would be necessary. Instances were increasing of attempted abuse and overreaching, obviously the result of a growing recognition among prospective buyers that bargains could be made as time progressed.
There were some indications that the psychological conditions surrounding the disposal of properties would increasingly favor purchasers and place the Japanese in a more adverse bargaining position as time elapsed.
Immediately after the Farm Security Administration was vested with the freezing power, and knowledge of this fact disseminated, a situation was established in which the possession of the authority apparently eliminated the necessity for its use. The responsibilities of the FSA and suggested policies for making use of the freezing power were outlined in anticipation of its authorization. (See Exhibit 4.). Immediately after the Regional Director was authorized to exercise the freezing power, the policies and methods of operation were stated and summarized in appropriate instructions and procedures. See WFA Instructions 951.1 and 952.1, contained in Appendix A, "WFA Procedure."
It was apparent that there were two general types of situations which might require the use of the freezing power: (a) where grossly inequitable and unfair deals were or were about to be effected or where unfair advantage was or was about to be taken and (b) where the removal of the Japanese made it necessary to provide a legal entity or person in the area empowered to execute agreements or conclude negotiations for them.
It seemed inadvisable to invoke the freezing power, as a rule, where the latter situation existed and where the chief problem was to provide the legal and other arrangements under which disposal transactions could be completed. Therefore, the procedure and instructions covering the acceptance of powers of attorney and management contracts were devised.
To provide a legal entity which could assume responsibility for possession, management, operation and disposal of properties where intervention was necessary in either of the above types of situations, the California Evacuated Farms Association, Inc., was created. This Association was incorporated under the state laws of California on April 8, 1942. It was organized and created as a non-profit corporation with officers and directors selected from responsible personnel of the Farm Security Administration. See Exhibits 17 and 18; also WFA Instruction 953.1 contained in Appendix A.
In order to make intelligent use of the freezing power, or to enable the California Evacuated Farms Association to accept powers of attorney and management contracts, the Regional Director felt that it was necessary to delegate to selected personnel authority to recommend the use of the freezing power and authority to accept powers of attorney and management contracts. Twenty-one field employees were given this responsibility. These were selected from among the WFA District Officers, District Evacuation Agents, Evacuation Agents and Special Negotiators. These employees were thoroughly impressed with the fact that the responsibility devolved upon them required the use of great discretion and mature judgment. They were presented with a letter addressed by the Regional Director to all field employees instructing each responsible employee to act with the greatest of reserve and judgment in matters which might involve the use of the freezing power or the acceptance of attorney and management contracts. See letters dated April 10 and April 13 in Appendix C, "WFA Letters."
In only one instance was the freezing authority actually exercised. This involved a situation in which a landlord refused to permit the assignment of her lease to a substitute operator who had agreed to pay her Japanese tenant a satisfactory price for property appraised at $2,000. The substitute operator had offered $1,500; the landlord's final offer was $200. The landlord apparently intended to obtain possession of the crop, certain improvements and other assets without adequate compensation. Efforts to effect an amicable and voluntary solution were continued from the end of March until the 20th of April. The landlord was obdurate to the end despite the advice of her attorney. The freezing action was taken April 20, 1942.
In a large number of instances possession of the freezing power had considerable effect upon field negotiations involved in individual difficult cases. Quoted immediately hereafter is a paragraph from a letter addressed by Laurence I. Hewes, Jr., Regional Director, to C. B. Baldwin, Administrator, Farm Security Administration, under date of May 22, 1942, which describes a typical situation showing the effect of the possession of the freezing power by the Farm Security Administration:
"There was one other situation in which, for some period of time, it appeared that there might be occasion for the exercise of the freezing power. Some 30 Japanese strawberry growers were involved. These growers were producing strawberries under an arrangement with a landowner under which they were to receive a portion of the proceeds to be derived from the sale of the strawberries. Some 80 acres of strawberries valued at from $200,000 to $250,000
― 36 ―were involved. Mr. Russell Robinson of my office was sent to discuss the matter with the landowner, the persons financing the landowner and the Japanese. Immediately upon Mr. Robinson's entrance upon the scene, in the course of which he was able in a very astute manner to indicate the possible action which might be taken, settlement of the controversy between the landowner and 12 of the Japanese was immediately effected and subsequently a satisfactory settlement was arrived at between the landowner and the other 18 Japanese. Agreements covering the settlement were prepared by the Regional Attorney's office."
Many items of correspondence from field employees authorized to recommend the exercise of the freezing power and describing the efficacy of this authority as an instrument to be held in reserve but not actually used are now contained in the Farm Security Administration's files.
One power of attorney and management contract was accepted in behalf of the California Evacuated Farms Association. This action was taken in order to prevent the serious disintegration of a greenhouse business in the Los Angeles Area when it appeared that a period of time would elapse before a transaction could be closed. The Japanese owner could not find a suitable private attorney-in-fact, who would agree to accept his power of attorney and manage the enterprise. This greenhouse is no longer being managed by the California Evacuated Farms Association; final disposal on fair terms has been effected.
Thirteen additional powers of attorney were accepted by a Field Agent of the FSA from Japanese evacuated from Bainbridge Island, the first area to be evacuated. This action was taken at the very commencement of the evacuation program and in anticipation of situations and difficulties which either did not develop or the consequences of which it was possible to avoid. The California Evacuated Farms Association was subsequently substituted as attorney-in-fact for the Field Agent. The evacuees prior to their evacuation had entered into arrangements which more or less completely provided for the management and operation of their farm properties so that the duties of the California Evacuated Farms Association are limited to the performance of a supervisory function. It appears likely that arrangements will hereafter be effected which will make it possible to terminate the responsibilities of the association under the powers of attorney.
Occasionally, powers of attorney were given by the Japanese to private persons who agreed to represent them and dispose of their properties. A relatively small number of such situations developed. Most deals were concluded prior to actual evacuation.
In summary, it is the opinion of this agency that vesting the Regional Director with the freezing power was an outstanding factor enabling the achievement of a reasonable degree of equity and fair dealing between Japanese farmers and the principal parties with whom they had to deal in the disposal of their farming interests and assets.
Disposal of Farm Machinery
There appeared some likelihood that a serious problem would develop with reference to the transfer and disposal of farm machinery. The experience of field agents indicated that many substitute operators had sufficient machinery to operate the farms which they took over and that in certain localities secondhand dealers and dealers in scrap metal were attempting to buy farm machinery from Japanese at sacrificial prices. It further appeared that implement dealers in a number of areas had been somewhat reluctant to purchase machinery from Japanese. To prevent the unnecessary junking of machinery and to keep it available for its normal uses, it was highly desirable that some orderly method for the disposal of surplus implements and equipment through normal trade channels be provided.
The policies which were decided upon to govern the transfer and disposal of farm machinery prescribed the following objectives in the order listed:
- To the extent necessary for the continued operation of evacuated farms, farm machinery was to be retained upon the land for which it was normally used. A separate sale of the farm machinery to persons other than the substitute operator was to be discouraged unless the substitute operator possessed the necessary machinery to continue operations under a satisfactory farm program.
- Where machinery was to be sold off of the farm it was to be retained in the community or locality.
- The storage of farm machinery which would remove it from use during the war period was to be discouraged in view of the difficulty experienced in obtaining farming implements and equipment.
- Farm machinery still suitable for use or capable of being repaired was not to be sold to junk dealers for ultimate resale as scrap metal.
A copy of a statement of policy which was issued by the FSA is attached as Exhibit 30. To achieve the primary objective, namely, the retention of farm machinery for agricultural operations on evacuated lands, or where it was most needed, a direct appeal was made to implement dealers through their associations. On April 18, 1942, the officers of the leading California implement dealers' associations and representatives of the large implement dealer concerns met in the office of the Regional Director and entered into a discussion of methods which could be used to promote the advantageous disposal of such machinery. It was disclosed at the meeting that reluctance of implement dealers to purchase machinery from Japanese was due in large measure to uncertainty as to whether such action would be interpreted as contrary to the objective of keeping machinery on evacuated lands and a feeling that wholesale secondhand machinery prices might be interpreted as unfair prices. When the
The responsibility of the Farm Security Administration for agricultural equipment and implements, as distinct from the general custodial responsibility of the Federal Reserve System for all other Japanese-owned or operated machinery, is clarified in Exhibits 32 and 33, attached.
On May 8, 1942, a report was obtained from all Field Agents concerning the number of evacuated farms having undisposed-of machinery and the value of such machinery. These reports showed that on only 13 farms in that portion of the military area already evacuated was there any remaining undisposed-of machinery. The approximate value of such machinery was $11,655.
This information together with information obtained by direct observation of field activities gave sufficient basis for the conclusion that farm machinery was being disposed of in an orderly way and substantially according to the policies stated above.
It is the opinion of this agency that the controls and methods which were used in the supervision of the transfers of crops, leases and real estate were sufficiently effective that they largely controlled also the disposal of farm machinery. The causes for apprehension during the early weeks of the program with respect to a wasteful or unfair disposition of farm machinery in some instances and in some localities were observed to be generally absent during the subsequent period. It also appeared that the possession of the freezing authority effectively eliminated the circumstances which would result in a serious demoraliza-[tion] of the market for farm machinery.
VII
Fiscal Summary
The Finance Division of the Farm Security Administration provided the necessary services in handling the accounts for the evacuation program, thus avoiding the creation of a separate section in the WCCA-FSA organization. All payable accounts were coded to "556", a special FSA account against which costs incurred in connection with the WCCA were paid. When first established, Fund 556 ran "in the red"; that is, costs were posted against it before monies had actually been allocated.
On March 18, 1942, the Army allocated to the Regional Director $1,000,000 for use in making WFA loans. Administrative expenses were met by means of reimbursement vouchers. (See Exhibits 34 and 35.) By the middle of April, this sum had been exhausted, chiefly by the making of loans in excess of $900,000. In anticipation of this situation, additional funds were requested on April 9, 1942. (See Exhibit 36.) On April 24, 1942, $5,000,000 of additional money was received from the President's Emergency Fund with which to continue operations. (See Exhibit 37.)
By the end of May, a total of $3,584,025.42 had been expended, either for loans or administrative costs. Of this sum, $3,434,008.08 was for loans and $150,017.34 for administrative costs. A complete statement showing the amounts and sources of funds used and types and amounts of disbursements is attached as Exhibit 38.
VIII
Acknowledgement [sic] of Assistance and Cooperation of Agencies and Groups
The Farm Security Administration wishes to take this occasion to express its sincere gratitude to all agencies, organizations, groups and individuals who have given it assistance in a spirit of unselfishness and national interest during the evacuation program.
The U. S. Department of Agriculture State and County War Boards gave complete support to the policies and methods which the Farm Security Administration believed it necessary to employ. These agencies also provided assistance in the handling both of local situations and special problems which were area-wide.
The Agricultural Extension Service through its Extension Leaders and County Agents gave assistance to Field Agents in the performance of their functions. The Extension Service aided the appraisal of farm properties and in the promotion of transactions by advising both Japanese farmers and prospective substitute operators.
The Farm Credit Administration helped to solve a very difficult personnel problem by lending six highly-trained specialists to the Headquarter's Staff and the Special Negotiations Program. This agency also participated constructively in conferences which were held from time to time, and in its loan activities through national Farm Loan Associations and Production Credit Associations.
The Japanese-American Citizen's League and various kindred societies fostered an attitude among Japanese farmers which was the basis for the active cooperation of their farmer members in carrying out the policies which have been described in this report. It would be hard to overestimate the difference in results which would have been realized had this constructive viewpoint not been engendered by these societies.
The Agricultural Division of the California State Chamber of Commerce took an active and constructive interest in the program of the Farm Security Administration throughout the evacuation period. It also arranged meetings which brought together the representatives of leading agricultural enterprises and assisted in the interpretation of policies to these representatives.
The Agricultural Commissioners of several county governments provided statistical and other information from their files and otherwise gave helpful support.
The Bureau of Agricultural Economics provided, directly and indirectly, statistical information which was indispensible [sic] in the operation of the program.
The U. S. Treasury Disbursing Office in San Francisco expedited the payment of emergency crop production loans in recognition of a need for speed in getting loan payment to field points.
The Implement Dealers' Associations assisted in the interpretation of policies to their member dealers and generally facilitated the disposal of farm machinery.
In addition to the above acknowledgments, the Farm Security Administration wishes to state that it has in its files numerous reports from Field Agents and Evacuation Agents commending the various Federal Security Agency and Federal Reserve representatives upon the assistance which they rendered in the performance of their duties.
IX
Conclusion
With full consciousness of the nature and extent of the responsibility which was delegated to the Farm Security Administration as a member agency of the Wartime Civil Control Administration, this agency now wishes to state as its considered opinion that this responsibility has been effectively discharged in Military Area No. 1. We believe that the following will be found to be true within all practical limits of judgment:
- The agricultural lands and improvements thereon formerly possessed and occupied by Japanese farmers have been transferred to substitute occupancy and management, within 99 percent of the achievement which might be possible at the present date. This transfer has been made under such circumstances that a minimum of loss and maladjustment has resulted and the farm tenure and farm subdivision patterns have been changed in the least degree compatible with achieving the major objective of the program; namely, the continuation without serious interruption of agricultural production.
- The interests of Japanese farmers in their crops, as well as their chattels and leases, have been disposed of with the maximum protection which could have been given, in the interest of equity and fair dealing, without the employment of drastic measures which would have resulted in the wide scale assumption of management and farm operation responsibilities by the United States Government.
- The farm machinery previously possessed and used by Japanese farmers has been disposed of in a manner consistent with the wartime objective of keeping such machinery available in the farm communities where it was previously used, and without the stoppage of production which would have resulted had such machinery been junked, scrapped, or stored.
- In the achievement of the above results under adverse conditions and in an extremely short period of time the vesting of authority in the Farm Security Administration to use the freezing power was the most important single measure in avoiding a breakdown of disposal transactions. It enabled the maintenance throughout the evacuation period of an atmosphere in which fair dealing could be approximately accomplished.
- The allocation to the Farm Security Administration of funds for the purpose of making emergency crop production loans to substitute
operators implemented and facilitated the entire agricultural phase of the evacuation. Many qualified operators were thus
enabled
― 43 ―to take over Japanese farm properties. Moreover, fully as important as the loans actually made, was the stabilizing and reassuring effect which the availability of special FSA credit had on established credit agencies, would-be substitute operators and Japanese farmers.
It is our opinion that on June 1, 1942, the situation in Military Area No. 1 is such as to validate fully the above conclusions. Further trends and developments will be subject to the conditions and factors which are outlined in this report, especially under Section III and Section VI.
Exhibits
| No. | Description | Discussed on Page | ||
| 1 | Letter | March 15, 1942 | J. L. DeWitt to L. I. Hewes, Jr. | 2 |
| 2 | Telegram | March 19, 1942 | R. W. Hudgens to L. I. Hewes, Jr. | 2 |
| 3 | Letter | March 18, 1942 | L. I. Hewes, Jr. to Karl R. Bendetsen | 3 |
| 4 | Memorandum | March 27, 1942 | Gilbert Sussman to L. I. Hewes, Jr. | 3 |
| 5 | Letter | March 27, 1942 | L. I. Hewes, Jr. to Karl R. Bendetsen | 3 |
| 6 | Memorandum | March 27, 1942 | Karl R. Bendetsen to L. I. Hewes, Jr. | 3 |
| 7 | Letter | April 2, 1942 | L. I. Hewes, Jr., to Karl R. Bendetsen | 3 |
| 8 | Telegram | April 8, 1942 | C. B. Baldwin to L. I. Hewes, Jr. | 3 |
| 9 | Letter | April 8, 1942 | C. B. Baldwin to L. I. Hewes, Jr. | 4 |
| 10 | Delegation | April 8, 1942 | C. B. Baldwin to L. I. Hewes, Jr. | 4 |
| 11 | Delegation | April 7, 1942 | Claude R. Wickard to C. B. Baldwin | 4 |
| 12 | Delegation | April 6, 1942 | H. Morgenthau, Jr. to Claude R. Wickard | 4 |
| 13 | Letter | April 3, 1942 | Claude R. Wickard to H. Morgenthau, Jr. | 4 |
| 14 | Section 5 (b) "Trading With the Enemy Act" | 4 | ||
| 15 | Memorandum | April 4, 1942 | Karl R. Bendetsen to L. I. Hewes, Jr. | 4 |
| 16 | Memorandum | April 7, 1942 | Gilbert Sussman to L. I. Hewes, Jr. | 4 |
| 17 | Articles of Incorporation, California Evacuated Farms Association | 4 | ||
| 18 | California Evacuated Farms Association By-Laws | 4 | ||
| 19 | Chart | Organization of FSA in WCCA | 19 | |
| 20 | Summary | June 1, 1942 | Evacuation Control Projects | 21 |
| 21 | Letter | April 1, 1942 | L. I. Hewes, Jr. to USDA War Boards | 23 |
| 22 | Letter | April 7, 1942 | L. I. Hewes, Jr. to USDA War Boards | 23 |
| 23 | Letter | April 13, 1942 | L. I. Hewes, Jr. to USDA War Boards | 23 |
| 24 | Pamphlet | March 20, 1942 | Disposition of Japanese Land | 25 |
| 25 | Telegram | March 16, 1942 | George S. Mitchell to L. I. Hewes, Jr. | 25 |
| 26 | Telegrams | March 18, 1942 | George S. Mitchell to L. I. Hewes, Jr. | 25 |
| 27 | Report | June 5, 1942 | FSA Participation in WCCA Program | 26 |
| 28 | Analysis | June 1, 1942 | Personnel Employment | 27 |
| 29 | Letter | March 17, 1942 | George S. Mitchell to L. I. Hewes Jr. | 27 |
| 30 | Statement | April 24, 1942 | FSA Policy Re: Equipment and Machinery | 37 |
| 31 | Letter | April 20, 1942 | L. I. Hewes, Jr. to Osgood Murdock | 38 |
| 32 | Letter | April 13, 1942 | L. I. Hewes, Jr. to Karl R. Bendetsen | 38 |
| 33 | Letter | April 21, 1942 | L. I. Hewes, Jr. to Karl R. Bendetsen | 38 |
| 34 | Letter | March 19, 1942 | L. I. Hewes, Jr. to J. L. DeWitt | 39 |
| 35 | Letter | March 17, 1942 | G. C. Marshall to J. L. DeWitt | 39 |
| 36 | Letter | April 9, 1942 | L. I. Hewes, Jr. to Karl R. Bendetson | 39 |
| 37 | Transmittal | April 24, 1942 | Treasury to FSA, enclosing Treasury Department Form No. 1669, "Request for Transfer of Funds." | 39 |
| 38 | Summary | May 31, 1942 | Fiscal Summary of FSA Participation in WCCA, March 16, 1942 through May 31, 1942 | 39 |
Exhibit 1 [March 15, 1942 letter from DeWitt to Hewes]
HEADQUARTERS WESTERN DEFENSE COMMAND AND FOURTH ARMY
Office of the Commanding General
Presidio of San Francisco, California
Mr. Laurence I. Hewes, Jr., Regional Director
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
By virtue of and pursuant to the authority vested in me as Commanding General, Western Defense Command and Fourth Army, and in order to effectuate the removal of any enemy aliens and other persons designated by me, engaged in farming operations, who evacuate from restricted and prohibited areas lying within my command, you are hereby ordered and authorized as follows:-
- To institute and administer a program which will insure continuation of the proper use of agricultural lands voluntarily vacated by enemy aliens and other persons designated by me, and which will insure fair and equitable arrangements between the evacuees and the operators of their property.
- To incur the necessary administrative expenses, including the payment of personnel and necessary traveling expenses, to carry out the purposes of this order, such expenses to be reimbursed by me upon presentation of reimbursement vouchers.
- From funds made available or to be made available by me, to make, service and collect loans, including the provision of necessary farm management advice and guidance.
- To redelegate to such officers and employees of the Farm Security Administration as you may designate, any part of the authority herein contained.
Lieutenant General, U. S. Army
Commanding
JLD/tgb
Exhibit 2 [March 19, 1942 telegram from Hudgens to Hewes]
FD216 GOVT TWS PAID 3=WASHINGTON DC 19 608P 1942 MAR 19 PM 3 54
L I HEWES JR FSA
IN ALL YOUR WORK WITH GENERAL DEWITT THE SECRETARY WISHES YOU TO SERVE AS REPRESENTATIVE OF DEPARTMENT AS A WHOLE. IN AFFECTUATING YOUR WORK PLEASE COOPERATE FULLY WITH USDA WAR BOARDS WHICH COORDINATE ALL DEPARTMENTAL ACTIVITY
USDA
Exhibit 3 [March 18, 1942 letter from Hewes to Bendetsen]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
Office of the Assistant Chief
of Staff for Civil Affairs
Room 447, Whitcomb Hotel
1231 Market Street
San Francisco, California
Attention: Colonel Karl R. Bendetsen, G.S.C.
Confirmation has been received that all FSA field agents in California and Arizona are on the job. The majority of offices are receiving a flood of inquiries, many applications for assistance, and several offices have reported applications for loans.
A meeting of the Japanese-American Citizens' League representatives in San Francisco referred to in my report this morning, is being held tonight and I am planning to address the group.
As result of the first two days of operation, it appears that one of the biggest problems may be with recalcitrant white American landlords, lien holders, contractors for produce companies, etc., some of whom are selfish, some predatory, some nervous, some uncertain and all desiring to protect their interest at all costs. We greatly fear that these persons and interests may pursue a course of action based on the assumption that they will be able to take over various types of Japanese held property because of technical default of agreements such as farm machinery bought on contract to purchase, leases that have performance clauses, etc.
We recommend that the authority already granted to the Farm Security Administration be interpreted in such a way as to give the Farm Security the power to continue the status quo, i.e. by freezing present relationships and acting as trustee, or, if such authority is not now contained in instructions and orders issued to the Farm Security Administration, that such additional authority be granted as to permit the objective to be accomplished.
It is extremely important that in negotiating with landlords and others that the Farm Security Administration field representatives as a final resort have the power, once having worked out a proposed transaction which will result in evacuation to be fair and equitable to both parties, to effect the closing of the transaction without delay.
In our opinion, if this authority is given to the Farm Security Administration, it will not be necessary to use it except in very rare instances
I am attaching copies of telegrams received during the day from various field agents and district officers which will furnish some indication of the nature and scope of activity and problems in the field offices on the first day of business.
In accordance with Colonel Bendetsen's request, I am attaching a revised organization chart of the FSA staff assigned to this special work. It will be noted that a number of the positions considered necessary to the operation of this program are still vacant. Every effort possible is being made to fill these positions within the next two or three days at which time a further revision of the chart will be completed and transmitted to you.
Attachments - 17
Regional Director
Exhibit 4 [March 27, 1942 memo from Sussman to Hewes]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Office of the Solicitor
San Francisco
California
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: Laurence I. Hewes, Jr., Regional Director
FROM: Gilbert Sussman
SUBJECT: Responsibilities and Powers of FSA.
By virtue of the authorizations and directions contained in the letter dated March 15, 1942 from Lt. General J. L. DeWitt to you, the FSA is charged with the duty and responsibility of instituting a program to see that continuity of agricultural production is maintained in the military areas designated by Lt. General DeWitt. Coincident therewith, the FSA is charged with the responsibility of seeing that equitable adjustments are effected between evacuees and their landlords, lienors and other persons having claims against them, hereinafter referred to as creditors. As a necessary corollary of these duties and responsibilities, the FSA must see that the farm units to be evacuated, plus the equipment and other facilities used in the operation thereof are retained as complete units and also that persons succeeding to the interests and taking over the lands of evacuees are in a position to continue in their own right with the agricultural operations which have begun or which may hereafter be begun. The discharge of this responsibility presupposes the ability to effect equitable arrangements between the evacuee and his creditors, on the one hand, and substitute operators on the other. To accomplish this objective it is required that (1) the unit be retained as a complete unit, (2) that there is willingness and ability to transfer such unit to a substitute operator, and (3) that a substitute operator be found.
To accomplish these functions, the FSA is presently empowered to expend administrative funds and to make loans. This means that the FSA is in a position to perform its duties in either of two ways. First, by serving as an intermediary and secondly, by making loans to substitute operators who may be found. Unless the evacuee and all his creditors are willing and in a position to promptly effect a transfer and a substitute operator can immediately be found, the FSA is not in a position to discharge its duties and responsibilities.
I submit that for reasons which will hereafter be more fully elaborated, the FSA is not presently possessed of the powers and authority necessary to enable it to perform the tasks assigned to it. The nature of the difficulties which prevent the FSA from performing its functions can best be indicated by enumerating types of situations which have actually been encountered or upon the basis of reports from field agents, representatives of various agricultural interests and others it is clear will be encountered.
- I. Cases in which evacuees are not proceeding with production.
- a. Recalcitrant evacuee unwilling to proceed with production.
- b. A willing evacuee unable to obtain necessary financing (FSA not in position to provide him with such financing.)
- c. Hesitant evacuee willing to proceed with production if assurance or reasonable expectation offered that services and expenditures made will be reimbursed.
- II. Cases in which evacuee has no real equity or cannot realize equity.
- a. Secured and unsecured claims against growing crops, equipment or both exceed appraised value of equity, as (1) where crop mortgages include prior indebtedness, (2) where present sale value of growing crops not commensurate with expenditures made.
- b. Rentals beyond ability of substitute operator to pay, requiring extinguishment of evacuee's equity in crops to induce transfer.
- III. Cases in which lack of, or doubt as to, immediate ability to effect complete transfer.
- a. Evacuees are minors.
- b. Creditors are not available, e.g. absentee landlords.
- c. Uncertainty as to persons to join in transfer.
- d. Possibility of liens subsequently appearing of record.
- IV. Cases in which transfers prevented by absence of or action of evacuees.
- a. Abandoned farms.
- b. Inability of evacuee to complete transfer by fixed evacuation date.
- c. Refusal of evacuee to transfer property owned by him.
- d. Disposal by evacuee of necessary equipment and facilities owned by him, destroying complete unit.
― 3 ― - V. Cases in which transfers already effected inadequately cover situation.
- a. Operating agreements imposing no positive duty upon operator to manage or operate, for example, e.g. operating agreements between Bainbridge Island evacuees and R.G.Bodle Company, consent to lease or operate farm property, form of Bank of America, National Trust and Savings Association and/or Capital Company.
- b. Operating agreements as to portion of unit, e.g. operating agreements between Bainbridge Island evacuees and canneries extending only to specified crops and equipment necessary for such crops.
Each of the types of cases enumerated above will be encountered. Only this morning, I received a long distance telephone call from Carroll Dwyer at Portland, Oregon, advising that Japanese operators are disposing, on a salvage basis, of all machinery and equipment owned by them, pulling up and removing irrigation systems, with the result that processors in the surrounding area who have been contacted with the hope of inducing their taking over the operation of such units indicate they cannot take over, even if willing to do so. The FSA is not presently in a position to deal with any of these situations, nor is the Federal Reserve Bank authorized to exercise its freezing power so as to retain a particular unit intact.
In my opinion, it is necessary that the present powers and authorizations granted the FSA be enlarged in two respects. First, the FSA should be empowered in any case in which it is necessary to maintain a particular unit intact or to continue production until a substitute operator is found, to freeze all of the property of a particular evacuee. The power to freeze should be supplemented by the power to manage and, if necessary, to dispose and transfer to a substitute operator, when found. Secondly, where the difficulties are due to the inability to effect a prompt transfer or where the time element for doing so is too short, as, for example, where an evacuee must evacuate prior to a fixed date, the FSA should be authorized to accept a power of attorney and thereafter be empowered to use the funds which have been made available for loans pursuant to the order of Lt. General DeWitt for expenses of operation and maintenance until such time as a substitute operator is found, if one can be found. If the FSA were to use funds in such a situation, it is anticipated that reimbursement would be made, to the extent possible, out of the proceeds of operation or out of the proceeds of the sale of growing crops and other items to a substitute operator when one is found.
I submit it to you as my considered opinion that unless such additional authorizations and powers are granted to the FSA, the FSA should definitely advise Lt. General DeWitt that it does not feel it is or will be in a position to discharge the duties and responsibilities assigned to it of insuring continuity of production and of effecting equitable arrangements not only between an evacuee and his creditors, but also between the evacuee and his creditors on the one hand, and substitute operators on the other. The powers requested will enable the FSA to take such action as may be necessary to retain a unit as a complete operating unit and to make every effort to insure completely fair and equitable arrangements between all parties involved.
In the event such additional authorizations and powers are not granted, then it would appear that the FSA will merely be able to render all possible assistance in the capacity of intermediary and by means of financial assistance to substitute operators, assuming that in those instances in which it undertakes to act, the situation is such as to permit of the transfer of a complete operating unit to an available substitute operator.
Exhibit 5 [March 27, 1942 letter from Hewes to Bendetsen]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
Karl R. Bendetsen, Colonel G. S. C.
Assistant Chief of Staff, Civil Affairs Division
447 Whitcomb Hotel
San Francisco, California
I wish to provide you with a written statement of my views concerning the position of Farm Security Administration and its ability to do its part in meeting the problems presented by the evacuation of enemy aliens and citizens of Japanese descent.
It is my definite opinion that unless the Farm Security Administration is authorized to exercise the power of freezing the agricultural property of evacuees and to manage and, if necessary, to transfer and dispose of such property and unless it is further authorized and empowered to use funds made available or to be made available to the Farm Security Administration by Lt. General J. L. DeWitt for the purpose of managing and operating agricultural properties which have been frozen by the Farm Security Administration or agricultural properties with reference to which evacuees have granted the Farm Security Administration or its agents powers of attorney, that the Farm Security Administration cannot effectively, if at all, carry out a program that will insure continuation of the proper use of agricultural lands voluntarily vacated by enemy aliens and other persons designated by Lt. General J. L. DeWitt and which will insure fair and equitable arrangements between the evacuees and the operators of their property. Without the powers which have been requested, the contribution which the Farm Security Administration can make will be limited to serving in a supervisory and intermediary capacity and in making financial assistance available to persons who have been able either with or without such assistance on the part of the Farm Security Administration to effect arrangements for the transfer of the property of evacuees.
The basis for the conclusion which I have reluctantly reached as to the limited ability of the Farm Security Administration to make an effective contribution is to considerable extent set forth in a memorandum to me from Gilbert Sussman of my staff, a copy of which is attached hereto. I feel quite certain that you will agree with me that effective action in many of the types of situations outlined in the attached memorandum can be taken only if the additional powers requested by the Farm Security Administration are granted to it. I think it essential that General DeWitt and the other cooperating federal agencies should be fully aware of my feeling and that the Farm Security Administration should not
I do not mean to suggest that the Farm Security Administration is not entirely willing to cooperate with all agencies in this important work. On the contrary, please be assured of our complete willingness to cooperate with you and with all other agencies. It is because of our desire to make the greatest possible contribution that I am requesting the granting of such additional powers and authorizations.
I am transmitting herewith a suggested letter to me from Lt. General J. L. DeWitt granting such additional powers and authorizations in the event that Lt. General DeWitt determines to grant the request which I have made.
Regional Director
Exhibit 6 [March 27, 1942 memo from Bendetsen to Hewes]
WESTERN DEFENSE COMMAND AND FOURTH ARMY
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
1231 Market Street
San Francisco, California
MEMORANDUM for Mr. Larry I. Hewes, Farm Security Administration
Subject: Exercise of freezing power of agricultural property.
- I have read and considered your memorandum of March 27, 1942, in connection with the above subject, enclosing a memorandum dated March 27, 1942, relative to the responsibility and powers of the FSA.
- After extended consideration of your mission and the problems attendant upon its accomplishment, I have concluded that there is necessity for a revision in the method and circumstances wherein the freezing power is now exercised.
- In your relationship with the Commanding General, Western Defense Command and Fourth Army, you are regarded as a representative of the Department of Agriculture, and I understand from my conversations with you that, in the accomplishment of the mission assigned the Department, you, as its representative, are employing all of the available departmental agencies. In this connection, I further understand that the Agricultural War Boards established in each county by order of the Secretary of Agriculture, have a membership comprising a representative of every agency of the Department of Agriculture.
- The primary mission imposed upon the Commanding General is accomplishment of the evacuation in satisfaction of military necessity. In the accomplishment of his mission, he has prescribed that it shall be carried out a)with the minimum loss in agricultural production consistent with prompt execution, and b) with a maximum of fair dealing to all concerned. In the latter case, protection of the property interests of evacuees and avoidance, so far as practicable, of economic dislocation are major phases of the prescribed method.
- In responding to the request of the Commanding General to the Secretary of War, the Agriculture Department has therefore accepted
the mission of performing the following:
- a) To do everything reasonably necessary to prevent any crop loss subsequent upon evacuation and to reduce to a minimum the spoilage or loss of growing crops;
- b) To assist the evacuee in providing a substitute tenant or operator and at the same time to preserve the evacuee's equity to the fullest practicable extent consistent with the circumstances in each case;
- c) If necessary to take over and operate property where, in the absence of such action, growing crops would be neglected or abandoned or where the evacuee's equity, though of reasonable substance, would otherwise deteriorate.
― 2 ― - In order to accomplish these objectives it is essential that the power to "freeze" agricultural property, crops, farm implements and agricultural equipment, lease-hold interests, be readily available for application in cases of necessity.
- As the Agricultural War Boards have been organized in each county, it must follow that such Boards are familiar with local problems and conditions. They also have the personnel available to make prompt investigation and recommendation upon the recommendation of the Farm Security field agent. I therefore propose that the "freezing" powers necessary to the accomplishment of the objectives stated be applied only upon the recommendation of the appropriate county War Board; that such boards be the final arbiter as to whether or not the power to freeze be exercised in any given case.
- In this way, the action taken to "freeze" in any instance will represent the considered judgment of all agricultural agencies. It is immaterial to me whether the agency empowered to "freeze" on such recommendation is the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, one of its member banks or agencies, or whether it is the field agent of the Farm Security Administration.
- I am furnishing a copy of this memorandum to Mr. William H. Hale, Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco; Mr. Milton Eisenhower, War Relocation Authority; Mr. Ed Dodd, Director, Western Division, Department of Agriculture; and Mr. Dave Davidson, Chairman, California War Board. Concurrently I am recommending to the Commanding General Western Defense Command and Fourth Army that he approve the program outlined and that in furtherance of your mission, where property is "Frozen" and operated by your Agency, funds be made available for such operation, as for the hiring of operators and for the purchase of feed and seed, etc.
Colonel, G. S. C.
Assistant Chief of Staff
Civil Affairs Division
Exhibit 7 [April 2, 1942 letter from Hewes to Bendetsen]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
April 2, 1942
Karl R. Bendetsen, Colonel G. S. C.
Assistant Chief of Staff, Civil Affairs Division
447 Whitcomb Hotel
San Francisco, California
We have given extended consideration to the detailed administrative problems presented by the need for the Farm Security Administration undertaking to operate farms and agricultural lands of evacuees (who at the time of their required evacuation, have not effected arrangements with other agencies) either pursuant to powers of attorney executed by the evacuees or to the exercise of the freezing power.
Where powers of attorney are obtained, question is raised as to who is to be the attorney in fact. The attorney in fact might be the Regional Director of the Farm Security Administration or a Field Agent. It is felt it would make for an extremely cumbersome operation if the Regional Director were the attorney in fact in such instance. After an employee becomes attorney in fact, such employee becomes subject to the risk of liability for misfeasance or nonfeasance and irrespective whether he might be held liable therefore, he almost certainly will run a real risk of being subject to possible suits of various sorts.
Again, because of the manner in which personnel has been recruited and the large numbers temporarily required, frequent changes and reduction of personnel will hereafter be necessary. This would require repeated and successive substitution of attorneys in fact and make for innumerable difficulties in the keeping of records, the opening and closing of checking accounts, and the centralization of responsibility.
A further problem which will be inherent in the management and operation of farms of evacuees is that of providing funds with which to meet the costs of operation. While it is true that in theory a Field Agent as attorney in fact for an evacuee can borrow in the name of the evacuee, as a practical matter, this cannot be done. Neither can funds needed for such purposes be provided by the Field Agents themselves, nor loans to obtain such funds readily to be obtained by them in their individual capacity.
It would, therefore, be necessary that the Farm Security Administration make advances of funds to such Field Agents either in their representative or in individual capacities, or that such Field Agents be designated as "Agent Cashiers" and so supplied with ready cash funds. Making
The making of loans to Field Agents in their individual capacity would not appear to be justified nor should such Field Agents be required to enter into such transactions. Because of limitations of fiscal procedure, the difficulties consequent upon any attempt to appoint them as agent cashiers are too extensive to make such a procedure at all feasible. We have also considered the question of whether the present authorizations from Lt. General DeWitt are sufficiently broad to permit the Farm Security Administration to make advances, as distinguished from loans, to each of the Field Agents of sums to be used by them to meet operating costs. Some of these problems, particularly that of providing working capital, would also be present in any case in which the freezing power is exercised.
After due consideration, it is our feeling that many of these obstacles could be overcome by the creation of a non-profit corporation (or one for each state, if necessary) to be designated as California Evacuated Farsm [sic] [Farm] Association, to which a loan would be made. The directors of the association would be Farm Security Administration employees. The association could then provide the Field Agents of the Farm Security Administration, who would act as the agents and servants of the association, with funds to meet the costs of management and operation, Any funds advanced would be reimbursed out of the income from the operation of a particular evacuated farm or from the proceeds of the sale of the crops, equipment and other agricultural property to a substitute operator. The intention would be to utilize the device of the corporation only for such period as was necessary to bridge the time gap between the departure of a particular evacuee and the finding of a substitute operator qualified to take over.
While the need of proceeding in this fashion is clearly recognized — the alternative methods having been explored and found wanting — nevertheless it is felt that before embarking on a course of action such as proposed, your approval or that of Lt. General J. L. DeWitt, if his approval is necessary, should be obtained. Specifically, I have been advised that it is necessary to obtain written advices from you that the loan funds made available by Lt. General DeWitt to the Farm Security Administration and to which reference is made in the third numbered paragraph of his letter to me of March 15, 1942, may be used for loans to individuals, partnerships, corporations and other entities, including corporations created by the Farm Security Administration and having Farm Security Administration employees as directors, for the purpose of operating and managing such evacuated farms as it becomes necessary for the Farm Security Administration to operate.
While it is my opinion that a letter from you to this effect, which specifically advises me that the third numbered paragraph of Lt. General DeWitt's letter is sufficiently broad to provide for such a course of action and that he is entirely willing that the Farm Security
I think it unnecessary to advise you of the absolutely imperative need of proceeding immediately. Our experience has been that only a small portion of Japanese farm operators required to evacuate from evacuation areas have consummated satisfactory arrangements for the management of their agricultural property and, therefore, it is imperative that we immediately proceed to accept powers of attorney and otherwise act. Your cooperation, therefore, in enabling us to proceed in the manner in which we feel the circumstances dictate will be greatly appreciated.
Regional Director
Exhibit 8 [April 8, 1942 telegram from Baldwin to Hewes]
F15 LE24W 3 MINS TWS GOVT PAID-PA WASHINGTON DC 8 1108A
L I HEWES JR= 1942 APR 8 AM 9 42
FARM SECURITY ADMN SANFRANCISCO CALIF-
I HAVE AUTHORIZED YOU TO EXERCISE UNDER MY SUPERVISION AND DIRECTION THE POWERS UNDER SECTION 5 (B) OF THE TRADING WITH THE ENEMY ACT AS AMENDED BY TITLE 111 OF THE FIRST WAR POWERS ACT OF 1941. IN CONNECTION WITH THE CONDUCT OF THE AGRICULTURAL ASPECTS OF THE EVACUATION PROGRAM FOR THE WEST COAST MILITARY AREAS AND DESIGNATED ZONES. THIS POWER IS TO BE EXERCISED IN INDIVIDUAL CASES ONLY WITH THE CONCURRENCE OF MR GILBERT SUSSMAN REGIONAL ATTORNEY OR SUCH OTHER REPRESENTATIVES OF THE SOLICITOR AS HE MAY FROM TIME TO TIME DESIGNATE. I SHALL EXPECT DAILY TELEGRAPHIC REPORTS AS TO THE NUMBER OF CASES IN WHICH YOU HAVE FOUND IT NECESSARY TO EXERCISE THIS POWER. LETTER FOLLOWS-
Exhibit 9 [April 2, 1942 letter from Baldwin to Hewes]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Washington
Office of the Administrator
Mr. Laurence I. Hewes Jr.
Regional Director
Farm Security Administration, U.S.D.A.
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
In order that your files may be complete, and that you may know in detail the chain of circumstances leading to the authority vested in you by my memorandum of April 8, 1942, I am attaching copies of the following documents:
- Letter from the Secretary of Agriculture to the Secretary of the Treasury dated April 3, 1942.
- Letter of the Secretary of the Treasury in reply, dated April 6, 1942.
- Memorandum of the Secretary of the Treasury dated April 6, 1942, delegating the necessary power to the Secretary of Agriculture.
- Order of the Secretary of Agriculture dated April 7, 1942.
- My memorandum of April 8, 1942.
As you know, some consideration was given to the desirability of delegating the necessary power to the State War Boards rather than to yourself. This was done largely at your suggestion, so that you might have the advantage of the local judgment embodied in the views of those Boards. The decision to vest the power in you was largely based on the administrative convenience of vesting administrative power in an administrative official who can proceed along recognized procedural lines. If the power had been delegated to the State War Boards, it would have been necessary to devise a somewhat elaborate procedure for their use in exercising it. However, the problem of obtaining the sanction of local public opinion still remains. I, therefore, suggest that you give consideration to the desirability of presenting your general policy with respect to this power to each of the War Boards affected, and, if possible, obtain their concurrence in your policy decisions. I do not, however, suggest that you
As you were advised over the telephone, I should also like a statement of general policy in a letter addressed to me, so that I may be in a position to present it to the Department, and, if necessary, to the Treasury Department. In particular, I should like to be advised as to the procedure which you propose to follow and the precautions which you propose to take to make certain that you obtain adequate information from the field before exercising the power. Because of the unusually stringent nature of the power, you will, I am sure, agree that it is essential that you obtain adequate information so that you may be in the position of making an independent decision in an individual case rather than relying on the recommendations of subordinate field officials. I understand that the Solicitor's Office has asked Mr. Sussman to collaborate with you in the preparation of such a statement of policy and procedure.
As I indicated in my telegram, we will need daily telegraphic reports of the number of cases in which the power has been exercised. It will also be desirable for you to airmail to me once or twice a week a statement of the nature of each case in which the power has been exercised, and the reasons for which you found it necessary to exercise it.
In asking you for this detailed information, and in advising you over the telephone of the necessity for protecting the power from hasty and ill-considered action, I do not want to leave the impression that you should not exercise it expeditiously and effectively whenever necessary. I am merely expressing the view obtained from our discussions with the Treasury officials that it is the desire of the Administration that the power be exercised with restraint and only in cases where it is necessary. I have every confidence that you will be able to achieve the mean between over-exercise and under-exercise of the power.
In view of the urgency of the problems which you will be facing for the next few weeks, and in view of the fact that this is the first time that we will be in the position of utilizing regulatory power of this nature, please feel free to call me on the telephone if I can be of any help to you.
Enclosures
AIR MAIL
Exhibit 10 [April 8, 1942 delegation from Baldwin to Hewes]
MEMORANDUM
DELEGATING POWERS UNDER SECTION 5(b) OF THE TRADING WITH THE ENEMY ACT, AS AMENDED BY TITLE III OF THE FIRST WAR POWERS ACT OF 1941
For the purpose of enabling the Department of Agriculture to carry out the agricultural aspects of the evacuation program for the West Coast military areas and designated zones, Laurence I. Hewes, Jr., Regional Director of the Farm Security Administration for Region IX, is hereby authorized and directed to exercise under my supervision the authority vested in the Farm Security Administration under Section 5(b) of the Trading With The Enemy Act, as amended by Title III of the First War Powers Act of 1941, by order of the Secretary of Agriculture dated April 7, 1942. This authorization shall not be construed as a limitation upon my authority to exercise such power and authority at any time or to make further delegations of authority to other persons within the Farm Security Administration.
Administrator
Farm Security Administration
Exhibit 11 [April 7, 1942 delegation from Wickard to Baldwin]
DELEGATING POWERS UNDER SECTION 5(b) OF THE TRADING WITH THE ENEMY ACT, AS AMENDED BY TITLE III OF THE FIRST WAR POWERS ACT OF 1941
For the purpose of enabling the Department of Agriculture to carry out the agricultural aspects of the evacuation program for the West Coast military areas and designated zones, the authority delegated to me by the Secretary of the Treasury by memorandum dated April 6, 1942, under Section 5(b) of the Trading With The Enemy Act, as amended by Title III of the First War Powers Act of 1941, is hereby vested in the Farm Security Administration, to be exercised under the supervision and direction of the Administrator of that Administration by such officers of that Administration as he may from time to time designate. This delegation shall not be construed as a limitation upon my authority to exercise such power and authority at any time or to make further delegations of authority to other agencies of the Department.
CIB lau:nab
4-7-42
G.J. 14456
Secretary of Agriculture
Exhibit 12 [April 6, 1942 delegation from Morganthau to Wickard]
THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY
WASHINGTON
APR 6 - 1942
MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE:
For the purpose of enabling the Department of Agriculture to carry out the agricultural aspects of the evacuation program for the West Coast military areas and designated zones, there is hereby delegated to and conferred upon the Secretary of Agriculture full authority to exercise any and all powers delegated to the Secretary of the Treasury under section 5(b) of the Trading with the Enemy Act, as amended by Title III of the First War Powers Act of 1941, with the power to redelegate these powers to such field and other agencies in the Department of Agriculture as the Secretary of Agriculture may from time to time designate. This delegation shall not be construed as a limitation upon my authority to exercise such power and authority at any time or as a limitation upon the authority of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco to exercise the power and authority conferred upon it as Fiscal Agent of the United States.
Secretary of the Treasury.
The Secretary of Agriculture
Exhibit 13 [April 3, 1942 letter from Wickard to Morganthau]
April 3, 1942
The Secretary of the Treasury
At the request of the Commanding General of the Western Defense Command and Fourth Army, the Farm Security Administration of this Department has been assisting in the evacuation from certain military areas of certain persons, among whom are enemy aliens and persons of Japanese descent who operate farms either as landowners or as tenants. The functions of the Farm Security Administration in this respect have largely related to assistance in the making of arrangements with respect to farms which are to be evacuated so that the property interests of the evacuees in the farms, in the crops, and in the livestock and equipment on the farms may be protected, and so that the farms may be continued in cultivation in the interests of continued agricultural production. As you know, some of the farms involved are extremely productive and their continuation in production is essential to the success of the Food for Freedom program of this Department which has been formulated with a view to meeting the increased food needs of our armed forces, our civilian population, and our Allies.
The work of the Farm Security Administration has involved attempts to secure substitute operators for the evacuated farms and the provision for such operators of the necessary credit for continued production.
A number of situations has developed which forcefully indicate that the powers of this Department are not adequate to make it possible effectively to accomplish these objectives. This lack of authority has been brought to my attention not only by field representatives of this Department but also by the Director of the War Relocation Authority, who has specifically requested me, pursuant to the responsibility placed upon him by the President, to obtain and exercise additional powers under the Trading With The Enemy Act. It is my understanding that the representatives of the Commanding General also feel that the Farm Security Administration is handicapped by its present lack of authority.
The lack of the necessary powers has been made evident by a number of different types of cases arising in the actual administration of the program. In many cases, landlords or other creditors of the affected evacuees have refused to cooperate in the program because of their feeling that when the farms are evacuated, defaults will have occurred under the terms of their leases or mortgages as a result of which they will be in a position to cancel the leases or foreclose the mortgages and thus secure the property interests of the Japanese without adequate compensation. The only effective method for meeting situations of this character is to exercise the freezing power. Of course, the mere existence of that
More serious are the cases where production is threatened by acts on the part of the prospective evacuees caused either by their desire to sabotage production or by fear. Cases have come to our attention where the evacuees are failing to proceed with production for a variety of reasons. We also know of cases where the evacuees, in order to realize upon their equipment, are making ill-advised attempts to sell their equipment to persons other than prospective operators of their farms. This, of course, makes it impossible to transfer the farms to prospective operators as operating units. There are also cases in which the evacuees cannot be found or are under some legal disability which prevents them from transferring their property in orderly fashion.
Accordingly, I am now requesting you to authorize me, in accordance with the provisions of subdivision (b) of section 5 of the Trading With The Enemy Act of October 6, 1917 (40 Stat. 411), as amended by the First War Powers Act, 1941 (Public Law 354, 77th Congress), to freeze property and transactions therein, and to vest, manage, operate and dispose of property when the property or any interest therein is held by an evacuee engaged in farming operations who has evacuated or is about to evacuate a farm located in a military area within the Western Defense Command. If this authority is granted, I should be empowered to delegate the responsibility and powers to such field and other agencies of this Department as I may from time to time designate.
It is, of course, recognized that, in the absence of time limitations, all these situations could be taken care of either through the ordinary processes of law or by requesting the agencies which now have the necessary powers to exercise them in cases which come to our attention. However, there are two limitations of time which, in my opinion, make it impossible either to use the ordinary processes of law or to request other agencies to take the necessary action. The first limitation of time results from the determination of the Commanding General that it is necessary from a military standpoint to evacuate many of the affected areas immediately. The second limitation results from the extremely perishable nature of many of the crops which are involved. A few hours' neglect will frequently destroy an entire crop of this type.
I would appreciate your early consideration of these problems.
CIBlau:nao
4-2-42
D13738 (G.J.)
Secretary
Exhibit 14 - Section 5 (b) of Trading With the Enemy Act
Section 5 (b) of Trading With the Enemy Act
(As Amended by Title III of First War Powers Act)
Public - No. 354-77th Congress
- (1) During the time of war or during any other period of national emergency declared by the President, the President may,
through any agency that he may designate, or otherwise, and under such rules and regulations as he may prescribe, by means
of instructions, licenses, or otherwise —
- (A) Investigate, regulate, or prohibit, any transactions in foreign exchange, transfers of credit or payments between, by, through, or to any banking institution, and in the importing, exporting, hoarding, melting, or earmarking of gold or silver coin or bullion, currency or securities, and
- (B) Investigate, regulate, direct and compel, nullify, void, prevent or prohibit, any acquisition, holding, withholding, use, transfer, withdrawal, transportation, importation or exportation of, or dealing in, or exercising any right, power, or privilege with respect to, or transactions involving, any property in which any foreign country or a national thereof has any interest, by any person, or with respect to any property, subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; and any property or interest of any foreign country or national thereof shall vest, when, as, and upon the terms, directed by the President, in such agency or person as may be designated from time to time by the President, and upon such terms and conditions as the President may prescribe such interest or property shall be held, used, administered, liquidated, sold, or otherwise dealt with in the interest of and for the benefit of the United States, and such designated agency or person may perform any and all acts incident to the accomplishment or furtherance of these purposes; and the President shall, in the manner hereinabove provided, require any person to keep a full record of, and to furnish under oath, in the form of reports or otherwise, complete information relative to any act or transaction referred to in this subdivision either before, during, or after the completion thereof, or relative to any interest in foreign property, or relative to any property in which any foreign country or any national thereof has or has had any interest, or as may be otherwise necessary to enforce the provisions of this subdivision, and in any case in which a report could be required, the President may, in the manner hereinabove provided, require the production, or if necessary to the national security or defense, the seizure of any books of accounts, records, contracts, letters, memoranda, or other papers, in the custody or control of such person; and the President may, in the manner hereinabove provided, take other and further measures not inconsistent herewith for the enforcement of this subdisision [sic].
- (2) Any payment, conveyance, transfer, assignment, or delivery of property or interest therein, made to or for the account
of the
― 2 ―United States, or as otherwise directed, pursuant to this subdivision or any rule, regulation, instruction, or direction issued hereunder shall to the extent thereof be a full acquittance and discharge for all purposes of the obligation of the person making the same; and no person shall be held liable in any court for or in respect to anything done or omitted in good faith in connection with the administration of, or in pursuance of and in reliance on, this subdivision, or any rule, regulation, instruction, or direction issued hereunder. - (3) As used in this subdivision the term "United States" means the United States and any place subject to the jurisdiction thereof, including the Philippine Islands, and the several courts of first instance of the Commonwealth of the Philippine Islands shall have jurisdiction in all cases, civil or criminal, arising under this subdivision in the Philippine Islands and concurrent jurisdiction with the district courts of the United States of all cases, civil or criminal, arising upon the high seas; Provided, however, that the foregoing shall not be construed as a limitation upon the power of the President, which is hereby conferred, to prescribe from time to time, definitions, not inconsistent with the purposes of this subdivision, for any or all of the terms used in this subdivision.
Whoever willfully violates any of the provisions of this subdivision or of any license, order, rule or regulation issued thereunder, shall, upon conviction, be fined not more than $10,000, or, if a natural person, may be imprisoned for not more than ten years, or both; and any officer, director, or agent of any corporation who knowingly participates in such violation may be punished by a like fine, imprisonment, or both. As used in this subdivision, the term "person" means an individual, partnership, association, or corporation.
Exhibit 15 [April 4, 1942 memo from Bendetsen to Hewes]
WESTERN DEFENSE COMMAND AND FOURTH ARMY
Office of Assistant Chief of Staff, Civil Affairs Division
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
1231 Market Street
San Francisco, California
Telephone KLondike 2-2611
MEMORANDUM FOR: REGIONAL DIRECTOR, FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
SUBJECT: Emergency Crop Loans.
- Reference is made to your letter of April 2nd, 1942 in which you requested authority to loan emergency funds to a private corporation organized by your administration, which funds were made available to you for loaning in order to preserve growing crops which would be otherwise lost, in certain cases.
- So long as no loan is made out of the emergency funds in cases not falling within the specific purpose previously communicated to you, no objection is seen to a bona-fide loan for the purpose of preserving and protecting growing crops, made to a corporation even if that corporation may have been organized at your direction for the purpose of providing a temporary farm management entity.
- I have been directed by the Commanding General, Western Defense Command and Fourth Army to advise you as indicated above.
Colonel, General Staff,
Assistant Chief of Staff
Civil Affairs Division.
Exhibit 16 [April 7, 1942 memo from Sussman to Hewes]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
TO: Laurence I. Hewes, Jr., Regional Director
FROM: Gilbert Sussman, Office of the Solicitor, U.S.D.A.
SUBJECT: California Evacuated Farms Corporation - Authorization for Establishment and Use<
I have examined the communication received from Col. Karl Bendetsen with reference to the use of a corporation created by the Farm Security Administration and having as its directors Farm Security Administration employees, as a medium for the management and operation by the Farm Security Administration of farms and other agricultural property of the evacuees. There were two problems presented by Mr. C. B. Baldwin and Mr. C. I. Blau. The first concerned the recent ruling of the Comptroller General with reference to loans from appropriated funds to corporation having Farm Security Administration employees as directors, and the second concerned your authority, under General DeWitt's letter of March 15, 1942, to use funds made available to you for loans, to make a loan to such a corporation.
By telegram this morning I submitted the communication from Col. Bendetsen to the Solicitor's office, specifically asking whether Col. Bendetsen's communication was sufficient, in the opinion of the Solicitor's office to meet the two points noted. I have received a telegraphic reply from the Solicitor advising that Col. Bendetsen's communication is deemed satisfactory for such purposes.
A third question which is involved is the authority of the corporation to make use of funds lent to it to meet certain items of expense which will necessarily be entailed, including the cost of incorporation, the payment of premiums to bond field agents acting as its servants, purchase supplies and to make similar expenditures. It is my opinion that the use by the corporation of funds advanced to it for such purposes is entirely justified, since the making of such expenditures are necessarily incidental to the performance by the corporation of the functions for which it is being established.
Office of the Solicitor
Exhibit 17
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
of
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
(a non-profit corporation)
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
That we, the undersigned, have this day voluntarily associated ourselves together for the purpose of forming a nonprofit corporation, pursuant to Article I, Title 12, Part 4, Division 1, of the Civil Code of California.
Article I
The name of this Association shall be the CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION.
Article II
This Association does not contemplate pecuniary gain or profit to the members thereof and is organized and exists as a non-profit Association without capital stock, pursuant to the laws of the State of California, and the purposes and objects of this Association shall be:
To assist in, aid, facilitate, and effect
(1)
The orderly and humane evacuation of any person or persons, including aliens or American citizens, from any area or areas and their removal to others, in compliance with any order, proclamation, decree, or policy of the Military, Federal or State authorities:
(2)
The continuous, uninterrupted planting or culture, growth and production of agricultural products, including horticultural, vitacultural, dairy, livestock, poultry, bee, and any farm products within or without the State of California, the prevention of delays in their production, and losses or reductions in the quantity or quality of such products which might otherwise
(3)
The care and management and/or operation of the property, facilities, farms, businesses, and homes of any person or persons being, about to be, who may be or who have been evacuated from any area or any portion thereof, and the sale, transfer, exchange, leasing, disposition of or liquidation of all or any portion thereof on an equitable and efficient basis.
In furtherance and not in limitation of the objects and purposes herein set forth, the Association shall have the power to do any and all of the following things:
- (a) To safeguard, protect, preserve, add to, improve, operate, or manage the property, real or personal (including the farms, crops, agricultural produce, equipment, facilities, businesses, moneys, funds or credits) of any person or persons being, about to be, who may be, or who have been evacuated from any area, or any portion thereof, and to lease, sell, convert, liquidate, exchange or otherwise dispose of, for the account and benefit of said person or persons, any of said property or any portion thereof;
- (b) To advance to said person or persons, or on their behalf, to others, moneys, materials, equipment, labor, facilities, and incur all necessary expense, incidental or necessary to do the things provided herein;
- (c) To accept appointment and serve as the lawful attorney for, and in the name of, said person or persons so appointing it to do any of the things specified herein, which appointment shall be accepted upon the express understanding and condition that it is made and accepted in order to enable the Association, among other things, to secure the repayment to it of any moneys advanced or expenses incurred by it, for materials, equipment or labor furnished to said person or persons;
- (d) To contract and to be contracted with;
- (e) To acquire and hold, or dispose of, any property, real or personal, including shares of stock, bonds and securities of other corporations;
- (f) To borrow money and issue any securities therefor;
- (g) To do each and every thing necessary, suitable or proper for the accomplishment of any of the purposes or the attainment of any one or more of the purposes or objects herein enumerated and conducive to or expedient for the interest or benefit of the Association or person or persons being, about to be, who may be, or who have been evacuated from any area or any portion thereof, and contract accordingly; and, in addition, exercise and possess all powers, rights and privileges necessary or incidental to the object and purposes for which the Association is organized or to the activities in which it is engaged; and, in addition, to possess the powers, rights and privileges of corporations organized under the general laws of the State of California, except such as are inconsistent with the express provisions of Article I, Title 12, Part 4, Division 1, of the Civil Code of California.
Article III
The principal office for the transaction of business for this Association shall be in the City and County of San Francisco, State of California, but the Association may maintain offices and places of business in such other places within or without the State of California as the Board of Directors may determine.
Article IV
The existence of this Association shall be perpetual.
Article V
The private property of the members of this Association shall not be subject to the payment of corporate debts.
Article VI
Upon dissolution, the property of this Association shall be distributed as provided in the By-Laws.
Article VII
Section 1.
The persons signing these Articles of Incorporation shall be deemed members of the Association immediately upon the completion of its organization.
Section 2.
Membership in this Association shall be evidenced by a Certificate of Membership, the form, terms, and conditions of which shall be provided for in the By-Laws. Such Certificates of Membership shall not be assignable or transferrable except as may be expressly provided in the By-Laws. Each member shall be entitled to but one vote.
Article VIII
the names and addresses of individuals who are to act in the capacity of Directors until their successors are elected, are:
| Name | Address |
| Laurence I. Hewes, Jr. | 576 Tennyson Avenue
Palo Alto, California |
| R. W. Hollenberg | 830 Calmar Avenue
Oakland, California |
| Ruth V. Wilson | 1347 Green Street
San Francisco, California |
Article IX
This Association reserves the right to amend or change or repeal any provisions contained in these Articles of Incorporation in the manner now or hereafter prescribed by statute and all rights conferred upon the members herein are granted subject to this reservation.
Article X
The By-Laws of this Association shall be adopted by the Directors named in the Articles of Incorporation and may thereafter be amended or repealed by any means provided in the By-Laws.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the persons who are to act in the capacity of first Directors of the Association have hereunto set their hands this 8th day of April, 1942.
Exhibit 18 [California Evacuated Farms Association By-Laws]
BY-LAWS
of
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
(a non-profit corporation)
Article I
Section 1.
The name of this Association is CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
Section 2.
The principal place of business of this Association shall be located at San Francisco, California.
Article II
The fiscal year of this Association shall begin on the first day of January of each year.
Article III
The seal of this Association shall have inscribed thereon the name of the Association and the year of its incorporation, and the words "A California NON-PROFIT Corporation".
Article IV
Section 1.
The members of this Association shall consist of the holders of Certificates of Membership.
Section 2.
A record of the members, their full names, addresses and occupations at the time of their admission into the Association shall be kept by the Secretary-Treasurer. Each member shall notify the Secretary-Treasurer immediately of any change in his address.
Section 3.
Membership in this Association may be terminated in any of the following ways:
- (a) Any member desiring to withdraw from the Association may do so by surrendering his Certificate of Membership to the Secretary-Treasurer which Certificate shall thereupon be cancelled and the member's name stricken from the record of the members.
- (b) The death of any member of this Association shall terminate his membership therein and it shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to call in his Certificate of Membership within thirty (30) days after his death, which Certificate shall thereupon be cancelled and the member's name stricken from the records of the members.
- (c) Any member of this Association may be expelled from membership therein by a majority vote of all of the members thereof
upon the failure of such member to abide by the rules and regulations set forth in the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws
of said
― 2 ―Association and such other rules and regulations as may be adopted by the Board of Directors in regard to the conduct of this Association. Any member thus expelled shall immediately surrender his Certificate of Membership to the Secretary-Treasurer for cancellation and his name shall be stricken from the records of the members. - (d) Any member whose membership is terminated, for whatever cause, or the heirs, executors or administrator of a deceased member, shall not be entitled to any money or property of the Association and shall have no further right in the control, benefits or affairs of said Association.
Article V
>Section 1.
The Association shall cause to be issued and outstanding at any one time a total of not more than three (3) Certificates of Membership, each of which shall be issued for the sum of One Dollar ($1.00). All Certificates shall be of the same class.
Section 2.
No person shall be issued or hold in his own name more than one Certificate of Membership and the holder thereof shall be entitled to but one vote. A member may cast his vote either in person or by mailing it to the Secretary-Treasurer of the Association, or by proxy.
Section 3.
The Certificate of Membership shall be in such form as determined by the Board of Directors; provided, that each Certificate shall contain a restriction printed thereon to the effect that it shall not be transferred or assigned except with the written approval of the Board of Directors. The transfer of assignment of any such Certificate shall be recorded on the books of the Association.
Article VI
Section 1.
The annual meeting of the Association shall be held at San Francisco, in the County of San Francisco, State of California, on the 15th day in January of each year at 10 o'clock, AM. if not a legal holiday; but if a legal holiday, on the next business day following, for the purpose of electing directors and transacting such other business as may come before the meeting.
Section 2.
Special meetings of the members for any purpose whatsoever, may be held upon call of the Board of Directors, or by written request of a majority of the members, stating the specific business to be brought before the meeting, to the Board of Directors. On receipt of such request the Board of Directors must call a special meeting. Call for meetings shall state the time, place and purpose for which it is called.
Section 3.
Written notice of meetings, whether regular or special, shall be given to each member at least two (2) days before the meeting is to be held.
Section 4.
A majority of the members at any membership meeting shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of all business.
Section 5.
The President and the Secretary-Treasurer of the Association shall act as chairman and secretary-treasurer respectively of such meetings of the members, unless the meeting shall decide otherwise.
Section 6.
The Board of Directors may make and, from time to time, change rules and regulations for the conduct of elections or any election, and for voting upon or with respect to any question or matter submitted to the members for vote, consent or assent, except as otherwise provided by law.
Article VII
Section 1.
The corporate powers of the Association shall be vested in, and exercised and controlled by a Board of Directors, consisting of three (3) persons who shall be duly qualified members of the Association. The term of office of a Director shall begin immediately upon his election, and each Director so elected shall hold office for one year and until his successor is elected, or until he withdraws from membership or becomes disqualified or is removed from office, whichever shall first transpire.
Section 2.
A meeting of the Board of Directors (to be known as the organization meeting) shall be held immediately after each annual election, for the purpose of organizing, electing and appointing officers. No notice of such organization meeting need be given. If not held at the appointed time, or if no reorganization is effected or completed at such meeting, the same shall be transacted and completed at the first regular or special meeting thereafter. Any other business may be transacted at such organization meeting.
Section 3.
In addition to the organization meeting, regular meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held on the 10th day of each month at 10 o'clock A.M. at the principal office of the Association at San Francisco, County of San Francisco, State of California, unless otherwise ordered by the Board. It shall not be necessary to give notice of regular meetings or the business to be transacted thereat.
Section 4.
Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be held from time to time by call of the President, or if he be absent or be unable or refuses to act, by the Vice-President. It shall be the duty of the President, or in his absence, inability or refusal to act, then of the Vice-President, to call a special meeting of the Board of Directors specifying the purpose. Notice of such special meetings shall be given by the Secretary-Treasurer to each Director, specifying the time, place and business to be transacted thereat by giving written notice prior to the time before such meeting is to be held.
Section 5.
When a vacancy on the Board of Directors occurs, other than by expiration of term, the remaining members of the Board, by a majority vote, shall fill the vacancy.
Section 6.
At all meetings of the Board a majority of the Directors shall be necessary and sufficient to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and the act of a majority of the Directors present at any meeting at which there is a quorum shall be the act of
Section 7.
The Directors shall receive no salary for their services but shall be entitled to reimbursement for actual traveling and other necessary expenses incurred in attending directors' meetings.
Article VIII
The Board of Directors, subject to restrictions of law, the Articles of Incorporation, and these By-Laws, shall exercise all of the powers of the Association, and, without prejudice to or limitation upon their general powers, it is hereby expressly provided that the Board of Directors shall have, and are hereby given, full power and authority (to be exercised by resolution adopted by majority vote of all the members of the Board present at any regular or special meeting at which a quorum is present) in respect to the matters and as hereinafter set forth:
- To pass upon the qualifications of members and to cause to be issued appropriate Certificates of Membership.
- To select, and appoint all officers, agents or employees of the Association, prescribe such duties and designate such powers as may not be inconsistent with their By-Laws, fix their compensation and require security for faithful service.
- To borrow money, and to make and issue notes, and other negotiable and transferable instruments, mortgages, deeds of trust and trust agreements, and to do every act and thing necessary to effectuate the same.
- To accept grants, gifts, and/or subsidies of money or property, or services from the United States of America, or any agency thereof or from any other source.
- To prescribe, adopt and amend from time to time, such equitable and uniform rules and regulations as, in their discretion, may be deemed essential or convenient for their conduct of the business and affairs of the Association and the guidance and control of its officers and employees, and to prescribe adequate penalties for the breach thereof.
- At least once each year the Board of Directors shall order an audit of the books and accounts of the Association by a competent public auditor or accountant. The report prepared by such public auditor or accountant shall be submitted to the members of the Association at their annual meeting.
Article IX
Section 1.
The following officers of the Association shall be elected by the Directors from their own number and shall be a President, a Vice-President, and a Secretary-Treasurer. If either shall cease to be a Director at any time he shall ipso facto cease to be an officer. The Board of Directors may appoint or elect such other officers as they see fit.
Section 2.
The President shall preside at all meetings of the members and Directors, and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the Board of Directors are carried into effect. He shall execute bonds, mortages, and other contracts requiring a seal, under the seal of the corporation, which have been first approved by the Board of Directors. He shall, subject to the advice of the Board of Directors, have general supervision of the business and affairs of the Association.
Section 3.
The Vice-President shall, in the absence or disability of the President perform the duties and exercise the powers of the President, and shall perform such other duties as the Board shall prescribe.
Section 4.
The Secretary-Treasurer shall:
- (a) Attend all sessions of the Board of Directors, and all meetings of the members, and record all votes and minutes of all proceedings in a book to be kept for that purpose.
- (b) Keep the corporate seal of the Association, and the books of blank Certificates of Membership, fill up and countersign all Certificates, and affix the corporate seal to all papers requiring a seal.
- (c) Keep proper account books and such records and books pertaining to the issuance of Membership Certificates as may be required by law, or these By-Laws, or as the Board of Directors shall prescribe, and discharge such other duties as pertain to his office, or which may be required by law, or by these By-Laws, or by the Board.
- (d) Give, or cause to be given, notice of all meetings of the members, and of the Board of Directors when such notice shall be required by law or by these By-Laws to be given.
- (e) Receive and keep all funds of the Association, and deposit same in such bank or banks as may be designated by the Board of Directors. Such funds shall be paid out only on the check of the Association bearing the signatures of two officers or bonded employees authorized to sign checks.
Article X
The Board of Directors shall require all officers, agents, and employees of this Association charged with responsibility for the custody of any of its funds or property to furnish adequate bonds. Such bonds shall be furnished by a responsible bonding company and the cost thereof shall be paid by the Association.
Article XI
The earnings, if any, and the assets of this Association shall never accrue to the benefit of the members, directors, or officers thereof. Upon dissolution of this Association, the Board of Directors after paying and discharging all obligations, shall in its discretion
Article XII
These By-Laws may be amended or repealed or new By-Laws adopted in any of the following ways:
- (a) By vote of the majority of the entire membership of the Association, at a meeting thereof whether special or annual.
- (b) By any other method, or by any other manner, authorized or permitted by law at the time of such repeal, amendment or adoption of new By-Laws.
- (c) If anything contained in these By-Laws be contrary to law, as the same now exists, or any other law subsequently adopted, then such part shall be eliminated but the remainder shall stand.
Exhibit 19 [Organization of FSA in WCA]
Exhibit 19 - Organization of FSA in WCA
Exhibit 20 [Evacuation Control Projects Summary]
Exhibit 21 [April 1, 1942 letter from Hewes to USDA War Boards]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
Mr. Henry B. Ramsey, Chairman
Washington U.S.D.A. War Board
Box 238
Pullman, Washington
While I have not received specific reports as to the function of the U.S.D.A. War Boards in Oregon and Washington in connection with the Japanese evacuation problem, we have been aware of the excellent cooperation that has been received from the War Boards generally.
As you know the problem in California is somewhat aggravated due to the fact that in the San Francisco and Los Angeles areas we have very large concentrations of Japanese. Consequently, the matter of working out the relationship between the Farm Security Administration and the California War Board has been a matter of considerable administrative concern to me. Mr. Dave Davidson, Chairman of the California War Board, has been most cooperative and has issued a number of releases, copies of which are attached. Inasmuch as I have had an opportunity in some cases of working with Mr. Davidson in the preparation of these releases and since there have been such fine results from these releases, I think you might find them of value in contacting your field staff and County War Boards in your State.
The most recent release which Mr. Davidson is making to his AAA County Chairman headed "Memorandum on Cooperation of War Boards in the Wartime Civilian Control Administration" is most significant. I call your attention particularly to the last paragraph, page 3.
Simultaneously with the issuance of these field instructions, the Farm Security Administration is issuing instructions to its field staff which will enable the field agents of the Farm Security Administration working specifically on the evacuation problems, to more effectively utilize the services available in the War Boards. We feel that a great many problems which have arisen in connection with this work to date are questions which can better be handled as the result of considered deliberation of representatives of the several agencies rather than the administrative decision of one employee. We are instructing our field people, therefore, to present problems of this nature to the War Boards in order that decisions by the War Board may be made. These decisions, once effected will be put into action by the Farm Security field personnel.
(Sent also to U.S.D.A. War Board Chairmen in California, Arizona, and Washington)
Regional Director
Exhibit 22 [April 7, 1942 letter from Hewes to USDA War Boards]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
Mr. Robert B. Taylor, Chairman
Oregon U.S.D.A. War Board
Memorial Building
Agricultural College
Corvallis, Oregon
I am very anxious to so licit the assistance of the State and County War Boards in the State of Oregon as their experience up to the present time has indicated several specific ways in which War Boards can be of positive assistance in handling the evacuation problem. I mention specifically: (1) recruitment of new operators to take over Japanese evacuated lands, (2) War Board recommendations as to competency of new operators, (3) problems arising in connection with the evacuation which require decisions to be made on the basis of arbitration.
As you know, Farm Security Administration has accepted the heavy responsibility of making loans to new operators on Japanese evacuated lands when other sources of credit are not available. The funds used to make these loans are made available through the Chief of Staff. The Farm Security Administration is under the stringent necessity of making sound loans and making them under extreme pressure.
In many instances the new operators are unknown to the FSA field agents. This is a considerable handicap to us in determining the competency of the new operator. Since many of the crops grown by the Japanese are of a very specialized type requiring peculiar talents, the competency of the new operator really becomes an important part of the security of our loan. It therefore becomes necessary in a great many instances, before a loan can be approved, that some showing of competency must be secured in regard to the substitute operator borrower. The State and County War Boards of California have agreed to assume the responsibility in cases where they are able to be of assistance in advising the FSA field agents as to the competency of the substitute operator. In several instances this relationship has already proven extremely helpful.
We are attaching herewith, copies of field instructions and one of the new loan forms. You will note that both the instruction and form provide that the field agent, in preparing the loan, must obtain some statement in regard to the competency of the operator. Thus, in each instance, unless he is able to determine to his satisfaction, due to his own
Since we have already appealed to you in regard to the need of recruitment of substitute operators, we shall not deal at length with that problem except to reiterate that up to the present time it is in this direction that we are encountering some of our greatest difficulty.
A third type of problem in which we need the help of the War Board is in situations which arise from time to time where the administrative decision of the FSA would be greatly strengthened by having a prior advisory decision on the part of the War Board which might be in the nature of arbitration. It is my understanding that some of the War Boards, at the present time, have accepted the responsibility of advising Selective Service Boards in their respective communities. It is problems of a type similar to this that we are considering. For instance, in one of the California areas there are very large poultry flocks operated by Japanese. A large poultry cooperative and lending company, and a Production Credit Association are heavily involved with these operators. At the same time, the flocks are so large that no one substitute operator could take over the whole flock and it therefore becomes necessary to deal with some very heavy creditors and also to devise a policy for breaking up the larger flocks and redistributing them among the poultrymen remaining in the area. Resulting from this situation will be the necessity of determining a break-up price on the flocks, and then making allocations from the larger flocks to the remaining operators. An important point here is that some policy must be established. As you can see, any one individual attempting to make the primary and secondary decisions in this situation would be taking a great deal upon himself. Now, in this situation, if the War Boards were to assume the responsibility of price fixing and allocations, using data collected by the FSA employee including poultry appraisers data, then the decision as to price and allocation would have the validity of the collective action of the War Board membership and would not be viewed by the public as an arbitrary act of one individual.
In other instances recalcitrant landlords, who are pursuing a course detrimental to the continuity of production, purely out of individual spite to Japanese or some other reason, sometimes reach a state of hysteria which requires the calming influence of collective consultation before a course of action can be worked out. I think you can understand that an individual FSA employee might not be able to handle a situation of this type, whereas the County War Board might point out the economic benefits to be obtained and the resultant furthering of the war effort if a more reasonable course were followed by the recalcitrant landlord.
May I state in closing that we are under the greatest urgency to speed up this whole process and consequently any steps you may take to expedite this matter will be greatly appreciated.
Sent also to U.S.D.A. War Board Chairmen in California, Arizona, and Washington
Regional Director
Exhibit 23 [April 13, 1942 letter from Hewes to USDA War Boards]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
Mr. Henry B. Ramsey, Chairman
Washington U.S.D.A. War Board
Box 238
Pullman, Washington
Attached herewith is a copy of the procedure which we are issuing to those of our field staff who are concerned with the Japanese evacuation problem. The attached procedure explains in detail how the power delegated to me as Regional Director of the Farm Security Administration under Section 5 (B) of Trading With the Enemy Act is to be exercised and effectuated in connection with field operations. You will note on page 5, paragraph 4-a reference to the War Boards.
I have already discussed with you by telephone the possibility of utilizing the facilities of the County War Boards in connection with the exercise of this power. It seems to me advisable to request the advice of the County War Boards only in those cases which may be deemed unusual, i.e. where the individual case is so involved or the public relations aspect is so difficult that a group advisory opinion will make for an effective solution. It seems to me inadvisable to ask that the County War Boards be prepared to give advice on all cases that may arise because from our experience up to the present time it appears that the greatest speed is necessary once the freezing power process is instituted and the War Boards may not be in a position to act on a day to day basis on such cases. However, in the more complicated cases an interim is bound to elapse, in any event, before a decision can be reached. Consequently, there might in these cases be time for County War Boards to make recommendations.
As I see the procedure, it would work out something like this - The properly authorized FSA field agent (not all field agents will have this power), having decided to recommend the invocation of the powers available under Section 5 (B) of Trading With the Enemy Act, would prepare the necessary forms as indicated on page 4 of the attached procedure (a copy will be sent to the Secretary of the County War Board). In unusually complicated cases or in other cases in which it appears advisable to the authorized FSA field agent that the opinion of the War Board will be requested by the Regional Director, the information contained on this form will be promptly forwarded to the secretary of the appropriate County War Board. In my opinion, in all such cases, this should be done either by messenger, by telegram or by telephone, but not by mail. Upon receipt
I am anxious to do everything I can to bring the War Boards in in this manner and present a unified approach to all Department of Agriculture agencies. It was my recommendation in the negotiations pending the delegation of this authority that the authority be delegated to the State War Boards to be redelegated by them to the County War Boards. I quote from a letter dated April 8 from Mr. C. B. Baldwin, Administrator of the Farm Security Administration in regard to this matter: "As you know, some consideration was given to the desirability of delegating the necessary power to the State War Boards rather than to yourself. This was done largely at your suggestion, so that you might have the advantage of the local judgment embodied in the view of those Boards. The decision to vest the power in you was largely based on the administrative convenience of vesting administrative power in an administrative official who can proceed along recognized procedural lines. If the power had been delegated to the State War Boards, it would have been necessary to devise a somewhat elaborate procedure for their use in exercising it. However, the problem of obtaining the sanction of local public opinion still remains. I, therefore, suggest that you give consideration to the desirability of presenting your general policy with respect to this power to each of the War Baords [sic] affected and, if possible, obtain their concurrence in your policy decisions. I do not, however, suggest that you present individual cases to the War Boards except in unusual circumstances where the case is so involved or the public relations aspect so difficult that you desire the protection which their consideration of the case might afford you. Will you please advise me as to the action you take with respect to the War Boards? If you follow this suggestion, I should like to be advised as to the reactions of the particular War Boards to your general policies."
I am, therefore, anxious to have a reaction from you at your earliest convenience in order that if there are objections to the proposals herein made, the necessary adjustments in the proposed relationships can be made. I am also anxious to carry out the request of the Administrator of the Farm Security Administration for a prompt reply to the proposals for cooperating with the War Boards.
If these proposals meet with your approval, I assume you will immediately communicate with the County War Boards. Will you furnish copies of your communication to the County Boards in regard to this matter?
Attachment
(Sent also to U.S. D. A. War Board Chairmen in California, Arizona and Oregon.)
Regional Director
Exhibit 24 [Pamphlet: 'Disposition of Japanese Land']
California
Arizona
Oregon
Washington
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
How Farm Security is Helping in the Disposition of Japanese Land
The Army has established the Wartime Civilian Control Administration to assist Japanese nationals, Japanese-American citizens, German and Italian nationals and others subject to evacuation from the prohibited and restricted areas in Pacific Coast military zones.
The Wartime Civilian Control Administration has established "service centers" at the United States Employment Service offices in more than 60 Pacific Coast cities and towns. These "service centers" have been established to assist the Japanese, and others subject to evacuation, with all immediate problems arising from the evacuation order. At each "service center" there are three field agents: one from the Farm Security Administration, one from the Federal Security Agency, and one from the Federal Reserve Bank, representing the U. S. Treasury.
The Farm Security field agents are there to assist Japanese to obtain a fair disposition of his agricultural land, interests and farming operations. They will also assist in finding qualified farmers who can take over evacuated land, and help them in making arrangements to operate on the land and to obtain credit. The Federal Reserve Bank agent's job is to help the Japanese to dispose of personal and non-agricultural property. The Social Security agent's job is to help the Japanese with problems of moving, finding employment, financial assistance, etc.
This leaflet explains how the Farm Security Field agent can help you, whether you are a Japanese about to move or a farmer wishing to operate vacated land.
What the Farm Security Agent can do to Help You.
The Farm Security agent has several jobs. First, he must encourage the voluntary evacuation of Japanese and others subject to evacuation. Second, he must help the Japanese find a farmer to buy or lease his farming interests, and he must oversee arrangements to be sure that they are fair. Third, he must take steps to see that the vacated land is kept in full production of the crops already planted or for which there is a war need. He will help farmers taking over the land to obtain credit, and if they are unable to obtain operating capital, under certain circumstances he will make loans to them.
The Army is desirous that all Japanese contact the Wartime Civilian Control Administration before making any final arrangements to dispose of their property. The Army also wish all farmers interested in operating vacated land to make their arrangements through the "service centers." The Army wants to encourage the speedy voluntary evacuation of Japanese, but the Army also demands that the Japanese get a "square deal" and that the vacated land be kept in production of war crops.
Some Answers to Your Questions
The following questions and answers will help you determine if and how you can be assisted by the Farm Security field agent at the WCCA "service centers" at Pacific Coast U. S. Employment offices.
If You are a Japanese or Other Farmer Proposing to Voluntarily Evacuate Your Land You will be Interested in Knowing the Answers to the Following Questions:
(Questions and answers for farmers interested in operating vacated land follow on page 4)
Q. How much time do I have in which to dispose of my property before evacuating?
A. This has not been determined, but it is very short. You should report immediately to the WCCA "service center" at your nearest U. S. Employment office. Otherwise you may be forced to abandon your property before being able to properly dispose of it. Those voluntarily evacuating will be in much better shape than those who do not do so.
Q. How can I dispose of my property when I don't know where I am going or what will happen to me?
A. The Army's Civilian Control Administration, through the Federal Security and Federal Reserve Bank and their agents, is working as fast as possible to complete plans for helping you move and relocating you. However, the evacuation must take place very soon, and if you wait to find out just where you are going or how other matters will be handled, it will very likely be too late. You know you must move, so you must start making arrangements to dispose of your farming interests right now. That means today, if possible.
Q. What are the best areas for me to go to?
A. The government has men in the field locating sites for you. Families and small groups may move and find sites without government approval. At present the induction centers and reception centers are not open to those voluntarily evacuating The War Relocation Authority under Mr. Milton M. Eisenhower will have charge of relocation of those forced to evacuate and who are sent to reception centers, but this agency is not now providing for those voluntarily evacuating. The U. S. E. S. will help you find employment.
Q. Are any other persons, organizations or government agencies authorized to help me dispose of my farming operations?
A. The Farm Security Agent at the U. S. Employment office is the only government agent authorized to do this job. He may refer you to other government agencies. If you have made or are considering making arrangements with private persons, you should seek the advice of the Farm Security agent.
Q. Do I need any intermediary, lawyer or third person to help me?
A. No. You can deal direct with the Farm Security field agent.
Q. Will the agent help me lease, sub-lease or sell land and equipment?
A. Yes. He is authorized to take any steps necessary to keep the land in production.
Q. Will the Farm Security field agent see that I get a fair price for my land, equipment or operations?
A. The Farm Security agent is instructed to see that you get a fair price. He will have a Federal appraiser look at your land to determine its fair value.
Q. Will the Farm Security agent help me get reimbursement for what I have already put into the land?
A. Yes. He will make every effort to see that you are reimbursed for your time, effort and money put into growing crops.
Q. Can I take my equipment with me?
A. This has not been entirely decided, but will probably depend to a great extent on the individual case. If you know where you are going and have a place to farm, the chances are you can take your equipment. If you do not, and the equipment is needed to keep the land in production, you may have to arrange to dispose of it to the new operator. The Farm Security agent also can arrange to store your equipment until you are able to use it.
Q. If I want to arrange to work as a laborer in the Intermountain sugar beet area or elsewhere, should I make arrangements through the Farm Security agent?
A. Such arrangements should be made through the Federal Security agent at the U. S. Employment office. If you are already negotiating for such work, you should seek the Federal Security agent's help. This is necessary in order to determine what working conditions prevail and whether the prevailing wage for that area is being paid.
Q. Is there any chance I can obtain government assistance at wherever I relocate?
A. Yes, if you are an American citizen, it may be possible to obtain a regular Farm Security rural rehabilitation loan, or loan from some other government agency. Loans cannot be made to aliens.
Q. Do I have any protection against individuals who are trying to buy my land at ridiculously low prices, or to defraud me by making false pretenses?
A. Yes. If you make your arrangements through the "service center" you will be given every possible protection. The Government, the Army and the State of California have promised to take action a gainst any person attempting to cheat you. You should report such attempts, giving the name of the person, and the time and place he approached you, to the agent at the "service center." If you have witnesses to such attempts, their names should also be given to the agent, or they should come in.
Q. Do I absolutely have to dispose of my property, even if it means getting cheated or taking a heavy loss?
A. You do not necessarily have to dispose of your property. The Farm Security agent can aid you in arranging for the custody of your property if it cannot be fairly disposed of.
Q. Can the Farm Security agent assist me in matters arising from the fact that I have a bank loan or mortgage payments due?
A. Yes. Take the matter to the agent.
Q. Will the Farm Security agent aid in disposing of fishing enterprises?
A. No. Fishing enterprises fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Reserve representative.
Q. What can I do to help my people now?
A. Go to the "service center" at the U. S. Employment office and find out what the agents there can do for you. Then tell your friends and all those who will be affected by the evacuation order.
If You are a Farmer Interested in Operating on Vacated Land These Questions and Answers will Interest You:
Q. Should I directly approach Japanese or others evacuating their land, to make arrangements to operate on their land, or should I go to the Farm Security agent at the "service center" established in the U. S. Employment office?
A. You should report to the Farm Security agent first. If you are already dealing with a Japanese you should also see the Farm Security agent. He has all the information on land which the Japanese wish to sell or lease, and contacts with the Japanese. He can save you a great deal of time by helping you determine what land you may be interested in and by bringing you together with the Japanese.
Q. Will the Farm Security agent help me make plans?
A. Yes, he and other farm experts will gladly help you plan operations, since they want the land to be operated in the best manner possible.
Q. Will the agent help me make financial arrangements?
A. The Farm Security agent has instructions to help make fair arrangements with landowners, lien holders, produce buyers, contractors, and others.
Q. Can I plant anything I want?
A. You should either continue the crops that are planted or grow food needed for war purposes, which now includes nearly all crops. This will vary in individual cases.
Q. How will the Farm Security agent help me get credit?
A. He will help you plan your operations and make the statements necessary to show your credit rating. He will assist you in problems of security for loans. He will refer you to banks, private sources, the Farm Credit Administration or the regular Farm Security rural rehabilitation offices. All government credit agencies have orders to give immediate priority to such loan applications. He will request banks to assist you as quickly as possible.
Q. If I am still unable to get a loan, will the Farm Security agent at the "service center" make me a loan?
A. Yes, if you have security of tenure through ownership or lease, or some combination of these, and you are protected against foreclosure or judgment against the land or chattels, and have proven ability to raise the crops already planted or crops needed for war purposes.
Q. For what purpose can I obtain these special loans?
A. For meeting any expense or charge in connection with land use, including seed and fertilizer, livestock, farm machinery, equipment and tools, or supplies and services.
Exhibit 25 [March 16, 1942 telegram from Mitchell to Hewes]
WA189 TWS GOVT 8 MINS PAID=WASHINGTON DC 16 745 P
L I HEWES
REGIONAL DIRECTOR FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION SFRAN
REPHONE (ONE AND TWO) HAVE REQUESTED FROM DEPARTMENT AUTHORITY TO YOU TO CREATE ADDITIONAL AND IDENTICAL FOR ALL TYPES POSITIONS AND AUTHORITY TO YOU TO ALLOCATE NEW POSITIONS AND NEW HEADQUARTERS BEING IN EVERY CASE STANDARDIZED FIELD SUPERVISORY POSITIONS AND NUMBER AND EXTENT IN TIME OF SUCH ALLOCATION AUTHORITY LIMITED. DEPARTMENT WILL DESIRE FULLER STATEMENT YOUR PLANS FOR EXTENDING THE AUTHORITY OR APPROVING MODUS OPERANDI NEW EMERGENCY ALLOCATIONS. (THREE) YOU ARE HEREBY EXEMPTED FROM REQUIREMENTS ELIGIBLE LISTS AT ALL PLACES IN YOUR REGION. PERSONS IN REGION ELEVEN MADE ANSWERABLE TO YOUR ORDERS FOR WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM MAY BE MOVED TO OTHER PLACES WITHOUT REGARD DISTRICT LINES. DUFFY BEING GIVEN AUTHORITY TO MAKE REPLACEMENTS IN HIS REGULAR PROGRAM WITHOUT REGARD ELIGIBLE LISTS. BUT NOTICE THAT YOU ARE REQUIRED AND DUFFY WILL BE REQUIRED TO GIVE FIRST CONSIDERATION IN HIRING PERSONS FOR REPLACEMENTS OR FOR THE EMERGENCY DUTIES TO SUCH CANDIDATES AS MAY BE AT ANY GIVEN TIME ALREADY LISTED WITH YOU AS ELIGIBLE.
(FOUR) IN CONNECTION WITH WARTIME ADJUSTMENT ENEMY ALIENS YOU ARE AUTHORIZED TO ISSUE LETTERS AUTHORIZATION FOR HIRE AS MAY BE NECESSARY SUPERVISORS AT SALARY RATES NOT TO EXCEED $2000 PER ANNUM, CLERKS, TYPISTS, AND STENOGRAPHERS AT DAILY RATES BASED ON PRESENT EO SALARY SCALE FOR SIMILAR POSITIONS. THIS AUTHORITY MAY NOT BE REDELEGATED. ADVISE IF NECESSARY OTHER OFFICIALS HAVE SIMILAR AUTHORITY. DURATION EMPLOYMENT 6/30/42. IF ADDITIONAL EMPLOYMENT
NECESSARY ADVISE TYPE OF JOBS AND RECOMMENDED RATES. AUTHORITY APPLICABLE ONLY LOANS, GRANTS AND RR FUNDS.
(FIVE) IN CONNECTION WITH YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES IN HANDLING WARTIME ADJUSTMENT OF ENEMY ALIENS YOU ARE AUTHORIZED TO INCUR SUCH EXPENSES AS MAY BE NECESSARY FOR FIELD PRINTING.
(SIX) PENDING FORMAL DELEGATION BY THE SECRETARY OF AUTHORITY TO YOU TO DIRECT TRAVEL OF EMPLOYEES UNDER YOUR JURISDICTION BY AIR PROCEED AT YOUR OWN DISCRETION AND SUBMIT VOUCHERS FOR POST APPROVAL. IT IS EXPECTED THAT SECRETARIAL AUTHORIZATION CAN BE OBTAINED TOMORROW.
(SEVEN) THE PROVISIONS OF FSA INST. 132.1 111C WHICH REDUCED THE RATE PER DIEM AFTER 45 DAYS CONTINUOUS STAY IN ONE LOCATION ARE HEREBY SUSPENDED FOR FSA EMPLOYEES YOUR REGION AND REGION ELEVEN ENGAGED IN WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT ACTIVITIES AND FOR REPLACEMENT PERSONNEL TO SUCH EMPLOYEES.
(EIGHT) REVISION OF FSA INSTRUCTION 132.1 ISSUED MARCH 2, 1942, AND NOW IN YOUR HANDS AUTHORIZES YOU TO PAY TO ANY OF YOUR EMPLOYEES A MAXIMUM PER DIEM OF $5.50.
Exhibit 26 [March 18, 1942 telegram from Mitchell to Hewes]
Telegram
F. WA 196 GOVT TWS PD 3 MINS DX WASHINGTON DC 18 70 MAR 18 PM 5 L I HEWES JR
REGIONAL DIRECTOR FARM SECURITY ADMN SANFRAN CALIF
TO PERMIT THE EXPEDITIOUS EMPLOYMENT OF PERSONS NOT PRESENTLY IN FEDERAL EMPLOY TO CARRY OUT YOUR PHASE OF THE WAR PROGRAM RELATED TO THE REMOVAL OF PERSONS FROM THE COMBAT AREAS, OFFICIALS WHO ARE NAMED BY THE SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE AS FIELD EMPLOYMENT OFFICERS UNDER THE DELEGATED AUTHORITY ARE HEREBY AUTHORIZED TO EMPLOY PERSONS TO BE PAID FROM NON-CIVIL SERVICE FUNDS FOR PERIODS NOT TO EXCEED 60 DAYS. POSITIONS FILLED MUST CONFORM TO APPROVED CLASSIFICATION GRADES AND SALARIES. FSA COMMITTEEMEN MAY NOT BE EMPLOYED UNDER THIS AUTHORITY BEYOND POINT WHERE TOTAL RATE OF FSA COMPENSATION TO THEM EXCEEDS 2000 DOLLARS IN THE FISCAL YEAR.
F 53175
Telegram
F. WA 198 GOVT TWS PD 3 MINS DX WASHINGTON DC 18 70 MARCH 18 PM 5:35 L I HEWES JR
REGL DIR FARM SECURITY ADMN US DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE SANFRAN CALIF.
YOU ARE AUTHORIZED IN ORDER TO PROTECT GROWING CROPS ON FARMS VACATED FOR ANY REASON TO ISSUE LA'S TO PERSONNEL UNDER YOUR JURISDICTION TO HIRE SUCH PERSONS NECESSARY TO ADEQUATELY PROTECT AND MAINTAIN SUCH CROPS UNTIL FURTHER ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN EFFECTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH AUTHORIZATION CREATED BY ARMY AT RATES ESTABLISHED BY YOU IN ACCORDANCE WITH PREVAILING WAGE SCALES. AUTHORITY GRANTED IN TELEGRAM 16 TO HIRE CLERKS SUPERVISORS STENOGRAPHERS MAY BE REDELEGATED
Exhibit 27 - Report of Farm Security Administration Participation in the WCCA Program For The Period Ending, Friday, June 5,1942
Exhibit 27 - Report of Farm Security Administration Participation in the WCCA Program For The Period Ending, Friday, June 5,1942
Exhibit 28 [Personnel Employment Analysis]
Analysis Personnel Employment For Period March 16, 1942 Through June 1, 1942 [Page 1]
Analysis Personnel Employment For Period March 16, 1942 Through June 1, 1942 [Page 2]
Exhibit 29 [March 17, 1942 letter from Mitchell to Hewes]
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Washington
Mr. L. I. Hewes, Jr.
Regional Director
Farm Security Administration
U. S. Department of Agriculture
San Francisco, California
The provisions of paragraph 3438 of Department regulations are hereby waived to enable you to travel and to direct travel by air of employees under your jurisdiction, with allowance of actual cost thereof, in connection with the program of wartime adjustment of enemy aliens.
Recommended /s/ George S. Mitchell Acting Administrator
April 1, 1942
Approved /s/ Grover B. Hill Assistant Secretary
Exhibit 30 [April 24, 1942 FSA Policy Statement re: Equipment and Machinery]
STATEMENT OF POLICY OF THE FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WITH REFERENCE TO AGRICULTURAL EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY
The policies of the Farm Security Administration with reference to the disposition of farm machinery and equipment of evacuees are predicated upon the functions and duties assigned to the Farm Security Administration in the evacuation program of the Wartime Civil Control Administration, namely, the institution of a program designed to insure continuity of agricultural production and fair dealing between evacuees and third persons. The accomplishment of these major objectives dictates that the Farm Security Administration insist that the farm equipment and machinery necessary to enable the continued effective utilization of a particular farm unit be kept available for purchase and use by a substitute operator taking over the operation of that particular farm unit. This presupposes both that Japanese and other evacuees will not and will not be permitted to destroy, scrap, sell or otherwise dispose of farm equipment except to substitute operators where its continued use on particular farm units is needed. As a corollary thereto, it presupposes that creditors and third persons will not and will not be permitted to take advantage of the situation to unfairly exercise possessory rights where their doing so will interfere with the ability of an evacuee to transfer and the ability of a substitute operator to receive and take over a complete and effective farm unit.
It is recognized that in many instances, however, substitute operators for one reason or another will not need or will be unable to use certain items of farm machinery and equipment and that, as a result, such surplus items will be left on the hands of the Japanese to dispose of in some other fashion. In such situations, the Japanese will be permitted, expected and urged to dispose of such items in the ordinary channels of trade in the agricultural communities in which such items are presently located and thus be available to persons having need therefor. Two co-ordinate policies are therefore established:
- (1) Evacuees and other persons will not be permitted to destroy, scrap or sell for junk farm machinery and equipment surplus to the needs of substitute operators, which is in condition for use for agricultural purposes.
- (2) Evacuees will be discouraged from immobilizing such equipment by storing it for the duration of the present situation.
To aid in the accomplishment of these objectives, the assistance of equipment dealers in the military area delimited has been solicited to cooperate with field personnel of the Farm Security Administration with the end in view that such equipment dealers either will purchase surplus farm machinery and equipment from evacuees or will accept custody of such items under agreements providing for their storage and sale on behalf of the evacuees.
There may be certain isolated instances in which, despite efforts made by evacuees, Farm Security Administration field personnel and equipment dealers, the date it becomes necessary for a Japanese to evacuate will arrive and he will not have been able to sell, dispose of or make some other type of arrangement with reference to his farm machinery and equipment. In such instances, the Farm Security Administration is prepared to and will accept custody of such items of equipment pursuant to custody agreements which will empower the Farm Security Administration to sell for and on behalf of evacuees. If it becomes necessary for the Farm Security Administration to accept custody in any such instance, it is proposed that the Farm Security Administration immediately arrange for the storage of such items with equipment dealers and for the sale by them for and on behalf of the Japanese, proper accounting to the Farm Security Administration being made.
Exhibit 31 [April 20, 1942 letter from Hewes to Murdock]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
R9-LIH, Jr.
Mr. Osgood Murdock
Tractor and Implement Club
1355 Market Street
San Francisco, California
Referring to the conference held in my office on Saturday, April 18, attended by yourself and representatives of the agricultural implement firms together with representatives of the Farm Security Administration, there arose a question as to the policy of the Farm Security Administration in connection with agricultural equipment of Japanese evacuees in military area #1.
In order that we may be quite clear as to the interest of the Farm Security Administration in this matter, it should be clearly understood that out authority arises from a letter directed to me by General DeWitt authorizing the Farm Security Administration to take steps to insure continuity of agricultural production and fair dealings on farming properties operated by Japanese evacuees.
Farm Security Administration is therefore interested in preserving continuity of agricultural production in the areas in which Japanese agricultural operations have been carried on. Farm Security Administration is anxious that substitute operators come forward with proposals to take over Japanese agricultural operations. The function of the Farm Security Administration in regard to fair dealing in this respect is supplemented by powers delegated to it by the Secretary of Agriculture under section 5 B of Trading With the Enemy Act. However, the interpretation which has been generally placed on our operations has been to assure the completion of as many reasonable transactions as possible. There is every desire on the part of Farm Security Administration to assist the normal trade agencies, including agricultural equipment dealers, to make such transactions with regard to agricultural property, crops, and agricultural equipment generally as are reasonably fair to the Japanese. Our interest in protecting the Japanese runs specifically toward preventing extortion or exploitation where either gross fraud or misrepresentations are present or where the position of the substitute tenant or other interest is obviously and plainly irresponsible and unreasonable. We don't propose to interfere with any transaction conducted in the normal course of business between the Japanese and other interests.
Regional Director
Exhibit 32 [April 13, 1942 letter from Hewes to Bendetsen]
UNITES STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
R9-LIH, Jr.
April 12, 1942
Karl R. Bendetsen
Colonel, G. S. C.
Assistant Chief of Staff
Civil Affairs Division
1231 Market Street
San Francisco, California
This will acknowledge receipt of your memorandum of April 12, enclosing a copy of a memorandum from W. M. Hale, Vice President, Federal Reserve Bank, San Francisco.
Our question in regard to this subject arises under Point 2 of Mr. Hale's memorandum. Mr. Hale defines that farm equipment with which the Federal Reserve Bank will concern itself as "Motorized Farm Equipment such as tractors and trucks which might be put to non-agricultural use." We have no difficulty with the term "trucks," and will assume that it includes all trucks.
We do have difficulty in connection with the term "tractors." We should like to have a clearer definition of what is meant by this term; does Mr. Hale mean all self-propelled, motor operated traction equipment which could be used for other purposes, but is not ordinarily so used? Is there any distinction in the use of the word tractor which is often applied to those large four-wheeled diesel engine affairs used to haul trailer equipment for freighting outfits, and its use as applied to such a device as the farm-all tractor? Is there any significance in the distinction between such type as track laying tractors of the caterpillar type, and other types using rubbertired wheels?
All these questions have come up and been asked by our field agents, and some definition is needed. If our point of view is desired, we should be inclined to feel that Federal Reserve Bank's interest in this matter should be given the very widest interpretation and that Farm Security's interest in this equipment would only be in such equipment that is so specialized that it cannot possibly be used for any non-agricultural purpose.
From an administrative point of view, this would give the Federal Reserve Bank an interest in the type of property which is (1) easily
Regional Director
Exhibit 33 [April 21, 1942 letter from Hewes to Bendetsen]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
April 21, 1942
Karl R. Bendetsen, Colonel G. S. C.
Assistant Chief of Staff for
Civil Affairs
Room 447, Whitcomb Hotel
1231 Market Street
San Francisco, California
- Reference is made to the paragraph relating to the disposition of tractors in your memorandum dated April 14, 1942, to your memorandum dated April 20, 1942 with which was enclosed a copy of a memorandum to you from Mr. Hewes dated April 13, 1942 and to your further memorandum of April 20, 1942, all relating to the above subject.
- Pursuant to your suggestion, at a conference between representatives of the undersigned agencies and of the War Relocation
Authority, the following recommendations were determined upon:
- a. That all machinery and equipment primarily susceptible of use in farm operations should be subject to disposition or care under the supervision of the Farm Security Administration.
- b. That the determination of the proper classification of machinery and equipment be made at each Civilian Control Station by consultation between the representatives of the Farm Security Administration and the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco.
- c. That the basis of classification of machinery and equipment shall be whether such machinery and equipment is the type which an implement dealer can ordinarily dispose of to farm trade - this exclusive of trucks of all types.
- d. That trucks and all other equipment not falling within the foregoing definition of farm equipment shall be subject to the disposition and care under the supervision of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, with the understanding that the evacuees may elect to sell such equipment to the military authorities under alternative #2 as set forth on WCCA-Form-FRB-4.
- The foregoing recommendations are submitted for your consideration
― 2 ―with the request that appropriate instructions be given to the agencies involved.
By _____
E. F. Cress
Lt.-Col. G. S. C.
Assistant Director
By _____
R. E. Everson
Assistant Cashier
By _____
Laurence I. Hewes, Jr.
Regional Director
Exhibit 34 [March 19, 1942 letter from Hewes to DeWitt]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
March 19, 1942
Lieutenant General J. L. DeWitt
Commanding General Western Defense Command and Fourth Army
Presidio of San Francisco
San Francisco, California
In order that I might carry out the provisions of your order of March 15, 1942, I request that you make available to me, through our respective Washington fiscal officers, an additional sum of $900,000 for the purpose of making, servicing, and collecting loans. These funds should be available in the accounts of Arthur H. Hoiland, Assistant Regional Disbursing Officer in San Francisco, not later than the beginning of business Tuesday, March 24.
I am advised by the Chief Fiscal Officer of this Administration that the sum of $100,000 has already been made available for this purpose.
Regional Director
Exhibit 35 [March 17, 1942 letter from Marshall to DeWitt]
WAR DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF STAFF
Washington
Lieut. General John L. DeWitt
Headquarters, Western Defense Command
Presidio of San Francisco
San Francisco, California
I hereby make an allocation to you of $1,000,000 from the Chief of Staff's Contingent Fund for the purpose of making crop loans, as requested in your radiogram of March 14, 1942.
I shall leave the administration of this fund to you. However, I desire that you use existing lending processes and agencies wherever possible that you take the utmost precautions to protect the financial interest of the Government.
I understand that this allocation of money to you is merely a stop-gap to enable you to encourage voluntary evacuation of Japanese farmers until such time as the proposed War Reloaction [sic] [Relocation] Authority is set up and prepared to operate. I have informed the War Department Budget Officer of this allocation.
Chief of Staff
War Department Procurement Authority
Check Slip
Exhibit 36 [April 9, 1942 letter from Hewes to Bendetsen]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
April 9, 1942
Karl R. Bendetsen, Colonel, G.S.C.
Assistant Chief of Staff
Civil Affairs Division
Whitcomb Hotel
San Francisco, California
In accordance with our telephone conversation, I am transmitting herewith an estimate of additional funds needed to finance the agricultural loan program that we are conducting for the Wartime Civilian Control Administration. This estimate is in addition to the one million dollars already approved, of which loans have been received in San Francisco covering all but approximately $150,000. We estimate that at the rate at which loans are being received in San Francisco at the present time, that in the next 30 days 1275 additional applications, averaging about $5000 principal amount for each loan, will be received.
Our estimated total requirements of the additional money we will need in the next 30 days is $6,225,000. We need for business already in sight in the field offices an advance of one million dollars in addition to that already approved.
In explanation you should understand that the backlog of loan applications at the present time is in the process of handling at the county levels but as these loan processing functions are progressively cleared at the county office levels, the backlog will move forward to the next stage, which is this regional office.
Regional Director
Request for transfer of funds to Regional Disbursing Office Accounts
Exhibit 37 [March 17, 1942 transmittal from Treasury to FSA]
TREASURY DEPARTMENT
DIVISION OF DISBURSEMENT
San Francisco, California
417 Market Street
Mr. Ted L. Smith
Regional Finance Manager
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
You are hereby informed that the following funds have been transferred to the credit of this office and are available for the use of your Department:
- Symbol
- 220-955
- Appropriation or Fund
- 12-112/30006
- Amount
- 5,000,000.00
(Radiograms dated April 23, 1942)
Assistant Disbursing Officer in Charge
Exhibit 38
Fiscal Summary of Farm Security Administration Participation in Wartime Civil Control Administration March 16, 1942 through
May 31, 1942
- Total Loan Funds Allocated
- $6,000,000.00
- Army Contingent Funds
- 1,000,000.00
- President's Emergency Fund
- 5,000,000.00
- Total Loan Funds Expended
- 3,434,008.08
- From Army Funds
- 992,597.40
- From President's Fund
- 2,133,499.68
- Unliquidated Commitments
- 307,911.00
- Total Loan Repayments
- 73,303.92
- Administrative Costs
- 150,017.34
- Personal Services
- 101,569.98
- Travel
- 37,883,45
- Communications
- 3,294.08
- Procurements
- 7,269.83
Appendix A - WFA Procedure
| No. | Title | Date |
| 900 | Use of Name "WFA" (Notice 2) | 3-23-42 |
| 900.1 | Background and Purpose of WFA | 3-16-42 |
| 902.1 | WFA Procedure Material | 4-4-42 |
| 904.1 | Business Management of WFA Field Offices | 3-15-42 |
| 905 | Cancellation of Authority to Employ Farm Labor (Notice 7) | 4-30-42 |
| 905.1 | Reporting Attendance of Region XI FSA Personnel (Notice 5) | 4-8-42 |
| 905.1 | Employment of Administrative and Clerical Personnel for WFA Field Offices | 4-30-42 |
| 905.1 | Employment of Administrative and Clerical Personnel by WFA Field Offices | 3-20-42 |
| 905.1 | Procuring Personnel for WFA Offices | 3-15-42 |
| 905.2 | Emergency Employment of Farm Labor and Owner-Operated Equipment | 3-20-42 |
| 905.3 | Services of Land Appraisers of WFA Field Offices | 4-1-42 |
| 912.1 | Functional Organization of WFA Program | 3-15-42 |
| 913.0 | Location of WFA District Officers and Special Field Agents | 3-25-42 |
| 913.1 | Location of WFA Field Offices (In U.S.E.S. Offices) Arizona | 3-25-42 |
| 913.2 | Location of WFA Field Offices (In U.S.E.S. Offices) California | 3-25-42 |
| 913.3 | Location of WFA Field Offices (In U.S.E.S. Offices) Oregon | 3-25-42 |
| 913.4 | Location of WFA Field Offices (In U.S.E.S. Offices) Washington | 3-25-42 |
| 914.1 | Closing or Consolidating Field Offices | 5-16-42 |
| 921.1 | Information Services of WFA Program Field Offices | 3-16-42 |
| 923.1 | Tenure Arrangements | 3-16-42 |
| 924 | Reporting Known Cases of Sabotage, Looting or Unfair Practices (Notice 4) | 4-9-42 |
| 924 | Special Types of Farms (Notice 1) | 3-23-42 |
| 925.1 | Referral of Prospective WFA Farm Operators to Other Credit Agencies | 3-15-42 |
| 929.1 | Application and Registration Records | 3-16-42 |
| 929.2 | Telegraphic Reports from WFA Field Offices | 4-30-42 |
| 929.2 | Periodic Reports from WFA Field Offices | 3-17-42 |
| 929.3 | Filing Procedure for WFA Field Offices | 3-16-42 |
| 929.4 | Nightly Reports from District Officers | 4-4-42 |
| 931 | WFA Loans to Other Than Individuals (Notice 10) | 6-12-42 |
| 931 | Regal Procedure in California for Taking Chattel Mortgage on Motor Vehicles | 5-23-42 |
| 931 | WFA Corporation Loans (Notice 6) (Notice 8) | 4-27-42 |
| 931.1 | WFA Loans: Criteria and Field Office Routine | 4-5-42 |
| 931.1 | Making Special WFA Production Loans | 3-16-42 |
| 932.1 | Kardex Operations on WFA Loans | 5-26-42 |
| 940.1 | Organization and Operations of Evacuation Control Units | 4-11-42 |
| 951.1 | Management Contracts and Powers of Attorney | 4-7-42 |
| 951.2 | Surplus Farm Machinery and Equipment - Custody Agreements and Powers of Attorney | 4-25-42 |
| 952.1 | Use of the Freezing Power | 4-10-42 |
| 952.2 | Freezing Power - Application to Abandoned Farm Equipment and Machinery | 4-25-42 |
| 953.1 | Management and Operation of Farms and Agricultural Property of Evacuees of California Evacuated Farms Association | 4-10-42 |
| 961 | WFA Loans: Remittance (Notice 9) | 5-30-42 |
| 961.1-A | WFA Loans: Collection Criteria and Procedure | 4-22-42 |
| 961.1-B | WFA Loans: Collection Criteria and Procedure | 4-20-42 |
[900] Use of Name "WFA"
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
(Classification 900)
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Program personnel.
NOTE: This WFA Notice is to be filed in your procedure manual in the 900 series and retained until it is incorporated in a WFA Instruction.
(3-23-42)
I The name "Wartime Farm Adjustment Program" has been discontinued for all purposes, both internal and external to the Program.
II The letters "WFA" will continue to be used in correspondence, personnel titles, public contacts, etc., only as an identification symbol for this special work being carried on by the Farm Security Administration in connection with the evacuation.
[900.1] Background and Purpose of Wartime Farm Adjustment Program
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel.
(3-16-42)
I BACKGROUND: Acting on authority from the President of the United States, the Commanding General of the Western Defense Command and Fourth Army has ordered all enemy aliens, American-Japanese citizens and certain others to prepare to evacuate within the near future, from the vital defense area of the Pacific Coast. This area covers roughly the western halves of Washington, Oregon and California, and the southern half of Arizona.
It is expected that many Japanese and others will wish to depart voluntarily from the area without waiting for the Army to remove them. The Government desires that they do so. The Farm Security Administration has been assigned the vital emergency task of seeing that agricultural production continues on the lands of Japanese (and other persons subject to evacuation) who voluntarily leave their farms and move from restricted areas.
Persons subject to evacuation orders who fail to depart voluntarily will be dealt with by the Army. Immediate social problems arising from evacuation of families, such as relief, assistance in moving, employment, and relocation, will be handled by the Federal Security Agency through the U. S. Employment Service. The Federal Reserve Bank acting for the Treasury Department will be responsible for custodial arrangements which may have to be made regarding alien property and other evacuated property.
II FUNCTIONS: The Wartime Farm Adjustment Program has been created to supervise the fair disposition of vacated agricultural lands and to assure continued production on these lands by aiding qualified farmers to take over the vacated land and to obtain operating credit. The program assigned to WFA at present is limited strictly to the voluntary evacuation phase of the larger evacuation problem.
Our immediate task is two-fold:
- A Transfer of Farms:
- First, we must encourage voluntary removal of Japanese farmers (and others subject to evacuation orders) by assisting them to dispose of their lands and farming operations to qualified farm operators. The Army and the Government desire that there be as much voluntary moving of persons subject to evacuation as possible. They also desire that Japanese and others be fairly dealt with in selling or leasing their property interests.
- B Stimulation of Production:
- Second, we must see that the agricultural lands thus evacuated continue in full production of the crops already planted or of those for which there is a War need. Japanese farmers in California, alone, grow between 35% and 50% of the State's vegetable crop. The Secretary of Agriculture has declared food production to be of first importance in our War effort. The primary objective is to see that these evacuated lands produce to their fullest capacity.
III METHODS: Wartime Farm Adjustment Program representatives will be stationed at U. S. Employment offices in the restricted defense areas of Washington, Oregon, California, and Arizona. The functions of these WFA Agents will be:
- A To secure and impart all available information to persons desiring to vacate voluntarily, and to qualified farm operators applying for the use of these vacated farms.
- B To stimulate, through publicity, information, and other means the processes of voluntary evacuation and reallocation of land.
- C To coordinate the desires of departing land-holders and land-seekers who may apply, by bringing them together to discuss arrangements for replacement, tenure, etc.
- D To supervise the actual disposition of land with regard to establishment of tenure, accomplishment of desired arrangements, and all related details, which will carry out the objectives of the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program.
- E To work out high-production farm plans for persons taking over evacuated land. To advise with regard to methods, equipment, etc.
- F To secure adequate credit for new farm operators, either by referring them to established credit sources, such as private banks, Farm Credit Administration, standard Farm Security Administration loans, etc., or by making Special Production Loans to persons unable to secure credit elsewhere. To service these loans and make collections in the manner of accepted FSA procedures, which will be adapted to WFA purposes.
[902.1] WFA Procedure Material
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel.
(4-4-42)
- I GENERAL:
- WFA Procedure manuals, supplemented from time to time by circular or individual letters of information or instruction, furnish the basic guide to all WFA personnel in the performance of their duties. They must be studied carefully, immediately upon receipt, and then filed (except for circular letters) in manuals. Superseded procedure must be removed at once.
- II TYPES OF PROCEDURE:
- WFA Procedure issuances are of three types, Instructions, Notices, and Circular Letters. Each is intended to serve a special
purpose, and each is prepared in a particular manner.
- A WFA Instruction:
- These are fundamental statements of policies, authorities and methods, intended for permanent reference in the operation of the WFA Program. WFA Instructions appear on three-hole-punched yellow paper and are identified by subject classification numbers. Together with WFA Notices they comprise the basic WFA Procedure Manual. (This instruction itself serves as an example of WFA Instructions)
- B WFA Notices:
- Items of procedure which must be released immediately, or announcements of a temporary nature, may be issued in the form of WFA Notices. They should be inserted in procedure manuals following related WFA Instructions. Instructions for their removal will be given when their contents have been incorporated in subsequent WFA Instructions. Notices are numbered serially, assigned a subject classification number, and mimeographed on three-hole-punched yellow paper.
- C Circular Letters:
- (See Exhibit B) Issuances of a more informal nature, or of limited interest (such as for District Officers only), may be released
as Circular Letters over the signature of the Program Chief. Circular Letters will appear on white paper without a classification
number, and are not intended for inclusion in the procedure manual. They will be headed with one of the following captions,
according to the desired action:
- FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
- FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
- FOR INFORMATION ONLY
- FOR PROMPT REPLY
- FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
- FOR POLICY INFORMATION
- IV CLASSIFICATION:
- A decimal-number classification system is used to break down procedure by subject. This system is designed to denote the sequence of items in the series, and to indicate the subject. All WFA procedure is classified in the "900" series of the FSA procedure system. Individual issuances under each classification are identified by serial numbers (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.) following a decimal point.
WFA Instruction 902.1
Exhibit A
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
(Classification 904)
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Field Agents and Regional Office Section and Unit Heads.
(3-28-42)
Use of "WFA - PRIORITY" Rubber Stamps
I A rubber stamp containing the words "WFA - PRIORITY" has been distributed to each Field Agent.
II These rubber stamps are for use within the WFA Program only, for the purpose of identifying forms and correspondence. Accordingly, they will be applied to all envelopes addressed to the Program Chief, WFA District Officers, or WFA Field Agents. They should also be used on all WFA forms and related FSA forms (originals and copies), except on notes, mortgages, and other legal documents.
WFA Instruction 902.1
Exhibit B
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION ONLY
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Supervised Bank Accounts
Copy to: District Officers; Special Field Agents; All Regional Office WFA Personnel
As a matter of loan policy, requirements that loan funds be deposited in supervised bank accounts, for expenditure by counter-signature check, will not ordinarily be made in connection with WFA loans.
The Rural Rehabilitation Division of the FSA usually makes such requirement a condition of RR loans in order to provide assurance that there will be adequate supervision of the borrower's financial and farming operations. It is not intended to provide farm management supervision for WFA borrowers.
In cases where for reasons of security (capital goods purchases not immediately made, etc.) it is deemed necessary, the Regional Office may, in exceptional cases, require the deposit of loan proceeds in supervised bank accounts. In the event any such requirement is made, it will be necessary that the Field Agent concerned be bonded as a counter-signing officer in the amount of $7400.
Chief, WFA Program
[904.1] Business Management of Wartime Farm Adjustment Field Offices
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel
(3-15-42)
(Revision 1)
(3-24-42)
- I GENERAL:
- This instruction sets forth the procedure for the procurement and custody of government property and the carrying on of daily business in Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Field Offices. It is a condensation and simplification of various Farm Security Administration instructions which should be referred to for further details. Likewise, certain basic FSA forms have been adapted for Wartime Farm Adjustment use.
- II PROCUREMENT OF SUPPLIES, EQUIPMENT, AND SERVICES:
- WFA Field Offices will procure property either through loan from the United States Employment Service Offices where they are
located, by temporary transfer from other neighboring governmental agencies, or by requisition directed to the Program Chief.
Whenever possible, the first two methods should be employed in order to establish the field offices on a going basis, and
to save time and avoid delays caused by procurement and shipping difficulties.
Items which may not be secured locally will be furnished by the Farm Security Administration upon receipt of a requisition. Form BM-9, Request for Supplies, Equipment, or Service, should be prepared in an original and four copies indicating the name of the requisitioner, delivery address, delivery date of items requisitioned, and a list of the items requested, indicating complete description and quantity desired. (For further details on the use of Form BM-9, see FSA Instruction 151.1 or 151.3).
Property to operate a field office is of two kinds, office equipment and office supplies.- A Office Equipment:
- Field Agents will, whenever possible, make use of such desks, typewriters, chairs, files, etc., as can be made available to them by the local office of the United States Employment Service where they will be located. If sufficient equipment cannot be secured, contact the WFA Program Chief immediately, requisitioning such equipment as is urgently required, on Form BM-9. The Program Chief will then take steps to provide required equipment from FSA stock or secure permission to transfer the equipment from other agencies or to purchase it locally.
- B Office Supplies:
- Pencils, paper, ink, erasers, clips, and similar ordinary office supplies should also be secured from the stock maintained
by local United States Employment Service Office. Such items as cannot be obtained in this manner will be provided by the
Regional FSA Office in San Francisco or Portland (whichever is nearer the Field Office involved) upon request on Form BM-9.
Printed forms, such as letterheads, reports, etc., which bear directly and exclusively on the functions of the WFA Program will be furnished by the Program Chief. His office will attempt to make an initial supply of all such necessary forms available to a Field Agent upon his assignment to a new Field Office. Replacement and replenishment of supplies of forms or stationery will be requested on Form BM-9 fully itemizing all requirements.
- III CUSTODY OF PROPERTY:
- All government property must be properly accounted for by personnel to whom it is assigned. Office furniture and non-expendable
equipment, such as desks, typewriters, chairs, etc., which are assigned for the use of WFA Agents by United States Employment
Service will remain on United States Employment Service inventories and FSA personnel assigned to the WFA Program will not
be directly responsible for the maintenance of such property records. However, in the case of all non-expendable equipment
(furniture, type-writers, pencil sharpeners, filing cases, etc.,) temporarily transferred from FSA offices or other governmental
agencies, the WFA Field Agent who will use the equipment must sign Form BM-25, Memorandum Receipt as a record of such temporary transfers.
Careful property records must be maintained on the custodianship of all equipment secured by requisition from the FSA or from other governmental agencies by temporary transfer. The responsibility for the custodianship of such property rests with the WFA personnel to whom it is assigned. (Detailed procedure for the accountability of government property in field offices is set forth in FSA Instruction 152.2). - IV SERVICES:
-
- A Office Space:
- Office space for all FSA personnel assigned to the WFA will be supplied by the local office of the United States Employment Service. If difficulty is experienced in securing such space, negotiations should be entered into to lease additional office facilities. The WFA Program Chief should be advised immediately in this event of full particulars regarding requirements and needs. (Detailed procedure for securing administrative space for field offices is set forth in FSA Instruction 154.1)
- B Telephone Service:
- Existing telephone installation in United States Employment Service offices will ordinarily be made available for WFA requirements.
If these prove insufficient, additional telephones may be installed. In such instances, the WFA Program Chief should be advised.
Long distance calls from the field to the office of the Program Chief should be made collect. Other calls, local and long distance, which Field Agents make away from their field offices and to points other than their offices or the Regional Office, should be paid for personally and reimbursement claimed on travel vouchers. (Detailed procedure for the use of telephones in field offices is contained in FSA Instruction 112.2). - C Telegrams: (Rev. 3-24-42)
-
- 1 Use:
- The speed with which WFA work must be accomplished, as well as its military significance, requires the use of the telegraph for almost all communications.
- 2 Types:
- WFA telegrams generally concern three types of subjects. Separate messages should be sent for each type, as follows:
- a Operations:
- Communications concerning personnel, supplies and equipment, office space, and similar items of a purely administrative nature.
- b Policy:
- Messages concerning tenure negotiations, farm operations, contacts, publicity, loans, and all other matters pertaining to the work of the WFA.
- c Reports:
- Daily and weekly statistical summaries of registrations, transactions, etc., as described in WFA Instruction 929.2.
― 3 ― - 3 Composition:
- Telegrams should above all convey a complete thought; omitting too many words for the sake of economy makes a message vague
or misleading. On the other hand, such words as "the," "and," "a" "it is," etc., may usually be omitted. The use of "STOP"
to denote a period is obsolete; commas, periods, and question-marks may be inserted.
A useful technique in composing telegrams is to draft the entire message in full narrative style before cutting out words.
Wires to the Regional Office should be addressed:
MR. W. C. HELVEY
WFA PROGRAM CHIEF
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 VAN NESS AVENUE
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
They should be signed with the first and last name of the sender (no middle initial) and the simple title "FIELD AGENT," "SPECIAL FIELD AGENT," or "DISTRICT OFFICER". - 4 Payment:
- Arrangements should be made with the local telegraph office to bill telegrams on a monthly basis. Billing should be made against "WFA Program, Farm Security Administration," on regular telegraph company invoices. Invoices should be submitted to the Field Agent, who will indicate his approval thereon and forward them to the Program Chief for processing and payment.
[905] Cancellation of Authority to Employ Farm Labor (Notice 7)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
(Classification 905)
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Field Agents, District Officers ans Special Field Agents.
(4-30-42)
- I WFA Instruction 905.2, Emergency Employment of Farm Labor and Owner-Operated Equipment by WFA Field Agents, is hereby declared obsolete. The procedures and authorities set forth in this instruction have been superseded by WFA Instruction 953.1.
- II Accordingly, Field Agents may no longer arrange to employ farm labor or owner operated equipment unless individually authorized to provide for the operation of farm property as described in Instruction 953.1.
- III WFA Instruction 905.2 must be removed from all procedure manuals immediately.
[905.1] Reporting Attendance of Region XI FSA Personnel
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
(Classification 905.1)
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA, Evacuation Control, and Negotiation Personnel
(4-8-42)
I Attendance on duty of all FSA personnel detailed to the evacuation program from Region Eleven will be reported direct to the Personnel Officer for that Region. Accordingly, all reports of absence, sick leave, annual leave, etc., should be sent airmail to:
Mr. Irving D. Smith
Personnel Officer
Farm Security Administration
Terminal Sales Building
Portland, Oregon.
II The consolidated semi-monthly service certificate, used in preparing payrolls, will be prepared in his office.
III However, personnel employed by the San Francisco office on a temporary or WAE basis that have their headquarters in the state of Washington or Oregon will report absence and leave to the San Francisco office in accordance with WFA Instruction 905.1.
[905.1] Employment of Administrative and Clerical Personnel for WRA Field Offices (Rev. 4-30-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Field Agents, Special Field Agents, and District Officers.
NOTE: This Instruction entirely replaces WFA Instruction 905.1 dated 3-15-42 (Rev. 3-20-42), which must be removed from all WFA procedure manuals and destroyed at once. It also supersedes WFA Notice 5, Classification 905, Reporting Attendance of Region XI FSA Personnel.
(3-15-42)
(Rev. 4-30-42)
(3-20-42)
(4-30-42)
I GENERAL:
This Instruction describes the procedure for securing the employment of administrative and clerical personnel in WFA Field Offices.
II AUTHORITY:
All personnel actions originating in field offices are in the nature of requests only. Actual appointments and terminations can be made solely by the Regional Office. Thus no field personnel can tell a
prospective employee to enter upon duty until specific notification of appointment has been received from the Regional Office.
WFA Field Agents may recruit and recommend applicants for appointment by the procedure described below.
III CLASSIFICATION:
Administrative and Clerical personnel which may be employed in WFA Field Offices will fall in one of the following classifications. Ordinarily they will be employed on a per diem basis and paid at the daily rate.
| Annual | Daily | |||
| Title | Grade | Salary | Rate | |
| A | Administrative | |||
| Field Agont | EO-9 | $2400 | $6.66 | |
| Assistant Field Agent | EO-7 | 1860 | 5.16 | |
| Junior Field Agent | EO-6 | 1680 | 4.66 | |
| B | Clerical | |||
| Assistant Clerk-Typist | EO-5 | $1500 | $4.16 | |
| Junior Clerk-Typist | EO-4 | 1320 | 3.66 |
NOTE: Ordinarily, only Junior Clerk-Typists will be employed as clerical personnel in WFA Field Offices. Requests for Assistant Clerk-Typists must state that all efforts to obtain clerical personnel in the Junior classification have failed.
IV RECRUITMENT:
Applicants for field positions will usually be secured through the U. S. Employment Service, though all other reliable sources
may be fully explored.
Field Officers should recommend only persons competent to perform all the duties required by the position.
V QUALIFICATIONS:
Field Agents will observe the following minimum personnel requirements in recommending applicants for clerical and administrative employment:
- A Age: Eighteen or over.
- B Relatives in Federal Service: Not more than one other member of an immediate family besides the applicant may work for the government. Military service excluded.
- C Other Federal Service: Do not recommend employment of any person now employed elsewhere in Federal Service.
- D Citizenship: American citizenship is required. If the applicant is naturalized he must show his citizenship papers to the
Field Agent, who will include in the covering letter transmitting personnel forms the following date copied from these papers:
- 1 Date and number of Certificate of Naturalization.
- 2 Name and location of Court of Naturalization.
- 3 Name of Awarding Official.
- E Past History: Do not recommend applicants who possess any criminal record, or who have ever been dropped with prejudice or for unsatisfactory service from any previous employment. (See questions 20 and 36 on Form AD-120, Application for Employment).
VI EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURE:
- A Steps to be Followed: To secure the employment of administrative or clerical personnel, WFA Field Agents will take the following
steps:
- 1 Have applicant prepare Form AD-120, Application for Employment.
- 2 Determine that applicant is competent and qualified (See Sections IV and V Above, and VI B below).
- 3 Have applicant execute Standard Form 47, Personnel Affidavit.
- 4 Forward Form 120 and 47 to the Regional Office (by airmail if advantageous) together with a covering letter stating:
- a Name of applicant
- b Title and grade of position to be filled
- c Desired salary rate
- d Requested date of entrance on duty. This date must be at least three days after the forms and letter have been mailed in order to give the Regional Office time to act on them. Do not ask for an Entrance on Duty date on the 31st of a month.
- e A brief explanation of the circumstances which make the additional personnel necessary.
― 3 ― - 5 Await official notification of appointment from the Regional Office. This will be sent by telegram if so requested in the covering letter.
- 6 Have new employee execute Standard Form 8, Oath of Office, on the day he actually begins to work.
- 7 Forward Form 8 to the Regional Office immediately as official notification of the employee's entrance on duties.
- B Forms Involved: Field Agents are directly responsible for the completeness and accuracy of all personnel forms submitted by them. The full
names of applicants (including both a given name and an initial) must be shown on all forms. This is very important. If not
complied with appointments and pay checks will be delayed.
- 1 Form AD-120, Application for Employment. Appointment will be determined on the basis of information furnished on this form. Every question must be answered and the completed form checked by the Field Agent, who will add his comments in the appropriate space.
- 2 Standard Form 47, Personnel Affidavit. This form must be completed and submitted with every application for employment. It may be subscribed and sworn to before the WFA Field Agents.
- 3 Standard Form 8, Oath of Office. Upon receipt of notification of appointment from the Regional Office, the Field Agent will have the new employee execute this Oath in original only. It may be sworn to on before an authorized Notary Public. The affirmation of a Postmaster is not sufficient. The date on the Oath must be the date of entrance on duty or as soon thereafter as possible.
VII REPORTING ATTENDANCE:
- A Daily Attendance: The daily attendance on duty of all clerical and administrative personnel employed in a WFA Field Office, including the Field
Agent in charge, will be reported daily, including Sundays, on a Government Postcard. Attendance for the last day of each report period, namely the fifteenth and
last day of every month, should be reported by the telegram. Evacuation Control Crews and Negotiators in the field will report
daily attendance to their respective chiefs. The daily report will contain the following information:
- 1 Location of Field Office
- 2 Date
- 3 Names and titles of all FSA-employed Personnel.
- 4 Indication as to which were detailed from the Farm Security demonstration and which were employed especially for the evacuation program. The symbols "FSA" and "WFA" respectively may be used for this purpose.
- 5 Number of hours worked by each.
- 6 Number of hours' absence for each.
- 7 Reason for absence.
- 8 Signature of field agent.
― 4 ―NOTE: A sample Daily Attendance Card or telegram might read as follows:
WFA Field Office April 21, 1942 Attendance at this Office today, as follows: Johnson, Joseph A. (FAS) Field Agent 8 hours Doe, Mary Jane (WFA) Junior Clerk Typist 8 hours ________________________ Field Agent in Charge - B Absence:
- 1 If an employee paid at daily rates is asked to work on a certain date and fails to report, this fact should be noted on the daily attendance cars together with reasons if known.
- 2 Farm Security Personnel detailed from Region IX must submit leave slips, Form AD-17-A, for all absences. These will be addressed to Mr. W. C. Helvey, Chief, WFA Program, in the San Francisco Regional Office.
- 3 Farm Security Personnel detailed from Region XI will forward their leave slips directly to Mr. Irving D. Smith, Terminal Sales Building, Portland, Oregon.
VIII PAY CHECK DELIVERY:
All pay checks will be delivered to the WFA Field Office, and distributed by the Field Agent. Employees will sign the transmittal form enclosed with the check as acknowledgment of receipt. The Field Agent is responsible for returning this form to the Regional Office.
IX TERMINATION:
- A When the services of clerical and administrative personnel employed under WFA Instruction 905.1 are no longer required because
the work for which there were hired in completed, the Field Office has closed, or for some other reason, the Field Agent will
address a letter to the Regional Office requesting termination. This letter must contain the following information:
― 5 ―- 1 The full name of the employee to be terminated
- 2 EO grade
- 3 Salary
- 4 Last date of active duty
- 5 Reason for the requested termination
At this time the employee to be terminated will be relieved of active duty. It is to be expected that most of such termination requests will be for the reason "WORK COMPLETED". In instances where termination is desired for disciplinary reasons the Field Agent should communicate with his District Officer before requesting the Regional Office to take action.
- B If an employee leaves the service of the FSA of his own accord, it will be necessary for the Field Agent to submit a letter
of resignation, Form AD-39, properly executed by the employee.
Before his final pay check can be released the employee must surrender to the Field Agent or District Officer:
The supervising official will immediately transmit this material to the Regional Office. When all Government property has been accounted for, the final pay-check will be released.
- C Once an employee has been terminated, he may not be assigned to further duties with the FSA until he has once again been employed by the appointment procedure described in this Instruction.
[905.1 Exhibit A] Flow of WFA termination procedure
[905.1 Exhibit B] Flow of WFA Employment Procedure
[905.1 Exhibit C] Flow of WFA Leave and Payroll Procedure
[905.1] Employment of Administrative and Clerical Personnel by Wartime Farm Adjustment Field Offices (Rev. 3-20-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel
NOTE: This WFA Instruction 905.1 entirely supersedes the instruction of the same classification numbered 3-15-42, which must be immediately removed from all WFA procedure manuals and destroyed.
(Rev. 3-20-42)
(3-15-42)
(3-20-42)
- I SCOPE:
- This instruction describes the procedure for employing clerical and administrative personnel in WFA Program Field Offices. For the hiring of labor (skilled and unskilled) see WFA Instruction 905.2. For details regarding the preparation of FSA forms described in this instruction, and for all other matters pertaining to government personnel administration, consult FSA instructions in the "200" series.
- II AUTHORITY:
- Clerical and administrative personnel may be employed as needed to carry out the functions of the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program. (See WFA Instruction 900.1) WFA Field Agents will select and recommend applicants by means of procedure described below.
- III CLASSIFICATION:
- Clerical and administrative personnel which may be employed by WFA Field Offices will fall in one of the following classifications. (The majority of the positions to be filled in the field will be on a per diem basis, and payment will be made at the daily rate).
| Title | Grade | Annual Rate | Daily Rate |
| RR Supervisor | E0-9 | $ 2400.00 | $ 6.66 |
| Asso. RR Supervisor | E0-7 | 1860.00 | 5.16 |
| Asst. RR Supervisor | E0-6 | 1680.00 | 4.66 |
| Asst. Clerk | E0-5 | 1500.00 | 4.16 |
| Asst. Clerk-Steno. | E0-5 | 1500.00 | 4.16 |
| Asst. Clerk-Typist | E0-5 | 1500.00 | 4.16 |
| Jr. Clerk | E0-4 | 1320.00 | 3.66 |
| Jr. Clerk-Typist | E0-4 | 1320.00 | 3.66 |
| Jr. Clerk-Steno. | E0-4 | 1320.00 | 3.66 |
- IV RECRUITMENT:
- Applicants for field positions will usually be secured through the United States Employment Service. Field Officers should select persons capable of performing all the duties required by the position.
- V QUALIFICATIONS:
- Field Agents will observe the following minimum personnel requirements in recommending applicants for clerical and administrative
employment:
- A Age:
- Eighteen or over.
- B Relatives in Federal Service:
- Not more than two members of an immediate family may work for the government. Military service excluded.
- C Other Federal Service:
- Do not recommend employment of any person now employed elsewhere in Federal Service.
- D Citizenship:
- American citizenship is required. If the applicant is naturalized, he must show his citizenship papers to the Field Agent.
- E Past History:
- Do not recommend applicants who possess any criminal record, or who have ever been dropped with prejudice or for unsatisfactory service from any previous employment. (See questions 20 and 36 on Form AD-120, Application for Employment).
― 2 ― - VI EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURE:
- In order to secure the employment of desired clerical or administrative personnel, WFA Field Agents must follow certain simple
steps, and prepare and transmit certain forms as follows:
- A Steps Involved:
- To secure the employment of clerical or administrative personnel, WFA Field Agents shall take the following steps:
- Have applicant prepare Form AD-120, Application for Employment.
- Determine acceptability of applicant.
- Decide on date employment should begin. (This is called the "effective date").
- Have applicant execute Standard Form 47, Personnel Affidavit.
- Telegraph WFA Program Chief requesting appointment and stating that forms AD-120 and Standard 47 are en route.
- Immediately forward 120 and 47, by airmail if advantageous.
- Await telegraphic confirmation of appointment, which should arrive the same day or the following morning.
- Upon receipt of telegraphic confirmation, have applicant execute Standard Form 8, Oath of Office on the day he or she actually begins to work.
- B Forms Involved:
-
- 1 Form AD-120, Application for Employment:
- Every application for employment will be determined upon the basis of information furnished on AD-120. This form must be filled
out completely and carefully checked by the Field Agent. Particular attention should be paid to the completeness and accuracy
of the following items:
- a Date of Application
- b The full name of applicant. (Middle initial or name required)
- c Answers to questions numbered 20 and 36.
- d Relatives in Federal Service
- e Military Preference
- f Previous Federal Service
- g Citizenship
- h Comments of interviewer
- 2 Standard Form 47, Personnel Affidavit:
- This affidavit for citizenship must be submitted together with every application for employment. It may be subscribed and sworn to before the WFA Field Agent.
- 3 Covering Telegram:
- The telegram advising the Program Chief that the application for employment and the personnel affidavit have been mailed,
and requesting employment for a position should include the following information:
- a Name of applicant
- b Title
- c EO Grade
- d Desired per diem or per annum salary rate.
- e Desired effective date of employment.
- f Statements that application and affidavit have been mailed.
― 3 ―
NOTE: A sample telegram might read as follows:
MARCH 20, 1942
W.C. HELVEY
WFA PROGRAM CHIEF
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 VAN NESS AVENUE
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIAREQUEST APPOINTMENT MARY JANE DOE JUNIOR CLERK-TYPIST E0-4 $3.66 PER DAY MARCH 21, 1942 APPLICATION AFFIDAVIT EN ROUTE
JOSEPH A. DOAKES
FIELD AGENT- 4 Standard Form 8, Oath of Office:
- When persons appointed by this procedure report for duty, they must execute this Oath of Office in original only. Affidavit on this form must be sworn to before an authorized Notary Public. An Oath sworn to before a postmaster who is not also a Notary Public is not acceptable. The date on Oath of Office must be the date of entrance on duty. The form must be transmitted to the Regional Office immediately upon completion, and by airmail if advantageous
- VII REPORTING ATTENDANCE:
- The daily attendance on duty of all clerical and administrative personnel employed in a WFA Field Office, including the Field
Agent in charge, will be reported daily, including Sundays, on a Government Postcard. Attendance for the last day of each report period, namely the first and fifteenth
of every month, should be reported by telegram instead of a postcard for all offices except those in the Northern California
district. The daily report will contain the following information:
- A Location of Field Office.
- B Date
- C Names and titles of all FSA-Employed Personnel.
- D Number of hours worked by each.
- E Number of hours' absence for each.
- F Reason for absence.
- G Signature of Field Agent.
― 4 ―
NOTE: A sample Daily Attendance Card or telegram might read as follows:
_____WFA Field Office
March 21, 1942
Attendance at this Office today, as follows:
| Doakes, Joseph A | Field Agent | 8 hours |
| Doe, Mary Jane | Junior Clerk- | 8 hours |
| Typist |
Field Agent in Charge
- VIII PAY CHECK DELIVERY:
- All pay checks will be delivered to the WFA Field Office, and distributed by the Field Agent. Employees will sign the transmittal form enclosed with the check as acknowledgment of receipt.
- IX TERMINATION:
- When the services of clerical or administrative personnel employed under this procedure are no longer required because the work for which they were hired is completed, the Field Office has closed, or for some other reason, the Field Agent will indicate the date of termination or resignation on the daily attendance card together with a brief phrase explaining the reason. In cases where special circumstances accompany the explanation, these should be submitted to the Program Chief in a detailed letter.
Employment of Administrative and Clerical Personnel by Wartime Farm Adjustment Field Offices
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel
NOTE: This WRA Instruction 905.1 entirely supersedes the instruction of the same classification numbered 3-15-42 which must be immediately removed from all WFA procedure manuals and destroyed.
(Rev. 3-20-42)
(3-15-42)
- I SCOPE:
- This instruction describes the procedure for employing clerical and administrative personnel in WFA Program Field Offices. For the hiring of labor (skilled and unskilled) see WFA Instruction 905.2. For details regarding the preparation of FSA forms described in this instruction, and for all other matters pertaining to government personnel administration, consult FSA instructions in the "200" series.
- II AUTHORITY:
- Clerical and administrative personnel may be employed as needed to carry out the functions of the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program. (See WFA Instruction 900.1) WFA Field Agents will select and recommend applicants by means of procedure described below.
- III CLASSIFICATION:
- Clerical and administrative personnel which may be employed by WFA Field Offices will fall in one of the following classifications. (The majority of the positions to be filled in the field will be on a per diem basis, and payment will be made at the daily rate).
| Title | Grade | Annual Rate | Daily Rate |
| RR Supervisor | E0-9 | $ 2400.00 | $ 6.66 |
| Asso. RR Supervisor | E0-7 | 1860.00 | 5.16 |
| Asst. RR Supervisor | E0-6 | 1680.00 | 4.66 |
| Asst. Clerk | E0-5 | 1500.00 | 4.16 |
| Asst. Clerk-Steno. | E0-5 | 1500.00 | 4.16 |
| Asst. Clerk-Typist | E0-5 | 1500.00 | 4.16 |
| Jr. Clerk | E0-4 | 1320.00 | 3.66 |
| Jr. Clerk-Typist | E0-4 | 1320.00 | 3.66 |
| Jr. Clerk-Steno. | E0-4 | 1320.00 | 3.66 |
- IV RECRUITMENT:
- Applicants for field positions will usually be secured through the United States Employment Service. Field Officers should select persons capable of performing all the duties required by the position.
- V QUALIFICATIONS:
- Field Agents will observe the following minimum personnel requirements in recommending applicants for clerical and administrative
employment:
- A Age:
- Eighteen or over.
- B Relatives in Federal Service:
- Not more than two members of an immediate family may work for the government. Military service excluded.
- C Other Federal Service:
- Do not recommend employment of any person now employed elsewhere in Federal Service.
- D Citizenship:
- American citizenship is required. If the applicant is naturalized, he must show his citizenship papers to the Field Agent.
- E Past History:
- Do not recommend applicants who possess any criminal record, or who have ever been dropped with prejudice or for unsatisfactory service from any previous employment. (See questions 20 and 36 on Form AD-120, Application for Employment).
― 2 ― - VI EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURE:
- In order to secure the employment of desired clerical or administrative personnel, WFA Field Agents must follow certain simple
steps, and prepare and transmit certain forms as follows:
- A Steps Involved:
- To secure the employment of clerical or administrative personnel, FA Field Agents shall take the following steps:
- Have applicant prepare Form AD-120, Application for Employment.
- Determine acceptability of applicant.
- Decide on date employment should begin. (This is called the "effective date".
- Have applicant execute Standard Form 47, Personnel Affidavit.
- Telegraph WFA Program Chief giving name of employee, title of position, salary rate, and date employee enters on duty, stating that forms AD-120 and Standard 47 are enroute.
- Immediately forward 120 and 47, by airmail if advantageous.
- Have applicant execute Standard Form 8, Oath of Office on the day he or she actually begins to work.
- B Forms Involved:
-
- 1 Form AD-120, Application for Employment:
- Every application for employment will be determined upon the basis of information furnished on AD-120. This form must be filled
out completely and carefully checked by the Field Agent. Particular attention should be paid to the completeness and accuracy
of the following items:
- a Date of Application
- b The full name of applicant. (Middle initial or name required)
- c Answers to questions numbered 20 and 36.
- d Relatives in Federal Service
- e Military Preference
- f Previous Federal Service
- g Citizenship
- h Comments of Interviewer
[905.1] Procuring Personnel for Wartime Farm Adjustment Offices
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel
(3-15-42)
- I SCOPE:
- This instruction sets forth the methods whereby all offices of the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program may request and secure needed personnel. It is a condensation and simplification of various personnel instructions in the "200" series of the Farm Security Administration Procedure Manual. FSA Instructions in this series should be consulted for further details regarding the preparation of forms referred to in this instruction and for all other matters pertaining to Government personnel administration
- II FIELD OFFICES:
- In order to fill a new position or make a needed replacement which occurs in a WFA field office, the Field Agent in charge
will submit a written request to the Program Chief, describing the position to be filled, the salary rate, official headquarters,
desired effective date and any other pertinent information. If the Field Agent desires to recommend a specific applicant for
the position, the following fully completed forms should be enclosed with his request:
- A Request for Personnel:
-
- 1 Form AD 120, Application for Employment:
- This form must be filled out completely and carefully checked by the Field Agent. Particular attention should be paid to the
completeness and accuracy of the following items:
- a Date of application.
- b Answers to questions numbered 20 and 36.
- c Relatives in Federal service.
- d Member of an FSA client family.
- e Military preference.
- f Previous Federal service.
- g Citizenship.
- h Residence.
- i Comments of interviewer.
- j The full name of the applicant must be given (middle initial permissible).
NOTE: By submitting accurate and completely filled out applications Field Agents will avoid the needless exchange of correspondence and telegrams regarding discrepancies and omissions which must be clarified before appointment action can be taken.
- 2 Standard Form 47, Personnel Affidavit:
- This affidavit of citizenship completely filled out and notarized must be submitted, together with every Application for employment.
- B Telegraphic Request:
- If an urgent personnel shortage requires faster action than can be provided by mail, a telegraphic request may be submitted.
Such a request must state position to be filled, salary rate
― 2 ―official headquarters and effective date. It must also indicate that Form AD 120 Application for Employment, has been checked for completeness and accuracy of information. A telegraphic request for personnel action should be immediately followed by the usual written request, accompanied by Forms AD 120 and 47 as these are required for Personnel Division records. - C Induction:
- When persons appointed in administrative clerical sub-professional and custodial positions report for duty they must, before actually entering upon their duties, execute Standard Form 8, Oath of Office. Oaths will be executed in an original only and sworn to before a notary public or other officer authorized by law to administer oaths. Oaths sworn to before a postmaster who is not also a notary public are not acceptable. Oaths executed in the field will be sent immediately to the office of the Program Chief. They will constitute a formal notification to the Personnel Division that the new employee has reported for duty. However, if an appointee reports toward the close of a payroll period, immediate notification should be sent to the Program Chief by telegram in order that he may be paid promptly.
- III REGIONAL OFFICE:
-
- A Initial Request:
- In order to fill an appointment or replace a personnel vacancy occurring in the staff of the WFA Program Chief, the Section
Chief concerned should prepare a written request outlining the type and requirements of the position to be filled. If a specific
prospect is to be recommended the request should be accompanied by Form AD 120, Application for Employment, and Form 47, Personnel Affidavit, in order that appointment action may be effected immediately.
- Formal Request:
- After the Program Chief has approved the initial request for personnel, a formal request for appointment action will be processed on Form POM 200, Request for Personnel action, in accordance with established procedures
- IV EMERGENCY PERSONNEL PROCUREMENTS:
- Instructions will be forth-coming in the immediate future regarding the possible employment of personnel on a day-to-day or per diem basis to meet emergency field conditions.
[905.2] Emergency Employment of Farm Labor and Owner-Operated Equipment by Wartime Farm Adjustment Field Agents
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel.
(3-20-42)
I Scope
This instruction describes procedure for the employment of labor (skilled and unskilled), owner-operated equipment and any other classifications of services which might be required to protect property and continue agricultural operations on those farms which have been evacuated for any reason, and jurisidiction [sic] [jurisdiction]over which has been turned over to the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program.
II Authority
In order to prevent deterioration of farm property and to keep essential crops growing until a more permanent arrangement can be devised, Field Agents are hereby authorized to arrange immediately for the employment of such personnel and owner-operated equipment as are required to carry out the functions of the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program.
When a WFA Field Agent finds it necessary to employ farm labor or owner-operated equipment, he will state his requirements and wage rates to the WFA Program Chief in a telegram as described in paragraph VI below.
The WFA Program Chief will immediately telegraph the appropriate Field Official (who will hereafter be called the Employing Officer) that a Letter of Authorization, signed by Mr. Laurence I. Hewes, Jr., Regional Director, is being issued. The Letter of Authorization will have a serial number assigned by the WFA Program Chief. This Letter will contain the necessary authorization to hire labor and equipment at the specified hourly rates. However, the telegraphic notification that a Letter has been issued will be sufficient authorization for the Employing Officer to proceed with the hiring of required labor.
III Rates
The hourly rate indicated in the Letter of Authorization as having been determined by the Regional Director will be the prevailing rate for such hire in the given locality. To a great extent these rates will be based upon recommendations submitted by the Employing Officer. Usually they will be the prevailing rates established by the local United States Employment Service. However, Employing Officers are authorized to pay such wages as are necessary to secure qualified labor for the immediate need involved.
IV Recruitment
Employing Officers should recruit farm labor through the United States Employment Service wherever possible. However, all other customary sources may be explored.
V Qualifications
The Employing Officer shall assure himself that the person to be hired is capable of carrying on the agricultural operations involved.
VI Employment Procedure
In order to secure the employment of required farm labor, WFA Field Agents must follow certain steps, and prepare certain forms as follows:
- A Steps Involved:
― 2 ―- 1 Determine the type and amount of labor (and/or owner-operated equipment) required.
- 2 Recruit a sufficient quantity of the desired labor.
- 3 Determine the hourly wage rate which it will be necessary to pay
- 4 Telegraph the WFA Program Chief for a Letter of Authorization.
- 5 Upon receipt of telegraphic notification that a Letter of Authorization has been issued, prepare Form FSA-202, Employment Agreement.
- B Forms Involved:
- 1 FSA-202, Employment Agreement
- This form should be prepared in triplicate, the original going to the WFA Program Chief, one copy to the employee, and one copy to the Employing Officer's files. The Employment Agreement must be fully completed with the exception of the two bottom lines. The Employing Officer will indicate on the face of the form the Letter of Authorization number and date, for example, "LA-201, dated March 16, 1942".
- 2 Standard Form 47, Personnel Affidavit:
- This form must also be executed and submitted for each laborer. The affidavit at the bottom of the form may be subscribed and sworn to before the Employing Officer.
VII Time Records
A record must be kept of the time worked by each employee hired by procedure described in this instruction. From such record, the Employing Officer will prepare and submit to the WFA Program Chief Form FSA 45, Time Report of Employees on Per-Hour or Per-Day Basis. This form will be prepared in duplicate, the original going to the WFA Program Chief at the close of each semi-monthly reporting period, and the copy remaining in the Employing Officer's files. The Letter of Authorization number should be entered on the line "Work Order No." in the upper right hand corner, and the Code No. "556" on the line "Budget and Allot. Code". The city and state where the Field Office is located must be shown in the upper left hand corner. Employees hired during a reporting period will be listed alphabetically. The rate of pay, number of hours worked each day, total number of hours worked, and total amount due will be shown in the appropriate columns. Under "Remarks" will be indicated the date of original employment for those employees whose names appear on the Time Report for the first time. The location of the employment office must be shown on the form for each employee. Signature and title of the Employing Officer must appear on these Time Reports as they are used in preparation of payrolls.
VIII Pay Check Delivery
All pay checks will be delivered to the WFA Field Office for distribution by the Field Agent. Employees will sign the transmittal form enclosed with the checks as acknowledgment of receipt.
IX Termination
When the services of farm labor and/or owner-operated equipment employed under this procedure are no longer required because the work for which they were hired is completed, or for some other reason, the Field Agent will indicate the date of termination or resignation on the Form 45 together with a brief phrase explaining the reason. In cases where special circumstances accompany the explanation, these should be submitted to the Program Chief in a detailed letter.
[905.3] Services of Land Appraisers at WFA Field Offices
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA Instruction 905.3
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel.
(4-1-42)
- I GENERAL:
- The services of qualified land appraisers will frequent be required in arranging transfers of farms between evacuating farmers and new operators.
- II FUNCTION:
- Land appraisers will be used in settling transactions where it is necessary to determine the value or worth of land, livestock, growing crops in various stages of maturity, or second hand farm machinery and equipment.
- III SOURCES OF RECRUITMENT:
- Land appraisers will ordinarily be provided by the Regional Office on request by telephone or telegraph from WFA Field Agents or District Officers. However, when the urgency of the situation requires, appraisers may be employed in the field by the employment procedure set forth in WFA Instruction 905.1, Employment of Administrative and Clerical Personnel By WFA Field Offices. The most likely source of information as to the location of qualified land appraisers is the local National Farm Loan Association, which is affiliated with the Federal Land Bank. Another source would be any reputable bank.
- IV CLASSIFICATION:
- Land appraisers will ordinarily be employed in EO Grade 10 at a salary rate of 7.60 per day. However, when the difficulty or complexity of the transaction demands, an especially well-qualified appraiser may be employed at EO Grade 13, paying $10.00 per day.
- V TRAVEL AND PER DIEM:
- Upon receipt of telegraphic notification from a Field Agent or District Officer that a land appraiser is to be appointed, the Regional Office will issue a Letter of Travel Authorization. This will permit appraisers hired in the field to collect 4 1/2 cents a mile for necessary travel in connection with their functions, when such travel is performed by privately-owned automobile. In addition to mileage and daily salary rate, they may claim per diem when actually employed away from their official station.
[912.1] Functional Organization of the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel.
(3-15-42)
I Regional Office:
- A WFA Program Chief:
- The WFA Program will be headed by a Program Chief working under the direct supervision of the Assistant Regional Director, RR. The Program Chief will be responsible for carrying out the objectives of the WFA Program. He will be assisted by a Deputy Chief.
- B Executive Assistant and Liaison Officer:
- The Executive Assistant to the Program Chief will serve also as liaison officer between the WFA and the Western Defense Command of the Fourth Army. In this regard, he will handle all matters of finance, procurement, personnel, etc.
- C Staff Sections:
- The staff of the Program Chief will consist of three or more Sections:
- 1 Loan Section:
- The Loan Section will be responsible for approving and servicing all WFA Special Production Loans made under the WFA Program.
This Section will contain the following units:
- a Farm Management.
- b Cooperative.
- c Security.
- d Loan Processing.
- e Legal.
- f Audit.
- 2 Information Section:
- The Information Section will be responsible for disseminating information on the Program and for supervising the dissemination of information by field personnel. The Section will also devise technique for collecting and imparting information, maintaining necessary contacts with the public, the Army and other Government agencies.
- 3 Reports and Records Section:
- The Reports and Record Section will be responsible for collecting and maintaining all records and reports and issuing procedure.
This Section will consist of the following operating units:
- a Reports and Statistics Unit: Here all reports forwarded by field offices concerning the volume of business transacted, land available, potential production, number and types of transactions completed, etc., will be tabulated and summarized for presentation to the Army each Monday morning.
- b Records and Files Unit: Here all case records and general correspondence will be received, sorted, transmitted and filed.
II District Field Offices
Representing the Program Chief throughout Arizona, California, Oregon and Washington will be District Field Offices. It will be their responsibility to supervise the work of all field offices in their district, and act as liaison between the Field Agent and the Program Chief. They will also make all necessary contacts with other Government agents at the district level.
III Field Offices
There will be WFA Field Agencies stationed in United States Employment Service Offices throughout the defense areas of Arizona, California, Oregon and Washington. They will be responsible for carrying out the operational functions of the WFA Program in accordance with prescribed procedures. (See WFA Instruction 900.1.)
[913.0] Location of WFA District Officers and Special Field Agents
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel
(3-25-42)
(Rev. 4-3-42)
| DISTRICT NUMBER | DISTRICT OFFICER | OFFICES IN DISTRICT | HEADQUARTERS |
| 1 | James L. Shelly | El Centro, California | Phoenix, Arizona 220 W. Jefferson St. Phoenix 45545 |
| Indio, California | |||
| Phoenix, Arizona | |||
| 2 | Ernst Behr | Pomona, California | Whittier, California 214 W. Philadephia Street Whittier 43378 |
| Redlands, California | |||
| Riverside, California | |||
| San Diego, California | |||
| Santa Ana, California | |||
| Whittier, California | |||
| 3 | Harry Oakley | Alhambra, California | Los Angeles Calif. 707 So. Spring St. Trinity 6716 |
| Inglewood, California | |||
| Long Beach, California | |||
| Los Angeles, California | |||
| Pasadena, California | |||
| San Pedro, California | |||
| Torrance, California | |||
| 4 | Waldo J. Blaisdell | Burbank, California | Santa Monica, Calif. 1558 - 5th Street Santa Monica 42758 |
| San Fernando, California | |||
| Santa Maria, California | |||
| Santa Monica California | |||
| Ventura, California | |||
| 5 | George Homsy | Bakersfield, California | Fresno, California 2146 Inyo Street Fresno 36184 |
| Fresno, California | |||
| Merced, California | |||
| Stockton, California | |||
| Visalia, California | |||
| 6 | Oscar W. Dennis | Alameda, California | San Jose, California 393 S. 2nd Street Columbia 4646 |
| Hayward, California | |||
| Oakland, California | |||
| Salinas, California | |||
| San Jose, California | |||
| San Mateo, California | |||
| Santa Rosa, California | |||
| Watsonville, California |
| DISTRICT NUMBER | DISTRICT OFFICER | OFFICES IN DISTRICT | HEADQUARTERS |
| 7 | Richard F. Elam | Chico, California | Sacramento, Calif. 1330 J Street Sacramento 33941 |
| Marysville, California | |||
| Pittsburg, California | |||
| Sacramento, California | |||
| 8 | Charles M. Ross | Astoria, Oregon | Portland, Oregon 317 S. W. 6th Ave. Atwater 7584-Ext. 19 Atwater 9341-Ext. 70 |
| Hood River, Oregon | |||
| Portland, Oregon | |||
| Raymond, Washington | |||
| Yakima, Washington | |||
| Salem, Oregon | |||
| 9 | Frank Kirshisnik | Seattle, Washington | Portland, Oregon 317 S. W. 6th Ave. Atwater 7584-Ext. 19 Atwater 9341-Ext. 70 |
| Bremerton, Washington | |||
| Tacoma, Washington |
| OFFICE | NAME | ADDRESS | PHONE |
| Los Angeles | Edgar File | Security First Nat'l Bank 707 So. Spring Street | Neutral 0211 |
| San Francisco | Wm. Sahr | c/o Federal Reserve Office Financial Center Bldg. | Sutter 8420 Ext. 245 |
[913.1] LOCATION OF WFA FIELD OFFICES (IN U.S.E.S. OFFICES) - ARIZONA
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
WFA Instruction 913.1
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel in Arizona.
NOTE: This list replaces all previous address lists of WFA Field Offices in Arizona
(3-16-42)
(Rev. 3-25-42)
| FIELD OFFICE | FIELD AGENT | STREET ADDRESS | TELEPHONE NUMBER | DISTRICT NO. & OFFICE |
| Phoenix | George Dashiell, Jr. | 220 W. Jefferson St. | Phoenix 45545 | 1 Shelly |
[913.2] Location of WFA Field Offices (in U.S.E.S. Offices) - California
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel In California.
NOTE: This list replaces all previous address lists of WFA Field Offices in California.
(3-15-42)
(Rev. 3-25-42)
| FIELD OFFICE | FIELD AGENT | STREET ADDRESS | TELEPHONE NUMBER | DISTRICT NO. & OFFICER |
| Alameda | Richard D. Wadley | 1536 Park St. | Lakehurst 27300 | 6 Dennis |
| Alhambra | Ralph Randall | 27 E. Valley Blvd. | Atlantic 24174 | 3 Oakley |
| Bakersfield | Jack L. McKenzie | 1300 18th St. | Bakersfield 66041 | 5 Homsy |
| Berkeley | Geo. W. Buckley | 2459-63 Shattuck | Thornwall 1389 | 7 Elam |
| Burbank | Tharol Larsen | 131 E. Magnolia Blvd. | Charleston 67401 | 4 Blaisdell |
| Chico | Walter N. Anderson | 345 W. 5th St. | Chico 1793 | 7 Elam |
| El Centro | Arthur V. Schenck | 540 State St. | El Centro 1690 | 1 Shelly |
| Fresno | Frank E. Nagel | 2146 Inyc St. | Fresno 36184 | 5 Homsy |
| Hayward | Richard D. Wadley | Post Office Building | Hayward 2700 | 6 Dennis |
| Indio | Paul R. Frink | 720 State Highway | Indio 7495 | 1 Shelly |
| Inglewood | Joe W. Atkin | 319 E. Hillcrest | Inglewood 4181 | 3 Oakley |
| Long Beach | Lamar D. Engstrom | 416 Pine Ave. | Long Beach 63211 | 3 Oakley |
| Los Angeles | Stuart H. Richards | 1100 S. Flower St. | Richmond 4181 | 3 Oakley |
| Marysville | Louis R. Brewer | 321 C Street | Marysville 1652 | 7 Elam |
| Merced | Gerald Mackersie | 622 19th St. | Merced 1065 | 5 Homsy |
| Pasadena | Perry B. Miller | 745 E. Green St. | Sycamore 37111 | 3 Oakley |
| Pittsburg | Bryan L. Booth | 480 Black Diamond St. | Pittsburg 412 | 7 Elam |
| Pomona | Ray H. Finch | 145 W. 5th Ave. | Pomona 1922 | 2 Behr |
| Redlands | Art Branham | 14 E. Vine St. | Redlands 0681 | 2 Behr |
| Richmond | Elmo R. Webster | 601 Nevin St. | Richmond 3670 | 7 Elam |
| Riverside | Albert E. Ruoff | 3469 Main St. | Riverside 5540 | 2 Behr |
| Sacramento | Wayne L. Phelps | 1330 J Street | Sacramento 33941 | 7 Elam |
| Salinas | L. Robert Hamilton | 7 Natividad St. | Salinas 4873 | 6 Dennis |
| San Diego | Elwood Trask | 1165 Front St. | Franklin 6281 | 2 Behr |
| San Fernando | Louis Jensen | 132 N. Maclay St. | San Fernando 5571 | 4 Blaisdell |
| San Jose | Chas. A. Hearn | 393 S. 2nd St. | Columbia 4646 | 6 Dennis |
| San Pedro | John L. Stewart | 362 E. Seventh St. | San Pedro 5961 | 3 Oakley |
| Santa Ana | Lee Seidell | 501 W. Fifth St. | Santa Ana 6101 | 2 Behr |
| Santa Maria | Warren T. Stannard | 310 W. Main St. | Santa Maria 107 | 4 Blaisdell |
| San Mateo | James H. Eager | 15 B. Street | San Mateo 8250 | 6 Dennis |
| Santa Monica | Wm. Whitaker | 1558 5th Street | Santa Monica 42758 | 4 Blaisdell |
| Santa Rosa | Gustav E. Frevert | 501 Third St. | Santa Rosa 2022 | 6 Dennis |
| Stockton | David J. Gilhooley | 201 N. San Joaquin | Stockton 77851 | 5 Homsy |
| Torrance | Doyle Y. Landon | 2300 Carson St. | Torrance 417 | 3 Oakley |
| Ventura | Chas. E. Hazelton | 53 S. California St. | Ventura 2291 | 4 Blaisdell |
| Visalia | Wm. J. Hurley | 500 N. Garden St. | Visalia 2002 | 5 Homsy |
| Watsonville | Myron C. Frane | 21 W. Lake Ave. | Watsonville 1271 | 6 Dennis |
| Whittier | Silas M. Young | 214 W. Philadelphia | Whittier 43378 | 2 Behr |
[913.3] Location of WFA Field Offices (in U.S.E.S. Offices) - Oregon
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel in Oregon.
NOTE: This list replaces all previous address lists of WFA Field Offices in Oregon.
(3-15-42)
(Rev. 3-25-42)
| FIELD OFFICE | FIELD AGENT | STREET ADDRESS | TELEPHONE NUMBER | DISTRICT NO. & OFFICER |
| Astoria | Carroll Rycraft | 14th & Duane Sts. Hood River Hotel Bldg. 6th Ave. & Stark St. Porter Building 710 Ferry St | Astoria 1211 | 8 Ross |
| Hood River | Walter Klundt | Hood River 2701 | 8 Ross | |
| Portland | Viekke Lund | Atwater 9553 | 8 Ross | |
| Hayes Beale | ||||
| Salem | Frank Bamos | 8 Ross |
[913.4] Location of WFA Field Offices (in U.S.E.S. Offices) - Washington
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel in Washington
NOTE: This list replaces all previous address lists of WFA Field Offices in Washington.
(3-15-42)
(Rev. 3-25-42)
| FIELD OFFICE | FIELD AGENT | STREET ADDRESS | TELEPHONE NUMBER | DISTRICT NO. & OFFICER |
| Bremerton | Arthur Bonn | 650 Fourth St.(Bremerton to serve Bainbridge Island) | Bremerton 2740 | 9 Penrose |
| Raymond | John Kassebaum | 222 Third St. | Raymond 51 | 8 Ross |
| Seattle | [illegible data] | 808 2nd St. | Elliott 4320 | 9 Penrose |
| Tacoma | Cherman Blackwell | 112 S. 12th St. | Broadway 4271 | 9 Penrose |
| Yakima | Keith Jones | 101 S. 1st St. | Yakima 6156 | 8 Ross |
[914.1] Closing or Consolidating Field Offices
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
DISTRIBUTION: All Field Agents and District Officers
(5-16-42)
- I GENERAL:
- From time to time the WFA Program Chief will notify field agents (either directly or through the District Officer) to discontinue WCCA-FSA activity ("close" the office) or to transfer activity to another field office ("consolidate"). The telegram directing such action will specify the effective date of closing or consolidation. Such action will usually be occasioned by the recommendation of a District Officer to the Program Chief advising that WCCA-FSA services in a given area are no longer needed.
- II STEPS TO BE TAKEN:
- Closing or consolidating a field office involves the disposition of personnel, loan dockets, files and records, supplies and
equipment and many other details. A check-list itemizing all required steps is attached as Exhibit A of this Instruction.
Additional copies are supplied for actual use in the process of closing or consolidating.
- A Consolidating A Field Office:
- This is a relatively simple procedure involving the absorption of all activities of one office by another, and the redistribution of personnel. Consolidation will be performed under the general supervision of the District Officer, who may however leave all arrangements to be worked out between the Field Agents concerned. Unless specific instructions are contained in the telegram from the WFA Program Chief, the District Officer will determine how and when employees formerly attached to the consolidated office are to be reassigned.
- B Closing A Field Office:
- This is a somewhat more complicated process as it involves discontinuing all WCCA-FSA activity in an area, terminating certain employees, returning others to regular FSA duties, transferring responsibility for loan service and collection, shipping files to the Regional Office, and disposing of unused supplies locally. As closing an office does not involve any other Field Agent, it may often be accomplished by the Field Agent in charge without the assistance of the District Officer. The Field Agent is under considerable responsibility to act with speed and judgment, applying all prescribed procedure and assuring that no loose ends remain after the WCCA-FSA has withdrawn.
[914.1 Exhibit A, Page 1] Steps To Be Taken By WFA Field Agent When Consolidating or Closing An Office
[914.1 Exhibit A, Page 2] Steps To Be Taken By WFA Field Agent When Consolidating or Closing An Office
[921.1] Informational Services of Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Field Offices
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel
(3-16-42)
- I POLICY:
- Informational policy will be similar to that of the Farm Security Administration. WFA District Officers and Field Agents are authorized to give widest possible dissimination [sic] and factual information on the WFA Program. However, all information released must be factual in nature. Matters of policy will be determined by the Information Section and Program Chief.
- II PURPOSE:
- WFA Field Agents must regard the active dissimination of factual information as one of their most important functions. The
primary purpose of their informational activities will be to let Japanese and other farmers, evacuating their lands, know
about the work of the program, and to attract other farm operators who may be interested in taking over such lands. Unlike
informational services in ordinary operating programs, informing the public will be of secondary nature.
Since transfer of evacuated land, and provision for continued production must be accomplished with great speed, informational material and techniques will be designed to forestall needless visits to the WFA office by those who cannot be helped, and to save Field Agents from having to answer basic questions. - III CONTENT:
- Informational material must be factual. District Officers and Field Agents should make special effort in issuing information to go beyond general statements of interest merely to the public. Information should be as complete and specific as possible for the benefit of those who may determine through such information whether they can be aided through the WFA Program.
- IV MEDIA:
- District Officers and Field Agents are authorized to use all regular media for dissiminating [sic] news. This includes newspapers, radios, talks, personal contacts with farm groups, and leaders, etc.
- V COORDINATION WITH OTHER AGENCIES:
- District Officers, and Field Agents should not release information on phases of the Voluntary Evacuation Program involving the Federal Reserve Bank, Social Security Agency, or other agencies before clearing with representatives of these agencies. Coordination or joint statements may be desirable at times.
- VI RESPONSIBILITY:
- The Information Section will assist the field in informational matters and from time-to-time supply suggestions and "fill-in" news stories. But the main responsibility for the field information program rests with the field representatives.
[923.1] Tenure Arrangements
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel
(3-16-42)
(Revision 1)
(3-23-42)
- I SCOPE:
- This instruction describes the tenure arrangements which must be made between Relinquishers of evacuated farm land, and prospective operators. Because of the lack of information now available as to the types of land tenure held by Japanese and other persons who will be evacuated from restricted and prohibited areas, this must be general and will probably require revision in the near future.
- II PRESENT LAND TENURE PATTERNS:
-
- A Classifications:
- The land tenure of persons to be evacuated will probably fall into one of the following classifications:
- Owner
- Lessee
- Share-cropper
- B Owners:
- Owners may desire either to sell or lease their present premises.
- 1 Sale:
- After being informed that the person desires to sell, the Field Agent will advise the owner of prospective purchasers of which he may have knowledge. In cases where the Field Agent is instrumental in bringing together a Relinquisher and a Prospective Purchaser, he should use every effort to see that the seller is not forced to sacrifice his property at an inequitable price. No forms are being prepared at this time to effectuate the sales of real property, since it is believed that in these cases the parties will probably desire to secure the assistance of local attorneys in the preparation of these forms. If a need later develops for a sales contract or other forms, those will be prepared.
- 2 Lease:
- The Field Agents will actively assist Relinquishers who desire to lease their present lands and chattels by referring them to qualified farmers who may be interested in acquiring a lease thereon and in carrying on the farming operations previously conducted thereon. In all possible cases the qualified farmer should secure a lease on Form Agri.-1, Flexible Farm Lease.
- C Lessees:
- If the lease held by the Relinquisher permits assignment, Form WFA-8, Assignment of Lease, should be used. This form requires the signatures of the present lessee, the new lessee, and the lessor. If any of the foregoing
individuals are married, their respective spouses must also sign this form. Even though the lease held by the Relinquisher
may contain an express provision against assignment, it is possible that, under the circumstances, the lessor will waive such
a provision and execute the Assignment of Lease, Form WFA-8.
If there is no express provision in the lease against assignment, but the lessor refuses to sign the form of Assignment of Lease, the signature of the lessor on the form is not required. In this event, however, an executed copy of the assignment form must be delivered to the lessor by registered mail immediately upon its execution.
― 2 ―- 1 Subletting:
- If the lease contains an express provision against assignment thereof, but not against subletting, the present lessee may sublet the property. For this purpose Form WFA-9, Sublease may be used This form requires the signature of the present lessee and the sublessee, and their spouses, if any. The Sublease must be for a period at least one day less than the period of lease under which the Relinquisher is now operating. The subletting procedure may also be used in instances where the Relinquisher prefers to retain an interest in the lease and does not desire to make an outright assignment of his interest therein.
- 2 Present Lease Unsatisfactory:
- If it is believed that the terms and conditions of the present lease are inequitable or unsatisfactory to the proposed new
lessee, the Field Agent should immediately communicate with the owner of the farm to determine whether he will be willing
to execute a new lease with the new lessee on Form Agri.-1, Flexible Farm Lease. If he is willing to give a new lease, the same should be prepared on Form Agri.-1, and executed by the owner, as lessor,
and the new lessee, and their respective spouses, if either is married. If the latter lease is executed, the old lease must
be terminated and cancelled by mutual consent of the parties thereto.
In the above situation, if the Relinquisher wishes to sell his crops, (growing or harvested), livestock, equipment and other chattels located on the premises to the new lessee, this may be accomplished by execution of Form WFA-10, Bill of Sale, describing accurately all such property and reciting the purchase price to be paid therefor. This form must be signed by the Relinquisher and spouse, if any. - D Share-Croppers:
- If the Relinquisher is at present not occupying his farm under a lease, but simply as a share-cropper, the Field Agent should
arrange, if possible, with the landlord, to secure a lease for the qualified farmer on Form Agri.-1, Flexible Farm Lease. A Bill of Sale may be used to cover the sale of any chattels or personal property of which the Relinquisher wishes to dispose,
and should be executed in the manner indicated in Paragraph C 2 above.
In effecting transfers of chattels or leasehold interests to qualified farmers, and a loan from the Farm Security Administration or the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program is involved, the Field Agent is responsible for seeing that the arrangements are fair and equitable. If no loan is made or if some other loan agency is involved, the Field Agent should still use every effort to assure that the arrangements made are fair to both parties.
- III RECORD SEARCH:
-
- A Requirement:
- A search of the title records will be necessary to determine whether the purported transfer of the Relinquisher's interest in real estate or chattels made with the aid of the WFA Program will vest in the new operator a clear and unencumbered title to the property being transferred.
- B Procedure:
- When it is necessary that a lien search be made, the Field Agent will contact the nearest local abstract or title company,
or other competent person, and request that such search be made.
When the search is made by a title company, it may be reported on the company's letterhead or form. When an individual makes the search, he reports on Form FSA-LE-87, Report of Lien Search.
― 3 ―When the search has been completed, the Field Agent will prepare Standard Form 1034, Public Voucher for Purchases and Services Other Than Personal, see that it is properly signed, and give administrative approval for the payment of the account by signing in the space marked "X" on the attached samples. The voucher should then be forwarded to the WFA Program Chief in an original (white) and two copies (yellow). Payment will be made promptly.
In filling out the body of the voucher, all that is necessary is to insert the date service was rendered, a brief description of the work performed, and the amount. The field office should make certain that, where the work is done by a company or corporation, the certification is signed exactly as per attached "Sample #1". Make sure that after the word "payee" appears the name of the company and, immediately below that, the name of the person signing for the company and his title. When a search is made by an individual not doing business as a company, the voucher should be signed and made out according to the attached "Sample #2".
[923.1 Sample #1] Standard Form 1034 - Rev. - Public Voucher for Purchases and Services Other Than Personal
[923.1 Sample #1 back] Method of or Absence of Advertising
[923.1 Sample #2] Standard Form 1034 - Rev. - Public Voucher for Purchases and Services Other Than Personal
[923.1 Sample #2 back] Method of or Absence of Advertising
[924] Reporting Known Cases of Sabotage, Looting, or Unfair Practices
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
(Classification 924)
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA, Evacuation Control, and Negotiation Personnel
(4-9-42)
- I
- Important functions of FSA in the WCCA program are the encouraging of continuity of production of essential foods and fibers, and the lending of assistance to see that unfair advantage is not taken of agricultural people subject to exclusion orders in their arranging for disposition of their farming interests.
- II
- Known cases of crop destruction either by persons subject to exclusion or by others, known deliberate cases of farm abandonment or crop neglect, known cases of theft of agricultural equipment, tools, etc. from farms vacated by evacuees, and known cases of intentional fraud, coercion, or unfair dealing by persons who seek or have sought to take advantage of the situation which has been created by military necessity, may represent acts which have made it impossible in such instances for the FSA to carry out its assigned responsibility in the agricultural field.
- III
- A large number of generalized reports have been received in this office from WFA field agents alleging that such acts have been or are about to be committed. In general, such reports, it appears, have been based upon rumor or hearsay, and not upon fact. The regional WFA office will assume responsibility for transmitting to military officials for appropriate action, any specific cases of alleged sabotage, looting, or manifestly unfair dealing. A few such cases have been reported and corrective measures have already been instituted.
- IV
- It is of considerable importance because of the unavailability of sufficient investigative personnel to run down more rumors or unreliable reports, that WFA field agents be as specific and factual as possible in submitting reports of such cases to this office. It is also to be kept in mind that WFA field agents are not expected to perform an investigative function in searching out cases of alleged sabotage or other wrongful acts, but they should concern themselves only with specific cases voluntarily brought to their attention, or brought to their attention as a matter of complaint by the injured party or his representative. If the facts reported to the WFA agent appear to justify the conclusion that they should be reported to military officials, such reports should be submitted to this office by telegraph. The following represent types of telegraphic reports that might be submitted:
- A
- JOHN R. BROWN, CHAIRMAN, COUNTY WAR BOARD, REPORTS I. KOMASHI, ROUTE 1, GLENVILLE, CALIFORNIA, HAS PLOWED UP 10 ACRES TOMATO VINES PAST FEW DAYS. HAVE NOTIFIED COUNTY SHERIFF.
- B
- RELINQUISHER T. YOKITO, ROUTE 5, GLENVILLE, CALIFORNIA OWED $600 ON TRACTOR PURCHASED FOR $1000 FROM JONES IMPLEMENT COMPANY. IMPLEMENT DEALER TODAY INDUCED YOKITO ASSIGN $400 EQUITY FOR $100 UNDER THREAT IMMEDIATE REPOSSESSION ON BASIS VAGUE CLAUSE IN CONTRACT REGARDING EQUIPMENT STORAGE.
[924] Special Types of Farms
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
(Classification 924)
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel
NOTE: This WFA Notice is to be filed in your Procedure Manual in the 924 spring, and retained until it is incorporated in a WFA Instruction.
(3-23-42)
- I Many aliens, (and other Japanese subject to evacuation) operate greenhouses and nurseries. Others are engaged in flower-raising and oyster-farming.
- II Responsibility for these and similar specialized farming operations rests with the WFA. Field Agents will accordingly register all greenhouse and nursery operators, flower-growers, and oyster-farmers in their areas, and take steps to replace the evacuating owners with qualified operators.
- III WFA loans may be made to carry on such operations.
[925.1] Referral of Prospective WFA Farm Operators to Other Credit Agencies
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel
(3-15-42)
- I REQUIREMENTS:
- When a qualified farm operator has arranged to take over the farm of a Japanese (or other relinquisher) the WFA Field Agent will determine, after tenure details have been arranged, whether the new operator has sufficient resources to carry on food production operations for the coming year. Where credit will be needed prospective operators will be referred to existing loan agencies, personally or by letter.
- II CREDIT SOURCES:
- It shall be the responsibility of the Field Agent to establish close coordination with the following credit sources in order
that he may assist prospective operators in arranging for credit:
- A Banks and Other Commercial Lending Agencies:
- B Farm Credit Administration:
- 1 Federal Land Bank:
- Where need is for a real estate loan.
- 2 Production Credit Association:
- Application must be made to branch covering the community where the land is located for crop and livestock production loans.
- 3 Farm Security Administration County Office:
- Here the various established types of FSA loans, such as Standard Rural Rehabilitation Loans and Food for Freedom Loans, should be considered.
- III WFA LOANS:
- If after referral to an established credit agency, the application of a qualified farmer is rejected by such agency, or if it otherwise appears that the farmer is unable to secure finances from other sources, he will be considered for a WFA loan, under established WFA loan procedure (See WFA Instruction 931.1).
[929.1] Application and Registration Records
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel
(3-16-42)
I Scope:
This instruction sets forth the procedure for setting up and maintaining basic records of individuals desiring to relinquish their farms and of qualified farmers seeking land.
II Forms:
A Form WFA-1, Request to Relinquish Farm:
This form will be prepared in an original and one copy for all persons desiring to evacuate military areas voluntarily, and seeking to dispose of their farm holdings with the assistance of the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program.
All spaces on this form are self-explanatory.
The original, on yellow paper, will immediately be placed in a 5-by-8 inch file drawer, divided according to the town near which the farm is located. The purpose of this file is to bring together data on the number and nature of farms in a given area, and information regarding Prospective Farm Operators desiring to acquire farms in such areas.
Data from the card copy will be recorded on the Daily Tally, Form WFA-3, (See Regional Instruction 929.2). The card copy will then be filed alphabetically by name of registrant in a 5-by-8 inch file. This will constitute a permanent alphabetical master card file which will be readily accessible with all pertinent information. All future contacts, referrals, and transactions will be noted on the reverse side of this card as they occur.
B Form WFA-2, Request to Acquire Farm:
This form will be prepared in an original and one copy for all persons desiring to acquire farms about to be evacuated in restricted areas.
All spaces on this form are self-explanatory.
The original, on white paper, will be placed in the same 5-by-8 inch file drawer as the yellow registration. (See Paragraph II A). That is, the white forms for Prospective Operators will be filed immediately behind the yellow forms for present operators in the same town division of the file. Thus the two may be brought together by simple matching. Data from the card copy will be recorded on the Daily Tally, Form WFA-3. (See Regional Instruction 929.2). This card copy will then be filed alphabetically along with card copies for registrants which will constitute a permanent alphabetical name file.
C Continued Use of Records:
When a Relinquisher and Prospective Farm Operator have reached a final decision as to the transfer of farm operations, the white and yellow originals for both parties will be clipped together, a brief notation made on the reverse side of the white-sheet as to the final transaction and loans involved. This information will also be recorded on the Daily Tally, Form WFA-3. (See Regional Instruction 929.2). The two originals will then be forwarded to the Regional
All card copies will remain in the alphabetical name file of the field office as a permanent record for future inquiries and referrals.
[929.2] Telegraphic Reports From WFA Field Offices
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Field Agents, Special Field Agents, and District Officers.
(3-17-42)
(Rev. 4-30-42)
(4-30-42)
I GENERAL:
- A All WFA Field Agents will submit a weekly telegraphic report to the WFA Program Chief each Friday evening at the close of business. Other special reports may be requested from time to time. The information in these weekly reports is vital to the success of the program, and is required by the Army as well as the WFA. Field Agents are directly responsible for the accuracy and punctuality of these reports.
- B This instruction replaces WFA 929.2 (dated 3-17-42) which must be removed from all WFA procedure manuals at once and destroyed.
II INFORMATION TO BE REPORTED:
Field Offices will be instructed by telegram what information to report. Some of these items are explained below.
- A These Items Are:
-
- Number of farms registered for relinquishment to date.
- Number of farms subject to relinquishment not yet registered according to your best information.
- Total acreage of farms registered for relinquishment to date.
- Number of prospective operators applying for farms.
- Total number of transfer deals closed to date, whether or not aided by WFA.
- Number of original farm units involved in deals closed.
- Total acreage transferred in deals closed.
- Total number of WFA loan applications In Process in your office at the Close of the Reporting Period.
- B Definitions:
- The following explanations of each item must be closely observed:
- Number of farms registered for relinquishment to date:
- a Consider as a farm any piece of agricultural property operated as a unit; that is, operated by one farm operator or group of operators. If two or more families operate adjacent land, register the
land as a single farm only if there is full joint ownership or rental
― 2 ―and if the property is actually farmed as a unit. - b A farm subject to relinquishment is any agricultural property in the restricted military area owned or operated by any person of of Japanese ancestry or by a German or Italian alien.
- c The rule to follow in registering farms subject to relinquishment on Form WFA-1, is "One farm-one form." Thus, if an individual owns or operates three separate farms, fill out three sets of WFA-1. If, however, a tenant registers a farm and an owner subsequently comes in to register the same farm, do not fill in a new form WFA-1; merely add the owner's name to the existing WFA-1.
- d It is thus seen that the way to report Item 1, if Field Office files are properly set up, is merely to count the number of sets of Form WFA-1 in the office.
- e It is assumed that all Japanese farms subject to relinquishment have been registered. However, it is expected that this
figure may change from week to week because of the discovery of previously overlooked farms or the transfer of case load between
field offices.
When an office closes, the office to which its records are transferred will reflect its increased case load on future reports. Any marked change in the Number of Farms Subject to Relinquishment should be explained in the weekly narrative letter. (See paragraph V) - f Each farm subject to relinquishment may be registered at one Field Office only. Field Agents should make certain that the same farm is not being registered at two neighboring offices by a relinquish who feels that he is thereby doubling his opportunities for a transfer. This may be determined by a weekly check-up by the District Officer. Duplications discovered should be corrected in the next report.
- a Consider as a farm any piece of agricultural property operated as a unit; that is, operated by one farm operator or group of operators. If two or more families operate adjacent land, register the
land as a single farm only if there is full joint ownership or rental
- Number of Farms Subject to Relinquishment Not Yet Registered According to Your Best Information: WFA Field Agents will explore all sources in locating farms subject to relinquishment, including Japanese-American Societies, U.S.D.A. War Boards, agricultural associations, and [their] own investigations.
- Total Acreage of Farms Registered For Relinquishment to Date: This may be found simply by adding up all of the "Total Number of Acres" entered on the fourth line of Farm WFA-1. This figure, too, will change as farms are reallocated between offices.
- Number of Prospective Operators Applying for Farms: This figure represents the number of sets on file of Form WFA-2, Request to Acquire Farms. Only prospective farm operators who are competent to carry on the type of agricultural operations prevailing in the area should be registered.
- Total Number of Transfer Deals Closed to Date:
- a A transfer deal is an arrangement providing for the definite transfer of farming operations from one or more relinquishers to a single prospective operator or group of operators.
- b Transfer deals will be considered completed or closed when title or lease to the land in question has actually changed hands. As explained under Item 6 below, this need not necessarily involve the entire farm.
- c Field Agents will report each week all transfer deals closed in the area served by their office whether or not WFA participated in the arrangements. It will accordingly be the field agent's responsibility to keep under constant observation all farms subject to relinquishment, and to learn from outside sources what land is transferred without the knowledge or assistance of the WFA.
- Number of Original Farm Units Involved in Deals Closed: All farms transferred will have been originally registered in the
Field Office files of Form WFA-1. The figure to be reported for this item should reflect the number of such farms effected
by all transfer deals completed to date.
- a That is, once any part of a farm is transferred, that farm is "involved". A farm will usually be "involved" in one of the
three following ways:
- 1) A single farm may be transferred from one relinquisher to one operator.
- 2) A single farm may be divided into two or more parcels and only one of these transferred. Nevertheless, this would count as one farm involved in a transfer deal. Later, as the remaining parcels are transferred, "Number of Deals" would increase but "Farms involved" would remain the same.
- 3) Two farms may be taken over by a single operator. This would count as two farms involved in one deal.
- b It is thus seen that the Total Number of Original Farms Involved can never exceed the total Number of Farms Registered Subject to Relinquishment, and will only equal this figure when part or all of every farm has been involved in a transfer deal.
- c When agricultural land has been abandoned in the course of evacuation, it will be considered transferred when, by means of a Power of Attorney or other legal method, it has been placed in the custody of some responsible person or interest competent to arrange for the carrying on of farming operations.
- a That is, once any part of a farm is transferred, that farm is "involved". A farm will usually be "involved" in one of the
three following ways:
- Total Acreage Transferred in Deals Closed. This figure will reflect all land transferred whether as a whole or piece-meal.
- Total Number of WFA Loan Applications In Process In Your Office At the Close of the Reporting Period: The purpose of this figure is to enable the Loan Section and the Finance Division in the Regional Office to plan their requirements by predicting how many loan applications will be received in the near future. Once a WFA Field Agent begins preparing Form WFA-6, Application and Operating Plan, the loan application is considered "in process". This figure should not, however, include applications already submitted to the Regional Office for approval or approved loans in the process of closing. It is to be noted that this item is not cumulative. It represents the state of affairs as of the close of each reporting period, not a grand total increasing each week.
― 3 ―
― 4 ― - Number of farms registered for relinquishment to date:
III COLLECTING DATA:
Basic facts and figures will be recorded on Form WFA-1, Request to Relinquish Farm, and WFA-2, Request to Acquire Farm. (See Instruction 929.1). These forms must be prepared in full at the time of registration. Incomplete ones should be brought up to date as soon as possible. All items to be reported weekly should be tallied daily so that the work to be done the evening closing the reporting period will involve merely checking and totaling data accumulated during the week. Forms WFA-3, Daily Tally Sheet, and WFA-4, Weekly Summary, are hereby declared obsolete as they are not adapted to the revised information required to be reported. Each Field Agent should devise a suitable daily tally sheet and weekly summary for use in his own office.
IV TRANSMITTING REPORTS:
A Reports will be telegraphed to the Regional Office by night letter. They should be sent at the close of business in time for delivery in San Francisco by eight o'clock the following morning. This deadline must be strictly observed. Telegraphic reports will contain only the required items to be reported. Other subjects (such as requests for supplies, personnel, etc.) should be covered in separate telegrams.
B Field offices will receive a telegram each week listing the items to be reported. These will be identified as "first", "second", "third", etc. The telegraphic report from the field should follow the same sequence and refer to the items in the same way.
C A typical telegraphic report, as if reporting the items listed in paragraph II A, is set forth below as a specimen to be followed in setting up and composing the wire. It is to be noted that "first", "second", "third", etc. are spelled out, but that the figures to be reported are expressed as arabic numerals—not spelled out. Punctuation should be as indicated.
W. C. Helvey
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
Glenville, California
FIRST, 249; SECOND, 0; THIRD, 4638; FOURTH, 322; FIFTH, 101; SIXTH, 172; SEVENTH, 11,812; EIGHTH, 33.
FIELD AGENT
V WEEKLY NARRATIVE REPORT:
In addition to the weekly telegraphic report each Field Agent will write an airmail letter to the WFA Program Chief each Thursday for receipt in San Francisco Friday morning. This letter will have as subject "Weekly Narrative" and should discuss in considerable detail all developments, problems and suggestions occuring [sic] during the week. It will be used primarily as a background for interpreting the figures submitted in the weekly report. However, besides explaining the items of the report, it should cover events and circumstances surrounding the entire evacuation process as it is taking place in the area. For example, the following questions might be discussed:
- A Any difficulty the field Agent is having in disposing of the few remaining acres of relinquishable land. The likelihood of having to abandon certain land.
- B Any duplication or other difficulty in transfer due to the lack of understanding on the part of either relinquishers or operators.
- C Any reluctance on the part of relinquishers to proceed with transactions despite need for immediate disposal.
- D Instances of relinquishers requesting a reopening of already closed transactions.
[929.2] Periodic Reports From WFA Field Offices
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel
(3-17-42)
- I SCOPE:
- This instruction sets forth the procedure for collecting and reporting all important information in connection with field operations of the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program. The information required is vital to the success of the program and is required by the Army as well as the WFA, therefore field agents must assume direct responsibility for the compiling of figures and prompt submittal on all reports to the Program Chief.
- II NATURE OF INFORMATION REQUIRED:
- Data to be reported from WFA Field Offices to the Program Chief will be of two kinds. One set of figures will reflect the daily volume of business in registering persons desiring to relinquish farms and persons desiring to acquire land. Other figures will reflect the status of operators about to take over land with respect to their needs for loans.
- III COLLECTING DATA:
- Basic information will be recorded on Form WFA-1, Request to Relinquish Farm and Form WFA-2, Request to Acquire Farm. (See WFA Instruction 929.1) These forms will be immediately transcribed to Daily Tally Sheet, Form WFA-3. At the end of each week Daily Tally Sheets will be recapped for delivering of fundamental data to the Office of the Program Chief.
- IV TRANSMITTAL OF REPORTS:
- Basic figures revealed by the Weekly Summary Sheet, Form WFA-4, will be telegraphed to the Office of the Program Chief at
the close of business each Friday. The date line must be rigidly observed as summarized statistics from all four states in
the defense area must be on the desk of the Commanding General each Monday morning.
FORMS INVOLVED:- A Form WFA-3, Daily Tally Sheet
- An original only of this form will be placed each day in a convenient location and daily noted upon it as Forms WFA-1, Request
to Relinquish Farm, and WFA-2 Request to Acquire Farm, are completed. This form is a work sheet only and need not be submitted
to the Regional Office, however, it should be carefully filed for future reference. The spaces on this form will be filled
in as follows: In the column under "No." should be entered in consecutive order the number of each Relinquisher or Applicant.
In the column under the heading "List Crops," for both Relinquisher and Applicant should be described each growing crop, such
as lettuce, tomatoes, etc. In the column under the heading, "Acreage in Each," for both Relinquisher and Applicant should
be entered the number of acres for each particular crop described under "Crops Listed". Under the heading, "Indicate Total
Farm Acreage in Proper Column", list the total acreage of each farm; also insert in column, Total Acreage, so that at the
end of the day the total acreage may be added and inserted on line "Grand Total Amount of Acreage". Under heading, "Final
Transactions Between Relinquishers and Applicants," insert acquirer's name in proper column.
― 2 ―In other words, if a transaction was closed in which no loan was involved, the acquirer's name should be inserted in the column, "No Loan Needed"; if loans were involved, insert acquirer's name in proper box. - B Weekly Summary Sheet, Form WFA-4
- This form will be used to recap the information noted on the Daily Tally Sheet Form WFA-3, from which will be prepared the weekly telegram report. This form should be prepared in an original and one copy. The original will be mailed to the Office of the Program Chief as confirmation of the telegram. On the reverse side should be a brief narrative report describing contacts, activities, trends, and conditions observed and all other pertinent information which will acquaint the Program Chief with the situation in the area served by each Field Office. The copy will be retained in the field office files.
- C TELEGRAPHIC REPORT:
- A telegraphic report made up from the Weekly Summary Sheet Form WFA-4 is to be sent to the Regional Chief at the close of business on Friday night. Listed below is a sample telegram made up from Weekly Summary Sheet, Form WFA-4 of which a copy is attached.
REGIONAL CHIEF
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
30 VAN NESS AVENUE
SAN FRANCISCO CALIFORNIA
SANTA BARBARA
FARMS AVAILABLE A TEN B FIVE C FIVE D TEN SPINACH TWENTY $ THREE HUNDRED LETTUCE FIFTEEN $ FIFTY TOMATOES THIRTEEN $ FIFTY FARMS WANTED A TEN TOMATOES SPINACH B FIVE SPINACH LETTUCE C THREE CARROTS CAULIFLOWER D FIVE LETTUCE TOMATOES FINAL TRANSACTIONS A TWO B FOUR C THREE D FIVE E SEVEN
Weekly Summary For Week Ending March 21, 1942
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
STATE California OFFICE Santa Barbara COUNTY Santa Barbara
Farms Available:
Form WFA-4
(3-17-42)
I Total Number of Relinquishers Registering for Farm Replacements 30
-
I Total Number of Relinquishers Registering for Farm Replacements 30
- a. Under 10 acres
- Total 10
- b. 10 to 50 acres
- Total 5
- c. 50 to 100 acres
- Total 5
- d. over 100 acres
- Total 10
Principal Crops Growing:
-
Principal Crops Growing:
- Crop Spinach Total Acres 20 Value $ 300
- Crop Lettuce Total Acres 15 Value $ 50
- Crop Tomatoes Total Acres 13 Value $ 50
II Total Number of Applicants Applying for Land Available 23
-
II Total Number of Applicants Applying for Land Available 23
- Farms Wanted:
- Crops to be Grown
- a. Number under 10 acres 10
- Tomatoes Spinach
- b. Number of 10 to 50 acres 5
- Spinach Lettuce
- c. Number of 50 to 100 acres 3
- Carrots Cauliflower
- d. Number over 100 acres 5
- Lettuce Tomatoes
III Total Number of Final Transactions Closed 21
-
III Total Number of Final Transactions Closed 21
- a. Number not needing loans
- 2
- b. Number involving loans with Farm Credit Associations
- 4
- c. Number involving loans with private banks, corporations, and individuals
- 3
- d. Number involving loans with Farm Security Administration
- 5
- e. Number involving loans with Wartime Farm Adjustment Program
- 7
Field Supervisor
[929.3] Filing Procedure for WFA Field Offices
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
(3-16-42)
- I SCOPE:
- This Instruction sets forth the procedure for setting up and maintaining case folders and general subject files in WFA field offices.
- II FILES:
-
- A Case Folders:
- Legal size docket folders will be made up on clients as needed and kept in a single alphabetical name file. They will contain
all correspondence, copies of correspondence, loan papers, and other material concerning a Farm Relinquisher or a Prospective
Operator.
Folder labels will be typed, showing last name first, using yellow labels for Relinquishers and white labels for Prospective Operators.
Acco all correspondence in date order on the left hand side at the bottom of the folder, leaving the right hand side for future attachment of legal documents, loan papers, etc. which are to be accoed in the order of their importance. - B General Subject Folders:
- Legal size docket folders will be used to set up a general subject file with headings as: Personnel, Business Management, Contacts, Telephone and Telegraph, Travel, and other subjects deemed necessary in the maintenance of files in the field offices.
[929.4] Nightly Reports From District Officers
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
DISTRIBUTION: ALL WFA DISTRICT OFFICERS
(4-4-42)
- I PURPOSE:
- Information received from WFA District Officers as to their daily activities and problems form an important part of the daily narrative report from the WFA Program Chief to Army officials.
- II CONTENT:
- Nightly reports from District Officers should contain a concise summary of the day's activities, and a definite statement
of itinerary. Specifically, these nightly reports should cover (and be confined to) the following items, in the order indicated:
- A Report of important activities and observations during the working day and evening, including the names of offices visited.
- B Major problems encountered and steps taken to provide solutions. Matters requiring the assistance of the Regional Office should be mentioned in the report, even though such problems may have already been transmitted by the District Officer or his Field Agent earlier in the day.
- C A definite statement of itinerary for the morning and afternoon of the following day, plus a tentative itinerary for the succeeding day.
- III TRANSMITTAL OF REPORTS:
- Nightly reports should be transmitted to the Program Chief by telegraphic night letter. They must be submitted in addition
to any other telegrams, phone calls, or other communications sent to the Regional Office during the day.
Telegrams should not be over-wordy, nor should they be so cryptic that the full meaning is obscured. There is set forth below a sample telegram illustrating one manner of presenting information in the night telegraphic report:
(CONTINUED ON REVERSE)
Telegram April 3, 1942
WEITTLER, CALIFORNIA
W. C. HELVEY
CHIEF, WFA PROGRAM
30 VAM NESS AVENUE
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
VISITED POMONA, REDLANDS, RIVERSIDE. OFFICES REPORT 75% DEALS CLOSED: MAJORITY GETTING CREDIT OUTSIDE SOURCES. EXTRA QUALIFIED HELP NOW ON CALL ALL OFFICES IN ANTICIPATION EVACUATION ORDERS. EXPECT 150 LOANS TO REGIONAL OFFICE MY DISTRICT NEXT 10 DAYS. REQUEST CLARIFICATION QUESTION FILIPINO NON-CITIZEN ELIGIBILITY; TOLD OFFICES NOT ELIGIBLE PENDING ADVICE. TIRE LETTER NOT RECEIVED. ITINERARY: TUESDAY MORNING, SANTA ANA, SAN DIEGO; AFTERNOON, WHITTIER; WEDNESDAY, POMONA, RIVERSIDE, POSSIBLY REDLANDS.
DISTRICT OFFICER
[931] WFA Loans to Other Than Individuals
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
(Classification 931)
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel
NOTE: Modifies paragraph IV of WFA Instruction 931.1 and WFA Notice 6 (Classification 931).
(6-12-42)
WFA Loans involving farm properties located in Military Area No. 2 will not be made to corporations, associations or other legal entities, unless the members, directors or shareholders of such organizations can and will assume unlimited personal liability for the re-payment of such loans.
[931] Legal Procedure in California for Taking Chattel Mortgages on Motor Vehicles.
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
(Classification 931)
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Field Agents and District Supervisors in California
5-23-42
Since chattel mortgages on motor vehicles are being obtained as additional security on WFA loans, in order to clarify and facilitate the proper execution and filing of such chattel mortgages in the State of California, the proper procedure to be followed is set out as follows:
- 1. When preparing the original crop and chattel mortgage, three copies in addition to the other required copies should be
made because it is not necessary to prepare a separate mortgage covering only the motor vehicle; an exact copy of the original
mortgage is acceptable even though it includes other items, such as crops, livestock and farm equipment.
If the crop and chattel mortgage has been already prepared and it is necessary to prepare a mortgage to cover the motor vehicle only, use the regular crop and chattel mortgage form (California) Form FSA-LE 30.4B executed by the borrowers. The promissory note should be entered in the appropriate columns on the form; in paragraph II the address should be inserted indicating the place where the automobile will be kept; in paragraph II (3) the motor vehicle should be described; and paragraph III (2) should be completed.
Three copies are to be prepared, none of which need be signed by the mortgagors; merely type in their names. - 2. Attach to one of the copies a certificate of the notary public stating that he has compared the copy with the original
chattel mortgage executed between_____, as mortgagors and the United States of America as mortgagee and it is a true and correct
copy of the original. To the other two copies should be attached duplicate certificates which the notary public will furnish.
If the name is Harry C. Jones on the mortgage and the name on the ownership certificate is H. C. Jones; the certificate should certify that Harry C. Jones and H. C. Jones are one and the same person. - The certificate of ownership (pink slip) is to be properly endorsed on the reverse side thereof. The borrower, whose name
appears on the front of the ownership certificate, is to sign his name exactly as it appears on the face of the ownership
certificate on lines 1 and 2 of the reverse side of the certificate.
It is necessary that the United States of America appear on the reverse side of the certificate as the new legal owner of the
― 2 ―vehicle. Therefore, the field agent (who is authorized to make this endorsement) will sign on line 9 of the reverse side of the certificate in the following form:
"UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
By WFA Field Agent." - 4. Then the following documents are to be forwarded to the Division of Motor Vehicles, Sacramento, California:
- (a) Exact conformed copy of the original executed chattel mortgage,
- (b) An attached certificate of a Notary Public,
- (c) The certificate of ownership properly endorsed,
- (d) The registration card (white slip), and
- (e) A certified check, money order, or cashier's check (in the amount of $1.00 for each motor vehicle described in and subject to such chattel mortgage).
- When the aforementioned papers are received, the Division of Motor Vehicles will file the chattel mortgage and issue a new certificate of ownership, showing United States of America as the legal owner. This new certificate of ownership will be forwarded immediately to the Regional Office if the pink slip was completed properly. In the meantime, the Regional Office should be notified by the field agent of the date of filing of the motor vehicle mortgage with the Division of Motor Vehicles, and a copy of the mortgage filed and the receipt of the Division of Motor Vehicles, evidencing payment of the filing fee, should also be forwarded to the Regional Office.
- 5. The Division of Motor Vehicles will not accept a chattel mortgage for filing where the borrower does not have complete
title and is not the legal owner. In those cases, the attached form should be prepared in four copies all executed by the
borrower and distributed as follows:
- Original (executed by borrower and creditor) for Regional Office
- 1 copy (executed by borrower and creditor) for Field Agent
- 1 copy for creditor
- 1 copy for borrower
[931] WFA Corporation Loans
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
(Classification 931)
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel
(3-16-42)
(Rev. 4-27-42)
- I GENERAL:
- In general, WFA Instruction 931.1 will govern all WFA loans to corporations.
- II LOAN DOCKET SUBMISSION:
- In the preparation of WFA corporation loan dockets, the following additional instruments will be required on each initial corporation loan application submitted:
- A Prepare, execute and submit Form WCCA-FSA-22A, Statement Accompanying Application for Loan to Corporation. Original and two copies will be prepared. Original, which must be executed, to accompany loan docket; one copy to the corporation, and one copy to be retained by the field office.
- B Prepare, execute and submit Exhibit A to Form WCCA-FSA-22A, Affidavit of Secretary Certifying to Resolution Adopted by Board of Directors. This form is to be attached as Exhibit A to Form WCCA-FSA-22A. Original and two copies will be prepared. Original, which must be executed, to accompany loan docket; one copy to corporation, and one copy to be retained by field office. Field agents should request the Secretary of the Corporation to submit this form in amount sufficient to cover the season's needs of corporation for all projects anticipated to be financed with WFA funds.
- C Prepare, execute and submit Exhibit B to Form WCCA-FSA-22A, Statement of Secretary with Reference to Directors and Officers of Corporation. This form is to be attached as Exhibit B to Form WCCA-FSA-22A. Original and two copies will be prepared. Original, which must be executed, to accompany loan docket; one copy to corporation, and one copy to be retained by field office.
- D Exhibits C, D, E, F, and G required by Form WCCA-FSA-22A must be supplied by the Secretary of the Corporation and attached thereto.
- III LOAN AGREEMENT:
- Prepare, execute and submit corporation form Loan Agreement, Form WCCA-FSA-7A in lieu of Loan Agreement and Request for Funds, Form WFA-7. Original and three copies will be prepared. Original and two copies will be executed by the authorized officials of Corporation and forwarded with the loan docket to the Regional WFA Office, where they will be signed by the regional official in authority, if approved. Field agents will not sign corporation loan agreements. If loan is approved, one approved copy of Loan Agreement will be returned to field office for delivery to the corporation.
Compliance with the above will facilitate the handling, with dispatch, of WFA corporation loan applications. Please check your dockets closely to see that they contain the required instruments.
[931.1] WFA Loans: Criteria and Field Office Routine
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel.
(3-16-42)
(Rev. 4-5-42)
(4-5-42)
(Rev. 5-15-42)
(5-15-42)
(4-5-42)
- I PURPOSE OF WFA LOAN PROGRAM:
- It is the purpose of the WFA loan program, through the providing of needed credit facilities, to assist the military in expediting the exclusion of enemy aliens and persons of Japanese descent from vital military areas, to assure the continuity of agricultural production on farming lands thus vacated, and to promote maximum fairness of dealing among persons subject to exclusion, the replacement farm operators, and their creditors, landlords and others.
- II FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED IN MAKING WFA LOANS:
-
- A Competency of Operator:
- Operations taken over from persons subject to exclusion, especially Japanese, are highly specialized and subject to considerable risk if not performed by persons fully qualified by experience and knowledge of farming conditions in the locality. Lack of proven competency to produce the crops involved may result not only in loss of the crop, thus nullifying a basic policy of WFA loans, but may cause considerable financial loss both to the operator and to the United States. Great care must be taken, therefore, to obtain assurance that the applicant possesses the needed qualifications; before a loan may be approved.
- B Security of Tenure:
- There must be assured security of tenure providing for the non-disturbance of the borrower's farming operations at least through the production of the current crop and through the period of repayment of the loan. Such assurance must take into account not only the arrangement between the borrower (if a lessee) and the lessor but also the likelihood that the lessor may not have or may lose the ability to guarantee undisturbed tenure during the life of the loan.
- C Adequacy of Security:
- WFA Loans in all instances must be secured by first liens on all crops to be produced by the borrower on lands operated with
the proceeds of the loan or made possible to be operated with, and principally as a result of acquisition of, equipment purchased
with loan proceeds. In addition, WFA loans in all instances must be further secured by first liens on all livestock and chattels
or other recoverable property or tangibles purchased or financed with loan proceeds, and by assignment or pledge of all water
shares or other rights of any kind acquired through the transaction. In all cases the borrower will be required to assign
effectively to the United States all proceeds from sales of mortgaged crops, livestock and livestock products untill all WFA
loan advances and interest thereon have been paid in full.
- 1 Additional Security:
- In cases where, in the opinion of the Field Agent or the loan approval officer, there is doubt or question as to the competency
of the borrower to produce the crop yields as estimated, or to confine expenses to the estimated figure, or where there is
unusual
― 2 ―risk involved in the operation, or where other circumstances may warrant, there may be required the pledging of such additional non-real estate security as may be available, but not in such manner as to restrict the borrower from carrying on a successful farming operation. - 2
- Real estate liens will not be required as security for WFA loans and loans will not be made where real estate liens are required in order to provide assurance of repayment.
- D Need for Credit and Availability of Credit from Other Sources:
- WFA loans must be limited in amount to the actual credit needs of the borrower, taking into consideration his already available financial and non-farming liquid resources, and loans may not be made to borrowers who can secure credit from other established sources in amounts and at the time required in order to carry on the proposed operation.
- E Non-disturbance by Other Creditors:
- Where applicants have outstanding debts and obligations, adequate assurance must be provided through subordination agreements, non-disturbance agreements, extension or renewal agreements, or other means, that the borrower, during the period of the WFA loan, will not be forced through action of creditors to abandon or relinquish the production and harvesting of the crop mortgaged to the United States.
- III ADVISORY SERVICES:
- It is highly desirable that FSA personnel in carrying out their responsibilities under the Wartime Civil Control Administration program utilize effectively all facilities made available by the U.S.D.A. state and county War Boards. It is especially desirable that FSA personnel advise with U.S.D.A. county War Boards on matters of eligibility of applicants and their qualifications to engage in the type and scope of agricultural enterprise proposed in connection with WFA loans, U.S.D.A. War Boards, members of FSA County Advisory Committees, Farm Debt Adjustment Committees, County Farm Advisors, County Agricultural Commissioners and other qualified individuals or groups should be consulted and their advice and cooperation solicited in all possible cases where such assistance can be of benefit, not only in connection with the making of WFA loans but also in matters of negotiation or arbitration between relinquishers and new operators, lessors, and lessees, creditors of the applicant, et cetera.
- IV PERSONS ELIGIBLE FOR WFA LOANS:
- Farmers, including owner-operators, tenants, share-croppers, farm laborers, cooperative associations of farmers, partnerships,
corporations, and others experienced in the management or operation of agricultural enterprises of the type and scale proposed
may be eligible to receive WFA loans if they possess the following qualifications:
- A The prospective borrower must have had experience in conducting the same or similar type and scope of agricultural production involved, and must agree to follow an operating plan which will assure maximum production of essential foods and fibres.
- B The prospective borrower must be unable to obtain the required financing from other established credit sources under such conditions and at such time as will enable him to carry out the proposed operation.
- C The prospective borrower must be in need of the financing applied for.
- NOTE: It is the policy of the FSA, in carrying out the functions of the WFA program, not to make loans to employees of the Department of Agriculture or members of their families. It is also contrary to such policy to permit an employee of the Farm Security Administration to take over the operation of farms relinquished by persons subject to evacuation, whether or not WFA loans are involved.
― 3 ― - V DETERMINATION OF OTHER AVAILABLE CREDIT:
- The Field Agent will conduct a thorough investigation to determine whether the possibility of credit being extended by other loan agencies has been fully explored. If the applicant has apparent ability, considering his financial statement and income, to obtain credit, he should be referred to other lending agencies before an application for a WFA loan is considered. It shall be the responsibility of the Field Agent to be familiar with the credit policies and standards of available public and private credit sources in order that he may determine other sources to which the applicant should be first referred. If it is not possible for the applicant to receive the required financing within the necessary time from other agencies, the Field Agent will attempt to learn, if possible, why such agencies have refused credit. The Field Agent will be required to certify that the needed credit is not available from other sources. It will not be sufficient that the applicant has informed the Field Agent that such credit has been refused.
- VI PURPOSES FOR WHICH WFA LOANS MAY BE MADE:
- In all cases the underlying purpose of the loan is to facilitate the evacuation of designated persons from vital military
areas by providing for the maintenance of production of farm commodities, which production otherwise might be impaired.
- A WFA Loans may be made for the following specific purposes:
- To finance farm operation and production costs, including purchase of feed, seed, fertilizer, fuel, supplies, payment of irrigation charges, land rental, equipment rental, payment for maintenance and repairs to equipment, post control, labor and other necessary farm operating costs.
- To finance the purchase of livestock, farm machinery, equipment, tools and other capital items necessary for production and maintenance of farm commodities.
- To purchase from the relinquishing farm operator his lease equities or his interest in growing crops. In no instance may WFA
loan proceeds be used to pay to the relinquishing operator an amount in excess of the actual amount expended in bringing the
crop to its present state of maturity. This amount may be determined from actual farm records of the relinquishing operator
or by appraisal of such costs by the WFA Field Agent or other competent and disinterested person. In any case where the relinquishing
operator and the new operator shall have mutually agreed that a sum greater than the present cost of production shall be the
consideration involved, it will be required that such excess be paid by the new operator out of crop proceeds or other income
which shall be available
― 4 ―after harvest, and only after all amounts advanced under the WFA loan have been paid in full. - To finance the purchase from the relinquishing farm operator of his interest in livestock, machinery, equipment, tools and other capital items NECESSARY to continue crop production. The amount paid to the relinquishing operator for his interest in such items shall not exceed the present value of such items (as determined by the WFA Field Agent or other competent disinterested appraiser) minus the amount of any lien against or interest in such items held by other creditors. In all cases of purchase of capital items necessary to continued production, the loan shall include an amount sufficient to repay the interest of other secured creditors in order that the United States may obtain a first lien on the items purchased. In any case where the relinquishing operator and the borrower may mutually agree upon payment of an amount for the relinquisher's interest which is greater than the appraised value of such interest, such excess shall be paid to the relinquishing operator only after the production of the crop and after all amounts advanced under the WFA loan have been paid.
- B WFA loans may not be made:
- For the purchase of real estate, or where it is necessary to obtain a real estate lien in order to provide adequate security.
- Where it is proposed that 50% or more of the proceeds be used for the operation of land or enterprise other than that transferred by the relinquishing operator, or where more than 50% of the use of equipment purchased with loan proceeds will be on land other than that transferred by the relinquishing operator.
- A WFA Loans may be made for the following specific purposes:
- VII TERM OF WFA LOANS:
- All WFA loans will be made to mature within a period of one year or less after the date of loan approval. In the event that such loans cover the purchase of substantial items of equipment or other recoverable property, the useful life of which extends beyond the final loan maturity date, the circumstances of the borrower's operation and income may require an extension or renewal of a portion of the loan if arrangements cannot be made for the refinancing of the remainder of the account through other credit sources at that time. It should be noted that one year is the maximum period for which WFA loans may originally be made, but such maximum period must not be utilized except where circumstances warrant. Repayment schedules must coincide with the expected dates of chattel or crop sales, taking into consideration the probable needs of the borrower for crop harvesting and other farm operating expenses, and adjusting the amounts of scheduled repayments accordingly.
- VIII INTEREST AND AMORTIZATION:
- Interest will be charged at the rate of 5% per annum on WFA loans and on renewals granted thereon. Interest will accrue on
principal only and shall not be compounded. Repayments on loans will be set up in the loan agreement, note, and operating
plan in such installments as are determined to be in accordance with the anticipated maximum ability of the borrower to repay,
as indicated by probable income shown on the operating plan approved for the borrower. The final maturing installment shall
be set in all cases at a date not later than that date on which it is anticipated that the final proceeds of the crop being
financed will be received.
― 5 ―It will be the policy of the FSA to require maturity of the entire loan balance at this time even though it may be anticipated that extension or renewal of a portion of the amount advanced for the purchase of equipment may be required, in accordance with the schedule of the borrower's anticipated income. - IX NOTES AND OTHER SECURITY:
- It is the policy of the FSA in the making of WFA loans to require that a valid first lien be furnished on sufficient available
property to secure the loan.
- A WFA loans will be evidenced by one or more promissory notes, form FSA-LE-31, payable to the United States of America at San Francisco, California. Advances to the borrower will be made in one payment or in a series of payments timed as nearly as practicable to the dates when the money will actually be needed by him.
- B WFA loans will be secured in the full amount of the loan by a first lien on the crops growing or to be grown by the borrower on the property transferred by the relinquishing operator, and on any other property operated by the borrower with the proceeds of the WFA loan. WFA loans will also be secured in the full amount of the loan by a first lien on livestock, equipment and other chattels or other recoverable property or tangibles purchased or acquired with the proceeds of the loan. The basic form to be used in obtaining this security is form FSA-LE-30, "Crop and Chattel Mortgage".
- C In addition to the security described in IX B above, it will be required that there also be taken on form FSA-LE-80, "Assignment of Proceeds from the Sale of Agricultural Products" an assignment of the proceeds from the sale of the farm, dairy or other agricultural products produced in connection with the operation financed by the WFA loan. This must be an effective assignment to be accepted by or served upon processors, brokers, or marketing agencies or individuals through whom sale of such products is expected to be made. Such assignment will be released when all WFA loan advances and interest thereon have been paid in full.
- D If water shares, marketing rights or other valuable rights of any kind are acquired with the proceeds of the loan it will be required that such rights be assigned or pledged to the United States as additional security.
- E Liens may be taken on other available additional security (except real estate) if, in the opinion of the Field Agent or the loan approval officer, such additional security is necessary because of doubt or question as to the competence of the borrower to produce the crop yields as estimated or to confine expenses to estimated figures or because there is unusual risk involved in the operation or because of other circumstances which may so warrant.
- F Certificates of priority (abstracts of liens filed or recorded against the property to be mortgaged) will be required in
all cases. Where both property already owned by the borrower and property being purchased from the relinquishing owner are
to be offered as security, search must be made for liens of record under the names of both the relinquishing owner and the
borrower.
― 6 ―All title lien searches should be made by a local abstract or title company (see WFA Instruction 923.1). Costs thereof will be paid by the borrower or relinquisher or, if a loan is made, may be charged to the borrower's account.- Certificates of priority will be prepared on form FSA-LE-87, "Report of Lien Search", or on the organization letterhead or other form provided by the abstract or title company.
- X EXECUTING, RECORDING AND FILING OF SECURITY DOCUMENTS:
-
- A WFA Field Agents are authorized to execute any legal instruments necessary or desirable to obtain security for loans, including mortgages and similar lien instruments (where the mortgagee is required to execute) and affidavits, acknowledgments and other certifications.
- B Field Agents are authorized to accept and file or record instruments or security taken for loans. Field Agents will be responsible for recording and filing legal documents within the shortest time possible after their execution. In order to insure against intervening liens such filing or recording shall always be accomplished within not more than 48 hours after execution, even if it is necessary to mail the instrument to the county recorder's office with the required fee.
- C Statutory fees for filing or recording mortgages or other legal instruments incidental to loan transactions will in all cases be paid by or charged to the account of the borrower, by effecting payment of the fee through the use of Standard form No. 1034, indicating clearly that the amount paid is to be debited to the account of the borrower.
- XI SUPERVISED BANK ACCOUNTS:
- When the amount of the loan or a portion thereof is deliverable to the WFA borrower in advance of the date actually needed by him, it may be a condition of loan approval that the funds shall be deposited in a bank to the credit of the borrower and subject to withdrawal only upon the counter-signature of the Field Agent or other authorized counter-signing officer of the WFA. Any FSA employee who acts as counter-signing officer on supervised bank accounts will be required to be bonded in favor of the United States in the amount of $7,400.
- XII LOAN PROCEDURE:
-
- A Investigation as to Eligibility and Competency of Applicant: Upon the filing of an application for a WFA loan the Field
Agent will inquire carefully into the borrower's eligibility to receive such loan, and especially into his history and farming
experience in the type and scope of farm enterprise planned. In all cases the Field Agent will include as a part of the loan
docket a certificate as to the competency of the operator to carry on the proposed operation, which will be based upon one
or more of the following, which are listed in the order of preference:
- A statement by the county U.S.D.A. War Board that such Board has examined into the borrower's qualifications and has found them to be satisfactory;
- A statement by responsible and qualified citizens of the community who have examined into the borrower's history and experience and have endorsed his ability;
- A statement by the WFA Field Agent as to his own investigation and inquiry into the borrower's farm operations in the past, both as to the location of operations and the type and scope of enterprises conducted. The statement of the Field Agent will include a narrative giving the reasons for assuming that the borrower is competent to successfully carry out the proposed activity.
― 7 ― - B Refusal of credit by other agencies. The docket must include a statement by the WFA Field Agent indicating that normal sources of credit are not available to the borrower to finance the proposed operation, with indication as to steps which were taken to assure that such is the case and, if possible, as to the reasons why other credit is not available.
- C Forms WFA - 1 and WFA - 2. The originals of forms WFA - 1 and 2 will be transmitted to the regional office with the loan docket.
- D Field Office Rejection: If an application is rejected in the field office the Field Agent will informally advise the applicant as to the reasons for such rejection. The loan application forms (except signed legal instruments, leases, etc., which will be returned to the borrower) will be filed in the field office along with a narrative statement as to the reasons for rejection.
- E Application and Operating Plan: If a WFA loan is to be recommended, the Field Agent will prepare form WFA-6 (Rev. 4-5-42)
"Application and Operating Plan", in an original and two copies. The original will be signed by the applicant and the Field
Agent and made a part of the loan docket. One copy will be kept in the Field Office file and one kept by the applicant. The
Operating Plan will lay out an operating program for the cropping season specifically showing the kind of enterprises to be
carried on, the expenses to be incurred, and the anticipated income to be derived. In those cases where an applicant is currently
farming and contemplates expanding his operations to absorb relinquished property the "Application and Operating Plan" will
reflect all expenses and income on his present holdings plus those for which he is requesting WFA loan funds. The "Application
and Operating Plan" will determine the amount of loan funds required by the applicant. The plan must be so complete as to
furnish the approving officer the justification for need of such funds and the feasibility of repaying the loan within the
period prescribed. The "Application and Operating Plan" will further reflect an equitable exchange of the evacuee's interest
and clearly demonstrate that production is to be maintained on those lands to be operated by the applicant. The "Application
and Operating Plan" must be realistic, as it pertains to the particular applicant and property. The plan therefore will be
based to the greatest extent possible upon past records as to established yields and earning capacity of the particular unit
involved, conditioned by the applicant's abilities to maintain or surpass those records. The "Application and Operating Plan"
will show the total amount of WFA loan funds required and will show amounts and date when advances will be made against this
total. The
― 8 ―releasing of WFA loan funds is predicated upon the attainment of the goals set forth in the "Application and Operating Plan"; therefore, it is essential that only an accurate and sound plan, capable of realization be submitted. The plan MUST BE completed in all respects, and it should be kept in mind that severe penalties are prescribed for the making of false or fraudulent statements in connection with loans made by the United States. - F Field Agent's Narrative and Report: The Field Agent will prepare a narrative and report regarding the competency of the
applicant and will show the basis for his certification of the applicant's competency. He will also present a certification
regarding the applicant's inability to secure credit from other normal credit sources. Questions regarding the security of
tenure, the arrangements that have been made for obtaining assignments of crop and chattel proceeds under our mortgage from
marketing agencies will be commented upon. A narrative statement if necessary will be required to clarify the application
and operating plan of unusual factors not already covered and requiring explanation. The narrative must contain the Field
Agent's recommendation, which should be made after he has satisfied himself that the applicant is qualified and that the information
in the docket justifies approval of the loan requested in line with policies of the WFA.
- The above information and certification will be presented on form WFA-22 (Rev. 4-5-42) "Field Agent's Narrative and Report". Form WFA-22 "Field Agent's Narrative and Report" should be prepared with an original and one copy, the original to be forwarded to the regional office with the docket, and the copy to be retained in the field office.
- G Loan Agreement and Voucher: Having developed a satisfactory operating plan, the Field Agent will prepare form WFA-7, "Loan
Agreement" and form FSA-FI 5, "Public Voucher" in the exact amount as shown in the Application and Operating Plan to be that
amount required by the borrower as the initial advance (of course, if the entire loan is to be made in one advance this amount
will appear on the loan agreement and voucher). If the loan is approved in the total amount requested in the Application and
Operating Plan, subsequent loan agreements and vouchers will be prepared when it is required that these additional advances
be made. By preparing a separate loan agreement for each advance, each advance then becomes in the nature of a separate loan,
which loan has had prior approval by the approval of the Application and Operating Plan. Loan agreements and vouchers later
to be submitted for subsequent advances need not be supported by an Application and Operating Plan unless revision of such
plan is necessary.
- Form WFA-7 "Loan Agreement" shall be prepared in an original and three copies. The original and all copies shall be signed by the applicant and the Field Agent, and the original and one copy shell accompany the loan docket. A copy shall be given to the applicant and a copy shall be retained in the files of the field office.
- Form FSA-FI 5 "Public Voucher" shall be submitted to the regional office in an original and two copies. The original only shall be signed by the applicant.
- H NOTES: The Field Agent will prepare, and have signed by the applicant and his wife, an undated note, Form FSA-LE-31, "Promissory Note" for the amount of the initial advance specified in the Application and Operating
Plan, and conforming with the amount shown in the loan agreement and in the voucher which are to accompany the docket to the
regional office; notes covering any advances to be made at later dates will not be signed by the applicant at this time. The
promissory note must accurately provide for terms of repayment consistent with the schedule of repayments as set up in the
Application and Operating Plan. In all cases the note will be made payable to the United States of America at "San Francisco,
California." THE PROMISSORY NOTE PROVIDES THE EVIDENCE OF THE BORROWER'S INDEBTEDNESS AND EXTREME CARE SHOULD BE USED IN ITS
PREPARATION AND EXECUTION. In all cases the note must be signed by the same persons and with the same spelling of names as
the names appear in the heading of the mortgage. No alterations, erasures, strikeouts, or other changes should appear in the
note. The date of the note will be inserted by the Regional Office to conform with the date of the loan check.
- Form FSA-LE-31 shall be prepared in an original and three copies. The original only should be signed by the applicant and his wife. The original and one copy shall be forwarded with the loan docket. One copy shall be given to the applicant and the remaining copy shall be retained in the field office.
- I SECURITY: In most cases security cannot be taken until the funds are advanced. Security documents shall be prepared for
signature by the borrower and be made a part of the loan docket. If some part of the security cannot be taken at the time
the check is delivered (for example, a mortgage upon chattels to be later purchased with the loan proceeds) such additional
security, when the chattels are purchased, shall be made the subject of a supplemental mortgage unless the already-executed
mortgage, through the "hereafter acquired" clause, is determined by the regional attorney to provide a satisfactory lien on
such later acquired property. The field agent must be careful to insert in the future advance clauses in the crop and chattel
mortgage, Form FSA-LE-30, the full amount to be advanced in the future under the terms of the Application and Operation Plan.
- The security documents, Form FSA-LE-30, "Crop and Chattel Mortgage", Form FSA-LE-80 "Assignment of Proceeds from the Sale of Agricultural Products" or any other documents used as security shall be prepared in an original and three copies (one additional copy of form FSA-LE-80 shall be prepared for the purchaser). Upon delivery of the loan check, or disbursement of any part of the loan proceeds through the supervised bank account, each security instrument shall be immediately executed and acknowledged, and filed or recorded. The original or signed copy, whichever is not required by the county recorder's office shall be immediately forwarded to the Regional Office with notations thereon of filing or recording data (place, time, file, book and page or document number.)
- J Submitting Recommendation: Documents required for submission will be assembled and either held for approval by the District Officer or submitted directly to the Regional Office, depending upon the authority to approve (See Paragraph XII, K below). Care must be used to insure that all dockets are complete and papers correctly prepared and executed (when necessary), as costly delays and unnecessary expense may otherwise result. In certain areas, local loan-reviewing offices may later be established, to which loan dockets will be forwarded prior to submission to the Regional Office.
- K Authority to Approve WFA Loans: WFA Loans up to $5,000 will be approved by the District Officers in the field; loans exceeding $5,000 and not exceeding $50,000 will be approved by the Program Chief or Deputy Program Chief; and loans exceeding $50,000 will be approved by the Regional Director.
- L Regional Office Rejection or Revision:
- If a WFA loan is rejected in the Regional Office, the Field Agent will be informed of the reasons. All legal documents in the docket will be sent back to him for return to the applicant.
- When additional information is required before action can be taken, the loan will be held in suspense while the information is requested and supplied by telegraph.
- Loan documents requiring such extensive revision that the loan cannot be approved even provisionally, will be airmailed to the Field Agent for necessary changes, while the loan is held in suspense.
― 9 ―
― 10 ― - A Investigation as to Eligibility and Competency of Applicant: Upon the filing of an application for a WFA loan the Field
Agent will inquire carefully into the borrower's eligibility to receive such loan, and especially into his history and farming
experience in the type and scope of farm enterprise planned. In all cases the Field Agent will include as a part of the loan
docket a certificate as to the competency of the operator to carry on the proposed operation, which will be based upon one
or more of the following, which are listed in the order of preference:
- XIII ACTION UPON APPROVAL OF LOAN:
-
- A Notification of Approval:
- If the loan is given final approval by the Regional Director (or his authorized representative) he will indicate on Form WFA-14 the conditions of approval, with instructions for meeting these conditions, list thereon the security instruments and other documents required, attach a copy of the loan submission check sheet with the reviewing officers' comments thereon, and forward with the appropriate documents to the Field Agent. If the loan is approved by the District Officer he will prepare Form WFA-14 setting forth the conditions of approval and will transmit a signed original and one signed copy of the form to the Regional Office with the docket. The original of Form WFA-14 will then be returned to the field officer upon certification of the voucher.
- B Receipt of Loan Checks:
- Field Agents will act as loan closing officers for the purpose of distributing WFA loan checks to borrowers. All Vouchers, Form FSA-FI-5, should contain instructions to the effect that loan checks should be mailed in care of the Field Agent. Checks will be received by the Field Agent from the U. S. Treasury, accompanied by copies of the Voucher, Form FSA-FI-5. All check envelopes will be opened by the Field Agent and the check or checks compared with instructions contained in Treasury Form No. 1725, "Receipt for Checks". Treasury Form No. 1725 will be signed by the Field Agent and returned immediately to the appropriate U. S. Treasury Disbursing Office.
- C Check Delivery:
- Upon receipt of a check, the Field Agent will promptly notify the applicant, indicating where and when he may expect delivery of the check. He will also indicate to the borrower the nature of the purchases to be made from proceeds of the loan check in conformity with the Application and Operating Plan, arranging if possible for purchase of capital goods on a specified date, so that securing instruments with adequate descriptions of chattels may be executed at the time of delivery of checks. Securing instruments properly executed will be filed or recorded and the appropriate copy forwarded to the Regional Office for safe keeping. All checks should be delivered as promptly as possible, and Treasury Form No. 1725-A signed and returned to the appropriate U. S. Treasury Disbursing Office not later than twenty-one days from the date on the check. Only bonded employees in the Field Office may sign Treasury Forms Nos. 1725 and 1725-A. The transmittal dates of these Forms will be entered on Treasury Form 1725-B, which will be retained in the field office.
- D Undeliverable Checks:
- If for any reason one or more checks cannot be delivered within twenty-one days from the date thereon, they will be returned to the appropriate U. S. Treasury Disbursing Office, attached to Treasury Form No. 1725-A upon which the reasons for the return and instructions for disposition of the checks and encumbrances will be stated. At the time Treasury Form No. 1725-A is returned to the U. S. Treasury Disbursing Office, the Field Agent will notify the Program Chief as to the reasons for the return.
- E Filing or Recording Security Documents:
- Upon receipt of approval of the loan, the Field Agent will complete the mortgage and other security instruments (insert the
date thereof, insert the date of the note to correspond with the date of the loan check, make any other necessary completions,
etc.), and simultaneously with the delivery of the check, secure the signature of the borrower and his wife upon the security
documents listed in the notification of approval. Execution by the borrower and his wife must be acknowledged by a notary
public. The original or the signed copy of the security instruments will then immediately be filed or recorded in accordance
with the procedure contained in this WFA Instruction.
- Record Search: Immediately prior to or at the time of delivery of the loan check to the borrower and execution and acknowledgment of the security instruments, a lien search will be accomplished in accordance with the appropriate instructions so as to assure the priority of the Government lien on the property to be encumbered. In the event recorded liens are found which impair the Government security, such liens either must be released of record or appropriate subordinations of lien obtained and recorded prior to delivery of the check.
- Form FSA-LE-30, "Assignment of Proceeds from the Sale of Agricultural Products," must be signed by each borrower at the time
of delivery of the loan check, and by any other person in whose name the marketing or sales contract stands. This instrument
must be executed in connection with all loans at the time of loan closing whether or not there is in existence a marketing
or sales contract. Form FSA-LE-80 will be prepared in an original and three copies, the original and two copies of which must
be executed by the borrower. The executed original will be retained by the field office for acceptance by or service upon
persons or organizations through whom the agricultural products will be marketed, an executed copy will be
― 12 ―retained in the field office, and an executed copy will be transmitted to the Regional Office. An unsigned copy will be furnished to the borrower. - In all cases where the purchase of equipment or other physical chattels is financed by proceeds of the WFA loan, a bill of sale will be required to be given by the purchaser. Such bill of sale shall contain an itemized description of the equipment and/or livestock, and the signature of the vendor should be witnessed by two disinterested parties.
- F Supervised Bank Accounts:
-
- Where the loan check is received in advance of the date actually needed by the borrower, the Field Agent may, in order to insure that the funds are not misused, set up a supervised bank account, using Form FSA-LE-192, "Deposit Agreement", the funds in which will be subject to withdrawal only on the signature of the borrower and the counter-signature of the Field Agent. An original and three copies of the Agreement shall be prepared and executed by the borrower, the bank and the Field Agent. The original shall be retained by the bank, a copy shall be given to the borrower, a copy shall be forwarded to the Regional Office, and a copy shall be retained in the field office. When loan funds have been deposited to the supervised bank account, the field agent will maintain a record of all deposits and withdrawals on Form FSA-RR-188, "Statement of Deposits and Withdrawals". Withdrawals shall be made in such manner and amounts as to make the funds available to the borrower as needed by him for farm operations. Countersigning officers will reconcile field office records with bank statements and cancelled checks promptly on receipt of the latter.
- [in Manuscript: "Added 5-15-42"]Only the WFA Field Agent in Charge is authorized to countersign borrowers' checks in a supervised bank account. When a Field Agent is transferred out of a Field Office, he will delegate this authority to his successor in the form of a letter approved by the District Officer. The authorization will be prepared in an original and six copies. The original of the letter will be transmitted to the bank, and copy to the District Officer. Copies will also be given to the incoming and outgoing Field Agents and one furnished the Regional Office. The suggested wording of the letter is set forth in Exhibit B of this Instruction. This may be altered or added to according to local circumstances. In the event the bank will not accept this type of notification the Field agent should communicate immediately with the Regional Office, stating the circumstances, the name of the bank, the personnel involved, effective dates, etc.
- G Revision of Loan Purposes:
- WFA Loans are approved on the basis of an operating plan which the borrower has agreed to follow. It may become necessary
to revise the plan originally agreed upon which revision
― 12a ―would benefit all concerned. The operating plan shall include a definite cropping program showing the crops now growing or to be planted. The operating plan may also include definite purchases of machinery and equipment necessary for proper farm operation. It may also include provision for payment for other goods and services necessary for proper farm operation. Permission for minor changes in the cropping plan, which will have only a negligible effect on the production of essential crops or other security for the WFA loan, and which do not involve the use of WFA loan proceeds for unauthorized purposes, may be approved by the Field Agent. He shall make a notation of the change in memorandum form filed in the field office docket. Changes other than minor ones in the operating plan shall be approved by the District Officer on loans approved for $5,000 or less, with such approval noted on a memorandum filed in the docket. Approval of the Regional Office is required for other than minor changes in the cropping plan on loans approved for over $5,000, and the request for revision shall be accompanied by a new operating plan if crop production or security will be materially affected. Full information regarding the proposed change in cropping program should be included in the request for revision whenever a new operating plan is not submitted. The request to the Regional Office must be in letter form. Whenever the use of loan proceeds is to be changed from the originally approved plan, written approval will be required and signed copies of such approval letters or memoranda shall be furnished to the Regional Office, the Field Office and the borrower. Approval of changes in the use of loan proceeds may be made as follows:
― 13 ―- Changes involving $100 or less may be approved by the Field Agent, regardless of the amount of the total loan.
- Changes of more than $100 on loans approved for $5,000 or less may be approved by the District Officer.
- Changes of more than $100 on loans approved for more than $5,000 may be approved by the Regional Office. In cases requiring approval by the Regional Office, the request must be accompanied by a new operating plan.
- Any changes affecting or modifying the terms of purchase of the interests of the relinquishing operator shall be approved in the same manner and with the same limitations as contained in XIII G 1, 2, and 3 above.
- H Reduction of Loan:
- It should be thoroughly understood that WFA loan procedure differs materially from usual FSA loan procedure in cases where the loan funds are to be furnished to the borrower in more than one advance. The WFA Loan Agreement, Form WFA-7, provides for only a single advance, and consequently the "Application and Operating Plan" serves as the instrument by which the total amount of the loan is approved for the borrower. In the event the initial advance is in an amount less than the total amount of the loan requested, the loan agreement, note and voucher will all be prepared in the amount of the first advance only. Upon the approval of the operating plan, the Field Agent may, when additional funds are required by the borrower, prepare additional loan agreements, notes and vouchers to cover the amounts of the additional advances when required. If it develops that the entire amount of the approved loan is not needed, portions of the loan for which loan agreements, notes and vouchers have not yet been submitted may be cancelled by revising the Application and Operating Plan, setting forth the reduced total, dates and amounts of advances, and revised schedules of repayments. The revised Application and Operating Plan should be clearly marked as such and be signed by the borrower.
- I Subsequent Advances:
- After a loan has been approved for a borrower by approval of the Application and Operating Plan, subsequent advances provided for in the operating plan will be made available to the borrower simply by the preparation and submission of separate loan agreements, notes and vouchers covering the amount of the advance required (up to the point where the accumulative amounts of advances equal the total amount of loan approved).
- J Supplemental Loans:
- It is intended that the needs of WFA borrowers for farm operations during the current crop season will be fully anticipated at the time of loan preparation, and that supplemental loans will not be required.
― 11 ―
[931.1 Exhibit A] Preparation and Flow of WFA Loan Dockets From Field Offices to Regional Office
[931.1 Exhibit A] Preparation and Flow of WFA Loan Dockets From Field Offices to Regional Office
[931.1 Exhibit B] Model Letter Notifying Bank of Transfer of Countersigning Authority
WCCA-FSA
WFA Instruction 931.1
Exhibit B
5-15-42
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
10 Dee Street
Glenville, California
Glenville National Bank
455 E. Main Street
Glenville, California
Pursuant to authority vested in me as countersigning officer for supervised bank accounts of WFA Loans, as generally set forth in Section XIII F of WFA Instruction 931.1, dated April 5, 1942, and as agreed upon in copies of Form FSA-LE 192, Deposit Agreement, I hereby transfer to Harry Green, Field Agent in Charge at Glenville WFA Field Office, my delegation of authority to countersign checks of WFA Loan Borrowers in supervised bank accounts within the jurisdiction of the Glenville Field Office and in accordance with applicable regulations and procedure.
The transfer of delegation shall be effective as of_____1942 and shall continue in effect during his incumbency unless revoked or otherwise modified in writing by an authorized officer of the Farm Security Administration.
APPROVED: _____
William Brown
District Officer
cc: William Brown
Harry Green
James Anderson
Regional Office
Former Field Agent in Charge
Glenville Field Office
[931.1] Making Special Wartime Farm Adjustment Production Loans
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
DISTRIBUTION: All Wartime Farm Adjustment Program Personnel
(3-16-42)
(Revision 1)
- I SCOPE:
- This instruction describes the conditions under which special Wartime Farm Adjustment Production Loans may be made to qualified farm operators desiring to take over farms in restricted areas which are about to be evacuated. Money for these loans comes from the War Department rather than the Department of Agriculture. Therefore, the guiding principle for all Field Agents in making loans will be to assure the maximum immediate production of desired crops of which the land in question is capable. Speed in taking over and carrying on farm operations is primary. Standards of rural and social rehabilitation, while desirable, are definitely secondary. However, sound lending practices must be followed, and fulfillment of the obligations assumed by the operator is mandatory.
- II PERSONS ELIGIBLE FOR WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT LOANS:
- Farmers, including owner-operators, farm labors, partnerships and corporations, and others may be eligible for Special Wartime
Farm Adjustment Production Loans provided they possess the following qualifications. These qualifications will have been determined
during earlier contacts.
- A Capability:
- The prospective borrower must be experienced and capable in the particular type of agricultural production involved, and must agree to follow a farm plan which will assure maximum food production.
- B Eligibility for Other Credit:
-
- He shall not be able to obtain loans, under reasonable terms and conditions, from other sources of credit. (See WFA Instruction 925.1).
- Security of Tenure: The applicant must possess security of tenure through ownership or lease, or some combination of these which provides for the non-disturbance of his farming operations, at least during the period of the loan. (See WFA Instruction 923.1).
- Debt Adjustment: Where the success of the farming operations may be threatened by foreclosure on necessary equipment, or where there is a strong possibility that the creditor may secure judgment and levy against such chattels, agreements of subordination or non-disturbance must be obtained covering at least the period of the loan.
- NOTE: Where an individual qualified farmer does not possess facilities and services adequate to carry on farming operations, a WFA loan may be made to secure such facilities on a group cooperative basis.
- III USE OF LOANS:
- WFA loans may be made for the purpose of meeting any expense or charge in connection with land use, seed and fertilizer, live-stock, farm machinery, equipment and tools, or supplies and/or services.
- IV TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF LOAN:
-
- A Period: WFA loans will be made to cover a period of one year or less. Renewal at a future date may be necessary depending upon circumstances which may arise. Additional procedure will be forthcoming to describe such renewals.
- B Interest: Interest on the loan will be charged at the rate of five percent per annum. It will accrue on principal only and shall not be compounded.
- C Repayment: Repayments on loans will be set up in the Loan Agreement and Note in such installments as are determined to be in accord with the anticipated maximum ability of the borrower to repay. This will be indicated by the probable income shown on the Farm Plan.
- D Notes and other Security: WFA loans will be evidenced by Form FSA-LE-31, Promisory Note. Advances to the borrower will be made in one payment only. WFA Loans will be secured in the full amount of the loan by a first lien on crops growing, or to be grown by the borrower, and a first lien on any livestock or equipment purchased with the proceeds of the loan. The basic form to be used in obtaining this security is FSA-LE-30, Crop and Chattel Mortgage. Form FSA-LE-80, Assignment of Proceeds From the Sale of Agricultural Products will also be prepared where such security is desirable because of the nature of the loan. Qualified farmers whose security is covered by a mortgage held by some other lending agency will be required to furnish a subordination agreement.
- NOTE: Field Agents are authorized and directed to follow the procedure outlined for RR Supervisors in FSA Instruction 731.1, Paragraph X, as regards the executing, recording, and filing of documents prepared to secure WFA Loans.
- E Supervised Bank Accounts: These may be established in accordance with the provisions of FSA Instruction 758.2.
― 2 ― - V LOAN PROCEDURE:
-
- A Application and Farm Plan: When a WFA loan is to be made to an applicant, the Field Agent will prepare Form WFA-6, Loan Application and Farm Plan in an original and two copies. The original will be signed by the applicant and the Field Agent, and forwarded to the Program Chief to other with the loan docket. One copy will be kept in the field office file and one kept by the applicant.
- B Loan Agreement and Voucher: The Field Agent will prepare Form WFA-7, Loan Agreement for the amount of the loan stipulated in the farm plan. Form FSA-FI-5, Public Voucher will be prepared at the same time.
The Loan Agreement will be prepared in an original and four copies, all of which will be signed by the applicant and Field Agent. The voucher will be prepared in an original and three copies of which the original only will be signed by the applicant. The original and one copy of the Loan Agreement and the original and two copies of the voucher will accompany the loan docket. A copy of each will be retained in the office file and a copy of the Loan Agreement will be given the applicant. (Revised (3-20-42.) - C Promissory Notes: The Field Agent will prepare and have signed by the applicant and his wife an undated note, Form FSA-LE-31, Promissory Note, for the amount of the advance specified in the voucher. Terms of repayment will be consistent with the schedule of payments
set up in the Loan Agreement.
― 3 ―
Form FSA-LE-31 will be prepared in an original and three copies. The original only will be signed by the applicant and his wife. The original and one copy will be forwarded with the loan docket; one copy will be given to the applicant, and one copy retained in the field office. - D Security: Security need not be taken until the check is ready for delivery. The security documents, FSA-LE-30, Crop and Chattel Mortgage, FSA-LE-80, Assignment, or any other documents used as security, will be prepared in an original and three copies. These instruments will be executed at the time the check is delivered.
- E Submitting Recommendation: The documents required for submission will be assembled and forwarded to the Program Chief, with a covering letter.
- F Action on Loans:
- 1 Rejection: If a submission is rejected by the Program Chief, all legal documents in connection with the docket will be returned to the field office with a full statement of the reasons for rejection. The Field Agent will return the legal documents to the applicant, notifying him of the rejection.
- 2 Approval: If the loan is approved, conditions of approval, if any, will be forwarded with the appropriate documents to the Field Agent.
- 3 Check Delivery: Receipt of Loan Checks, Check Delivery, undeliverable checks; Procedure regarding the receipt of WFA loan checks and the delivery thereof shall be the same as that contained in FSA Instruction 731.1, Paragraphs XIII B, C, and D.
- 4 Filing or Recording Security Documents: Upon delivery of the check to the borrower, the Field Agent will secure the signature of the borrower and his wife upon the crop and chattel mortgage and other security documents. The original or signed copy of the crop and chattel mortgage will be filed or recorded within 48 hours after its execution and the original or signed copy (whichever is not required as a permanent part of the records of the County Clerk or Recorder) forwarded promptly to the Program Chief with notations thereon of filing or recording information. A Form FSA-LE-87, Lien Search Report, and other security instruments will be transmitted with the mortgage or copy thereof.
[932.1] KARDEX OPERATION OF WFA LOANS
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
WFA SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Regional Office Employees.
(5-26-42)
I This instruction describes the method of installing and maintaining the proper signals on Kardex cards so that the necessary records pertaining to the status of WFA loan cases may be kept up to date.
II The following visible signals will be used for this purpose
III The data necessary for the installation of signals described at "*" will be obtained from copies of the loan submission sheets or Forms FSA-RR 144 received from the Loan and Operations Division.
Information required for installation of signals described at "**" will be
IV Notices to Kardex will be housed in the Kardex pockets, instead of in the borrowers' case files, and will be pulled to accompany any incoming letters or forms to the Loan and Operations Division. Pending follow-up actions may be reviewed at the same time the incoming material is handled, and the necessary notations can then be made so the proper signals may be installed when the Notice to Kardex is returned to the operator.
[940.1] ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS OF EVACUATION CONTROL UNITS
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
WFA Instruction 940.1
DISTRIBUTION All WFA Personnel
(4-1 -42)
(REV. 4-11-42)
I GENERAL:
In connection with the evacuation of aliens and other Japanese from Pacific Coast military areas, there has been established in the Farm Security Administration the Evacuation Control Unit. The functions of this unit are parallel to, and not part of the WFA function and program. It It is headed by a Chief, who is responsible to the Regional Director. Its field people work in close cooperation with the WFA personnel. This Instruction describes the functions, organization, and operations of the Evacuation Control Unit.
II DEFINITIONS:
- A WCCA:
- Symbol for Wartime Civil Control Administration. It is made up of three agencies: the Farm Security Administration, the Federal Security Agency, and the Federal Reserve System. These agencies are joined in a team to assist the Army in the evacuation of designated groups of people from certain defense areas.
- B WCCA Field Offices:
- Headquarters for local WCCA teams. They are scattered throughout the "evacuation area". A list of these offices is contained in WFA instructions in the 913 series. At least one WFA Field Agent is located in each such office.
- C WFA Field Agents:
- FSA representatives in local WCCA teams. They handle all farm cases. The Federal Reserve representatives handle the transfer or storage of business and personal property. The Employment Service (Federal Security) provides offices, equipment, supplies, office management and some personnel.
- D Evacuation Project:
- Removal of civilians designated by the Army, from a specific area within a given length of time. These projects are numbered. They are announced by Civilian Exclusion Orders issued by the Army. Such orders specify dates for required registration of all persons subject to evacuation. This period is usually 1½ or 2 days. The period between the issuance of the order, and the clearance of the area, is usually about 5 days.
- E Civil Control Stations;
- Headquarters for special WCCA teams who directly assist in the final clearance of evacuees in an excluded area. These stations are always located in an evacuation project area. Often more than one station is situated in such an area, but in these instances separate zones are established, so that each evacuated person deals with only one station.
- F FSA Evacuation Control Units:
- FSA representatives on WCCA Control Station teams. They may consist of four classes of personnel, as follows:
- 1 Evacuation Agents
- 2. Assistant Evacuation Agents
- 3 Interviewers
- 4 Assistant Interviewers (Clerk-Stenographers)
― 2 ―
Usually the Unit will consist of but three people, this staff may be supplemented during the registration period (1½ to 2 days) by personnel from the Field Agent's staff, if the pressure of work in the WFA office will possibly permit such an arrangement. All members of a Control Unit may be required to act as interviewers during the actual registration. - G Additional Field Services:
- In addition to the above, two types of field service personnel may be available to assist Control Units on special problems: Special Evacuation Agents, who are attorneys: and Assistant Chiefs, who will act as trouble-shooters.
III GENERAL PLAN OF OPERATIONS:
- A General:
- On March 16, 1942, the evacuation program was begun. Field Offices were set up and WFA Field agents began to register Japanese
farmers and prospective substitute operators, and to extend credit to substitute operators.
Shortly thereafter a number of FSA Special Negotiators were put in the field to assist in reviewing and closing deals between evacuating farmers, processors, cooperative associations, marketing agencies, and similar organized groups.
A large force of WFA Field Agents and their staffs has been working throughout the Pacific Coast Military area, promoting and assisting in the transfer of farms and disposal of farm property by all people subject to evacuation. - B Preliminary Planning by Evacuation Agent and Field Agent:
- Planning for evacuation requires close team-work between the Field Agents and the Evacuation Agents. The Evacuation Agent
will take the following steps when he comes into an evacuation project area.
- 1. Promptly contact the Field Agent.
- 2. Analyze with the Field Agent the number of Japanese Farmers in the new excluded area, and discuss the situation.
- 3. Plan with the Field Agent the number of personnel which will be needed during the registration period, and arrange for the provision of these personnel, from the WFA staff if possible. In some instances the Evacuation Unit can handle the job; in others, assistance from the Field Office will be needed. In the event such help is required and it cannot be made available by the Field Agent, he will cooperate fully by assisting in the selection and employment of temporary additional personnel.
- 4. Then go to the Civil Control Station and request space and arrangements accordingly.
- C Cooperation Between Evacuation and Field Agents During Evacuation:
- During the operation of the Civil Control Station the Evacuation Agent and the Field Agent must work effectively together.
The Evacuation Agent will see that the following are accomplished:
- 1. The status of each case is recorded on Form WFA-30, Control Station Record, in duplicate.
- 2. The Field Agent is notified promptly of all cases where substitute operators have not been provided, or where deals for disposal of chattels have not been arranged.
- 3. The Control Unit cooperates fully with the Field Agent in actions to prevent abandonment and find suitable substitute operators or purchasers.
- 4. That all original copies of WFA-30, and a copy of WFA-31, Control Station Tally Sheet, all completed and in order, are delivered to the Field Agent. The Evacuation Agent will remain in the area an extra day, if necessary, to deliver a clear report to the Field Agent.
- It will be expected that the Field Agents will take necessary action to find substitute operators for any abandoned farms, to close pending deals, and to promote continuity of crop production in the evacuation area.
IV DETAILED CONTROL STATION PROCEDURE:
- A Office Arrangements: The Evacuation Agent's first responsibility is to contact the U.S.E.S. representative in charge of the Control Station and make known his needs for space, equipment, supplies, etc.
- B Contact with other Agencies: His second responsibility is to explain FSA'S part in the program to the other cooperating agencies. Ordinarily a meeting is held for this purpose the day before the Control Station opens. He should completely explain the FSA functions with particular emphasis on the fact that all farmers, nurserymen, greenhouse operators and oyster farmers must be routed through the FSA regardless of whether or not their farm arrangements have been completed. This is true even though the substitute operator has taken over.
- C Internal Arrangement: The Evacuation Agent should arrange his interviewers in close proximity to one another so that the receptionist-stenographer can direct families to them with the minimum of confusion. Her desk should be placed in front of the others and should be clearly marked to identify it to the families as the FSA section.
- D. Routing of Families. Each family registering is given an envelope by the receptionist at the control desk. Attached to the envelope will be a pink (routing and control) slip. If the family head is a farm operator, greenhouse operator, or nurseryman, or oyster farmer, the Control receptionist will check the block provided for FSA. The family head will eventually be directed to the FSA receptionist-steno. for FSA registration and recording of data on Form WFA-30.
V FORMS INVOLVED:
- A Form WFA-30, Control Station Record, (original only)
-
- The receptionist-stenographer will: PRINT in the name of the family head, Evacuation Project No., Case No., and then refer the case to an interviewer, passing him the form.
- The Interviewer will: Complete Form WFA-30 insofar as possible during the first contact. Upon completion of the interview
he will check the applicable spaces in the "Control Square" indicating the status of the case and the return date if the transfer
or disposal of land, crops or chattels is not complete. If the evacuee has satisfactorily completed all arrangements and it
is not necessary for him to return to the FSA, the interviewer will initial the pink "routing and control" slip just to the
right of the FSA block. If the evacuee is to return to the FSA the interviewer will indicate the date just to the left of
the FSA block, and insert a plain sheet of paper in the evacuees control envelope showing the return date and the interviewers
name.
When this is done the interviewer should refer the evacuees to the check out control desk. The original of the WFA-30 will be placed in a folder for return to the FSA receptionist-stenographer for tabulating on form WFA-31. This is done even though the family must return at a subsequent date to complete his arrangements. - Return interviews: Return interviews are handled in the same manner as the first interview except that the receptionist-stenographer
will pull the form WFA-30 from her file and make it available to the interviewer.
The interviewer will carry on from where he left off, and bring the information up to date on Form WFA-30.
- B. Form WFA-31, Control Station Tally Sheet
-
- The receptionist-stenographer will: Register the family on this form by case number and name at the time she places the name and address on form WFA-30. This procedure will provide a complete registry of the families as they come to the FSA Section.
- Receptionist-Stenographer's action on WFA-31 after interview: When the WFA-30 is returned to the receptionist-stenographer
she will proceed as follows:
- a. For completed cases: Tabulate all required information on Form WFA-31 (except remarks column) and indicate that the case is completed.
- b. For incomplete cases: Tabulate data available on Form WFA-31 under status at registry, and indicate the return date. (See Note)
NOTE: It is necessary that the Stenographer keep the WFA-31 up to date at all times in order that accurate reports may be made (See report Procedure.) - Final preparation of WFA-31; when all cases have cleared through the FSA Section and all action possible has been taken at the Control Station, Form WFA-31 will be checked carefully against the WFA-30's by the Evacuation Agent, the Steno., and where possible, the Field Agent to assure that all information listed is correct. After this review the Evacuation Agent will enter any remarks applicable in the right hand column. The remarks are entered to assist the Field Agent in doing his work in the area after evacuation.
- The items to be transfered from the WFA-30's to Tally Sheet are numbered. These numbers correspond to the numbers on headings of the Tally Sheet.
― 5 ― - C. Final Disposition of Form WFA-31 and WFA-30:
- When the review is completed the Steno will type the form WFA-31 in an original and two copies for distribution as follows:
Original and one copy to the Evacuation Chief, 30 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco; one copy to the WFA Field Agent along with
the originals of Form WFA-30. The WFA 30's should be arranged alphabetically and firmly attached to form WFA-31 before turning
them over to the Field Agent.
NOTE: The Field Agent will undoubtedly wish to start work on incompleted cases before the Control Station is closed and the WFA 30's and 31's are turned over to him. Therefore, the names, addresses and pertinent information on unclosed transactions should be furnished him daily or oftener, as required.
VI. REPORTS BY THE EVACUATION AGENT:
- A. At the close of each day of registration it is necessary to wire (collect) a report of the day's business to the Evacuation
Chief at 30 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco. THIS IS MANDATORY. The telegraphic report must contain the following information:
- 1. The date (day) covered by the report.
- 2. The number of evacuating farmers registered that day.
- 3. The number of such farmers with arrangements complete at time of registry.
- 4. The number partially complete.
- 5. The number with no arrangements.
- This wire should be set up as follows:
APRIL 8 TOTAL 35 REGISTERED.
18 COMPLETE 8 PARTIAL 9 NONE
W. C. SMITH
EVACUATION AGENT
If no registrations were made, wire: "APRIL 8 NO REGISTRATIONS". - B. The report of registrations is a daily, not an accumulative, report. If 57 evacuees register on April 15, and 80 on April 16, the daily report for April 16 is 80, not 137.
- C. A daily report of registrations need not be submitted for days of Control Station duty after the required registration period, unless additional evacuees are registered. Do not count re-interviews of evacuees as new registrations. If additional registrations are made, wire in the daily report. The Evacuation Chief knows, from having copies of Exclusion Orders, which days are registration days.
- D. The Evacuation Agents will submit a final telegraphic report, at the close of the Station, containing grand totals of columns
1 through 9 of Form WFA-31. This wire will be set up as follows:
FINAL REPORT TOTAL NUMBER CASES 196, COLUMN
FOUR 166, FIVE 20, SIX 10, SEVEN 9, EIGHT
5000, NINE A 3750, NINE B 657.
W. C. Smith
Evacuation Agent
VII. REPORTS BY THE WFA FIELD AGENT:
Upon receipt of Forms WFA-30 and 31 from the Evacuation Agent, the Field Agent will immediately reconcile his records on Form WFA-1 to reflect any corrected data regarding the transfer of farms. Such corrected records will then be the basis of subsequent periodic reports to the WFA program Chief by the WFA Field Agent.
[951.1] MANAGEMENT CONTRACTS AND POWERS OF ATTORNEY
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA Instruction 951.1
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA, Evacuation Control, and Negotiation Personnel.
(4-7-42)
I OUTLINE OF PROBLEM AND SCOPE OF INSTRUCTION:
The FSA may find that, to discharge the duties and responsibilities assigned to it under the Wartime Civil Control Administration program, it must take over the management and operation of agricultural property of evacuees. In such event, it will do so either (1) pursuant to management contracts and powers of attorney executed by an evacuee or evacuees, or (2) pursuant to the exercise of certain extraordinary powers vested in the FSA under the President's War Powers. (Such extraordinary powers are hereinafter referred to as the "freezing power" and the exercise of the power is referred to as "freezing"). To facilitate such management and operation, the California Evacuated Farms Association has been established by the FSA.
This instruction sets forth the nature of the management contract and power of attorney form which will be used and outlines the situations in which such forms should be used.
II FORM WFA-21, MANAGEMENT CONTRACT AND POWER OF ATTORNEY:
(For simplicity the form will hereafter be referred to as a "power of attorney").
- A The form used is a combined management contract and power of attorney.
- The management provisions authorize the California Evacuated Farms Association to manage, operate and care for, the farms and agricultural property of the evacuee and to do whatever may be necessary for such purpose, including the advance or borrowing of funds and the reimbursement or repayment thereof and the lease, rental, sale, transfer and disposal of or other dealing in the property of the evacuee.
- B Nature of power of attorney.
-
- 1 Powers granted by a power of attorney.
- a A power of attorney is a legal instrument by which one person, referred to as the principal, empowers and authorizes another person, referred to as the attorney-in-fact, to act for him. The extent of the powers granted to the attorney-in-fact depends upon the language of the instrument. Form WFA-21 gives the attorney-in-fact full power and authority to act with respect to all agricultural property of the evacuee, other than real estate owned by him, as fully as the principal himself might do. A somewhat more limited power is given with respect to real estate owned by the evacuee.
- b A Power of attorney, however, gives the attorney-in-fact no greater rights than the principal himself has. That is, an attorney-in-fact takes subject to all contracts and obligations of his principal and is bound by all acts of the principal. Thus, if a conditional sales contract creditor could repossess machinery from the principal for breach of a contract provision, the creditor may still do so despite the execution of a power of attorney. Furthermore, if the principal has entered into a contract to sell growing crops to a particular cannery, the attorney-in-fact is bound thereby. Again, if a lease is not assignable, an attorney-in-fact is no more able than his principal to effect a valid assignment.
― 2 ― - 2 Responsibilities and Duties.
- a An attorney-in-fact by accepting a power of attorney becomes subject to certain responsibilities and duties. He may be required to act with reference to the property over which he obtains control by virtue of the power of attorney and may be held responsible for willful or negligent failure to act or for improper (that is, wrongful, as distinguished from unwise) conduct. Thus, under Form WFA-21 the attorney-in-fact will be expected to exercise reasonable care with reference to the agricultural property of the evacuee.
- b By accepting a power of attorney, the attorney-in-fact may also assume certain responsibilities and duties to third persons. Assuming, however, that he acts on behalf of and in the name of his principal and within the limits of the authority granted him he will not become subject to any personal liability.
- 1 Powers granted by a power of attorney.
- C Limitations upon the efficacy of the power of attorney device.
- There are a number of limitations upon the efficacy of the power of attorney device - that is, mere acceptance of a power
of attorney from an evacuee may not be sufficient to give the FSA or the California Evacuated Farms Association complete ability
to act. Some inherent limitations are the following:
- 1 Validity. The power of attorney must be valid. An infant, a person who is not competent to act, and in other instances, other persons cannot validly execute a power of attorney.
- 2 Incompleteness. Powers of attorney may be obtained only from some and not from all of the persons having some right, title or interest in and to the property used by the evacuee.
- 3 Revocability. A power of attorney is revocable and may be terminated either by the act of the principal granting the power or by his death, unless the power is coupled with an interest. An attempt has been made to make the power of attorney irrevocable by including provisions for the management and operation of the evacuee's farm and agricultural property.
- NOTE: To insure complete freedom of action in instances in which powers of attorney have been taken, it may be necessary that the FSA hereafter exercise the freezing power. Such power will and must be exercised only when absolutely essential. Therefore care must be taken to avoid where possible the taking of powers of attorney in instances in which it will inevitably become necessary to exercise the freezing power.
― 3 ―
III TAKING POWERS OF ATTORNEY:
- A Authority to Accept Powers of Attorney.
- Powers of attorney may be accepted on behalf of the California Evacuated Farms Association only by such employees to whom
such authority is specifically delegated hereafter by the Regional Director.
Field agents do not have authority to accept powers of attorney. - B Determination as to Whether Power of Attorney Should Be Taken.
-
- A power of attorney SHOULD NOT be taken in any case in which, under the existing circumstances, the evacuee can effect what appears to be a reasonably satisfactory arrangement, irrespective of the nature thereof (that is, whether by an outright sale, a management contract, a power of attorney in favor of a third person, etc.), providing for the management, operation, care, custody, sale, transfer, disposal or other handling of his farm and agricultural property.
- A power of attorney may be taken only in the following types of situations.
- a Where the evacuation date arrives and the evacuee has made no arrangement for the management and operation or sale and disposal of his farm and other agricultural property.
- b Where the evacuation date arrives and the evacuee has made an arrangement for the management and operation of his property which is unsatisfactory, (1) because it does not cover all of his property, (2) because it does not adequately provide for the management and operation of his property, (3) because it does not give the person with whom an arrangement has been made sufficient authority to deal with such property.
- C. Completion and Execution of Form.
- The Power of attorney form, Form WFA-21, should be completed by inserting the location of the farm in paragraph (a), by providing
a complete legal description in paragraph (b) and by dating the form. It should be executed by all persons, that is, the evacuee
or evacuees and members of his or their family (but not creditors, lienors and others having claims against the evacuee) having
any right, title or interest in and to such property. The signatures of all persons executing the Power of Attorney should
be acknowledged before a notary public.
The form should be executed in triplicate, the original being transmitted to the regional office, one copy being retained by or given to the Field Agent, and another copy being delivered to the evacuee.
IV ACTION FOLLOWING ACCEPTANCE OF POWER OF ATTORNEY:
- A Inventory of Property of Evacuee.
- An inventory of the property of the evacuee executing a a Power of Attorney should be prepared either prior to the acceptance
of the Power of Attorney, if possible, or as soon after the acceptance of the Power of Attorney as can be. The inventory form,
Form WFA-20, should be used for this purpose. The inventory should preferably be prepared with the assistance of the evacuee
and if prepared prior to his evacuation should be accepted by him as provided for in the inventory form.
The form should be executed in triplicate, the original being transmitted to the regional office, one copy being retained by or given to the Field Agent, and another copy being delivered to the evacuee. - B Action Under Power of Attorney.
-
- The attorney-in-fact is required to manage and operate the farm and other agricultural property of the evacuee granting the power of attorney. It is therefore imperative that immediate action be taken to provide for the care, custody and management of such property to prevent loss, destruction or disappearance of any item. Detailed instructions and procedure with reference to the management and operation of farms and other agricultural property of evacuees are contained in WFA Instruction 953.1, to which reference is made.
- It is not the purpose or desire of the FSA to operate and manage farms and other agricultural property of evacuees, except in instances where it is absolutely necessary to do so to preserve continuity of agricultural production. Even in such instances, it is not the purpose of the FSA to operate such property any longer than necessary. Therefore, every effort should be made to find a substitute operator to whom the property may be sold, transferred or otherwise disposed of at the earliest possible moment. Loans to substitute operators may be made in accordance with the procedure set forth in WFA Instruction 931.1. Detailed instructions and procedure for each case covering the sale, transfer or other disposal of such property to a substitute operator will be provided as occasion therefor arises.
[951.2] SURPLUS FARM MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT - CUSTODY AGREEMENTS AND
POWERS OF ATTORNEY.
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WCCA-FSA Instruction 951.2
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA, Evacuation Control, and Negotiation Personnel.
(4-25-42)
I OUTLINE OF PROBLEM AND SCOPE OF INSTRUCTION.
For a complete statement of the policies and procedures with reference to the disposition by evacuees of farm machinery and equipment owned by them or in which they have some interest, you are referred, in addition to this instruction, to (1) statement of policy of the Farm Security Administration with reference to agricultural equipment and machinery, (2) release issued April 22, 1942 marked "FOR ACTION AS INDICATED" and entitled "Disposition of Farm Machinery and Equipment to or Through Equipment Dealers", and (3) WFA Instruction 952.2. Copies of these have been made available to you.
The Farm Security Administration may find that evacuees who have effected arrangements for the care, management, operation, sale or other disposal of their agricultural property will nevertheless have left on their hands certain miscellaneous items of farm machinery and equipment which are surplus to the needs of substitute operators. It is only with such surplus farm machinery and equipment that this instruction is concerned. In such instances an evacuee may be unable, despite efforts made by him, by FSA field personnel and by others to make any arrangement for the sale, storage or other disposal of such items of equipment. Where such a situation is found to exist, the Farm Security Administration, through the California Evacuated Farms Association, is prepared to accept custody of such farm machinery and equipment pursuant to a custody agreement and power of attorney executed by the evacuee.
This instruction sets forth the nature of the custody agreement and power of attorney form which will be used, the procedure to be employed in situations in which such forms are used and the action to be taken pursuant thereto.
II FORM WCCA-FSA-100, CUSTODY AGREEMENT AND POWER OF ATTORNEY
- A The form used is a combined custody agreement and power of attorney The agreement authorizes the California Evacuated Farms Association to care for lease, rent, sell, transfer, dispose of or deal in any other manner whatsoever with the items of personal property described therein, to incur such expenditur [sic] as may be necessary in connection therewith and to reimburse itself therefor.
- B Nature of and Limitations Upon Power of Attorney. For an analysis of the nature of the power of attorney provisions, the rights granted and the responsibilities and duties imposed thereby and the limitations upon the power of attorney device see paragraphs II B and II C of FSA Instruction 951.1.
III ACCEPTING CUSTODY AGREEMENTS AND POWERS OF ATTORNEY.
- A Authority to Accept Custody Agreements and Powers of Attorney.
- The custody agreement and power of attorney form may be accepted on behalf of the California Evacuated Farms Association only
by such district officers, evacuation agents and special negotiators to whom such authority is specifically
― 2 ―delegated by the Regional Director. IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH SPECIFIC DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO HIM NO FIELD EMPLOYEE HAS AUTHORITY TO ACCEPT SUCH POWERS OF ATTORNEY. - B Determination as to Whether a Custody Agreement and Power of Attorney Should Be Accepted.
-
- 1 A custody agreement and power of attorney SHOULD NOT be accepted in any case in which the evacuee can effect what, under all the existing circumstances, appears to be a reasonably satisfactory arrangement for the care, custody, sale, transfer, or disposal in any other manner of surplus items of farm machinery and equipment.
- 2 A custody agreement and power of attorney may be accepted only in a situation in which the evacuation date has arrived and the evacuee has been unable to make or has made no arrangements for the care, custody, sale transfer or disposal in any other manner of surplus farm machinery and equipment.
- C Completion and Execution of Custody Agreement and Power of Attorney
- The custody agreement and power of attorney form should be completed by inserting in paragraph a the description of the farm
on which the equipment is located and by inserting in the blanks provided therefor an itemized description of the items of
which custody is to be taken, a statement of the indebtedness, if any, against such items and the suggested minimum sale price.
- 3 [sic] The form should be prepared in triplicate and executed in duplicate by all persons, that is, the evacuee or evacuees and members of his or their family (but not creditors, lienors and others having claims against the evacuee) having any right, title or interest in and to such property. The original should be transmitted to the regional office, one copy should be retained by or given to the field agent and the second copy should be delivered to the evacuee.
- D Itemization of Farm Machinery and Equipment.
- The evacuee must tag each item of farm machinery or equipment, custody of which is to be given to the California Evacuated Farms Association, using Form WCCA-FSA-43 for this purpose. The California Evacuated Farms Association should be named as the equipment dealer. The stub should be completed by the field agent or other field employee accepting custody of the item and should be delivered to the evacuee.
- E Obtaining Physical Possession of Property.
- In view of the responsibilities imposed upon the California Evacuated Farms Association and the FSA by the acceptance of custody agreements and powers of attorney and the issuance of receipts therefor by the completion and delivery of equipment tag stubs to evacuees it becomes imperative that action be taken immediately to insure that physical possession of the specific items of farm machinery and equipment is obtained by the California Evacuated Farms Association or by such person or persons as may be selected by it.
IV AGREEMENT WITH EQUIPMENT DEALER FOR STORAGE AND SALE OF EQUIPMENT.
- A To discharge the obligations accepted by the California Evacuated Farms Association, to reduce to a minimum the detail work to be performed by the California Evacuated Farms Association and to make certain that the farm machinery and equipment, custody of which has been accepted, will be available for use for ordinary agricultural purposes, the California Evacuated Farms Association should enter into an agreement with an equipment dealer providing for the storage and sale of such machinery and equipment.
- B Form WCCA-FSA-120, Storage and Sale Agreement Between California Evacuated Farms Association and Equipment Dealer.
- 1 The form provides for the delivery by the California Evacuated Farms Association of such items of personal property (farm machinery and equipment only) to an equipment dealer for storage in open areas and for the subsequent sale thereof by the equipment dealer on a commission basis.
- 2 The storage and sale agreement may be executed, on behalf of the California Evacuated Farms Association, only by such district officers, evacuation agents and special negotiators to whom authority to accept custody agreements and powers of attorney on behalf of the California Evacuated Farms Association has been specifically delegated by the Regional Director. NO OTHER FIELD EMPLOYEE HAS AUTHORITY TO ENTER INTO SUCH AGREEMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION.
- 3 The storage and sale agreement form should be completed by inserting in the blanks provided therefor (1) a description of the farm on which the equipment is located, (2) an itemized description of the items of which custody is to be taken by the equipment dealer and the minimum sale price of each item, (3) the rate of commission to be allowed the equipment dealer, and (4) the address of the field agent of the FSA for the area in which the equipment dealer's place of business is located. The suggeste [sic] rate of commission is 15 percent and should be no more. Such commission is to be accepted by the equipment dealer in full consideration and payment of all costs and expenses incurred by the dealer and all services rendered by him, including, but not limited to, the costs of obtaining possession, the cost of storage, expenses of sale and delivery charges.
- 4 The form should be prepared in triplicate and executed in duplicate on behalf of the equipment dealer by an authorized representative and on behalf of the California Evacuated Farms Association by an authorized field employee. The original should be transmitted to the regional office, the executed copy given to the equipment dealer and the second copy retained by or given to the field agent.
― 4 ― - C Taking Physical Possession of Property By Equipment Dealer. Steps should be taken to see that the equipment dealer immediately takes possession of such farm machinery and equipment and that a receipt for such items is obtained. Form WCCA-FSA-121, Receipt of Possession of Farm Machinery and Equipment, may be used for such purpose.
- D Accounting for Proceeds. The equipment dealer is required under the terms of Form WCCA-FSA-120 to pay over to the field agent of the FSA, for the area in which the equipment dealer's place of business is located, the proceeds realized from the sale of any particular item, less the amount which he is permitted to retain for his commission. The amount so paid over to the field agent should be transmitted to the office of the California Evacuated Farms Association with a supporting statement identifying the evacuee by name and family number and the item or items of machinery and equipment which were sold.
[952.1] USE OF THE "FREEZING" POWER
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
WFA Instruction 952.1
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA, Evacuation Control, and Negotiation Personnel.
(4-10-42)
I SCOPE OF INSTRUCTION:
The purpose of this instruction is to set forth the nature of certain extraordinary powers which have been vested in the Regional Director of the FSA for Region IX and to indicate the very limited use to be made of such powers. (Such extraordinary powers are hereinafter referred to as the "freezing power": the exercise of the power is referred to as "freezing" or "blocking": and the property effected thereby is referred to as "frozen" or "blocked" property.) To assist in taking such action as may be necessary in cases in which such powers are exercised, the California Evacuated Farms Association has been established by the FSA.
II FREEZING POWER:
- A Nature of the Freezing Power:
-
- 1 The President, under the so-called war power, is vested with power to act in virtually any manner he sees fit with reference to the property or any interest therein of any foreign country or any national thereof. (An enemy national or national of a foreign country has been interpreted to include any person of Japanese descent.) This power is sufficiently broad to permit him to prevent or prohibit or to nullify and void any transaction which may have been consummated or any action which may have been taken with reference to any such property. Limited authority to exercise these extraordinary powers has been vested in the Regional Director for the purpose of enabling him to insure continuity of agricultural production and fair dealing. The extraordinary character of the power presupposes that it will be used with the greatest or reserve.
- 2 The powers which have been delegated to the Regional Director will authorize him to freeze the property or any interest therein of any evacuee - that is, to prevent any transaction relating to or the exercise of any rights affecting such property or interests - and to manage, operate, sell, transfer, or otherwise dispose of any such property.
- B Duties and Responsibilities:
- The exercise of the freezing power imposes upon the FSA duties and responsibilities commensurate with the extraordinary character of the power which has been exercised. It is anticipated that whenever the freezing power is exercised the FSA will immediately take steps to adequately care for, manage and operate the farm and agricultural property which has been frozen and make every effort to insure continuity of agricultural production and fair dealing.
III EXERCISE OF THE FREEZING POWER:
- A Authority to Exercise Freezing Power:
- The authority to exercise the freezing power is vested in the Regional Director.
This authority MAY NOT be redelegated to any subordinate official. - B Determination as to Whether Freezing Power Should Be Exercised:
-
- 1 The freezing power WILL NOT be exercised in any case in which, under all the existing circumstances,
- (a) the evacuee can effect what appears to be a reasonably satisfactory arrangement, irrespective of the nature thereof (that is, whether by an outright sale, a management contract, a power of attorney in favor of a third person, etc.,) providing for the management, operation, care, custody, sale, transfer, disposal, or other handling of his farm and agricultural property and
- (b) other persons (that is, landlords, mortgagees or other creditors, any or all of whom are hereafter referred to as "creditors"), having an interest therein interpose no obstacle to the carrying out of such arrangements.
- 2 The Freezing Power May Be Exercised only in the Following Types of Situations:
- a Prior to the Establishment of Evacuation Control Centers. (Evacuation control centers are established when precisely defined
geographical areas are marked off for immediate evacuation.)
- (1) Where the evacuee cannot effect or his creditors will not permit him to effect reasonably satisfactory arrangements with third persons adequately providing for the management, operation, care, custody, sale, transfer, disposal or other handling of his farm or agricultural property.
- (2) Where the evacuee can and his creditors will permit him to effect reasonably satisfactory arrangements with third persons for the management, operation, care, custody, sale, transfer, disposal or other handling of his farm or agricultural property, but he is unwilling or refuses to do so.
- (3) Where the evacuee has abandoned his farm and agricultural property and either (a) the farm is owned by the evacuee and no other person may act with reference thereto, or (b) the landlord is unable or unwilling to take any action to continue such agricultural production.
- (4) Where the evacuee is unwilling or unable to continue agricultural production and either (a) the farm is owned by the evacuee
and no other person may act with reference thereto, or (b) the landlord is unable or unwilling to take any action to continue
such agricultural production.
― 3 ―THE NUMBER OF CASES IN WHICH THE FREEZING POWER WILL BE EXERCISED WILL BE KEPT AT AN ABSOLUTE MINIMUM. THE FREEZING POWER WILL NOT BE EXERCISED IN ANY OF THE FOREGOING CLASSES OF CASES EVEN THOUGH SUCH ACTION MAY BE NECESSARY TO INSURE CONTINUATION OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION AND TO PROMOTE FAIR DEALING, UNLESS THE LOSS OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION IS SUFFICIENTLY MATERIAL OR THE UNFAIR DEALING IS OF SUCH A CHARACTER AS TO WARRANT THE USE OF THIS EXTRAORDINARY POWER. - (5) Where a completed transaction has involved gross fraud or unfair dealing of such a character as to justify declaring the transaction void and to require that the parties be restored to their previous status. THE FREEZING POWER PROBABLY WILL NEVER BE USED IN SUCH A SITUATION.
- b Subsequest [sic] [Subsequent] to the establishment of evacuation control centers: The freezing power may be exercised subsequent
to the establishment of evacuation control centers.
- (1) In any of the types of situations in which it may be exercised prior to the establishment of evacuation control centers.
- (2) In situations in which powers of attorney have been taken by the FSA or the California Evacuated Farms Association and
the exercise of the freezing power is necessary to insure complete freedom of action pursuant to the power of attorney. Such
instances may include the following:
- (a) Where a valid power of attorney has not been obtained because the evacuee executing the power of attorney is a minor or for some other reason is not competent to act.
- (b) Where a power of attorney was not obtained from all evacuees having some right, title or interest in the property.
- (c) Where the evacuee's creditors are unwilling to consent or are unavailable and therefore do not consent to the operation, management, sale, transfer or other disposal of the evacuee's farm and other agricultural property pursuant to the power of attorney.
IN ANY OF THE FOREGOING INSTANCES EVERY EFFORT WILL BE MADE BY THE FSA OR THE CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION TO ACT PURSUANT TO THE POWER OF ATTORNEY AND THE EXERCISE OF THE FREEZING POWER WILL BE RESORTED TO ONLY TO THE EXTENT NECESSARY TO PERMIT THE FSA OR THE CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION TO EXERCISE THE RESPONSIBILITIES WHICH IT HAS ASSUMED BY ACCEPTING A POWER OF ATTORNEY.
- (3) Where the evacuee's creditors are unwilling to respect arrangements effected by the evacuee with third persons providing for the management, operation, care, custody, sale, transfer, disposal or other handling of his farm or agricultural property.
― 4 ―
- a Prior to the Establishment of Evacuation Control Centers. (Evacuation control centers are established when precisely defined
geographical areas are marked off for immediate evacuation.)
- 1 The freezing power WILL NOT be exercised in any case in which, under all the existing circumstances,
IV PROCEDURE RELATING TO THE EXERCISE OF THE FREEZING POWER:
- A Submission of Petition and Request for the Exercise of the Freezing Power:
-
- No petition or request for the exercise of the freezing power may be submitted by a field agent or an evacuation agent (the term "field agent" will be used in this instruction to refer to both field agent and evacuation agent) without the approval of his recommendation by a district officer, in the case of field agents, or by a district evacuation agent in the case of evacuation agents. (The term "district officer" will be used hereafter in this instruction to refer to both district evacuation agent and district officers.)
- 2 Petition by Evacuee:
- a If the evacuee is unable to effect satisfactory or equitable arrangements because of the unwillingness of his creditors to permit him to do so, he may execute Evacuee's Petition for Blocking Property, Form WFA-103. The form should be executed in triplicate and submitted to the field agent. ("Field agent" will be used to refer to both field agent and evacuation agent.) The original should be forwarded to the regional office, together with the recommendations of the field agent. The petition must contain a description of the farm operated by the evacuee and of the other agricultural property of the evacuee which it is desired to freeze or block. The petition must be signed by the evacuee and witnessed by at least one person other than the field agent.
- b If the field agent determines that the situation is one in which the freezing power should be exercised, he will make a recommendation to that effect, submit the petition, together with his recommendations to the district officer and, if the latter approves the recommendations, submit the original of the petition and his recommendations to the regional office.
- 3 Petition by Field Agent:
- a If the field agent or evacuation agent determines that the situation is one of the types of situations set forth in paragraph III in which the freezing power may be exercised and that the continuation of agricultural production and fair dealing requires that the freezing power be exercised, he may submit a request for blocking, using Field Agent's Petition for Blocking Property, Form WFA-104.
- b The field agent will prepare the form in triplicate, inserting therein a complete narrative statement of the facts of the situation and a specific description of the property to be frozen or blocked, giving particular attention to (1) the reasons for requesting that the property be blocked and (2) the consequences which the field agent believes will result from the failure to block the property. The field agent will submit the form to the district officer for approval. If the latter approves the field agent's recommendations, the original will be forwarded to the regional office.
- 4 Advice to County War Board
- a The field agent will, in each case in which a recommendation is made to the regional office that the freezing power be exercised, submit a copy of either the Evacuee's Petition for Blocking Property or the Field Agent's Petition for Blocking Property, together with a copy of the field agent's recommendations and that of the district officer to the secretary of the local County War Board. The purpose thereof is to insure that the County War Board will be fully advised of the situation so that the Regional Director may consult the County War Board prior to making his determination in the event he deems it advisable to do so.
- 5 An inventory of the property to be frozen or blocked must be prepared prior to the submission of the petition and should be prepared prior to the preparation of the petition. Inventory, Form WFA-20, should be used for this purpose. The Inventory should preferably be prepared with the assistance of the evacuee and if prepared prior to his evacuation should be accepted by him as provided for in the Inventory form.
― 5 ― - B Determination as to Whether Freezing Power Will be Exercised.
- The determination as to whether a petition requesting that the property described therein be blocked should be approved will
be the responsibility of the Regional Director. If the Regional Director determines it advisable to do so, he may consult
the County War Board prior to making his determination. If the Regional Director determines to approve the petition he will
obtain the concurrence of a representative of the Solicitor's Office.
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL A FIELD AGENT, EVACUATION AGENT OR ANY OTHER FSA EMPLOYEE ATTEMPT TO EXERCISE THE FREEZING POWER AND BLOCK PROPERTY EXCEPT UPON AUTHORIZATION BY THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH HIS EXPRESS INSTRUCTIONS.- 1 If the Regional Director determines that the Petition for Blocking Property should not be approved, he will notify the field agent that the property described in the petition has not been blocked. Upon the receipt of such notification the field agent shall make such other efforts to handle the situation as he can, using any alternative procedure available to him.
- 2 If the Regional Director determines that the Petition for Blocking Property should be approved, he will notify the field
agent by wire that the property described in the petition has been blocked and will confirm such notification in writing on
Order Designating Blocked Property, Form WFA 105. Each order will be numbered consecutively.
Upon receipt of telegraphic notification, the field agent will complete Posting Notice No. _____, Special Blocked Property, Form WFA 106, describing the property to be blocked in the same manner as described in the Petition for Blocking Property, unless the telegraphic notification otherwise indicates. The form will be executed by the field agent, as agent of the Regional Director and will be posted in a conspicuous place on the farm on which the property which is blocked is located. In addition, the field agent will tack up in conspicuous places at least three warning placards, advising that the property is Special Blocked Property.
― 6 ―At the same time, the field agent will complete Letter Notice No. _____, Special Blocked Property, Form WFA 107, describing the property blocked in the same manner as it is described in the petition and the order and will execute the form on behalf of the Regional Director. The field agent will address an executed copy of Letter Notice No. _____, Special Blocked Property, Form WFA 107, to each creditor having an interest in the property.
V ACTION FOLLOWING BLOCKING OF PROPERTY AND ISSUING NOTICES THEREOF:
Several alternative courses of action might or should be taken following the blocking of property and the issuance of notices thereof. Thus, (1) it may be necessary to license the sale or disposal of a portion or all of the property almost simultaneously with the freezing thereof, or (2) it may be that the exercise of the freezing power and the blocking of property will have accomplished its purpose and that action should be taken to "unfreeze" or "unblock" such property, or (3) it may be necessary to keep property blocked and for the Farm Security Administration or the California Evacuated Farm Association to operate, manage and care for blocked property for some period of time. Each of these general classes of situations and the procedure to be followed in each of them are hereinafter set forth.
- A Cases In Which It May Be Necessary To Issue A License To Sell Or Dispose Of Special Blocked Property Immediately.
-
- Such cases are cases involving perishable crops, livestock products or other agricultural produce or property requiring immediate sale and disposal.
- In such cases the field agent will prepare Form WFA 108, Application for Blocked Property License, in duplicate, describing
the property to be covered by the license, and submit the original of such form to the regional office. If necessary to do
so, the field agent may submit the Application for Blocked Property License at the same time that he submits either the Evacuee's
Petition for Blocking Property, Form WFA 103, or the Field Agent's Petition for Blocking Property, Form WFA 104.
In such cases, if the property has already been blocked and requiring the submission of an Application for Blocked Property License, Form WFA 108 will require too great a delay, a telegraphic request for a blocked property license, because of the perishable nature of the crops or other agricultural produce, may be made. Such telegraphic request must be confirmed in writing by the submission of an Application for Blocked Property License, Form WFA 108 and reference to the telegraphic request must be made. - If the Regional Director determines that the Application for Blocked Property License or the telegraphic request for a license should be approved, he will issue a License, Form WFA 109, licensing the sale or disposal of or the taking of other action with reference to the blocked property described in the Application for Blocked Property License. If the need therefor warrants, the Regional Director will notify the field agent by wire that a license covering the property described in the application has been issued and will confirm such notification in writing.
- Upon the receipt of either the License or telegraphic notification that a License has been issued, but not prior thereto, the field agent will be free to proceed to deal with the property described in the Application for Blocked Property License and only such property, in the manner requested, unless the License specifies otherwise.
― 7 ― - B Cases In Which The Exercise Of The Freezing Power Will Have Accomplished Its Purpose And In Which There Will No Longer Be Any Need To Keep Property Frozen Or Blocked:
-
- 1 Such cases will include the following:
- a Where the exercise of the freezing power will have been sufficient to compel or induce the evacuee's creditors to permit him to effect satisfactory arrangements with third persons.
- b Where the exercise of the freezing power will have been sufficient to compel or induce the evacuee to effect reasonably satisfactory arrangements with third persons.
- c Where the exercise of the freezing power will have been sufficient to compel or induce the evacuee to continue with his agricultural production.
- d Where the exercise of the freezing power will be sufficient to compel or induce the evacuee's creditors to consent to the operation, management, care, custody, sale, transfer, disposal or other handling of the evacuee's farm and other agricultural property by the FSA or the California Evacuated Farms Association pursuant to a power of attorney executed by the evacuee.
- e Where the exercise of the freezing power will have been sufficient to compel or induce the evacuee's creditors to respect arrangements effected by the evacuee with third persons and to which they previously had agreed or had made no objection.
- 2 In any of the Foregoing cases application may immediately Be made for the partial or complete release of blocked property.
- a If all parties (that is, the evacuee and his creditors) having an interest in the property which has been blocked or in any portion thereof are able to agree upon the disposition thereof, thus permitting the evacuee to effect reasonably satisfactory arrangements with third persons, such parties will complete and execute Memorandum of Agreement and Settlement, Form WFA 110. They will prepare as many copies as are necessary to provide each party with a copy and to submit the original and first copy thereof to the field agent. If he determines that the terms of the agreement are satisfactory, and if such determination is concurred in by the district officer, the field agent shall request that one of the parties prepare Application for Blocked Property License, Form WFA 108. The field agent will forward the original of the Memorandum of Agreement and Settlement and the original of the Application for Blocked Property License, together with his and the district officer's recommendations, to the regional office.
- b In any of the other of the foregoing classes of cases the field agent will prepare an Application for Blocked Property License in duplicate, describing the property to be covered by the License, will submit the Application to the district officer for approval and, if approved by the district officer, transmit the original to the regional office.
- c If the Regional Director determines that the Application for Blocked Property should be approved, he will issue a License, Form WFA 109, licensing the sale or disposal of or the taking of other action with reference to the blocked property described in the Application for Blocked Property License. If the Regional Director so determines, the License may cover less than all of the property described in the Application.
- d Upon the receipt of the License, but not prior thereto, the field agent will be free to proceed to deal with the property covered by the License in the manner requested unless the License specifies otherwise.
― 8 ―
- 1 Such cases will include the following:
- C Cases In Which It Will Be Necessary To Keep Property Blocked And For The FSA Or The California Evacuated Farms Association To Operate, Manage, And Care For Such Blocked Property For Some Period Of Time:
-
- 1 Where it appears that it will be necessary for the FSA or the California Evacuated Farms Assocation [sic] to manage, operate and care for agricultural property of an evacuee which has been blocked, it is imperative that immediate action be taken to provide therefor to prevent loss, destruction or disappearance of any item of such property. Detailed instructions and procedure with reference to the management and operation of farms and other agricultural property of evacuees are contained in WFA Instruction 953.1, to which reference is made.
- 2 It is not the purpose or the desire of the FSA to freeze or block farms and other agricultural property of evacuees and to operate, manage and care for such property, except in instances where it is absolutely necessary to do so to preserve continuity of agricultural production. Even in such instances, it is not the purpose of the FSA to manage and operate such property any longer than necessary. Therefore, every effort should be made to find a substitute operator to whom the property may be sold, transferred or otherwise disposed of at the earliest possible moment. Loans to substitute operators may be made in accordance with the procedure set forth in WFA Instruction 931.1. Detailed instructions and procedure for each case covering the sale, transfer or other disposal of such property to a substitute operator will be provided as occasion therefor arises.
[952.2] FREEZING POWER - APPLICATION TO ABANDONED FARM EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WCCA-FSA Instruction 952.2
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA, Evacuation Control, and Negotiation Personnel
(4-25-42)
I SCOPE OF INSTRUCTION:
The purpose of this instruction is to set forth procedure and instructions with reference to the exercise of the freezing power in cases in which evacuees have abandoned miscellaneous items of farm machinery and equipment. (It should be noted that the freezing power may be exercised in accordance with the procedure outlined in WFA Instruction 952.1 with reference to any item or items of the agricultural property of an evacuee, as well as to all his agricultural property.)
II EXERCISE OF THE FREEZING POWER:
- A The freezing power may be exercised in cases in which an evacuee has abandoned items of farm machinery and equipment and either such property is owned by the evacuee or where, for this or any other reason, no other person may or does act with reference there to.
- B Before the freezing power will be exercised with reference to any abandoned farm machinery and equipment it will be necessary that it be established that the farm machinery and equipment is that of an evacuee. Efforts should be made to as certain the name and family number of the evacuee owning such property. If, however, it is definitely established that such property is that of an evacuee, but neither his name nor family number can be obtained, the freezing power will nevertheless be exercised and the property blocked. In such cases, identification will be made by reference to the description of the agricultural lands upon which such blocked property is located at the time of its freezing.
III PROCEDURE RELATING TO THE EXERCISE OF THE FREEZING POWER.
- A The procedure with reference to the submission of a petition and request for the exercise of the freezing power, which will in each case be submitted by a field agent or evacuation agent, and the procedure with reference to the determination as to whether the freezing power will be exercised will be the same as that set forth in paragraph IV of WFA Instruction 952.1, to which reference is made.
- B Itemization and obtaining physical possession of farm machinery and equipment.
It will be necessary that itemized descriptions of the property which is to be frozen be obtained, that such property be tagged and that physical possession thereof be taken. The procedure to be followed is set forth in paragraphs III D and III E of WFA Instruction 951.2, except that each item of farm machinery and equipment, instead of being tagged by the evacuee, will be tagged by the field agent or other field employee taking possession thereof.
IV ACTION FOLLOWING FREEZING OF PROPERTY:
- A The Regional Director will, immediately upon issuing the Order Designating Blocked Property, Form WFA-105, direct the California Evacuated Farms Association to take possession of such blocked property, using Form WFA-111 for such purpose.
- B Agreement with equipment dealer for storage and sale of machinery and equipment.
- 1 The California Evacuated Farms Association will enter into an agreement with an equipment dealer providing for the storage and sale of such machinery and equipment, using Form WCCA-FSA-120, Storage and Sale Agreement between California Evacuated Farms Association and Equipment Dealer. The procedure to be followed is set forth in paragraph IV of Instruction 951.2
- 2 The equipment dealer will be required to account to the California Evacuated Farms Association for the proceeds from the sale of such machinery and equipment. The procedure to be followed is set forth in paragraph IV D of Instruction 951.2
[953.1] MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF FARMS AND AGRICULTURAL PROPERTY OF EVACUEES OF CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
WFA Instruction 953.1
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA, Evacuation Control, and Negotiation Personnel.
(4-10-42)
I SCOPE OF INSTRUCTION:
The purpose of this Instruction is to set forth the procedure to be followed in the management and operation of farms and agricultural property of evacuees which have been taken over for management and operation by the California Evacuated Farms Association either pursuant to a power of attorney executed in favor of the corporation by the evacuee or pursuant to the exercise of the freezing power and the issuance of an order to the corporation by the Regional Director.
II ESTABLISHMENT OF WORKING CAPITAL ACCOUNT AND OPERATING ACCOUNTS:
- A Submission of Requests for Authorizations to Open Accounts.
-
- 1 If the farm and other agricultural property of an evacuee is taken over for management and operation by the California Evacuated
Farms Association, it will be necessary that the field agent make a request for advance of funds to operate and manage such
property, using Request for Advance of Funds to Operate and Manage, Form WFA-112 and indicating the amount deemed by him to
be necessary for such purpose.
If it subsequently appears that additional working capital funds are necessary requests therefor should be made in the same manner. - 2 In such event, it will also be necessary that the field agent request authority to establish an operating account and use
the funds made available to him, using Request for Authority to Establish Operating Accounts for Evacuees, Form WFA-113. The
name of each evacuee for whom an operating account is to be established must be set forth upon the request form.
If after an initial request has been made, the farm and other agricultural property of other evacuees is taken over for management and operation and it becomes necessary to establish additional operating accounts, requests therefor should be made in the same manner.
- 1 If the farm and other agricultural property of an evacuee is taken over for management and operation by the California Evacuated
Farms Association, it will be necessary that the field agent make a request for advance of funds to operate and manage such
property, using Request for Advance of Funds to Operate and Manage, Form WFA-112 and indicating the amount deemed by him to
be necessary for such purpose.
- B Authorization by Corporation.
-
- 1 Upon the approval of the Request for Advance of Funds to Operate and Manage, the board of directors of the corporation will authorize the advance of the sum requested and the establishment of a working capital account in the name of the corporation from which funds may be withdrawn by the field agent. A certified copy of the resolution will be transmitted to the field agent, using Form WFA-114, Certified Copy of Resolution Authorizing Advance of Funds to Field Agent.
- 2 Upon the approval of the Request for Authority to Establish Operating Accounts for Evacuees, the corporation will authorize the field agent to establish such operating accounts, and to transfer to each of such operating accounts such sums as may be necessary, using Authorization to Establish Operating Accounts, Form WFA-16.
- 3 There will, at the same time, be forwarded to the field agent a number of executed copies of Certified Copy of Resolution Authorizing Opening of Bank Accounts, Form WFA-115. The number of copies will be equal to the number of evacuees for whom operating accounts are to be established, plus an additional copy to be used in connection with the establishment of the working capital account.
- 4 The Treasurer of the corporation will draw a check in favor of the field agent in the amount of the advance authorized by the board of directors and transmit such check to the field agent with instructions that it be deposited in the working capital account to be established by him.
― 2 ― - C Establishment of Accounts.
-
- 1 The field agent will, upon receiving a copy of Form WFA-114, a copy of Form WFA-115 and the check in his favor, establish a working capital account in the name of the California Evacuated Farms Association, using Deposit Agreement, Form WFA-117 and deposit the check in such account. He will execute the Deposit Agreement both on behalf of the United States and the corporation.
- 2 The field agent will, upon receiving the authorization to establish operating accounts, establish a separate operating account for each evacuee, using Deposit Agreement for Operating Account, Form WFA-118. Such accounts shall be established as soon as it becomes necessary to take over, manage and operate the farm and other agricultural property of any particular evacuee and approval therefor shall have been obtained.
- 3 No funds will be expended from the working capital account directly for the account of any particular evacuee. If and when it becomes necessary to advance any working capital funds to defray the costs of management and operation of the farm and other agricultural property of any particular evacuee, it will be necessary that funds be transferred from the working capital account to the operating account for the particular evacuee and thereafter withdrawn from the operating account.
III MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF FARM AND OTHER AGRICULTURAL PROPERTY OF A PARTICULAR EVACUEE:
- A Selection of operator or manager.
-
- 1 Immediately upon receiving authority to proceed with the management and operation of the farm and other agricultural property
of any particular evacuee the field agent should obtain the services of a manager or operator. The same manager or operator
may be employed to manage and operate the agricultural property of more than a single evacuee. In the event that the services
of a particular manager or operator are
― 3 ―utilized for more than a single unit, it will be necessary that accurate time records of the time devoted by such farm manager or operator to each farm unit be kept so that payments made to him may be apportioned among the particular unit or units. - 2 Operation by Farm Manager: The farm manager or operator selected by the field agent will be charged with full responsibility for the management and operation of the farm unit or units assigned to him. He will engage in such agricultural operations, obtain the assistance of such casual labor and perform all other acts of a similar nature which the evacuee would do if he were to remain in operation of the farm unit.
- 3 Disbursements and Receipts: All purchases of materials and supplies, all expenditures of funds, all sales of crops and produce, etc. will be made by the field agent or approved in advance by such field agent. Irrespective of whether or not such actions, as a practical matter, are taken by the operator, all disbursements will be made and all receipts and income will be received and accounted for by the field agent.
- 4 Reimbursement of Advance from Working Capital Account: The field agent will, whenever the operating account will permit of his doing so, withdraw from the funds on deposit in the operating account such amount or amounts as may be necessary to reimburse the Working Capital Account for advances made from that account to defray the costs of operation and management of the farm and other agricultural property of a particular evacuee.
- 1 Immediately upon receiving authority to proceed with the management and operation of the farm and other agricultural property
of any particular evacuee the field agent should obtain the services of a manager or operator. The same manager or operator
may be employed to manage and operate the agricultural property of more than a single evacuee. In the event that the services
of a particular manager or operator are
- B Maintenance of Records:
-
- 1 A detailed record of all farm operations, including a record of all expenditures and disbursements and of all receipts and income must be maintained by the field agent. For this purpose the field agent shall use Farm Family Record Book, Form FSA-RR 195. (This is the record book used by all FSA borrowers.)
- 2 All expenditures and disbursements will be made by means of checks drawn by the field agent against the operating account and all receipts and income from operation will be deposited in such operating account.
- 3 All expenditures and disbursements from the operating account must be supported by receipts signed by the person or persons to whom payments are made. In the case of the farm operator and in the case of casual labor, such receipts may be provided by using the payroll form entitled Time Report of Employees on Per-Hour or Per-Day Basis, Form FSA-45, which should be signed by each person to whom a payment for labor or services is made acknowledging receipt of the amount specified. All income and proceeds from farm operation must be supported by invoices or statements signed by the person from whom the income or proceeds are received.
IV SALE, TRANSFER AND DISPOSAL OF FARM UNIT:
- A It is not the function of the FSA to manage and operate the farm
― 4 ―and other agricultural property of evacuees. The FSA assumes such responsibility only because other satisfactory arrangements therefor have not or cannot be made by the evacuee prior to this evacuation or because, for other reasons, it is necessary to take over, manage and operate to insure continuity of agricultural production. Even in such instances the FSA does not wish to continue to manage and operate such property any longer than is absolutely necessary.
Therefore, every effort should be made to find a substitute operator who will take over the management and operation in his own right at the earliest possible moment. If a substitute operator does not need all of the agricultural property of the particular evacuee, then it is not necessary that he take such property, but the field agent should endeavor to find a purchaser or user of such additional property. - B If it is necessary that a loan be made to a substitute operator selected by the field agent a loan may be made in accordance with the procedure set forth in WFA Instruction 931.1.
- C When a substitute operator who will take over the management and operation of a farm and other agricultural property has been found, a report setting forth all of the property of the evacuee to be sold or transferred to the substitute operator should be submitted. The items to be sold or transferred should be specifically described and the appraised value thereof set forth. If a lease is to be assigned, information concerning the date of the lease, the names of the parties thereto, the duration thereof, the rental and such other related information should be submitted. Similar data should be supplied with reference to all other property or interests of an evacuee to be sold, transferred or otherwise disposed of to the substitute borrower.
- D The necessary legal forms to consummate the sale or transfer will be prepared and properly executed in the regional office. Detailed instructions setting forth the procedure to be employed will be issued to the field agent.
- E All proceeds realized from the sale, transfer or other disposal of any agricultural property or any interest therein of any evacuee will be deposited in the operating account of such evacuee. No disbursement of any of such funds will be made for any purpose including the payment of operations and management costs, except upon the express instructions of the regional office. Complete information must be supplied concerning the items sold, transferred or otherwise disposed of, the price received for each item, the amount expended by the FSA or the California Evacuated Farms Association for the management and operation of the farm and agricultural property and for which reimbursement has not theretofore been made, the liens, if any, against such items, and all other claims against the perticular [sic] evacuee.
[961] WFA LOANS: REMITTANCE
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA Notice 9
(Classification 961)
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel
(5-30-42)
- I ENDORSEMENT OF CHECKS:
In general, the acceptance and endorsement (where endorsement is necessary) of checks, drafts, and money orders remitted as repayments on WFA loans, will be governed by the provisions of Paragraph I of FSA Instruction 761.1 or of Paragraph II of FSA Instruction 461.1, copies of which may be in the hands of, or accessible to, WFA Field Agents. - II Checks made to the order of a person other than The Treasurer of the United States should be endorsed by the last holder
as follows:
"Pay to the order of
THE TREASURER OF THE UNITED STATES
(Signature of Last Holder)" - III Checks made payable to the FSA, to the WCCA or to WFA in the first instance, or endorsed to the order of one of these
payees, will be endorsed by the collection official:
"Pay to the order of
THE TREASURER OF THE UNITED STATES
Farm Security Administration"
or
"Pay to the order of
THE TREASURER OF THE UNITED STATES
WFA Program"
or as otherwise required as to name of payee. - IV Collecting officials are not authorized, under any circumstances, to place restrictive endorsements (which provide for less than the full amount to be paid to The Treasurer of the United States) on checks made payable to the FSA, the WCCA, the WFA Program, the United States of America, or The Treasurer of the United States alone. While under some circumstances, as indicated below, authorized employees may endorse checks drawn jointly to the FSA and others or to WCCA, WFA, or to the United States of America and others, no employee of the FSA or WFA may, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, endorse a check made payable to The Treasurer of the United States, either alone or jointly with others.
- V In some cases, either through error as to the nature of claims of the United States upon the income of a WFA borrower, or
because of lack of knowledge of the existence of a previously approved partial release of assignment, or other circumstances,
the maker of a check in which the United States of America has no interest may make the United States of America (or the FSA,
WFA, or WCCA) a joint payee. In other cases, checks may be drawn to such joint payees when the United States has a partial,
but only partial, interest in the check. In such cases, these checks may be accepted and handeled [sic] as follows:
― 2 ―- A The collecting official should communicate with the Regional Office, relate the individual corcumstances [sic] to that office,
and obtain authorization before endorsement, unless he is included among those who are given general instruction and authorization
in Paragraph VB hereof to use this endorsement in recurring identical circumstances. Before using the endorsement for joint
checks, the following questions must be considered:
- 1 If the check represents the proceeds of sale of mortgaged crops or chattels or the proceeds of sale of crops or livestock products, assignment of which has been made to the United States, whether the amount to be prorated to the FSA represents the full value of FSA's lien, or whether the amount to be prorated to the other payee has been fully released from the lien or claim of the United States.
- 2 If the check represents the proceeds of sale of products or property, or represents income of the borrower in which the United States apparently has no valid claim, whether the repayment status of the borrower's account and the prospects for total repayment are such that the borrower should be requested to make available a portion or all of the check proceeds as a repayment on the loan, in consideration of the endorsement of the check by the field agent.
- B Joint checks may be endorsed by WFA Field Agents in charge of offices, provided such Field Agents are regular employees
of the Farm Security Administration and are bonded in favor of the United States of America in amount of not less than $7400.
The following form of endorsement will be used exclusively:
"Endorsed only to permit (bank) to draw a cashier's
check to the order of The Treasurer of the United States in
the amount of $_____, which represents the interest of the
Farm Security Administration (or WFA, or WCCA, etc.) in the
check hereby endorsed.
Farm Security Administration (or WFA, or WCCA, etc.)
By_____
Title:_____" - C In any case where it is positively determined that the United States of America has no legal interest in the joint check to be endorsed, the entire amount of the check may be made available to the other payee by use of the above form of endorsement, with the word "none" shown in the appropriate space.
- D WFA collecting officials will be held strictly accountable for the proper exercise of the authority contained herein, and any case where there is question as to the authority or legal necessity to divert any part of the proceeds of a joint payee check to other than the United States as a repayment on the WFA loan, the facts should be reported to the Regional Office, where the necessary determination will be made.
- A The collecting official should communicate with the Regional Office, relate the individual corcumstances [sic] to that office,
and obtain authorization before endorsement, unless he is included among those who are given general instruction and authorization
in Paragraph VB hereof to use this endorsement in recurring identical circumstances. Before using the endorsement for joint
checks, the following questions must be considered:
[961.1-A] WFA LOANS; COLLECTION CRITERIA AND PROCEDURE
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
WCCA-FSA INSTRUCTION 961.1-A
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel.
(4-22-42)
I GENERAL:
The collection procedure outlined in this instruction applies only to funds collected as repayments on WFA loans of the Farm Security Administration, and is in no way to be confused with instructions covering the repayment of regular FSA loans.
II DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY:
Authority is hereby delegated to field agents of the Farm Security Administration handling WFA loans to act as sole collecting officials for their respective assigned territories. Pursuant to this authority it will be required that each field agent secure a bond in the sum of $7400, in favor of the United States of America. Under no circumstances will any unbonded employee accept collections.
III REMITTANCES:
Repayments on WFA loans will be received in cash, money order, certified check, cashier's check, or personal checks (where it is not possible to obtain money orders, or certified or cashier's checks.) All money orders or checks shall be payable to the order of the Treasurer of the United States, except checks payable to third parties, which shall be endorsed to the Treasurer of the United States by the last holder. In no case will cash be remitted to the regional office. All cash collected shall be converted to postal money orders, as hereinafter instructed in paragraph VI.
IV RECEIPTS:
The chief of the WFA loan program will issue receipt books to authorized collecting officials (field agents), and maintain a close check of all outstanding and incoming receipts. All shipments of receipt forms will be acknowledged by the field agent receiving such forms, by use of form WCCA-FSA 26, "Receipt Book Acknowledgment".
- A Any missing receipts will be investigated immediately, since all receipts are serially numbered and must be accounted for.
- B The regular official receipt form of the Farm Security Administration will be used in preparing receipts for collections made on WFA loans. This receipt form is numbered FSA-FI 37, "Receipt for Payment". Only bonded field agents are authorized to receipt collections and issue receipts.
- C All receipt forms FSA-FI 37 must be issued in numerical sequence. Field agents will not accept collections without issuing an official receipt form at the time the collection is made. No other type of receipt will be used.
- D Receipt forms FSA-FI 37 will be prepared in an original and four copies, provided for in the regular printed sets which
will be furnished you. Distribution of the original and copies of the receipt will be as follows:
― 2 ―- 1 Original (white) will be delivered to the WFA client.
- 2 The second (yellow) copy and the third (salmon) copy, with the carbon left intact between these two copies, and the fourth (pink) copy, will be forwarded to the regional office. At the close of each day's business these copies of receipts will be attached to a transmittal letter, which letter will be prepared in triplicate. The original and one copy will be forwarded to the regional office, and the third retained by the field agent. The copy of the transmittal letter forwarded to the regional office will be receipted and returned for the field office records. This transmittal letter should list the following information: number of receipt, name of client, and amount of each receipt. The original and copy of the transmittal letter, together with the yellow, salmon and pink copies of the receipts, and the day's collections, will be forwarded to Mr. W. C. Helvey, Chief of the WFA Loan Program, Farm Security Administration, 30 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, California. CAUTION: ALL COLLECTIONS MUST BE TRANSMITTED ON THE DAY THEY ARE RECEIVED.
- 3 Fifth (blue) copy will be retained by the field agent for the field office records and files.
- E In case the receipt is filled out with indelible pencil before being removed from the book the pasteboard cover should be inserted between the receipt being used and the next receipt in order. Otherwise, the writing will print through on the next set of receipt forms.
- F The original and all copies of the receipt form FSA-FI 37 must be stamped with the "WFA-PRIORITY" stamp in the lower right-hand corner of the form.
- G The Finance Division will return to the field agent the third (salmon) copy of the receipt, which will evidence the fact that the collection has been applied to the client's account, and the manner in which such collection was applied as regards interest and principal.
- H If a receipt is spoiled it must be voided, and the original and all copies of the receipt (except the fifth (blue) copy which is retained by the field agent for field office records and files) will be attached to the original and copy of the transmittal letter which is forwarded to the Chief of the WFA Loan Program in the regional office.
V GENERAL DIRECTIONS FOR PREPARING RECEIPTS:
- A Forms FSA-FI 37, beginning with the lowest serial number in each book will be used first, and thereafter strictly in numerical sequence, thereby causing individual receipts to be used in consecutive order.
- B Receipts must be prepared carefully and legibly, with indelible pencil or typewriter.
- C The receipt in all cases must be issued for the exact amount actually received by the field agent.
― 3 ― - D If a payment is made partially by check and partially by cash, or by more than one check, only one receipt will be issued and the amount and description of each item should be indicated on such receipt.
- E All receipts will be prepared and dated at the time and on the day the remittance is received, since the accrual of interest on the amount collected immediately stops on the date the collection is made.
- F Attached to this instruction are two "John Doe" copies of receipt forms FSA-FI 37. By referring to these copies no difficulty will be experienced in the proper preparation of the forms. In all cases the field agent will leave blank the "Application" block in the lower left-hand corner of the receipt. This block will be completed by the Finance Division.
VI CONVERTING CASH INTO POSTAL MONEY ORDERS:
- A The field agent will convert any cash received into postal money orders, payable to the Treasurer of the United States, San Francisco, California.
- B The cash received by the field agent in the course of the day's business will be converted into a postal money order at the close of each day's business, and transmitted in the manner prescribed in paragraph IV D 2.
- C Fees covering the purchase of postal money orders will be paid in cash by the field agent from his personal funds (such fees must not be deducted from the amount of the repayment). He will retain the receipt stub for such fees, and at the time his monthly travel expense voucher is prepared on Standard Form 1012 he will include therein the amount necessary to reimburse him for the money order fees he has paid, representing cash collections on WFA loans. The money order receipt stubs representing the money orders purchased by him during the past month will be attached to the monthly expense voucher of the field agent. Reimbursement will be made in this manner.
VII SCHEDULING OF REMITTANCES:
Upon receipt of such collections by the Chief of the WFA Loan Program he will cause to be immediately prepared Standard Form 1044, "Schedule of Collections", a copy of which will be forwarded to the field office affected, pending receipt of the regular receipted disbursing office copy of such schedule.
[961.1-A Exhibit A] Form FSA-FI 37: [USDA-FSA] Receipt for Payment
[961.1-A Exhibit A] Form FSA-FI 37: [USDA-FSA] Receipt for Payment
[961.1-A Exhibit B] Form FSA-FI 37: [USDA-FSA] Receipt for Payment
[961.1-A Exhibit B] Form FSA-FI 37: [USDA-FSA] Receipt for Payment
[961.1-A Exhibit C] Flow of WFA Collections Through Regional Office
[961.1-A Exhibit C] Flow of WFA Collections Through Regional Office
[961.1-B] WFA LOANS: COLLECTION CRITERIA AND PROCEDURE
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WCCA-FSA Instruction 961.1-B
DISTRIBUTION: All WFA Personnel
(4-20-42)
I GENERAL:
The purpose of this instruction is to set forth the detailed method of handling the transfer of official forms FSA-FI 37, "Receipt for Payment", when it becomes necessary to make a change of field agents in any given territory.
II RESPONSIBILITY:
It will be the duty and responsibility of the district officer to handle the transfer of official receipt forms in all cases where changes are made in the position of field agent.
III GENERAL DIRECTIONS FOR PREPARING FORM WCCA-FSA 27 (4-20-42), "OFFICIAL RECEIPT BOOK TRANSFER":
- A Immediately when a change in field agents is made, either by transfer of a field agent from one territory to another, or
by termination, the district officer will prepare form WCCA-FSA 27. This form will be executed by both the outgoing and incoming
field agent. Such forms should be prepared in an original and two copies, and will be distributed as follows:
- 1 The original to be forwarded to Mr. W. C. Helvey, Chief of the WFA Loan Program, Farm Security Administration, 30 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, California;
- 2 One copy retained by the outgoing field agent;
- 3 One copy retained by the incoming field agent.
- B Since all receipt forms must be accounted for, you are directed to give such matter your immediate attention. Attached is a sample of the form herein referred to.
APPENDIX B
WFA FORMS
| No. | Title | See WFA Instruction |
| 1 | Request to Relinquish Farm | 929.1 |
| 2 | Request to Acquire Farm | 929.1 |
| 3 | Daily Tally Sheet | 929.2 |
| 4 | Weekly Summary Sheet | 929.2 |
| 5 | Interview Memo | |
| 6 | Loan Application and Farm Plan (3-16-42) | 931.1 |
| 6 | Application and Operating Plan (4-5-42) | 931.1 |
| 7 | Loan Agreement and Request for Funds | 931.1 |
| 7A | Loan Agreement (Corporation) | 931 |
| 8 | Assignment of Lease (Superseded by Form WFA-18) | 923.1 |
| 9 | Sub-Lease | 923.1 |
| 10 | Bill of Sale | 923.1 |
| 11 | Loan Register | |
| 13 | Inquiry Referral | |
| 14 | Approval of Loan | 931.1 |
| 14A | Rejection or Suspension of Loan | |
| 15 | Letter of Authorization | |
| 16 | Cancellation Agreement | |
| 17 | Equipment Rental Agreement | |
| 18 | Assignment of Lease and Sale of Growing Crops | |
| 19 | Power of Attorney | |
| 20 | Inventory | 951.1 |
| 21 | Management Contract and Power of Attorney | 951.1 |
| 21-X | Management Contract and Substitution of Attorney-in-Fact | |
| 22 | Field Agent's Narrative and Report | 931.1 |
| 22A | Statement Accompanying Application for Loan to Corporation | 931 |
| 22A | Exhibit A: Affidavit of Secretary Certifying to Resolution Adopted by Board of Directors | 931 |
| 22A | Exhibit B: Statement of Secretary With Reference to Directors and Officers of Corporation | 931 |
| 23 | Report on Farms Available to New Operators in West Coast Evacuation Areas | |
| 24 | Inventory Card | |
| 25 | Personnel and Travel Record Card | |
| 26 | Receipt Book Acknowledgement [sic] | 961.1-A |
| 27 | Official Receipt Book Transfer | 961.1-B |
| 28 | Report of Field Office Closing | 914.1 |
| 29 | Letter: Transfer of Your Loan Affairs to New Office | |
| 30 | Control Station Record | 940.1 |
| 31 | Control Station Tally Sheet | 940.1 |
| 32 | Control Station Return Notice | |
| 40 | Assignment of Proceeds of Sale of Mortgaged Crops | |
| 41 | Notice to Kardex | |
| 42 | Partial Release of Assignment | |
| 43 | Equipment Tag | 951.2 |
| 44 | Daily Loan Report | |
| 45 | Report of Loan Status | |
| 59 | Rider to Amend Bond as to California Evacuated Farms Association | |
| 101 | Substitution of Attorney-in-Fact | |
| 102 | Delegation of Authority to Accept Powers of Attorney | |
| 103 | Evacuee's Petition ot Block Property | 952.1 |
| 104 | Field Agent's Petition to Block Property | 952.1 |
| 105 | Order Designating Special Blocked Property | 952.1 |
| 106 | Posting Notice No._____ Special Blocked Property | 952.1 |
| 107 | Letter: Notice No._____ Special Blocked Property | 952.1 |
| No. | Title | See WFA Instruction |
| 108 | Application for a License to Deal in Special Blocked Property | 952.1 |
| 109 | License | 952.1 |
| 110 | Memorandum of Agreement and Settlement | 952.1 |
| 111 | Order Directing California Evacuated Farms Association to Manage and Operate Special Blocked Property | 952.2 |
| 112 | Request for Advance of Funds to Operate and Manage | 953.1 |
| 113 | Request for Authority to Establish Operating Account for Evacuees and to Use Working Capital Funds to Meet Costs of Operations and Management | 953.1 |
| 114 | Certified Copy of Resolution Authorizing Advance of Funds to Field Agents as Working Capital Fund for Management and Operation of Farms of Evacuees | 953.1 |
| 115 | Certified Copy of Resolution Authorizing Opening of Bank Accounts | 953.1 |
| 116 | Authorization to Establish Operating Accounts and to Manage and Operate Farms | 953.1 |
| 117 | Deposit Agreement | 953.1 |
| 118 | Deposit Agreement of Farm Unit No._____ | |
| 119 | Equipment Dealer Storage and Sale Agreement | |
| 120 | Storage and Sale Agreement Between California Evacuated Farms Association and Equipment Dealer | 951.2 |
| 121 | Receipt of Possession of Farm Machinery and Equipment | 951.2 |
| 161 | Authorization and Acceptance |
[Form WFA-1] REQUEST TO RELINQUISH FARM
Form WFA-1 (Request To Relinquish Farm) [reverse]
[Form WFA-2] REQUEST TO ACQUIRE FARM
Form WFA-2 (Request To Acquire Farm) (Reverse)
[Form WFA-3] DAILY TALLY SHEET
[Form WFA-4] WEEKLY SUMMARY FOR WEEK ENDING _____
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
STATE_____OFFICE_____COUNTY_____
I Total number of Relinquishers Registering for Farm Replacements _____
Farms Available:
- a. Under 10 acres
- Total _____
- b. 10 to 50 acres
- Total_____
- c. 50 to 100 acres
- Total_____
- d. over 100 acres
- Total_____
Principal Crops Growing:
Crop_____Total Acres_____Value_____
Crop_____Total Acres_____Value_____
Crop_____Total Acres_____Value_____
II Total Number of Applicants Applying for Land Available:
| Farms Wanted: | Crops to be Grown: | |
| a. Number under 10 acres _____ | _____ | _____ |
| b. Number of 10 to 50 acres _____ | _____ | _____ |
| c. Number of 50 to 100 acres _____ | _____ | _____ |
| d. Number over 100 acres _____ | _____ | _____ |
III Total Number of Final Transactions Closed
- a. Number not needing loans
- _____
- b. Number involving loans with Farm Credit Associations
- _____
- c. Number involving loans with private banks, corporations, and individuals
- _____
- d. Number involving loans with Farm Security Administration
- _____
- e. Number involving loans with Wartime Farm Adjustment Program
- _____
Form WFA-4
(3-17-42)
Signed _____
Field Supervisor
[Form WFA-5] INTERVIEW MEMO
DATE_____
OFFICE_LOCATION_____: INTERVIEWED BY_____: BY TELEPHONE_____: PERSONAL_____:
PERSON INTERVIEWED_____ADULT_____: MINOR_____: MALE_____: FEMALE_____:
ADDRESS_____: CITY_____: STATE_____: TELEPHONE_____:
IS PARTY EVACUEE_____: OR PROSPECTIVE OPERATOR_____: NATIONALITY_____: DATE OF LAST ENTRY INTO U.S._____
TYPE OF BUSINESS: INDIVIDUAL_____: CORPORATION_____: PARTNERSHIP_____: OTHER_____:
PROPERTY INVOLVED: TOTAL ACREAGE_____: LOCATION_____:
SCOPE OF PROBLEM:_____
ACTION TAKEN:_____
Form WFA-5 Interview Memo
[Form WFA-6 (3/16/42)] LOAN APPLICATION AND FARM PLAN
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
State_____
County_____
Project_____
Case No._____
Date_____
| __________, | __________, | __________, |
| Last Name | First Name | Middle Name |
| ____________________ | ||
| Address of Applicant | ||
| __________, | __________, | |
| Birthplace, | Date of Birth | |
| __________, | __________, | |
| Wife's First Name and Middle Initial, | Wife's Birthplace | |
| ASSETS | Date | LIABILITIES | |
| Real Estate | $_____ | Real Estate | $_____ |
| Machinery and Equipment | _____ | Chattel Mortgage | _____ |
| Farm Supplies | _____ | Past due interest | _____ |
| Other Goods | _____ | Past due taxes | _____ |
| Cash | _____ | Other debts | _____ |
| Other | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | TOTAL _____ | _____ | TOTAL_____ |
| $_____ | $_____ | ||
| NET WORTH $_____ | |||
LOCATION OF PROPOSED FARM: _____miles_____from_____ direction name of city on_____road, in_____, _____, kind of road county State
| CROPS NOW GROWING | Anticipated Yield | ||
| Kind of Crop | Acres | Quantity | Unit |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| OTHER CROPS TO BE GROWN DURING NEXT 12 MONTHS | |||
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
Form WFA-6
3/16/42
| FARM INCOME DURING NEXT 12 MONTHS | FARM EXPENSE DURING NEXT 12 MONTHS | ||
| Crop Sales | Amount | Rent | $_____ |
| Taxes and insurance | _____ | ||
| _____ | $_____ | Current interest | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | Water charges | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | Building and land upkeep | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | Machinery repairs | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | Crop expense | _____ |
| Livestock Sales | Hired labor | _____ | |
| _____ | _____ | Other: | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| Other | _____ | _____ | |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | |
| _____ | _____ | ||
| _____ | _____ | TOTAL | $_____ |
| Net Cash | |||
| TOTAL | $_____ | Operating Income | $_____ |
| LOAN REQUIREMENTS | REPAYMENT SCHEDULE | ||
| USE OF FUNDS | |||
| Date | Amount | ||
| Capital Goods | $_____ | ||
| Farm Operating | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| Other | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ |
| _____ | _____ | ||
| TOTAL | $_____ | _____ | _____ |
We hereby certify that our statements contained in this application are full and true to the best of our knowledge and belief. We further certify that farming is our regular occupation. We agree to follow the farming program which may be agreed upon with the Field Agent, and that we will keep records of income and expenditures on forms to be provided by the Farm Security Administration's Wartime Farm Adjustment Program.
Signature of Applicant
Signature of Wife
Application Approved by
Date
[Form WFA-6 (4/5/42)] APPLICATION AND OPERATING PLAN
[Form WFA-6 (4/5/42)] APPLICATION AND OPERATING PLAN [Reverse]
[Form WFA-7] LOAN AGREEMENT AND REQUEST FOR FUNDS
Case No.
Loan Agreement, $
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
I, _____ (Name of applicant) (P.O. and R.F.D.) (County) (State) agree, in consideration of the approval of this request for funds, to use all properties and facilities owned by me or procured by me through such advancement of funds in the manner prescribed by the Farm Plan worked out for my farm by myself and the local representative of the Farm Security Administration; to keep such records and accounts as may be prescribed by the Farm Security Administration and to make them available for examination by officials of said Administration upon request; to keep funds advanced by the Farm Security Administration separate and distinct from all other funds of which I may be possessed and to use such funds solely for the purchase of the goods and services listed in the Farm Plan; to execute and deliver to the United States of America a first mortgage or other first lien upon the goods purchased with these funds; to execute and deliver to the United States of America such other mortgages and other instruments as may be necessary adequately to secure the United States of America for advances made pursuant to this request and to pay the fees which may be necessary for the filing or recording of any such instruments. It is understood that the Farm Security Administration may at any time in its sole discretion refuse to make the advances contemplated herein or reduce the amount of such advances and that such refusal to make further advances or such reductions in the amount thereof shall in no way affect my obligation to repay the advances that have been made by the Farm Security Administration or to give security therefor.
No Member of or Delegate to Congress, or Resident Commissioner, shall be admitted to any share or part of this contract or to any benefit that may arise therefrom.
I HEREBY CERTIFY That the above agreement has been read by, or to, me and that I understand and agree to the terms thereof.
I, therefore, request that I be advanced funds in the amount of $_____ or so much thereof as the Farm Security Administration shall deem necessary to carry out successfully the proposed Farm Plan, to be made available upon approval of the loan.
I HEREBY AGREE that the following terms of repayment of this proposed loan are satisfactory to me:
| Repayment | Date due | Amount |
| First | $ | |
| Second | ||
| Third | $ | |
| Fourth |
with interest at the rate of five per centum per annum on unpaid balances.
Date_____ Signed:_____ (Applicant)
After having studied the above request for funds, including the attached Farm Plan, I feel that the funds requested are within the range of the approved budget for this applicant, and I recommend that this loan be made.
Date_____ (Name)_____ (Title)_____ Date_____ Accepted by_____ (Agent of FSA)
(Title)
Form WFA-7
[Form FSA-7a] LOAN AGREEMENT
WCCA-FSA-7A
(4-24-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
AGREEMENT made and entered into this _____ day of _____, 194_____, by the United States of America, hereinafter called the "Government", and _____, a corporation, existing under the laws of the state of _____, hereinafter called the "Borrower",
WITNESSETH:
For and in consideration of the mutual covenants herein contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:
I. AMOUNT: Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Government shall lend and the Borrower shall borrow the sum of _____ Dollars ($_____) (herein called the "Loan").
II. REPAYMENT: The Loan shall bear interest at the rate and shall be due and payable an provided in the notes, in form prescribed by the Government, evidencing the respective advances. Each advance shall be deemed to have been made as of the date of the check or other instrument evidencing said advance,
III. VOUCHERS: The Borrower shall execute and deliver to the Government a voucher in form prescribed by the Government for each advance of the Loan.
IV. SECURITY: The Borrower, as security for repayment of the total amount of the Loan and for compliance with the provisions of this Loan Agreement, shall execute and deliver to the Government mortgages covering the personal property now owned or hereafter to be acquired by the Borrower and such other instruments of security as the Government may, from time to time require. Said mortgages and other instruments shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the Government.
If, in the opinion of the Government, the security pledged for the repayment of the Loan be deemed at any time inadequate for the protection of the interests of the Government, the Borrower covenants that it shall deposit such further security and shall provide or adopt such other and additional methods of securing repayment of the Loan as the Government may demand.
The Borrower agrees that it will pay the cost of recording or filing all mortgages, assignments, liens and other instruments of security and all renewals or extensions thereof required hereunder.
V. PURPOSES: The Borrower shall use the Loan proceeds for the following purposes only:
The Government may, when requested by the Borrower for good cause to do so, approve in writing expenditures for purposes other than those above mentioned.
VI. CONDITIONS: The Borrower agrees, as long as any portion of the debt remains unpaid, that:
(a) It will file with the Government such reports relative to its business and affairs as the Government may from time to time require, which reports shall be in such form as the Government shall approve.
(b) It will not, unless written permission be first secured from the Government (1) cause or permit any voluntary dissolution of its organization; (2) merge or consolidate with any other organization; (3) transfer its assets, or any part thereof, to any other organization in any manner whatsoever except in the regular and usual course of its business.
(c) It will not pay salaries nor reimburse its officers or directors for expenses incurred by them in the management and direction of the corporation, nor will it declare or pay dividends of any kind or nature whatsoever.
(d) It will not deviate in any material respect from the plan of agricultural operations set forth in Application and Operating Plan, Form WFA-6, nor incur any obligations or indebtedness, other than those normally incurred in the course of and in connection with such agricultural operations, without the prior written consent of the Government.
VII. DEFAULT: The entire unpaid balance of the loan shall be due and payable as provided in the respective notes evidencing the Loan or upon the happening of any one or more of the following events:
(a) If default be made by the Borrower in the payment of any installment of principal or interest payable in accordance with the provisions either of such Notes or of any other notes held by the Government.
(b) If the Borrower shall fail to perform any covenant, promise or agreement on its part to be performed or if any representation made by it shall be found to be substantially inaccurate, or if any warranty made by it shall be breached.
(c) If any suit shall be instituted against the Borrower, which, in the opinion of the Government shall adversely affect the Government's interests hereunder, or if any judgment be recovered by any party against the Borrower, or there shall be instituted by or against it any bankruptcy, receivership, liquidation, insolvency or like proceedings, or if any warrant of attachment shall be issued against any of the property of the Borrower.
VIII. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS:
1. The Borrower represents and warrants as follows:
(a) All authorizations necessary for the execution of this agreement by the Borrower have been secured.
(b) No fee or commission has been paid by the Borrower or any of its officers, agents, employees or representatives, and no agreement to pay a fee or a commission has been entered into by or on behalf of the Borrower or any of its officers, employees, agents, or representatives in order to obtain the loan or to obtain the execution of this Agreement.
(c) Every statement, contained in this Agreement and in every other document, statement and certificate submitted to the Government by or on behalf of the Borrower is correct and no relevant fact materially affecting the Loan has been omitted therefrom.
2. Except as herein provided, no right or remedy herein or in any note or mortgage or other security instrument conferred upon or reserved to the Government, or any holder of such note or mortgage or other security instrument, is intended to be exclusive, but shall be cumulative and shall be in addition to every other right and remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing, at law or in equity, or by any statute. The pursuit of any right or remedy shall not be construed as an election.
3. The borrower shall not claim any modification, rescission, waiver, release, or annulment of any part of this Agreement except pursuant to a written agreement signed by the Government.
4. The invalidity of any one or more phrases, sentences, clauses, paragraphs, or provisions shall not affect the remaining portions of this Agreement or any portion thereof.
5. All rights, privileges, benefits, options and powers conferred herein on the Government may be exercised on its behalf by the Secretary of Agriculture, or his duly authorized representative, or by the head of any other agency of the Federal Government that may from time to time be vested with authority over the subject matter of this Agreement, or his duly authorized representatives.
6. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the respective parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed as of the day and year first above written.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
By_____
(Official Title)
ATTEST: _____
By_____
(Official Title)
_____
Secretary
[Form FWA-8] ASSIGNMENT OF LEASE
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
For and in consideration of the sum of_____ DOLLARS ($_____), to _____, in hand paid, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, _____ do(es) hereby assign(s), transfer(s), and sell(s), unto _____, of _____ all of _____ right, title and interest in and to that certain lease dated _____, a copy of which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, executed by _____ as Lessor(s), and the undersigned as Lessee, covering the following described lands situated in the County of _____, State of _____:
; and
The said _____ (Assignees(s)) do(es) agree to perform and abide by all of the terms and conditions of said lease in the manner required thereunder.
Dated this _____ day of _____, 1942.
_____
_____
Lessee
_____
Consented to and approved by: _____
Assignee
_____
_____
Lessor
(ACKNOWLEDGMENT)
WFA-8
[Form WFA-9] SUB-LEASE
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
_____ of _____, do hereby sublet unto _____, of _____, for the period beginning _____ and ending _____, at a rental of _____ DOLLARS ($_____), payable _____, the following described land situated in the County of _____, State of _____:
THIS SUB-LEASE shall include all of the terms and provisions of that certain Lease dated _____, entered into by and between _____, as Lessor, and _____, as Lessee, a copy of which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, except as herein otherwise provided.
(Here may be inserted additional provisions modifying said Lease.)
Dated this _____ day of _____, 1942.
_____
_____
Lessees
_____
_____
Sub-Lessees
(ACKNOWLEDGMENT)
WFA-9
[Form WFA-10]BILL OF SALE
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: That _____ and _____, his wife, of _____, in consideration of the sum of _____ DOLLARS ($_____), do hereby grant, bargain, sell, assign and convey unto _____ of _____, all of _____ right, title and interest in and to the following described personal property:
All of said property being located on the following described land, situated in the County of _____, State of _____.
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD unto the said _____, _____ heirs, successors and assigns forever.
DATED this _____ day of _____, 1942.
_____
_____
Seller
WFA - 10
[Form WFA-11] Loan Register
[Form WFA-13] INQUIRY REFERRAL
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
Date _________________________
Referred for information to:
Field Office _________________________
Field Agent _________________________
Street Address _________________________
Telephone No. _________________________
Comments: _________________________
Form WFA-13-Inquiry Referral
[Form 14] APPROVAL OF LOAN
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
Date_________________________
Borrower_________________________
Case No._________________________
To:
Field Agent,
_________________________
The loan application for the above borrower is approved in the amount of $_________________________ subject to the following conditions:
1 That Crop and Chattel Mortgage be prepared, executed, acknowledged and field or recorded providing to the United States a valid first lien on all crops and/or chattels purchased or financed with loan proceeds. As additional security this Crop and Chattel Mortgage must constitute a valid first lien (or the best lien obtainable, if borrower's financial statement shows existing recorded indebtedness against such items) on the following property owned by the borrower, as shown in his current financial statement:
2 That the borrower furnished Certificates of Priority (lien search reports) prepared by competent authority which will insure to the United States the priority of its lien; that any prior liens of record against crop and/or chattels purchased or financed with loan proceeds be released or subordinated by the holder thereof; and that such lien search be accomplished under the names of both the borrower and the relinquishing farm operator.
3 That Bill of Sale properly executed by the Vendor, and by qualified witnesses to his signature, be obtained covering the transfer of ownership of all chattels purchased with loan proceeds, Bill of Sale must furnish itemized descriptions of equipment and/or livestock purchased.
4 That Assignment of Proceeds of Sale of Mortgaged Crops be executed in duplicate original by the borrower on form WFA 40; and that such assignment be accepted by or delivered to the marketing organization or organizations through which sale of such crops will be accomplished.
5
Loan check not to be delivered until all conditions required in this letter are met. Certificate on reverse must be completed and returned to Regional Office
(attach rider if necessary)
Signed_________________________
Approval officer: Reg. Director; Program Chief; Deputy Program Chief; Dist. Officer
Date_________________________
To: WFA Program Chief
I certify that the loan conditions listed on the reverse of this form have been met except as indicated below (include below comment as to situation of each condition, numbering such comments in accordance with numbers indentifying conditions):
_________________________
Field Agent
We transmit herewith the following documents:
Crop and Chattel Mortgage
_________________________
Title Report
_________________________
Executed Copy of Assignment of Proceeds
_________________________
Other Documents to be submitted later:
_________________________
(Field Agent retain original, Return copy with your certification.)
[Form WFA-14A] REJECTION OR SUSPENSION OF LOAN
WFA-14-A
(4-11-12)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
Date_________________________
Applicant_________________________
Case No._________________________
To:
Field Agent,
_________________________
The loan submission for the above applicant has been
- □ rejected
- □ placed in suspense
_________________________
Authorized for rejection or suspension:
_________________________
- □ Reg. Director;
- □ Program Chief;
- □ Deputy Program Chief;
- □ Dist. Officer
Documents being returned are checked or listed on reverse.
Documents returned herewith:
-
Documents returned herewith:
- □ Crop and chattel mortgage
- □ Title report
- □ Lease
- □ Assignment
- □ Note(s)
- □ Voucher
- □ Loan Agreement
- □
- □
- □
- □
- □
- □
[Form WFA-15] LETTER OF AUTHORIZATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
San Francisco, California
No._________________________
Date_________________________
Refer to Telegram Dated_________________________
In accordance with authorization given me by the Administrator, dated March 18, 1942, to protect growing crops on farms vacated for any reason:
You are hereby authorized to select and employ personnel and/or owner-operated equipment in accordance with the rates established herein, such rates having been established by me as the prevailing local rates for such services.
| CLASSIFICATION | RATE |
|
|
|
This authority expires _________________________.
An exact record of days and hours worked, as well as actual dates of employment, shall be maintained, in accordance with WFA Instructions 905.2.
_________________________
Laurence I. Hewes, Jr.
Regional Director
WFA-15
(3-20-42)
[form WFA-16] CANCELLATION AGREEMENT
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Wartime Farm Adjustment Program
THIS CANCELLATION AGREEMENT made and entered into this _____ day of _________________________, 1942, by and between _________________________ and _________________________, hereinafter called the "Lessor", and _________________________and _________________________, hereinafter called the "Lessee",
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, because of the Lessee's need to evacuate from the area in which the property hereinafter described is located, the parties hereto are willing to cancel and terminate the lease dated _________________________, 194_____, of the following described property situated in the County of _________________________, State of _________________________, to-wit:
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto mutually agree as follows:
1. The aforesaid lease is terminated as of the date of this Cancellation Agreement.
2. (Strike Inapplicable Clauses)
(a) The Lessor agrees to pay the Lessee the sum of _________________________ ($_________________________) Dollars for the growing crops upon the above described property and the Lessee, in consideration of the payment of such sum, does hereby grant, bargain, sell, transfer and convey to the Lessor all of his right, title and interest in and to such growing crops.
(b) The Lessee has heretofore granted, bargained, sold, transferred and conveyed all of his right, title and interest in and to the growing crops upon the above described property to _________________________, hereinafter called the "Assignee", to whom the Lessor has leased or agreed to lease the above described property beginning as of the date of this Cancellation Agreement, and the Lessor hereby recognizes the title of said Assignee to such growing crops.
WFA-16 - Cancellation Agreement
(Rev. 3-26-42)
(c) The Lessee has heretofore granted, bargained, sold, transferred and conveyed all of his right, title and interest in and to the growing crops upon the above described property to _________________________, hereinafter called the "Assignee", and the Lessor hereby recognizes the title of said Assignee to such growing crops and hereby agrees, in consideration of the payment or the agreement to pay (the agreement of the Assignee to pay said sum is evidenced by his acceptance of the agreement to pay clause appended hereto) to the Lessor of the sum of _________________________($_________________________) Dollars, that the said Assignee shall be permitted, for a period not extending
3. Except as herein expressly provided for by Paragraph 2 of this Cancellation Agreement, all of the rights and obligations of the parties to the aforesaid lease and of all persons claiming by, through or under said parties, are hereby extinguished and discharged.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto have executed this Agreement the day and year first above written.
LESSOR
_________________________
_________________________
LESSEE
_________________________
_________________________
AGREEMENT OF ASSIGNEE TO PAY
THE UNDERSIGNED, the Assignee in the above Cancellation Agreement, hereby agrees to pay to the Lessor on or before _________________________, 194_____, the sum of _________________________($_________________________) Dollars in consideration of the right to enter upon the property described in said Cancellation Agreement for the purposes of cultivating, harvesting and removing the crops growing thereon as of the date thereof.
_________________________
_________________________
Date: _________________________
[Form WFA-17] EQUIPMENT RENTAL AGREEMENT
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Wartime Farm Adjustment Program
WFA-17 - Equipment Rental
(3-26-42)
THIS AGREEMENT made and entered into this _____ day of _________________________, 1942, by and between _________________________ and _________________________, hereinafter called the "Lessor", and _________________________and _________________________, hereinafter called the "Lessee",
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the Lessor is the owner of the machinery and equipment hereinafter described, and is willing to rent such equipment to the Lessee for use upon the real property hereinafter described,
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto mutually agree as follows:
1. The Lessor hereby rents and leases to the Lessee, for a period beginning _________________________, 1942, and ending _________________________, 194_____, the machinery and equipment described below and as rental therefor the Lessee agrees to pay the Lessor the sums indicated below:
ITEM OF MACHINERY OR EQUIPMENT
(Identify by reference to motor)
(and serial number and make)
RENTAL AND PERIOD
AMOUNT PERIOD
(Indicate whether)
(monthly, yearly,)
(or lease period.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
2. Title to the above described machinery and equipment shall remain in the Lessor.
3. The Lessee shall not be permitted, except with the prior written consent of the Lessor or his duly authorized agent, to use said machinery and equipment except on the following described property situated in the County of _________________________, State of _________________________, to-wit:
4. The Lessee shall furnish all fuel for the operation of any power machinery and shall maintain the above described machinery and equipment in as good condition and repair as of the date of this agreement, normal wear and depreciation from causes beyond the Lessee's control excepted.
5. The Lessee shall return the above described machinery and equipment to the Lessor at the expiration of this agreement, delivery to be made at the property hereinabove described or at _________________________.
6. The Lessee will save the Lessor harmless from any damage, loss, cost, or expense arising either directly or indirectly from the use of said machinery or equipment while in his possession.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this agreement as of the date first above written.
LESSOR
_________________________
_________________________
LESSEE
_________________________
_________________________
CONSENT OF CHATTEL MORTGAGEE OR CONDITIONAL VENDOR
THE UNDERSIGNED, mortgagee or conditional vendor, of property described in the foregoing rental agreement, approves said agreement and consents and agrees that the lessee therein may have possession of and use the property described therein pursuant to the terms and conditions of said rental agreement.
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
Dated: _________________________
[Form WFA-18] ASSIGNMENT OF LEASE AND SALE OF GROWING CROPS
WFA-18
(3-26-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA PROGRAM
For and in consideration of the payment to _________________________and _________________________, hereinafter called the "Lessee", of the sum of _________________________($_________________________) Dollars, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, said Lessee does hereby assign, transfer and set over unto _________________________and_________________________, hereinafter called the "Assignee", all of his right, title and interest in and to that certain Lease dated_________________________, between the Lessee and_________________________and_________________________, as Lessor, covering the following described property situated in the County of _________________________, State of_________________________, to-wit:
And for and in consideration of the payment to the Lessee of the further sum of_________________________($_________________________) Dollars, said Lessee does hereby grant, bargain, sell, transfer and convey all of his right, title and interest in and to the crops growing upon the above described property to the Assignee.
The said Assignee does agree to perform and abide by all of the terms and conditions of said Lease in the manner required thereunder.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this agreement this_____ day of _________________________, 194_____.
LESSEE
_________________________
_________________________
ASSIGNEE
_________________________
_________________________
CONSENT TO ASSIGNMENT AND SALE OF CROPS BY LESSOR
In consideration of the premises, the undersigned Lessor does hereby consent to and approve the foregoing assignment of lease and sale of growing crops to the Assignee named therein, and releases the Lessee from any and all obligations under said lease.
_________________________
_________________________
Dated:_________________________
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
[Form WFA-19] POWER OF ATTORNEY
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
WFA-19 - Power of Attorney
(3-26-42)
I (and each of us) hereby appoint _________________________ of _________________________, Field Agent, Wartime Farm Adjustment Program, Farm Security Administration, as my agent and lawful attorney for me and in my name and as my act and deed to take, hold, maintain, manage, operate, use, exchange, sell, rent, lease, mortgage, and otherwise deal in any manner whatsoever, with all property, including crops, livestock, machinery, equipment, motor vehicles, tools, household goods and all other personal property, and any and all interests in any such personal property and to take, hold, maintain, manage, operate, use, rent and lease real property and to transfer, assign, sublease or cancel any leasehold or other possessory interest in any real property now or hereafter belonging to me on such terms as my said attorney may deem proper; and my said attorney is hereby authorized and empowered for me and in my name and as my act and deed for any of the purposes enumerated above, (1) to demand, sue for, collect, settle, compromise or submit to arbitration all claims, demands, accounts, disputes and differences between me and any other person, (2) to perform and carry out all contracts entered into by me, (3) to engage, employ and dismiss any agents, clerks, servants or other persons, (4) to borrow any sum or sums of money on such terms and with such security as my said attorney shall deem proper, (5) to sign, seal, execute, acknowledge and deliver any contracts, deeds, notes, bills of sale, mortgages, leases, assignments, releases, satisfactions, receipts, and all other instruments of any kind and character whatsoever, and (6) to receive and spend, without limitation, all income and proceeds from the management, operation, use, exchange, sale, rental, lease or mortgage of such real or personal property or any interest therein, and to do any of the acts aforesaid in such manner as said attorney may in his sole judgment and discretion deem fit and proper;
I (and each of us) hereby further authorize said attorney to appoint and remove at pleasure any substitute for or agent under him in respect of all or any of the matters aforesaid and to act in the premises and to do everything whatsoever necessary to be done therein as fully as I could do if personally present. I (and each of us) hereby further ratify and confirm all such acts as may be made by said attorney.
I (and each of us )hereby agree to and do hereby indemnify and save harmless said attorney, his agents, subagents, servants and employees and the Farm Security Administration, and all of them, for any matter or thing done or caused to be done in the exercise of this power. This power of attorney shall not be valid for any purpose until accepted in writing by the attorney named herein. Upon notice mailed or delivered to the last known address, to each of the persons granting this power that the attorney in fact surrenders the powers herein granted, all further duties and obligations of said attorney hereunder shall cease forthwith.
Dated this _________________________ day of _________________________, 194_____.
Signed _________________________(SEAL)
_________________________(SEAL)
_________________________(SEAL)
WITNESSES:
_________________________
_________________________ Accepted by _________________________
Field Agent
STATE OF _________________________ss.
COUNTY OF _________________________
BE IT REMEMBERED, that on this _____ day of _________________________, 194_____, before me, personally appeared the within-named _________________________ and _________________________, known to me to be the identical person(s) described in and who executed the within instrument, and acknowledged that he (they) signed, sealed, and delivered the same as his (their) free and voluntary act and deed, for the uses and purposes therein mentioned.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, the day and year last above written.
_________________________
Notary Public in and for the
State of _________________________,
Residing at _________________________
My Commission expires_________________________
INVENTORY
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
WFA-20 - Inventory
(3-26-42)
Case No. _________________________
Name _________________________
The following is an itemized enumeration of the real and personal property of an agricultural character and household goods used by _________________________and _________________________, of _________________________, an evacuee national, in his agricultural operations. The evacuee national either owns or has some proprietary or possessory interest in each item listed.
CHARACTER AND DESCRIPTION OF ITEMS
I. Real Property Appraised Value Indebtedness against
The interest of the evacuee national is that of (check one):
( ) Owner
( ) Tenant
( ) Other (Indicate)
II. Livestock
III. Farm Machinery, Equipment, Motor Vehicles
IV. Crops.
V. Household Goods (Itemize Generally)
*** Indicate whether the indebtedness is secured or unsecured. If secured, place the symbol "Sec." after the amount of the indebtedness.
Inventory prepared by
Date_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
(Title)
The evacuee national whose name appears in the above inventory certifies that he has examined such inventory and that the enumeration and description of the items listed above, the appraised value and the amount and character of the indebtedness against each item is accurate.
Date_________________________
WITNESSES:
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
[Form WPA-21] Management Contract and Power of Attorney
WPA-21
(4-3-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
To: California Evacuated Farms Association
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
I hereby inform you and represent as follows:
(a) That I am or have been operating as owner, lessee, or sharecropper, a farm located at _________________________, and that I own or have an interest in personal property located on or used in connection with said farm.
(b) That a complete legal description of the premises upon which my farm is situated is as follows:
(c) That being subject to evacuation (or having been already evacuated) from the military area or zone in which my farm is located, I am (or have been) compelled to move from my farm.
(d) That I am (or have been) unable to find anyone who can or will satisfactorily operate my farm, or care for my property, in my place and stead, from and after my removal from said farm as aforesaid.
(e) That I understand there has been created and organized by the United States of America, hereinafter called the "Government", a non-profit California corporation known as "California Evacuated Farms Association", hereinafter called "Association", for the purpose of serving the public interest in continuing uninterruptedly the operation and management of all farms, such as mine, of persons evacuated or subject to evacuation therefrom, and to protect, preserve, safeguard and continue the operation of said farm and the care of the property thereon, or to lease, rent, sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of the same, or any portion thereof, for such purpose, and to prevent unfair dealings with the interest therein of said evacuated person.
NOW, THEREFORE
1. I hereby request and direct you, the said Association, to operate and manage my farm and property and to care for the same and to do all, and any acts which you deem necessary for said purpose, and I further authorize you to expend any and all moneys, from any source belonging to me, or to make any advances necessary or expedient to adequately and conveniently enable you to carry out the purposes stated herein.
2. I agree to reimburse you for any and all funds advanced or expenses incurred by you, for my account, or on my behalf, in connection with the management and operation of my property, together with interest thereon at the rate of 5% per annum from the date on which such funds are advanced or expenditures made; and in order to secure said advances and expenditures, I hereby give you a lien upon any and all personal property, including growing crops, which I own or may hereafter acquire; or upon the proceeds thereof. I hereby grant you the exclusive control or said personal property, and authorize and direct you to credit to any indebtedness which I now or may hereafter owe to you, any returns or income from the operation of my property or the proceeds resulting from the leasing, sale, transfer or other disposal thereof.
3. In order to further secure repayment to you of any indebtedness from me to you, and to enable you to carry out the purposes herein mentioned, I hereby constitute and appoint you as my attorney in fact, to do all and every act I could myself do if personally present with respect to the operation and management of my farm and property, excepting, the conveying, mortgaging or other hypothecating of any real property, with full power of substitution and revocation; and I do hereby ratify and confirm all acts that may lawfully be done in pursuance of this power.
I hereby agree to and do hereby indemnify and save harmless said attorney, his agents, sub-agents, officers, servants and employees, and all of them for any matter or thing done or caused to be done in the exercise of this power, and further release said attorney, his agents, sub-agents, officers, servants and employees, and all of them, from any and all claims by reason of any act or commission or omission performed pursuant to this agreement and authorization, and from any liability whatsoever, to me for rental for the use of any personal property or equipment, or the repair of the same. If and when this agreement and authorization is accepted in writing and acted upon by you, the said California Evacuated Farms Association, then and in that event the terms and provisions herein shall be irrevocable on my part, and shall remain in full force and effect until my obligation to you for any moneys advanced or expenses incurred has been fully repaid.
Words used in this instrument in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural the singular.
DATED this _____ day of _________________________, 19_____.
Witnesses:
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
State of _________________________) ss.
County of _________________________)
BE IT REMEMBERED, that on this _____ day of _________________________, 19_____, before me, a notary public, personally appeared the within-named _________________________ and _________________________, known to me to be the identical person(s) described in and who executed the within instrument, and acknowledged that he (they) signed, sealed, and delivered the same as his (their) free and voluntary act and deed, for the uses and purposes therein mentioned.
WITNESS my hand and seal, the day and year above written.
_________________________
Notary Public in and for the County of _________________________, State of _________________________ Residing at _________________________ My commission expires _________________________
ACCEPTED AND AGREED TO BY:
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION a non-profit California corporation
By_________________________
_________________________
(Official Title)
[Form WFA-21-X] MANAGEMENT CONTRACT AND SUBSTITUTION OF ATTORNEY-IN-FACT
WFA-21-X
(4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
TO: California Evacuated Farms Association
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California.
I hereby inform you and represent as follows:
(a) That I, the undersigned, attorney-in-fact of _________________________, hereinafter referred to as the Principal (whether one or more than one) by virtue of the power and authority given me in and by the terms of that certain power of attorney dated _________________________ and executed by the said Principal, a copy of which power of attorney is hereto attached.
(b) That said Principal is or has been operating as owner, lessee, or sharecropper, a farm located at_________________________, and that he owns or has an interest in personal property located on or used in connection with said farm.
(c) That a complete legal description of the premises upon which said farm is situated is as follows:
(d) That being subject to evacuation (or having been already evacuated) from the military area or zone in which said farm is located, said Principal is (or has been) compelled to move from said farm.
(e) That said Principal and I are (or have been) unable to find anyone who can or will satisfactorily operate said farm, or care for said property, in his place and stead, from and after his removal from said farm as aforesaid.
(f) That I understand there has been created and organized by the United States of America, hereinafter called the "Government", a non-profit California corporation known as "California Evacuated Farms Association", hereinafter called "Association", for the purpose of serving the public interest in continuing uninterruptedly the operation and management of all farms, such as that of my Principal, of persons evacuated or subject to evacuation therefrom, and to protect, preserve, safeguard and continue the operation of said farm and the care of the property thereon, or to lease, rent, sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of the same, or any portion thereof, for such purpose, and to prevent unfair dealings with the interest therein of said evacuated person.
NOW, THEREFORE, acting under and pursuant to the power and authority given me by the aforesaid power of attorney,
1. I hereby request and authorize you, the said Association, to operate and manage the farm and property of my Principal and to care for the same and to do all, and any acts which you deem necessary for said purpose, and I further authorize you to expend any and all moneys, from any source belonging to my Principal, or to make any advances necessary or expedient to adequately and conveniently enable you to carry out the purposes stated herein, and I further authorize you to lease, rent, mortgage, sell, transfer, dispose of or deal in any other manner whatsoever with my personal property or any interest therein, and to lease or rent my farm or to transfer, sell, sublease, cancel or otherwise deal with any leasehold or other possesory [possessory] interest in real property now held by me.
2. I agree to reimburse you, but only out of the property and assets of my Principal, for any and all funds advanced or expenses incurred by you, for his account, or on his behalf, in connection with the management and operation of his property, together with interest thereon at the rate of five (5%) per cent per annum from the date on which such funds are advanced or expenditures made; and in order to secure said advances and expenditures, I hereby give you a lien upon any and all personal property, including growing crops, which he owns or may hereafter acquire, or upon the proceeds thereof. I hereby grant you the exclusive control of said personal property, and authorize and direct you to credit to any indebtedness which is now owed or may hereafter be owed to you as a result of any action taken by you hereunder, any returns or income from the operation of said property or the proceeds resulting from the lease, sale, transfer or other disposal thereof.
3. In order to further secure repayment to you of any indebtedness from my Principal to you, and to enable you to carry out the purposes herein mentioned, I hereby substitute and appoint you as attorney-in-fact for my said Principal to do, perform and execute every act and thing which I might do as his attorney-in-fact with respect to the operation and management of his farm and property, excepting the conveying, mortgaging or other hypothecating of any real property, together with full power of substitution and revocation and I do hereby on behalf of my said Principal and on my own behalf ratify and confirm all acts that you, the substitute herein named and appointed, may lawfully do in pursuance to the power granted herein and confirm all acts that may lawfully be done in pursuance of this power.
4. As attorney-in-fact for said Principal and on his behalf, I hereby agree to and do hereby indemnify and save harmless you, your agents, sub-agents, officers, servants and employees, and all of them for any matter or thing done or caused to be done in the exercise of this power, and further release you, your agents, sub-agents, officers, servants and employees, and all of them, from any and all claims by reason of any act or commission or omission performed pursuant to this agreement and authorization, and from any liability whatsoever, to said Principal for rental for the use of any personal property or equipment, or the repair of the same.
If and when this agreement and authorization is accepted in writing and acted upon by you, the said California Evacuated Farms Association, then and in that event the terms and provisions herein shall be irrevocable on my part or that of said Principal and shall remain in full force and effect until his obligation to you for any moneys advanced or expenses incurred has been fully repaid.
Words used in this instrument in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural the singular.
Dated this _____ day of _________________________, 19_____.
WITNESSES:
_________________________
_________________________
STATE OF _________________________
COUNTY OF _________________________ss.
BE IT REMEMBERED, that on this _____ day of _________________________, 19_____, before me, a notary public, personally appeared the within named _________________________ and _________________________, known to me to be the identical person(s) described in and who executed the within instrument, and acknowledged that he (they) signed, sealed, and delivered the same as his (their) free and voluntary act and deed, for the uses and purposes therein mentioned.
WITNESS my hand and seal, the day and year above written.
_________________________
Notary Public in and for the County of _____, State of _________________________ Residing at_________________________ My Commission expires_________________________
ACCEPTED AND AGREED TO BY: CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION (a non-profit California corporation)
BY_________________________
(Official Title)
[Form WFA-22] FIELD AGENT'S NARRATIVE AND REPORT
WFA-22
(Rev. 4-6-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
State_________________________
County_________________________
Case No._________________________
I certify that the above named applicant has had experience which indicates his ability to produce the crops described in the operating plan which supports his application for a WFA loan and has managerial ability to handle the size project planned. My certification as to his competency is based on: (Explain whether endorsement by County War Board, a statement by responsible citizens in the community, or your own assumption is the basis of your certification. If your own assumption, give your reasons for assuming his competency.)_________________________
I certify that the applicant is unable to secure normal source of credit to finance the loan required. This certification is based on the following: (Give concise explanation of efforts to obtain credit and the reason for refusal.) _________________________
Is the land to be operated encumbered by a mortgage or Deed of Trust in default which may prevent tenure of the applicant during the term of the WFA loan?_________________________ If so, will the non-disturbance agreement be secured?_________________________
Are you satisfied that there are no provisions in the lease which will prevent the WFA loan being a first lien on the tenant's share of the crop?_________________________
Are you satisfied the lease covering this land will assure the applicant's tenure on the farm for the term of the WFA loan?_________________________
Have arrangements been made to secure the assignment of proceeds of sale of all crop and livestock under our mortgage from processors, brokers, or other marketing agencies?_________________________
In your opinion should a supervised bank account be required?_________________________
Give a concise statement including all information necessary to clarify the application and operating plan not already covered in the foregoing.
RECOMMENDATION: (Give your definite recommendation for approval of the loan and operating plan.)
_________________________
Field Agent
Date:_________________________
[Form WCCA-FSA-22A] STATEMENT ACCOMPANYING APPLICATION FOR LOAN TO CORPORATION
Form WCCA-FSA-22A
(4-25-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
- 1. Name of Corporation _________________________ (hereinafter referred to as the "Applicant", acting by and through its officers, thereunto duly authorized by a resolution adopted by its board of directors, hereby applies for a loan or loans as herein described).
- 2. Data re corporation:
- (a) State in which incorporated_________________________
- (b) Statute under which incorporated_________________________ (Cooperative Marketing Act, General Business Corporation Act, etc.)
- (c) Date of incorporation_________________________
- (d) Location of principal office_________________________
- (e) Number of members or stockholders_________________________
- (f) Number who are enemy aliens or of Japanese ancestry_________________________
- 3. Can applicant obtain financing from existing lending agencies to enable it, under existing circumstances and exigencies,
to take over operation of farms of evacuees and insure continuity of agricultural production?_________________________ If
this question is answered in the negative, state:
- (a) Whether application for a loan made elsewhere_________________________
- (b) Reasons for negative answer_________________________
- 4. Amount of initial loan requested_________________________
- 5. Is applicant involved in any litigation, pending in original courts or on appeal? (If so, describe fully below)._________________________
- 6. Does any obligation exist, or has any compensation been paid by applicant, for representation of the applicant, in any manner, in regard to this application?_________________________
- 7. Applicant will use the loan, if made, for the following specific purposes (and for none other, except with the prior written approval of the Government):_________________________
- 8. Applicant offers the following security_________________________
- 9. If the loan applied for (or any lesser amount) is approved, applicant will repay the loan in the following manner_________________________
- 10. Applicant attaches hereto, as part of this application, the following documents:
- EXHIBIT A - Copy, certified by its secretary, of the resolution of the board of directors authorizing the filing of this application for a loan or loans and execution of necessary instruments.
- EXHIBIT B - Statement, duly certified by its Secretary, setting forth the names and places of residence of its officers, together with the signatures of officers authorized in "Exhibit A" above, to execute documents required in connection with this application.
- EXHIBIT C - Copy of applicant's charter or articles of incorporation, with all amendments thereto. These instruments should be duly certified by the Secretary of State or Corporation Commissioner as true copies of those on file in his office and should also be duly certified by the County Recorder, Clerk or Auditor of the county in which the principal office of the corporation is located, as true copies of the instruments on file in his office.
- EXHIBIT D - Copy of its by-laws now in force, which applicant represents were properly adopted, duly certified by the Secretary of the corporation.
- EXHIBIT E - Statement re qualifications of the directors and officers of the corporation. If possible this statement should be supported and supplemented by a statement from the County War Board or other persons having knowledge of the qualifications of the directors and officers.
- EXHIBIT F - Detailed financial statement.
- EXHIBIT G - A full and complete description of the facilities owned, leased, or otherwise operated by the applicant in the furtherance of its present or proposed activities.
_________________________
BY_________________________
(title)
[Form WCCA-FSA-22A, Exhibit A] AFFIDAVIT OF SECRETARY CERTIFYING TO RESOLUTION ADOPTED BY BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Exhibit A to
Form WCCA-FSA- 22 A
(4-25-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
I, Secretary of the _________________________, being first duly sworn depose and say that at a meeting of the Board of Directors of the _________________________, duly held on the _________________________ day of _________________________, 194_____, at which a quorum was present and voted, the following resolution was adopted:
"RESOLVED, that the president and the treasurer, jointly, are authorized and empowered to obtain for and on behalf of the corporation (association) from the United States of America, acting by and through the Farm Security Administration, Department of Agriculture, or from any other authorized agency of the United States of America, a loan in the sum of _________________________(Dollars ($_________________________), and for such purposes; (1) to execute such application or applications (including exhibits, amendments, and/or supplements thereto) as may be required; (2) to obligate this corporation (association) in such amounts, at such rates of interest, and on such other terms and conditions as the officers so acting shall deem proper; (3) to execute and deliver to the lender or its nominee all such written instruments as may be required by the lender or its nominee in regard to or as evidence of such loan; (4) to pledge, hypothecate, mortgage, convey, or assign property of this corporation (association) of any kind and in any amount as security for any or all obligations (past, present, and/or future) of this corporation (association) to such lender; (5) from time to time to pay, extend, or renew any such obligation or obligations; and (6) to reborrow from time to time, subject to the provisions of this resolution, all or any part of the amounts repaid to the lender or lenders, or any of them.
"RESOLVED, FURTHER, that the said officers of this corporation (association) be and they are hereby jointly authorized and directed to do and/or cause to be done, from time to time, all further acts and things which may be necessary and/or proper for the carrying out of the terms of this resolution.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said corporation (association) this _____ day of _________________________, 194_____.
SEAL
_________________________
Secretary
Subscribed and sworn to before me this _____ day of _________________________, 19_____.
_________________________
Notary Public in and for the Stave of _________________________
Residing at _________________________
My Commission expires_________________________
[Form WCCA-FSA-22A, Exhibit B] STATEMENT OF SECRETARY WITH REFERENCE
TO DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS OF CORPORATION
Exhibit B to
Form WCCA-FSA-22 A
(4-2 5-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
I, Secretary of the _________________________, hereby certify that:
The following is a complete list of the directors and officers of this corporation, and of their places of residence,
- NAME
- ADDRESS
- President _________________________
- _________________________
- Vice-President _________________________
- _________________________
- Secretary _________________________
- _________________________
- Treasurer _________________________
- _________________________
- Director _________________________
- _________________________
- Director _________________________
- _________________________
- Director _________________________
- _________________________
The signatures appearing below are the true signatures of the officers of the corporation authorized to execute documents required in connection with the loan application submitted to the United States of America.
Signature of
_________________________
(Title)
Signature of
_________________________
(Title)
_________________________
Secretary
[Form WFA-23] REPORT ON FARMS AVAILABLE TO NEW OPERATORS IN WEST COAST EVACUATION AREAS
[Form WFA-24] INVENTORY CARD
[Form WFA-25] PERSONNEL & TRAVEL RECORD CARD
[Form WCCA-FSA 26] RECEIPT BOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT [sic]
WCCA-FSA 26
(Rev. 4-20-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
Date _________________________
Date Rec'd_________________________
To: Chief, WFA Program
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, Calif.
Attention: Securities & Collection Sub-unit
I hereby acknowledge receipt of the following _________________________book(s) of receipts, Form FSA-FI 37:
NOS._________________________to_________________________Inclusive
_________________________to_________________________Inclusive
_________________________to_________________________Inclusive
_________________________to_________________________Inclusive
_________________________to_________________________Inclusive
_________________________to_________________________Inclusive
NOS._________________________to_________________________Inclusive
_________________________to_________________________Inclusive
_________________________to_________________________Inclusive
_________________________to_________________________Inclusive
_________________________to_________________________Inclusive
_________________________to_________________________Inclusive
Sign and return original.
Retain duplicate.
Signed _________________________
Title _________________________
Regulations governing use of Receipt for Payment, Form FSA-FI 37:
- 1. Receipt books will be issued to individual bonded employees, and not to offices for general use; they must be used only by the person to whom issued.
- 2. All copies of voided receipts, except the quintuplicate (blue), must be scheduled and transmitted to the Loan & Collection Section in the regional office.
- 3. Receipts in the custody of each employee must be used and scheduled in strict numerical order. Only one book of receipts should be in use at any one time by each employee. Separate books must not be used for field and office use.
- 4. Receipts are valuable property of the United States, and as such must be fully accounted for upon demand; unused receipts and an accounting of used receipts must be submitted by each holder upon the termination of his employment with the Farm Security Administration.
[Form WCCA-FSA-27] OFFICIAL RECEIPT BOOK TRANSFER
WCCA-FSA-27
(4-20-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
_________________________
(P. O.) (State)
_________________________
(Date)
To: W. F. A. Program Chief
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
This will certify that I, (Name of outgoing field agent) _________________________, of (Address) (P. O.) (State) _________________________, have this day transferred to (Name of incoming field agent) _________________________, of (Address) (P. O.) (State) _________________________, the following unused official receipts, form FSA-FI 37:
_________________________ to _________________________, inclusive
_________________________ to _________________________, inclusive
_________________________ to _________________________, inclusive
_________________________ to _________________________, inclusive
Yours truly,
_________________________
(Date)
_________________________
(Signature of outgoing field agent)
I hereby acknowledge receipt of the unused official receipts, form FSA-FI 37.
_________________________
(Signature of incoming field agent)
[Form WFA-28] REPORT OF FIELD OFFICE CLOSING
[Form WCCA-FSA-29] LETTER: TRANSFER OF YOUR LOAN AFFAIRS TO A NEW OFFICE
WCCA-FSA-29
(5-16-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
SUBJECT: Transfer of Your Loan Affairs to New Office
This is to advise you that until further notice all matters in connection with your Farm Security Administration Loan made for the operation of evacuated land will be handled through the FSA office at
Please keep in touch with this new address for all services and collections in connection with your loan.
[Form WFA-30] CONTROL STATION RECORD
[Form WFA-31] CONTROL STATION TALLY SHEET
[Form WFA-32] CONTROL STATION RETURN NOTICE
WFA-32
(4-14-42)
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Date:_________________________1942
It will be necessary for Mr./Mrs./Miss_________________________No._________________________ to return to the Control Station on _________________________1942 as final arrangements regarding farm property have not been completed.
_________________________
Evacuation Agent
(Prepare in pencil in original only and insert in Control envelope. When family head returns, remove and destroy this sheet.)
[Form WFA-40] ASSIGNMENT OF PROCEEDS OF SALE OF MORTGAGED CROPS
WFA-40
(4-8-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Case
No. _________________________
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: For valuable consideration received from _________________________ the United States of America, the undersigned, hereinafter called Grower, does hereby sell, assign, transfer, set over, and deliver to the United States of America, the proceeds of sale of all crops produced by the Grower during the calendar year _____ and each year thereafter as long as the Grower is indebted to the United States of America, which Grower agrees to deliver to _________________________ hereinafter called Marketing Organization, or other agencies affiliated with the said Marketing Organization, for marketing purposes, and the Grower does hereby authorize and direct the Marketing Organization to deliver the said proceeds of sale, including all refunds of prepaid freight charges and all other refunds or credits that have accrued, or that will accrue in favor of the Grower as a result of the handling of said crops and previous crops by the Marketing Organization or its affiliated agencies, to the United States of America at the office of the Farm Security Administration, Department of Agriculture, in _________________________.
The Grower hereby warrants that this is the first assignment of the proceeds of sale of said crop(s).
IN WITNESS THEREOF, The Grower has executed this assignment order in duplicate original this _____ day of _________________________, 19_____.
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
(The above Assignment to be signed by the person(s) in whose name(s) the said crops are marketed and by each Grower having an interest therein.)
ACCEPTANCE OF ASSIGNMENT AND SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT
In consideration of granting of credit to said Grower for crop production, harvesting, and marketing purposes and in consideration of benefits to be derived therefrom by the undersigned, the undersigned hereby agrees, for the benefit of the United States of America, that any lien, claim or indebtedness now or hereafter existing in favor of the undersigned against said Grower or said crop(s), be and the same is hereby subordinated to this assignment to the extent that said Grower is and becomes indebted to the United States of America.
The undersigned certifies that to the best of its knowledge and belief the above assignment is the first assignment of said proceeds of sale by said Grower and undersigned agrees to pay to the United States of America said proceeds of sale of crops delivered to undersigned by said Grower, reserving, however, the right to deduct from said proceeds of sale all advances authorized in writing by an authorized agent of the United States of America.
Dated at _________________________, State of _________________________, this _________________________ day of _________________________, 19_____.
_________________________
(Marketing Organization)
By_________________________
(Title)
[Form WCCA-FSA-41] NOTICE TO WFA KARDEX
WCCA-FSA-41 (Rev. 5-28-42)
Case No._________________________
Name_________________________
| Action | Date | Follow-up |
| Crop & Chattel Mortgage | ||
| Requested | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| Approved | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| Disapproved | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| Motor Vehicle Mortgage | ||
| Requested | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| Received (1st lien) | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| Received (2nd lien) | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| Assignment of Proceeds | ||
| Requested | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| Executed by borrower and approved | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| Executed by borrower and purchaser (approved) | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| Partial Release of Mortgaged Property | ||
| Repayment due (par. 5a) | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| Additional security mortgage required on capital goods | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| Miscellaneous follow-up: | _________________________ | |
| _________________________ | ||
| _________________________ | ||
| _________________________ | ||
| _________________________ | ||
| _________________________ | ||
| _________________________ | ||
[Form WFA-42] PARTIAL RELEASE OF ASSIGNMENT
WFA-42
(4-15-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
CASE NO
(To be attached to Form WFA-40, Assignment of Proceeds of Sale of Mortgaged Crops, which was signed by:)
_________________________
Grower
_________________________
Name of Agency Accepting Assignment
1942
_________________________
Date of Assignment
_________________________
The United States of America hereby authorizes _________________________(write in name of marketing agency) to deduct from the proceeds of the sale of crops covered by the above assignment, all expenses incurred by the marketing organization for the grower in connection with the growing, harvesting, processing, and marketing thereof during the current season and not to exceed the actual costs thereof, such deductions to be:
_________________________
(Describe deductions authorized, such as: picking, packing, hauling, fertilizer, seed, revolving funds, etc., and give amount of each.)
and/or to advance to the above named grower the following amounts to be deducted from the proceeds of future sales of crops covered by the above assignment:
| Amount of Advance | Crop | Purpose (living, harvest other crops, etc.) |
| $_________________________ | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| _________________________ | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| _________________________ | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| _________________________ | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| _________________________ | _________________________ | _________________________ |
| _________________________ | _________________________ | _________________________ |
The United States of America
By _________________________
(Agent)
_________________________
(Title)
[Form WCCA-FSA-43] EQUIPMENT TAG
[Form WCCA-FSA-44] DAILY LOAN REPORT
[Form WCCA-FSA-45] REPORT OF LOAN STATUS
WCCA-FSA-45
(5-25-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
_____ _____ 1942
(Last Name) _________________________ (First Name) _________________________ ( Middle Name) _________________________
Case No. _________________________
(CHECK ONE)
1. Are all loan conditions completed? Yes _________________________ No _________________________
2. Was there a Controlled Bank Account? Yes _________________________ No _________________________
Balance remaining: $ _________________________
3. Receipts to date: Original Estimate $ _________________________ Actual $ _________________________
4. Have payments been made an anticipated? Yes _________________________ No _________________________
5. Have crops been planted according to farm plan: Yes _________________________ No _________________________
6. Will present growing crops come up to estimates of yield? Yes _________________________ No _________________________
7. Do you believe this loan will pay out as originally planned? Yes _________________________ No _________________________
8. If conditions are not satisfactory, what steps should immediately be taken to safeguard the loan?
9. Additional Comments:
_________________________
(Field Agent)
_________________________
(Office)
[Form WCCA-FSA-59] RIDER TO AMEND BOND AS TO CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
Form WCCA-FSA-59
(Rev. 5-11-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
To Be Attached to and Made a Part of Bond No. _____, Form _________________________ DATED_________________________, 194_____, by_________________________ as Principal, and _________________________, as Surety, binding the said Principal and Surety unto the United States of America.
Effective _________________________, 19_____, it is mutually agreed by the said Principal and the said Surety that the language describing the obligee in said bond shall be amended to read, "....the officers and agents of the United States of America and unto the United States of America in its own right and unto the California Evacuated Farms Association." The said Principal by virtue of his employment by the Department of Agriculture is an agent of the California Evacuated Farms Association. The said bond, as so amended, shall cover the said principal under his present employment and agency or any subsequent employment and agency so long as his connection with the Department of Agriculture and the California Evacuated Farms Association, or either of them, is continuous.
The Principal and Surety further agree that nothing contained herein shall release them from any liability under or pursuant to said bond accruing prior to the _________________________ day of _________________________, 194_____.
Sealed with our seals and dated this _________________________day of _________________________, 194_____.
_________________________(SEAL)
Principal
_________________________ (Corporate Seal)
Surety
BY_________________________
Vice President
Attest_________________________
Assistant Secretary
Date_____
Approved in accordance with the requirements of FSA Instruction 305.1 and Regulation 3142 of the Department of Agriculture
Form WCCA-FSA-59
No._________________________
RIDER OF
_________________________
Regional Director
_________________________
Date_____
Title_________________________
Examined and approved as to form and verity
Region_____State_________________________
_________________________
For the Finance Regional Manager
Amount of bond. $
TO AMEND BOND AS TO STATE RURAL REHABILITATION CORPORATION
Date_____
_________________________
Approved as to legal sufficiency, subject to the certification by the Treasury Department that the surety is duly qualified and that evidence of the authority of the officer or agent signing on behalf of the surety is on file in the Treasury Department.
_________________________
Effective as of
_________________________
For the Solicitor
[From WCCA-FSA-100] CUSTODY AGREEMENT AND POWER OF ATTORNEY
From WCCA-FSA-100
(Rev. 4-25-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
TO: California Evacuated Farms Association 30 Van Ness Avenue San Francisco, California.
I hereby inform you and represent as follows:
- a. That I own or have an interest in the personal property hereinafter described (subject to the indebtedness hereinafter shown), which property is located on or used in connection with the operation of a farm located in _________________________ County, State of _________________________, and more specifically described as follows:
- b. That being subject to evacuation or having already been evacuated from the military area or zone in which such farm is located, I am or have been compelled to move therefrom;
- c. That I am or have been unable to find anyone to whom I can lease, rent, sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of such property or who will undertake to care therefor in my place and stead, from and after my removal from said farm as aforesaid.
- d. That I understand there has been created and organized by the United States of America, hereinafter called the "Government", a non-profit California corporation known as "California Evacuated Farms Association", hereinafter called the "Association", for the purpose of serving the public interest and that said Association is willing to accept such property for storage at my risk and to undertake to sell or dispose of such property for and on my behalf.
NOW, THEREFORE,
1. I agree to and hereby do deliver to you, the said Association, and authorize you to take physical possession of the items of personal property hereinafter described and request and authorize you to care for and store such items in such manner as you may determine, including storage in open areas, such storage to be at my sold risk. I agree that no liability or responsibility shall be assumed by you with reference to any items which are not found or for any act or omission in connection with the storage of any items and I further understand that no insurance upon such property will be provided.
2. I hereby further request and authorize you to sell or dispose of such items in such manner and at such price or prices (irrespective of the suggested minimum sale prices hereinafter specified) as you may determine and to do all and any acts which you deem necessary for said purpose, and I further authorize you to expend any and all moneys, from any source belonging to me, or to make any advances necessary or expedient to adequately and conveniently enable you to carry out the purposes stated herein.
3. I hereby agree to reimburse you for any and all funds advanced or expenses incurred by you for my account, or on my behalf, to carry out the purposes stated herein, together with interest thereon at the rate of five (5%) percent per annum from the date on which such funds are advanced or expenditures made; and in order to secure said advances and expenditures, I hereby give you a lien upon any and all such personal property, or upon the proceeds thereof. I hereby grant you the exclusive control of said personal property, and authorize and direct you to credit to any indebtedness which I now or may hereafter owe to you, any returns or income or any proceeds resulting from the lease, rental, sale, transfer, or other disposal thereof.
4. In order to further secure repayment to you of any indebtedness from me to you, and to enable you to carry out she purposes herein mentioned, I hereby constitute and appoint you as my attorney-in-fact, to do all and every act I could myself do, if personally present, with respect to such personal property, together with full power of substitution and revocation; and I do hereby ratify and confirm all acts that may lawfully be done in pursuance of this power.
5. I hereby agree to do and hereby indemnify and save harmless you, your agents, sub-agents, officers, servants and employees, and all of them for any matter or thing done or caused to be done in the exercise of this power, and further release you, your agents, sub-agents, officers, servants and employees, and all of them, from any and all claims by reason of any act or commission or omission performed pursuant to this agreement and authorization, and from any liability whatsoever, to me for rental for the use of any personal property or equipment, or the repair of the same.
6. If and when this agreement and authorization is accepted in writing and acted upon by you, then and in that event the terms and provisions herein shall be irrevocable on my part, and shall remain in full force and effect until my obligation to you for any moneys advanced or expenses incurred has been fully repaid or until the purposes of this instrument have been fully executed.
PROPERTY TO BE DELIVERED
Itemized Description
Indebtedness Against
Suggested Minimum Sale Price
Dated this _____ day of _________________________, 194_____.
WITNESSES AS TO SIGNATURES OF EVACUEE(S)
_________________________
(Evacuee(s)
ACCEPTED AND AGREED TO THIS _____ DAY OF _________________________, 194_____.
_________________________
BY_________________________
(Official Title)
SUBSTITUTION OF ATTORNEY IN FACT
WFA-101
(4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
The undersigned, as Attorney in Fact of _________________________, by virtue of the power and authority given the undersigned in and by the terms of that certain Power of Attorney dated _________________________, and executed by the said _________________________, a copy of which Power of Attorney is attached hereto, does hereby substitute and appoint _________________________ to do, perform, and execute every act and thing which I might do or could do as such Attorney in Fact, hereby ratifying and confirming all that the said Attorney and substitute herein named and appointed, shall do in the premises, by virtue hereof and of the said Power of Attorney.
Dated this _____ day of _________________________, 194_____.
_________________________
(Name of Principal)
BY_________________________
As Attorney in Fact.
STATE OF _________________________
COUNTY OF _________________________ ss.
BE IT REMEMBERED, that on this _____ day of _________________________, 194_____, before me, a Notary Public in and for said county and state, personally appeared the within-named _________________________ and _________________________, known to me to be the identical person(s) described in and who executed the within instrument, and acknowledged that he (they) signed, sealed, and delivered the same as his (their) free and voluntary act and deed, for the uses and purposes therein mentioned.
WITNESS my hand and seal, the day and year above written.
_________________________
Notary Public in and for the
County of _________________________
State of _________________________
Residing at _________________________
My Commission expires_________________________
[Form WFA-102] DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO ACCEPT POWERS OF ATTORNEY
WFA-102
(4-10-42
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
TO:
FROM: Laurence I. Hewes, Jr., Regional Director.
I, Laurence I. Hewes, Jr., Regional Director of the Farm Security Administration, United States Department of Agriculture, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the order and authorization from Lieutenant General DeWitt dated March 15, 1942, and by virtue of the authority vested in me by the delegation of authority from C. B. Baldwin, Administrator of the Farm Security Administration, dated April 8, 1942, do hereby delegate authority to _________________________, (Title) _________________________, Farm Security Administration, to accept on behalf of the California Evacuated Farms Association, a non-profit California corporation, powers of attorney on Form WFA-21, Management Contract and Power of Attorney, Form WFA-21X, Management Contract and Substitution of Attorney-in-Fact, and Form WFA-100, Custody Agreement and Power of Attorney.
The authority herein delegated to the above-named delegatee must be exercised by him in accordance with the terms and provisions of and subject to the limitations contained in WFA Instructions 951.1 and 951.2; and any attempt by the above named delegatee to accept a power of attorney on behalf of the California Evacuated Farms Association by the use of any power of attorney form other than the forms specified above, or in any manner other than in accordance with the terms and provisions and subject to the limitations contained in the WFA Instructions specified above, shall be a complete nullity and without any force and effect whatsoever.
The authority herein delegated to the above named delegatee may be exercised only by him and may not be redelegated by him to any other person, whether or not such person be an employee of the Farm Security Administration or an officer, agent, sub-agent, servant or employee of the California Evacuated Farms Association.
The authority herein delegated shall be effective from the date of this delegation and shall remain in effect until revoked by me.
Dated this _________________________ day of _________________________, 19_____.
Laurence I. Hewes, Jr.,
Regional Director,
Farm Security Administration, U.S.D.A.
[Form WFA-103] EVACUEE'S PETITION TO BLOCK PROPERTY
WFA-103
(4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
The undersigned certifies that he is:
( ) A Japanese alien
( ) A person of Japanese ancestry
( ) A German alien
( ) An Italian alien
(Insert "X" in applicable box)
and that he has been operating the following described farm lands in _________________________County, State of _________________________:
The undersigned represents to the Regional Director of the Farm Security Administration, Region IX, that he has been unable to effect satisfactory arrangements with his landlord, lienors and creditors, or some of them, which will enable him to dispose of his interests in the above described realty, crops, livestock, equipment and other farm property.
The undersigned hereby petitions the Regional Director of the Farm Security Administration, Region IX, to designate the following property as Special Blocked Property:
DATED this _________________________ day of _________________________, 194_____.
WITNESS:
_________________________
_________________________
Evacuee
[Form WFA-104] FIELD AGENT'S PETITION TO BLOCK PROPERTY
WFA-104
(4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
_________________________, 1942.
Laurence I. Hewes, Jr.
Regional Director
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
Dear Mr. Hewes:
On the basis of facts set forth herein, I recommend that you designate all of the hereinafter described property of _________________________ _________________________ (an alien) (a person of Japanese ancestry) of _________________________ _________________________, Special Blocked Property:
Recommended:
_________________________
District Officer
_________________________
District Evacuation Agent
Yours very truly,
_________________________
Field Agent
[Form WFA-105] ORDER DESIGNATING SPECIAL BLOCKED PROPERTY
WFA-105
(4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
NO._________________________
_________________________
_________________________
By virtue of the authority vested in me, pursuant to the provisions of Section 5 (b) of the Trading with the Enemy Act, as amended by Title III of the First War Powers Act of 1941, I hereby designate as Special Blocked Property that certain property belonging to _________________________, or in which he (they) has (have) some interest and which property is more particularly described in _________________________ Petition for Blocking Property dated _________________________, 1942 submitted by you.
You are hereby authorized and directed to post and address Special Blocked Property Notices in the manner set forth in WFA Instruction 952.1.
Dated _________________________
Regional Director,
San Francisco, California.
[Form WFA-106] POSTING NOTICE NO._____________ SPECIAL BLOCKED PROPERTY
WFA-106
(4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
DATE _________________________,1942.
By virtue of the authority vested in me, pursuant to the provisions of Section 5(b) of the Trading with the Enemy Act, as amended by Title III of the First War owers Act of 1941, the property listed below is designated as Special Blocked Property:
Any acquisition, disposition or transfer of or other dealing in or with respect to any property designated as Special Blocked Property is prohibited under penalty of law unless such transaction is authorized by appropriate license.
Applications for any such license may be filed on Form WFA-108, by any person, at the office of the Farm Security Administration indicated below. Such applications should set forth (a) the interest, if any, of the applicant in the property; (b) the details of the transaction for which a license is requested, including the terms of any arrangements between the persons having or claiming any interest in such property; (c) the manner in which the interest of the evacuee in the property is being protected; and (d) whether or not the evacuee is in agreement with the proposed settlement.
Regional Director
United States Department of Agriculture
By_________________________
Office Address:
[File WFA-107] LETTER: NOTICE NOTICE NO._____________ SPECIAL BLOCKED PROPERTY
WFA-107
4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
_________________________,1942.
By virtue of the authority vested in me, pursuant to the provisions of Section 5(b) of the Trading with the Enemy Act, as amended by Title III of the First War Powers Act of 1941, the property listed below is designated as Special Blocked Property:
Any acquisition, disposition or transfer of or other dealing in or with respect to any property designated as Special Blocked Property is prohibited under penalty of law unless such transaction is authorized by appropriate license.
Applications for any such license may be filed on Form WFA-108, by any person, at the office of the Farm Security Administration indicated below. Such applications should set forth (a) the interest, if any, of the applicant in the property; (b) the details of the transaction for which a license is requested, including the terms of any proposed settlement; (c) the manner in which the interest of the evacuee in the property is being protected; and (d) whether or not the evacuee is in agreement with the proposed settlement.
Regional Director
United States Department of Agriculture
By_________________________
Office Address:
_________________________
[Form WFA-108] APPLICATION FOR A LICENSE TO DEAL IN SPECIAL BLOCKED PROPERTY
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
WFA-108
(4-10-42)
Application No._________________________
Date_________________________,1942.
Laurence I. Hewes, Jr.,
Regional Director,
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
The undersigned hereby applies for a License to execute the transaction described below:
- A. 1. Applicant is a citizen of _________________________.
2. Since _________________________, applicant has been engaged in the business of _________________________. - B. The applicant desires a license in order to:
(State in detail the nature, purpose and amount of the transaction, and the name, address, nationality and extent of interest of every party, including the applicant, involved or interested in the transaction.) - C. The applicant represents and warrants that no party other than those mentioned in item B above has any interest, direct or indirect, in the transaction or [illegible data]
- D. The applicant represents and warrants that all the facts herein stated are correct and true and that he does not have knowledge of any material facts in connection with such application which are not fully and accurately set forth herein. (Attach hereto schedules of any additional material information)
- E. The applicant represents and warrants that, with respect to the transaction here involved, no other application of the undersigned for a license has been filed or is pending, except as follows:
_________________________
(Applicant)
By_________________________
(Address of Applicant)
STATE OF _________________________)
ss.
County of _________________________)
I, _________________________, on oath, depose and say that I am the applicant in the above application for license, or the (State relationship to applicant) _________________________ of (Name of Applicant) _________________________ who is the applicant in the above application for a license, and that I am duly authorized to make the foregoing application on behalf of the applicant; that I have personal knowledge of the facts as set forth in said application and know the same to be true and accurate; and that I do not have knowledge of any material facts in connection with such application which are not fully and accurately set forth herein.
_________________________
(Signature of affiant)
_________________________
(Address)
Subscribed and sworn to before me this _____ day of _________________________, 194_____.
(NOTARIAL SEAL)
_________________________
(Officer administering oath)
My commission expires_________________________
[Form WFA-109] LICENSE
WFA-109
(4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Pursuant to Application No. _________________________, filed on _________________________, with the Regional Director of the Farm Security Administration, at San Francisco, California, there is hereby granted to_________________________ of _________________________ a license as follows:
The terms of this License must be complied with strictly, and the same does not authorize any transaction or dealing in any Special Blocked Property other than such as are enumerated herein and only in the manner prescribed herein.
DATED _________________________, 1942.
Regional Director
Farm Security Administration
United States Department of Agriculture
San Francisco, California
[Form WFA-110] MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT AND SETTLEMENT
WFA-110
[?]-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
This Agreement is entered into this _____ day of _________________________, 1942, between _________________________, hereinafter referred to as "Debtor", and _________________________, hereinafter referred to as "Creditors".
In consideration of Debtor's joining in an application to secure a license to deal in Special Blocked Property, and in consideration of their mutual consent, the above named Debtor and Creditors have entered into a settlement upon the following terms:
Witnesses:
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
(Debtor)
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
(Creditors)
[Form WFA-111] ORDER DIRECTING CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION TO MANAGE AND OPERATE SPECIAL BLOCKED PROPERTY
WFA-111
(4-15-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Date _________________________, 194_____
To: California Evacuated Farms Association
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
By virtue of the authority vested in me, pursuant to the provisions of Section 5(b) of the Trading With the Enemy Act, as amended by Title III of the First war Powers Act of 1941, I hereby direct and order you to care for, protect, manage, and operate all of that property belonging to _________________________and situated at _________________________which I have designated as Special Blocked Property pursuant to Order No._____, dated _________________________, 194_____.
You are directed and ordered to care for, protect, manage, operate, sell, dispose, transfer otherwise deal in or with respect to any part or all of the said property, designated as Special Blocked Property, in accordance with my instructions and subject at all times to my supervision and control.
Regional Director
Farm Security Administration
United States Department of Agriculture
[Form WFA-112] REQUEST FOR ADVANCE OF FUNDS TO OPERATE AND MANAGE
WFA-112
(4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
The undersigned, Field Agent, Wartime Farm Adjustment Program, Farm Security Administration, at _________________________, hereby makes request upon the California Evacuated Farms Association for authority to establish an account in the name of the corporation. The undersigned field agent requests that there be made available to him to be deposited in the account so established the sum of _________________________ ($_________________________) Dollars, to be used as a working capital fund for the advance of such sums as may be necessary to defray the costs of management and operation of farms and agricultural enterprises of evacuees.
The undersigned represents that the advance of such sum is necessary to provide a sufficient working capital fund.
Date _________________________
Field Agent
[Form WFA-113] REQUEST FOR AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH OPERATING ACCOUNT FOR EVACUEES AND TO USE WORKING CAPITAL FUNDS TO MEET COSTS OF OPERATION AND MANAGEMENT
WFA-113
(4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
The undersigned, Field Agent, Wartime Farm Adjustment Program, Farm Security Administration, at _________________________, hereby makes request upon the California Evacuated Farms Association for authority to establish accounts in the name of the corporation as attorney in fact or agent for the evacuees whose names are set forth below and the undersigned Field Agent further requests that he be authorized to use such sums out of the working capital fund made available to him as may be necessary for advances to defray the costs of management and operation of the farms and agricultural enterprises of such evacuees.
The undersigned represents that the authorizations herein requested are necessary to enable the effective management and operation of such farms and agricultural enterprises.
Date_________________________
Field Agent
[Form WFA-114] CERTIFIED COPY OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ADVANCE OF FUNDS TO FIELD AGENT AS WORKING CAPITAL FUND FOR MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF FARMS OF EVACUEES
WFA-114
(4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
I, the undersigned secretary of the California Evacuated Farms Association, a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the State of California, do hereby certify that at a meeting of the Board of Directors of said corporation, at which a quorum was present and voted the following resolution was unanimously adopted:
RESOLVED that the Treasurer of this corporation be, and he hereby is, authorized to advance the sum of _________________________ ($_________________________) Dollars to _________________________, Field Agent, Wartime Farm Adjustment Program, Farm Security Administration at _________________________, to be deposited in an account to be established by said Field Agent in the name of said corporation, subject to withdrawal upon the signature of said Field Agent, the moneys hereby authorized to be advanced to be used by said Field Agent as a working capital fund to defray the costs of operation and management of farms and agricultural enterprises of evacuees, which are being operated and managed pursuant to powers of attorney executed by evacuees or pursuant to the exercise of the freezing power.
Date_________________________
Secretary, California
Evacuated Farms Association
[Form WFA-115] CERTIFIED COPY OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING OPENING OF BANK ACCOUNTS
WFA-115
(4-10-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
I, the undersigned, Secretary of the California Evacuated Farms Association, a California corporation, do hereby certify that at a meeting of the Board of Directors of the said corporation, duly held on the _____ day of _________________________, 1942, at which a quorum was present and voted, the following resolution was unanimously adopted:
RESOLVED that _________________________, Field Agent, wartime Farm Adjustment Program, Farm Security Administration, at _________________________ be, and he hereby is, authorized to open a bank account with the _________________________ Bank at _________________________, on behalf of and in the name of this corporation, and that any funds deposited in the aforesaid account are hereby authorized to be withdrawn therefrom upon checks signed by the aforementioned Field Agent, the checks to be signed as follows:
"California Evacuated Farms Association BY_________________________ Field Agent"
or by such person or persons as may from time to time be designated for that purpose by the President of this corporation, such designation to be in writing and to be filed with the depository above named.
RESOLVED further that the aforementioned Field Agent be, and he hereby is authorized to establish such additional bank accounts, either with the depository above named or with such other banks as he may select, on behalf of this corporation as attorney in fact or agent for various evacuees, such accounts to be designated "California Evacuated Farms Association, Account for _________________________, Evacuee", and that any funds deposited in any of the aforesaid accounts are hereby authorized to be withdrawn from such account upon checks signed by the aforementioned Field Agent, the checks to be signed as follows:
"California Evacuated Farms Association. Account for _________________________, Evacuee By_________________________ Field Agent"
or by such person or persons as may from time to time be designated for that purpose by the President of this corporation, such designation to be in writing and to be filed with the depository in which such account is established.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of said corporation this _____ day of _________________________, 1942.
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS CORPORATION BY_________________________
Secretary
The following is a specimen of the signature of _________________________, Field Agent, Wartime Farm Adjustment Program, Farm Security Administration at _________________________ named in the foregoing resolutions.
_________________________
[Form WCCA-FSA-116] AUTHORIZATION TO ESTABLISH OPERATING ACCOUNTS AND TO MANAGE AND OPERATE FARMS
Form WCCA-FSA-116
(Rev. 4-27-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
TO: _________________________
Your request of _________________________, 194_____ for authorization to establish operating accounts for the evacuees named therein and to use such sums out of the working capital funds made available to you as may be necessary for advances to defray the costs of management and operation of the farms and agricultural enterprises of such evacuees has been considered.
You are hereby authorized to operate, manage and care for the agricultural property of such evacuees and to do all and any acts which may be necessary for such purposes, including the sale, transfer or other disposal of crops, livestock products and livestock in the ordinary course of farming operations, provided, however, that you may not lease, rent, mortgage, sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any agricultural property where such property would not ordinarily be dealt with in such manner if agricultural operations were to be continued.
You are further authorized to establish operating accounts for the evacuees named in your request and to use such sums out of the working capital funds made available to you as may be necessary for advances to defray costs of management and operation of such agricultural property. In making any advances out of working capital funds to or for any particular evacuee, you are required to do so by withdrawing the amount of any advance from the working capital fund account and depositing such sum in the operating account for the particular evacuee.
Date_________________________.
Secretary
[Form WCCA-FSA-117] DEPOSIT AGREEMENT
Form WCCA-FSA-117
(Rev. 4-27-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
THIS AGREEMENT, made this _____ day of _________________________, 194_____, between the United States of America, acting by and through the Secretary of Agriculture (hereinafter referred to as the Government), the California Evacuated Farms Association, a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the State of California (hereinafter referred to as the Borrower), and the _________________________ Bank of _________________________, (hereinafter referred to as the Bank),
WITNESSETH:
In consideration of a loan or loans made by the Government to the Borrower pursuant to a loan agreement or agreements; and in further consideration of the deposit in the Bank to the credit of the Borrower of moneys so advanced, or derived by the Borrower from farming operations carried on either for its own account, for the account of the Government, or for the account of any evacuee, pursuant to or by virtue of said agreement or agreements, it is agreed as follows:
- 1. The Borrower hereby assigns, transfers, and pledges the aforesaid deposits, heretofore or hereafter made, to the Government as security for the repayment of any and all indebtedness owing by the Borrower to the Government, until such time as the said deposit or deposits are released, as hereinafter provided.
- 2. The Bank agrees that it will not assert any right of offset with respect to the funds deposited pursuant to this agreement by reason of any indebtedness or claim now or hereafter owing to or acquired by it.
- 3. Any funds deposited pursuant to this agreement may be withdrawn upon checks signed by _________________________, Field Agent of the Farm Security Administration, Department of Agriculture, the checks to be signed as follows:
"CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION BY_________________________ Field Agent"
or by such other person or persons as may from time to time be designated for that purpose by the President of the Borrower, such designation to be in writing and to be filed with the Bank, provided, however, that at any time upon written demand by the Regional Director of Region _____ of the Farm Security Administration, Department of Agriculture, the Bank shall pay over the balance then on hand, or any part thereof to the Government or to any person or persons designated by said Regional Director; provided that the dissolution, disability, or insolvency of the Borrower shall not impair the power of said Regional Director to order such withdrawal.
4. The Bank shall be under no obligations with respect to the proper expenditure of funds after their withdrawal from the Bank in accordance with the provisions of this agreement executed by the Borrower.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have hereunto subscribed their names as of the date first above written.
BY_________________________
(Duly Authorized Officer)
Secretary of Agriculture
(For and on behalf of the United States)
[Form WCCA-FSA-118] DEPOSIT AGREEMENT FOR FARM UNIT NUMBER _____________
Form WCCA-FSA-118
(Rev. 4-27-42)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
Farm of _________________________, Evacuee, Family No_____
THIS AGREEMENT, made this _____ day of _________________________, 194_____, between the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, acting by and through the Secretary of Agriculture (hereinafter referred to as the Government), the California Evacuated Farms Association, a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the State of California (hereinafter referred to as the Borrower), and the _________________________ Bank of _________________________, (hereinafter referred to as the Bank),
WITNESSETH:
Inconsideration of a loan or loans made by the Government to the Borrower pursuant to a loan agreement to enable the borrower to care for, protect, manage and operate the farm of _________________________, located at _________________________; and in further consideration of the deposit in the Bank to the credit of the Borrower of moneys so advanced or any portion thereof, or derived by the Borrower from the operation of said farm, it is agreed as follows:
- 1. The Borrower hereby assigns, transfers, and pledges the aforesaid deposits, heretofore or hereafter made, to the Government as security for the repayment of any and all indebtedness owing by the Borrower to the Government, until such time as the said deposit or deposits are released, as hereinafter provided.
- 2. The Bank agrees that it will not assert any right of offset with respect to the funds deposited pursuant to this agreement by reason of any indebtedness or claim now or hereafter owing to or acquired by it.
- 3. Any funds deposited pursuant to this agreement may be withdrawn upon checks signed by _________________________, Field Agent of the Farm Security Administration, Department of Agriculture, the checks to be signed as follows:
"CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION Account for farm of _________________________, Evacuee, BY_________________________ Field Agent"
or by such other person or persons as may from time to time be designated for that purpose by the President of the Borrower, such designation to be in writing and to be filed with the Bank, provided, however, that at any time upon written demand by the Regional Director of Region _____ of the Farm Security Administration, Department of Agriculture, the Bank shall pay over the balance then on hand, or any part thereof to the Government, or to the Borrower, or to any person or persons designated by said Regional Director; provided that the dissolution, disability, or insolvency of the Borrower shall not impair the power of said Regional Director to order such withdrawal.
4. The Bank shall be under no obligations with respect to the proper expenditure of funds after their withdrawal from the Bank in accordance with the provisions of this agreement executed by the Borrower.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have hereunto subscribed their names as of the date first above written.
BY_________________________
Duly Authorized Officer
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
Field Agent
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Field Agent
[Form WCCA-FSA-119] EQUIPMENT DEALER STORAGE AND SALE AGREEMENT
Form WCCA-FSA-119
(4-22-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
To: (Name of Equipment Dealer) _________________________ (Address) _________________________, (City) _________________________, (State) _________________________
I hereby inform you and represent as follows:
- a. That I own or have an interest in the personal property hereinafter described (subject to the indebtedness hereinafter shown), which property is located on or used in connection with the operation of a farm located in _________________________ County, State of _________________________, and more specifically described as follows:
- b. That being subject to evacuation or having already been evacuated from the military area or zone in which such farm is located, I am or have been compelled to move therefrom;
- c. That I understand that you are willing to accept such property for storage at my risk and to undertake to sell or dispose of such property for and on my behalf.
NOW, THEREFORE,
- 1. I agree to and hereby do deliver to you and authorize you to take physical possession of the items of personal property hereinafter described and request and authorize you to care for and store such items in such manner as you may determine, including storage in open areas, such storage to be at my sole risk. I agree that no liability or responsibility shall be assumed by you with reference to any items which are not found or for any act or omission in connection with the storage of any such sums and I further understand that no insurance upon such property will be provided.
- 2. I hereby further request and authorize you to sell or dispose of such items in such manner as you may determine and to do all and any acts which you deem necessary for such purpose, provided that you may not sell or dispose of any of such items for less than the minimum sale prices hereinafter specified, except with the consent of the local U. S. D. A. County War Board, or the Executive Secretary thereof.
- 3. You are hereby authorized to retain out of the proceeds derived from the sale of any such items an amount equal to _____ percent thereof as your commission and in full consideration of the services rendered by you under this agreement, such commission to cover all costs of storage, all expenses of sale and other costs, if any, including costs of delivery. Out of the remainder of the proceeds realized from the sale of any particular item, you are hereby authorized to satisfy and discharge the amount of the indebtedness herein shown to exist against such item, plus interest upon such indebtedness and either (1) to deposit the balance thereof to my credit in the following named bank _________________________ at _________________________, notifying me thereof, (2) to transmit such sum to me, by means of a cashier's check or money order, (3) to transmit such sum to the camp operated by the War Relocation Authority at which I am stationed for my account, or (4) provided that no one of such methods of proceeding may be followed, to deposit such sum in a separate trust account, indicating the fact that such sum is deposited in trust for me and notifying me thereof.
- 4. To enable you to carry out the purposes herein mentioned, I hereby constitute and appoint you my attorney-in-fact to do all and every act I could myself do if personally present with respect to such personal property and I hereby ratify and confirm all acts that may lawfully be done in pursuance of this power.
- 5. I hereby agree to indemnify and save harmless you, your agents, sub-agents, officers, servants and employees and all of them, for any matter or thing done or caused to be done in the exercise of this power and further release you, your agents, sub-agents, officers, servants and employees and all of them from any and all claims by, and from any liability whatsoever to, me by reason of any act of commission or omission, pursuant to this agreement and authorization - except acts unlawfully and wilfully done.
- 6. If and when this agreement and authorization is accepted in writing by you the terms and provisions hereof shall be irrevocable on my part and shall remain in full force and effect until the purposes of this instrument have been fully executed.
PROPERTY TO BE DELIVERED
Itemized Description Indebtedness Against Minimum Sale Price
Dated this _____ day of _________________________, 1942.WITNESSES TO SIGNATURES OF EVACUEE(S):
ACCEPTED AND AGREED TO THIS _____ DAY OF _________________________, 1942.
BY_________________________
(Official Title)
[Form WCCA-FSA-120] STORAGE AND SALE AGREEMENT BETWEEN CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION AND EQUIPMENT DEALER
Form WCCA-FSA-120
(4-25-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
THIS AGREEMENT, made and entered into this _____ day of _________________________, 194_____, by and between the California Evacuated Farms Association, a California corporation, hereinafter called the Association, and _________________________, whose address is (Street) _________________________ (City) _________________________, (State) _________________________, hereinafter called the Dealer,
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, _________________________, an enemy alien or person of Japanese ancestry, Family No. _________________________, hereinafter called the Evacuee, owns or has an interest in the personal property hereinafter described, which property is located on or was used in connection with the operation of the farm located in _________________________ County, State of _________________________, and more particularly described as follows:
AND WHEREAS, said Evacuee was compelled to move from the military area or zone in which said farm is located and either (1) having been unable to effect any other arrangement for the storage, sale or other disposal of the personal property hereinafter described, placed such property in the custody of the Association with authority to sell under a custody agreement and power of attorney, Form WCCA-FSA-100, or (2) having abandoned such property, possession thereof was taken by the Farm Security Administration, and the Association as its agent, acting pursuant to the provisions of Section 5 (b) of the Trading With the Enemy Act, as amended, and
WHEREAS, the Association and the Farm Security Administration desire that such personal property be disposed of in the ordinary trade channels and thus be available for use for agricultural purposes and the Dealer is willing to aid in the accomplishment of this objective,
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto mutually agree as follows:
1. The Association agrees to and hereby does deliver to the Dealer and authorizes the Dealer to take physical possession of the items of personal property hereinafter described and further authorizes the Dealer to care for and store such items in such manner as he may determine, including storage in open areas, such storage to be at the sole risk of the Evacuee and the Association acting for and on his behalf. It is further agreed that no liability or responsibility shall attach to the Dealer with reference to any items of personal property, hereinafter described, of which, for any reason, physical possession cannot be or is not obtained or for any act or omission in connection with the storage of any such items. It is further agreed that the Dealer shall not be required to provide any insurance covering such items.
2. The Dealer is further authorized to sell or dispose of any such items in the ordinary course of trade in such manner as he may determine and to do any and all acts which may be necessary for such purpose, provided that he may not sell or dispose of any such items for less than the minimum sale price hereinafter specified, except with the prior written consent of the Association.
3. The Dealer is authorized to retain out of the proceeds derived from the sale of any such items an amount equal to _________________________ (_____%) percent thereof as his commission, such sum to be accepted by the Dealer in full consideration and payment of all services rendered by him under this agreement, including, but not limited to costs of storage, expenses of sale and delivery charges. The remainder of the proceeds realized from the sale of any particular item shall be paid to the Field Agent of the Farm Security Administration, acting for and on behalf of the Association, at _________________________, _________________________, Payment shall be made in the form of a cashier's check, money order or certified check payable to the order of the California Evacuated Farms Association.
4. The personal property covered by this agreement and the minimum sale price for each item are as follows:
ITEMIZED DESCRIPTION MINIMUM SALE PRICE
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this agreement this _____ day of _________________________, 194_____.
CALIFORNIA EVACUATED FARMS ASSOCIATION
(Title)
EQUIPMENT DEALER
(Authorized Representative)
(Title)
[Form WCCA-FSA-121] RECEIPT OF POSSESSION OF FARM MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT
WCCA-FSA-121
(4-25-42)
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
The undersigned equipment dealer acknowledges that physical possession has been obtained by him of the following items of farm machinery and equipment, possession of which the undersigned is authorized to take under the terms of the storage and sale agreement between the California Evacuated Farms Association and the undersigned entered into on _________________________, 1942 and relating to _________________________ Evacuee, Family No. _________________________.
Dated this _____ day of _________________________, 194_____.
EQUIPMENT DEALER
(Authorized Representative)
(Title)
[Form WCCA-FSA-161] AUTHORIZATION AND ACCEPTANCE
WCCA-FSA-161
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
_________________________
(City)
_________________________
(State)
Date: _________________________
AUTHORIZATION:
To_________________________
(Mortgagee) or (Seller)
The undersigned, (purchaser) (mortgagor) of that certain_________________________ automobile,_________________________year model, motor No. _________________________Serial No._________________________ HEREBY AUTHORIZES AND INSTRUCTS said_________________________, (mortgagee) (seller) to deliver to the United States of America, Farm Security Administration, 30 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, California, the ownership certificate incident thereto upon satisfaction of the present (sales contract) (mortgage) whereupon I promise to execute a new mortgage to said United States of America, Farm Security Administration, 30 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, California, to secure a prior indebtedness.
_________________________
(Mortgager) or (Purchaser)
Date: _________________________
ACCEPTANCE:
_________________________, said (mortgagee) (seller), hereby acknowledges receipt of the above instructions and in accordance therewith agrees to deliver to United States of America, Farm Security Administration, 30 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, California, the ownership certificate incident to said (sales contract) (mortgage), upon satisfaction thereof.
Present balance due $_________________________; last payment of $_________________________ due _________________________ 19_____.
_________________________
(Mortgagee) or (Seller)
By_________________________
(Title)
_________________________
Appendix C - WFA Letters
[ June 11, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS AND DISTRICT OFFICERS IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON:
Copy to: Regional Director, Region XI.
Regional Finance and Business
Managers, Regions XI and IX.
All WFA Regional Office Personnel.
SUBJECT: Discontinuance of WCCA-FSA activity in Washington and Oregon; Transfer of WFA Loans and Personnel to R. R. Offices
It is intended that the Farm Security Administration will terminate its participation in the WCCA Program in all of Military Area No. 1, not later than June 17, 1942. Instructions are already in effect to accomplish this termination in the Region IX portion of Military Area No. 1 by June 15th. Arrangements are also being made for the division of Regional Office supervision of WFA loans which have been made, by the respective Regional Offices in Portland and San Francisco.
In order to accomplish these objectives, the following steps will be taken and the following instructions will be carried out by WFA personnel in Washington and Oregon:
- 1. Effective not later than June 17th, all WFA offices will be closed in accordance with appropriate provision of WFA Instruction 914.1
- 2. All WFA records (except loan dockets and papers relating to powers of attorney or management contracts which are still active) will immediately be shipped to the WFA Program Chief in San Francisco.
- 3. All loan dockets, and all papers which properly should be a part of loan dockets, will be transferred to the County RR Supervisor whose RR jurisdiction includes the county in which the borrowers' property is located
- 4. All WFA personnel, including personnel detailed from FSA offices in the same area or other areas, will be transferred, at least temporarily, to the jurisdiction and the office location of the appropriate RR office.
- 5. All WFA borrowers will immediately be notified as to the new office responsible for servicing and collecting of loans.
- 6. Effective immediately upon the completion of transfer, it is proposed that the RR Supervisor will assume full responsibility
for the servicing and collecting of WFA loans and for direction of the activities of the temporarily-detailed WFA personnel.
The R. R.
― 2 ―Supervisor, acting on instructions from his superior officers, either may assign the WFA personnel to continue working on WFA loan cases, or he may assign WFA personnel to other RR duties, utilizing his own services and those of his staff to service WFA loan cases. - 7. The services of WFA personnel who were originally detailed from FSA rolls, but who will, for the time being, continue to be paid from WFA funds, will continue to be reported to the Portland Office as heretofore. The services of WFA personnel who were employed directly on the WFA Program will, for the time being, continue to be reported separately to the WFA Program Chief in San Francisco, pending the completion of arrangements for other handling by the respective Finance Regional Managers and Regional Personnel Officers.
- 8. It is anticipated that, simultaneously with the release of this letter by the Regional Director for Region XI, appropriate instructions will be issued to the affected RR Supervisors and others, concerning the acquisition of any needed space in RR offices and the obtaining of any necessary additional equipment, methods of handling telegraphic and other services, and the facilitation of payment of charges for these added expenses from special funds provided for this purpose.
- 9. Authority granted by WFA District Officers to WFA Field Agents to execute releases of assignments of crop proceeds is revoked, effective upon the transfer of the WFA Field Agent to the staff of the RR Supervisor. Necessary replacement delegation of this and other authorities will be prescribed by The Region XI Regional Office.
- 10. WFA instruction manuals should be transferred to the RR Offices for such use as may be required. Effective upon the closing of WFA offices, all WFA instructions not pertaining to the servicing and collection of loans, or not consistent with instructions which shall subsequently be issued by the appropriate Regional Office, are declared inoperative.
- 11. As promptly as possible after receiving this letter, each WFA Field Agent will report to the Program Chief by telegram as to the exact date on which his office will be closed and the personnel and loan records transferred to the RR Division. This telegram will also list the names of the personnel (both WFA-employed and detailed from FSA) who are being transferred to the RR Division, and the office or offices to which they are being transferred. An indentical copy of this telegram will be transmitted to Mr. Walter Duffy, Regional Director, in Portland, Oregon.
- 12. Not later than the last day of operation of the WFA Office, the WFA Field Agent in charge will report to Mr. Duffy, Regional Director, the names and case numbers of the borrowers whose dockets are being transferred to the RR Office. If more than one RR Office is involved, a separate list should be prepared covering each such office.
- 13. Upon the closing of the WFA Office and the transfer of loan dockets and personnel to the RR Division, WFA District Officers and Field Agents are removed from the jurisdiction of the WFA Program Chief, and will receive all future instructions from such officials as may be designated by the Regional Director for Region XI.
Arrangements are being made for the immediate transfer of Regional Office dockets for WFA loans in Washington and Oregon to the Regional Office in Portland. All correspondence concerning such loan cases after June 15th should be directed to that office, in accordance with such instructions as may be issued.
Chief, WFA Program
[ June 9, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
TO ALL FIELD AGENTS IN MILITARY AREA NO. 1:
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
SUBJECT: Flexible Farm Lease, Form Agri-1
WFA Field Agents have in many cases obtained tenure improvement for farm operators by securing leases for them on Form Agri-1, Flexible Farm Lease (See WFA Instruction 923.1, Paragraph II B 2).
It is required that the names of all farm operators who sign Form Agri-1 be reported by the Farm Security Administration to the Department of Agriculture. Each Field Agent will submit to the Regional Office a list containing the names and addresses of all farm operators in his territory for whom the WFA Program has been instrumental in securing tenure improvement by means of this Flexible Farm Lease, to the maximum extent possible to do so.
This list should indicate which of these farm operators are also WFA Loan Borrowers.
Where names and addresses are not available, the Field Agent should report the closest possible estimate of the number of farm operators for whom the WFA Program has secured Flexible Farm Leases.
Preparation of this report should receive the preferred attention of all Field Agents. It is desired that the information be received in the Regional Office by Friday, June 12, 1942.
Chief, WFA Program
[ June 9, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
TO ALL RR SUPERVISORS IN CALIFORNIA AND PHOENIX, ARIZONA; WFA FIELD AGENTS IN MILITARY AREA NO. 1 (CALIFORNIA ONLY); DISTRICT RR SUPERVISORS IN CALIFORNIA AND ARIZONA; WFA DISTRICT OFFICERS (CALIFORNIA ONLY); ALL EMPLOYEES, REGIONAL LOAN AND COLLECTION SECTION.
SUBJECT: Transfer of WFA loans and personnel to RR offices; Discontinuance of WCCAFSA activity in California and Arizona.
Copy to: Regional Finance and Business
Manager; Regional Personnel
Officer; Regional Attorney.
It is intended that the Farm Security Administration will terminate its participation in the WCCA Program in that portion of Military Area No. 1 included within Region IX not later than June 15. In order to accomplish this objective, the following steps will be taken and the following instructions will be carried out:
- 1. Effective not later than June 13, all WFA offices in California and Arizona not created for the purpose of assisting in the evacuation of enemy aliens and others from Military Zone No. 2 will be closed.
- 2. All WFA office records (except loan dockets) will immediately be shipped or otherwise transferred to the Regional Office.
- 3. All loan dockets, and all papers which properly should be a part of loan dockets, will be transferred to the County RR Supervisor whose RR jurisdiction includes the county in which the WFA borrower's property is located.
- 4. All WFA personnel, including personnel detailed from RR or RP offices in the same area or other areas, will be transferred, at least temporarily, to the jurisdiction and the office location of the appropriate RR office.
- 5. All WFA borrowers will immediately be notified as to the new office responsible for servicing and collecting of loans.
-
6. Effective immediately upon the completion of transfer, the RR Supervisor will assume full responsibility for the servicing and collecting of WFA loans and for direction of the activities of the temporarily-detailed WFA personnel. The RR Supervisor either may assign the WFA personnel to continue working on WFA loan cases, or he may assign such personnel to other RR duties, utilizing his own services and those of his regular staff to service WFA loan cases.
This latter method, or some modification of it, may be found preferable in that it will facilitate the RR staff's becoming familiar with the variations in policy and procedure involved in WFA loans from usual RR standards.
- 7. The services of WFA personnel will be reported separately from the regular staff of the RR office by the submission of
daily attendance cards, as heretofore. If additional space is required in order to house the personnel who will be temporarily
detailed, or later permanently employed, to compensate for the added work created by the transfer of WFA loans to the RR office,
the following steps should be taken:
- (a) If space is available in the building now housing the RR office, and if FSA has an existing lease on the office quarters and a supplemental lease may be written, the RR Supervisor should secure a letter from the lessor outlining the details of rental; i.e., the amount of rent per month, dimensions of the room, the room number, etc., and transmit this information to the Regional Office, requesting that the space be leased. Every effort will be made to secure immediate action.
- (b) If it is necessary to acquire space in a building where FSA does not now lease quarters, procedure similar to the above should be followed, except that approximately ten days will be required from date of receipt of the lessor's letter to date of occupancy, in order to permit opportunity to advertise for bids and to negotiate the lease.
- 8. Pending the issuance of further instructions, and pending the consolidation of WFA loan dockets with other client files in the Regional Office, all correspondence pertaining to WFA loans will be addressed to the WFA Program Chief. The costs of necessary telephone and telegraph messages to the Regional Office from RR offices will not be paid in the field for the time being, but such messages will be sent collect, to facilitate payment of the charges from special funds provided for this purpose.
- 9. If additional telephone equipment is considered essential for the use of the added personnel, the usual form of request should be transmitted to the Regional Business Manager, with particular attention being called to the fact that facilities are required as a result of the addition of the WFA loan activity.
- 10. If additional office equipment (desks, chairs, typewriters) is required for the use of the additional personnel, a telegram or letter should be directed to the WFA Program Chief requesting instructions for the rental of such equipment.
-
11. It is not intended that the addition of WFA personnel to the staff of RR offices will in any way affect or modify the usual lines of authority extending to RR Supervisors in the field. WFA personnel will be under the complete jurisdiction of the RR Supervisor, who in turn will continue under the direct supervision of the District RR Supervisor.
For the time being, WFA District Officers will visit RR offices servicing WFA loans, and will act as special advisors to RR Supervisors and District RR Supervisors as to the policies, history, objectives, and any special procedures relating to WFA loans. WFA District Officers will not, however, exercise any administrative supervision of RR Supervisors or RR office staffs.
- 12. Requests for special WCCA-FSA forms will be transmitted for action to the WFA Program Chief.
-
13. Authority granted by WFA District Officers to WFA Field Agents to execute releases of assignments of crop proceeds is revoked effective upon the transfer of the WFA Field Agent to the staff of the RR office. RR Supervisors are hereby delegated the authority to execute "Partial Release of Assignment" on Form WFA-42 to cover cultural, harvesting, and other costs contemplated in the borrower's operating plan to be paid from income. It will be the responsibility of the RR Supervisor to not release crop proceeds to cover costs already contemplated and provided for in the loan.
It will further be the responsibility of the RR Supervisor to make such examination into the borrower's needs, or such inspection of the borrower's crops, as may be necessary to insure that execution of the release will be in furtherance of the FSA's primary aim with respect to WFA loans — collection of the entire indebtedness at the earliestiest date possible.
- 14. RR Supervisors are hereby delegated the authority to receive applications for release on Form FSA-LE-90 of livestock,
machinery, and other chattels from the Government's mortgage; and are authorized to execute Form FSA-LE-99, "Release," covering
such property, provided the following requirements are met:
- (a) All proceeds of sale of the indicated chattels will be paid on the loan.
- (b) Sale or disposition of the chattels will not adversely affect the borrower's ability to produce the crop and repay the loan.
- (c) The price to be received for the released chattels is consistent with the value thereof, as shown in the borrower's loan application, or is verified by personal inspection by the RR Supervisor as being adequate.
The details of closing of WFA offices will be accomplished in accordance with the applicable provisions of WFA Instruction 914.1. WFA instruction manuals should be transferred to the RR offices for such use as may be required. Instructions will be forthcoming which will make the handling of collections for WFA loans as nearly as practicable similar to the handling of remittances on RR loans.
It must be kept in mind by all concerned that WFA loans were made for a special purpose, to borrowers who could not qualify for standard or non-standard Rural Rehabilitation loans. It has not been an objective of the WFA Program to promote the rehabilitation of borrowers, but rather, simply to provide necessary financing of new operators in order to facilitate the evacuation of enemy aliens and other designated persons from vital military areas, as prescribed by the Western Defense Command and Fourth Army.
Consequently, many of the considerations applying to the servicing and collecting of RR loans will not be applicable in the handling of WFA loans. The Farm Security Administration's interest in these latter loans is purely that of a liquidating agency; it is desired that the utmost aggressiveness be applied to collection in full of the amounts owing as promptly as possible, and it will be the policy of the FSA that each borrower will be expected and required to adhere strictly to the terms of his obligation.
Further instructions relative to the handling of WFA loans by County RR offices will be transmitted to the field in a short time. Any questions of immediate importance not covered in this letter should be referred to the Regional Office.
Assistant Regional Director, RR
Chief, WFA Program
[ June 1, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR PROMPT ATTENTION
TO: WFA DISTRICT OFFICERS WFA FIELD AGENTS WFA FIELD OFFICE TIME AND LEAVE CLERKS
SUBJECT: Delays in receipt of salary checks
Salary checks for the period May 1 to 15, 1942 for WAE personnel in WFA Field Offices have been unduly delayed in being issued. It is expected that delivery of these checks will be accomplished on Tuesday or Wednesday, June 2nd or 3rd.
Every effort possible has been made in the Regional Office to expedite the processing of this roll. Difficulty, however, for the most part, has been attributable to the failure of the Field Offices to furnish necessary information in accordance with instructions with respect to the complete and accurate reporting of separations, leave, etc., thereby making it impossible to complete preparation and submission of the entire payroll until long after the close of the payroll period.
More than one office did not follow instructions to report telegraphically the attendance on the last day of the pay period ending May 15, 1942. Considerable numbers of temporary personnel were separated from the service during the period May 1 to 15, 1942, and the preparation of rolls was delayed by the inaccurate, incomplete or delayed reporting of specific information as to the date and hour when the employees actually left duty.
It is quite common for this office to receive by letter or telegram such indefinite information as contained in the following quotations:
"We have received a letter of resignation from Carl _________________________ and accept it due to the fact that he wishes to continue operation on his ranch." (No copy of resignation or leave slips attached.)
"Request termination of employment of Hugh _________________________. Accepted position with other firm." (No other information submitted)
"John _________________________ being terminated May 12." (No information as to the hour, and no information as to whether this is to be the effective date, including annual leave, of employee's termination or if, instead, this is the date of leaving duty on closing annual leave.)
It should be kept in mind that employees who have served continuously for a certain period may be entitled to annual leave and that calculation of such leave is accomplished by means of the records maintained in the Regional Office. The "effective date" of a resignation or termination is not necessarily the date when the employee leaves duty.
If Field Offices generally will be prompt, explicit, and correct in the information which they report regarding time, leave, separations, etc., most of the difficulties with respect to delayed salary checks can be readily overcome.
The saving of time and communications costs in the preparation of telegrams is highly commendable, but when such savings are effected at the expense of accuracy and completeness, requiring a series of inquiries and explanations before the original sense of the telegram can be determined, all of the advantages of conciseness are lost.
Although it is impossible to furnish examples for every conceivable type of report on personnel status, leave and time, the following completely informative method, requiring no follow-up for further inquiry, might be employed in cases where the circumstances fit:
"May 15, 1942
HOWARD JONES, LEE FRAZIER, MATHA BROWN, MARY SMITH ON DUTY TODAY. MARY SMITH RESIGNING, LEAVING DUTY 2 P.M. MAY 15. BLANK, SIGNED LEAVE SLIPS, SIGNED RESIGNATION, EXPLANATORY LETTER IN MAIL.
HOWARD JONES , FIELD AGENT."
Such a telegram received as early as possible on the actual last day of the payroll period would, so far as this particular office is concerned, make possible the delivery of salary checks within a relatively few days following the close of the payroll period.
A reasonable search of the files of correspondence and telegrams on this subject reveals comparatively few examples of such complete information having been received. We greatly regret the delay in issuance of salary checks for the first half of May, and request the diligent cooperation of all reporting officers in our effort to prevent recurrence of this experience.
Chief, WFA Program
[ June 1, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATED DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Discontinuance of Special Field Agents
Effective June 1, 1942, the function of Special Field Agent in the WCCA-FSA program is discontinued.
This designation is not to be confused with that of Field Agent. Special Field Agents were stationed at Federal Reserve offices in principal cities to answer general inquiries and direct prospective operators to appropriate field offices.
Chief, WFA Program
[ May 29, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA DISTRICT OFFICERS
SUBJECT: Delegation of Authority to Execute Partial Release of Assignment
Copy to: WFA Field Agents in Charge
of Offices; All Personnel,
WFA Loan Section
Reference is made to our letter of April 15, 1942, on the subject, "Preparation of Partial Release of Assignment of Proceeds of Sale of Mortgaged Crops." With the recent determination to decrease the number of District Officers in the WFA Program, and with the increasing attention which must be given to requirements for the partial release of the 100% crop assignments taken in connection with WFA loans, it becomes necessary to provide additional officers with the power to execute releases.
WFA District Officers are authorized to redelegate to WFA Field Agents in charge of offices (provided such agents are bonded in favor of the United States and are regular employees of the Farm Security Administration) the power to execute "Partial Release of Assignment" on Form WFA-42. In redelegating this authority, District Officers will stipulate, and delegatees will be bound by, the restrictions and provisions of the letter of April 15, 1942, above referred to. In the event of doubt as to the propriety of executing the Partial Release of Assignment for any WFA borrower, the delegatee will discuss the subject with the WFA District Officer before exercising this authority.
It should be noted and emphasized that the principal interest of the WFA Program and the FSA in WFA loans which have been made is the early and complete collection of all amounts advanced, with accrued interest. This should be kept in mind when request is received for the partial release from the WFA assignment of proceeds of sale of crops or livestock products.
Chief, WFA Program
[ May 28, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
In reply refer to WFA-WCH
TO ALL WFA EMPLOYEES:
You will be interested in the following, which is quoted from a recent letter addressed to the Regional Director by Colonel Karl R. Bendetsen, General DeWitt's Assistant Chief of Staff:
"As the program of evacuation draws to a close, permit me to express my personal gratitude for your able cooperation and the valued assistance performed by representatives of the Farm Security Administration.
"The services that you and your subordinates have contributed through handling all problems relating to the evacuation of Japanese from farms in Military Area No. 1, have been signal and outstanding. They have played no small share in whatever success has been achieved."
And let this express my own sincere thanks to a loyal, cooperative, and energetic staff for having so well merited the praise that the Farm Security Administration has received from many sources. In spite of the good deal of excitement and strain and weariness involved, you carried out a difficult assignment with a maximum of dispatch and effectiveness.
Our participation in the WCCA program is nearing completion. Some of the field offices have been closed and others will be closed in the next couple of weeks. Some of our staff have returned to their regular FSA positions or to other tasks. Others will be leaving soon. Plans are under way for future servicing and collection of WFA loans.
Whether you approach the closing of our WFA program with regret or with a sense of relief, at least be assured that your effort was worth while and that it contributed to our Nation's security. Thank you a lot.
Chief, WFA Program
- CROP AND CHATTEL MORTGAGE:
-
- 1. Description of Land
- Description of the land should be complete. Ordinarily, complete description can be obtained from the lease or the owner's deed.
- 2. Description of Chattels
- Description of chattels, livestock and/or equipment should be so complete as to permit identification without the assistance of outside evidence. This will be accomplished ordinarily if care is exercised to provide the information called for by the respective columns in the mortgage form, such as brand, manufacturer, serial number, etc.
- 3. Paragraph III (2)
- In California mortgages, paragraph III (2) must be completed; otherwise, certain security provisions contained in the fictitious crop and chattel mortgage mentioned in said paragraph will be omitted, necessitating the execution and recordation of a new mortgage.
- 4. Recorder's Receipt
- Regarding California mortgages, since some time may elapse before the original mortgage is returned to the Regional Office by the recorder, the recorder's receipt evidencing payment of the filing fee and the date of filing should be forwarded to the Regional Office.
- 5. Certified Copy
- Regarding mortgages from Washington and Oregon, there should be forwarded to the Regional Office either a certified copy of the filed mortgage or an ordinary copy on which the field agent certifies in the upper left-hand corner thereof "This is a true and correct copy of the original filed mortgage" and to which has been affixed the receipt from the recorder evidencing payment of the filing fee and date of filing mortgage.
- 6. Future Advances
- When preparing the mortgage, the provision for future advances should always be completed if the approved operating plan calls for such advances.
- MOTOR VEHICLE MORTGAGE:
-
- 1. Regional Office Copy
- In California, forward to the Regional Office a copy of the mortgage filed with the Division of Motor Vehicles in Sacramento, California. The field agent should certify in the upper left-hand corner of the mortgage form that "This is a true and correct copy of the original filed mortgage."
- 2. Recorder's Receipt
- In all cases, there should be requested and sent to the Regional Office the receipt evidencing payment of the filing fee and date of filing of the motor vehicle mortgage.
- 3. Ownership Certificate
- In all cases, the new certificate of ownership indicating the United States of America as legal owner of the motor vehicle is to be forwarded to the Regional Office. When endorsing the old certificate or when giving the address of the United States of America and in any other part of the proceedings in taking the motor vehicle mortgage, the address of the Regional Office should be given: 30 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, California.
- 4. Borrower's Agreement to Mortgage
- If the borrower's motor vehicle included in the crop and chattel mortgage is subject to a conditional sales contract, or in California cases if the motor vehicle is already mortgaged, an agreement should be obtained from the borrower and accepted by his creditor, a sample of which agreement is attached hereto. The original or executed copy of this instrument should be forwarded to the Regional Office.
- 5. Must be in Mortgage
- The borrower's motor vehicle must be included in the crop and chattel mortgage even though it is being purchased under a conditional sales contract or is subject to a prior encumbrance.
― 2 ― - ASSIGNMENT OF PROCEEDS:
-
- 1. Send Copy Even Though Marketing Agency is Not Established
- A copy of the assignment of proceeds executed by the borrower only should be forwarded to the Regional Office even though at the time it is executed no arrangements have been made with a definite marketing agency. When the borrower subsequently makes final arrangements with a definite marketing agency, send to the Regional Office at that time another assignment of proceeds executed by the borrower and accepted by the marketing organization.
- 2. Identify Crops Covered
- WFA-40 has no special provision for identifying the crops covered in the agreement with the marketing organization; however, this information should be indicated somewhere on the form, and it is suggested that it be done directly underneath the heading "Acceptance of Assignment and Subordination Agreement" by merely typing "tomatoes", "onions", "potatoes", etc. In the letter to the Regional Office accompanying the assignment, state whether the marketing agreement of the respective crops covers all or only a portion of crops mentioned therein.
- 3. Sale Date
- When forwarding the assignment to the Regional Office, if possible, state when the sale of the crops may be expected.
- 4. Unconditional Acceptance
- The acceptance by the marketing organization should be unconditional. If they anticipate making advances, Form WFA-42 (4-15-42), Partial Release of Assignment, should be completed and approved by the District Officer and then forwarded to the Regional Office.
- REPORT OF LIEN SEARCH:
-
- 1. Basic Report by Title Company
- Some reports are signed by the field agent or his assistant. The basic search should be conducted by a professional searcher or title company; however, supplemental searches necessary to complete the basic reports may be made by the field agent. If this is done by his assistant, the report should be signed by the field agent as well as the assistant.
- 2. Required on Relinquisher and Borrower
- Reports on both the borrower and relinquisher are necessary, and the originals thereof should be forwarded to the Regional Office.
- 3. Required Period
- The report must show on its face in the space already provided therefor in the form (FSA-LE-87) that the search was made for the required period (California, four years; Washington and Oregon, five years).
- 4. Personal Property Search
- Title company reports as well as reports submitted on Form FSA-LE-87 do not include personal property taxes. The proper records must be searched for personal property taxes and a report thereon be made. Where this has not been included in the original report, the supplemental search may be made by the field agent and his report submitted on Form FSA-LE-87.
- 5. Search to Include Date of Mortgage
- The period searched often does not go far enough in that it is not continued up to and including the date the mortgage was filed or recorded. This necessitates a supplemental search for the intervening period not searched, which can be conducted by the field agent and his report submitted on Form FSA-LE-87.
- 6. Supplemental Search
- Where a new crop and chattel mortgage was prepared and filed or recorded because of the insufficiency of the original filed or recorded mortgage, it will be necessary that a complete supplemental search be made on the borrower covering the period from date of the filing or recordation of the original mortgage to and including the date of the filing and recordation of the new mortgage.
- 7. Satisfaction of Prior Liens
- Where the report discloses prior liens affecting the security of the loan, a subordination and non-disturbance agreement should be obtained, or, if such liens are no longer effective, a release or satisfaction should be obtained from the lien holder, and the originals of such agreement, release, or satisfaction should be forwarded to the Regional Office.
- 8. Satisfaction of Conditional Sales Contract
- Where the report discloses a conditional sales contract for equipment purchased from the relinquisher with part of the loan proceeds, a satisfaction of the conditional sales contract should be obtained from the conditional vendor and the original should be forwarded to the Regional Office.
- BILL OF SALE:
- Copy to Regional Office
While it was not originally made a condition, copies of bills of sale should be sent to the Regional Office where none have been submitted. - FORM WFA-14 (CONDITIONAL LOAN APPROVAL):
- The original of this form is to be retained by the field agent, and the copy is to be signed by the field agent under the paragraph on the reverse side of the form stating that all the loan conditions have been satisfied and to be forwarded to the Regional Office. In cases where the majority of the conditions have been satisfied but some time is required to satisfy the remaining conditions, the field agent should sign the form and directly below his signature he should explain which conditions are yet to be satisfied and when he expects to complete them. Any further information should be presented which will eliminate the need of unnecessary correspondence.
- ASSURANCE OF TENURE:
- Make certain, in review of field dockets, that there is evidence assuring tenure for period of indebtedness to WCCA. Each field docket must contain a copy of the lease, and, if a lease was assigned to the borrower, there must be an assignment of the lease in addition to the lease.
[ May 22, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA DISTRICT OFFICERS:
SUBJECT: Insufficient Completion of Security Instruments and Attendant Documents
A review of the security instruments and attendant documents submitted by field agents in compliance with loan approval conditions reveals that certain errors are commonly made in their preparation and execution, and that all security instruments and other documents are not forwarded to the Regional Office.
As a result, there has been a great deal of communication with Field Offices requesting that they send certain documents or that they forward corrected instruments. For instance, it has been necessary that requests be made to forward to the Regional Office original recorded crop and chattel mortgages in California cases and in other cases certified copies of such mortgages, certificates of ownership of motor vehicles which have been taken as additional security, assignments of proceeds from sale of mortgaged crops even though the purchaser is not presently known, the form WFA-14 properly signed by the field agent under the paragraph stating that all the conditions have been complied with, and copies of various releases and satisfactions. Reports of lien searches have not been completely accomplished in that the search is not for the required period, nor do the searches go far enough in that they are not continued up to and including the date the mortgage was filed or recorded.
A summary has been made of these common errors and is attached hereto. The extra copies are for distribution to the field offices in your district. You are requested to review the attached summary with the respective field agents so that they will understand what is required for the proper completion of security instruments and other documents in satisfaction of loan conditions.
In order to save time and effort involved in reviewing the loans and corresponding with field agents from the Regional Office regarding requirements necessary to satisfy the loan conditions or the submission of necessary instruments or documents to complete the loan dockets, it is further requested that the field agents be instructed to conduct a review of all WFA loan dockets in their respective offices, having in mind the errors and incomplete matters set out in the attached schedule, and to give such further attention and action as may be required.
Attachments
Chief, WFA Program
[ May 21, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS,
DISTRICT OFFICERS AND WFA
REGIONAL OFFICE EMPLOYEES:
Please delete from your address list all reference to WCCA Field Office at Anchorage, Alaska. Although the Farm Security Administration has a representative in Alaska, he is not in any way connected with Wartime Civil Control Administration activity.
Chief, WFA Program
[ May 21, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS:
SUBJECT: Completing Form WFA-2
It is desired to learn the race as well as the citizenship status of all WFA Borrowers. You are requested to submit a report to this office not later than Wednesday, May 27th, listing the number of borrowers for your area in each of the following categories:
- White
- Negro
- Chinese
- Filipino
- Mexican
- Hindu
- Other (specify)
This information should also be entered on all copies of Form WFA-2 referring to borrowers. The applicable word may be inserted directly above "CITIZENSHIP STATES". Where information is readily available, the race should also be noted on WFA-2 Cards for other new operators who are not borrowers.
The word "LOAN" should be printed in the extreme upper right-hand corner of all WFA-2 Cards representing operators who have received WFA loans.
Many Field Offices have inquired as to the need for completed Form WFA-2 for all operators taking over farms. A WFA-2 Card should be prepared in full, where possible, for every farm operator who takes over acreage subject to relinquishment whether or not the transaction was completed with the assistance of the WFA. WFA-2 Cards should be fully cross-referenced with WFA-1 Cards (see WFA Instruction 929.2, Paragraph II B 1 c). It is assumed that these cards can be completed without the need for additional field surveys.
In addition to cross-referencing WFA-1 and WFA-2 Cards, both should be reconciled with the WFA-30 and WFA-31 Forms completed by the Evacuation Control crews.
Chief, WFA Program
[ May 16, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Shipping Files to Regional Office when closing Field Office
Copy to: District Officers
You are being sent herewith a Government Bill of Lading (Standard Form 1058) to be used in shipping files and records to the Regional Office when and if your Field Office is ordered closed (see WFA Instruction 914.1, Closing or Consolidating Field Offices).
If you are notified to transfer or consolidate your Field Office with another Field Office rather than close it outright, return this Bill of Lading unused to the Regional Office.
As explained in WFA Instruction 914.1, only files of Form WFA-1, WFA-2, WFA-30, WFA-31 and general correspondence will be shipped to the Regional Office. Unused forms and stationery are to be distributed locally. Loan Dockets will be disposed of as directed in the telegram notifying you to close your office.
Packages weighing 4 pounds or less may be sent postage-free by mail. While it is not permissible to split bulk shipments into small packages for the purpose of gaining this franking privilege, you may ship each type of completed form in a separate envelope and all folders of general correspondence in a single envelope. The bill of lading is to be used only if one of these types of items weighs over 4 pounds, in which case, the entire shipment must be sent by express or freight. Parcel post will not be available.
If at the time of closing your office you find that the material to be shipped to the Regional Office cannot be broken down by type into four-pound lots, take the following steps:
- 1 Pack files and records in one or more cartons or strong packages, plainly addressed to the Chief, WFA Program, at San Francisco.
- 2 Determine the most practical and economical mode of transportation (express, freight, etc.)
- 3 Insert the following information on all copies of the enclosed bill of lading:
- a Description of materials being shipped. Ordinarily the phrase "PRINTED MATTER" will be sufficient.
- b Total weight (to be inserted by carrier on all copies)
- c Sign on line marked "Signature of Consignor" at middle left, indicating by crossing out "was" or "was not" whether you delivered the shipment to the carrier's office or whether he picked it up at your office.
- d Have carrier sign original white and yellow copy on the line marked "Agent", lower center right.
― 2 ― - 4 Surrender pink copy to carrier.
- 5 Mail original white and yellow copies to Chief, WFA Program, at San Francisco.
- 6 Notify the Regional Office by wire that all records have been shipped and all equipment and supplies properly accounted for and disposed of. (See WFA Instruction 914.1)
As this bill of lading is serially numbered, it is important that it either be used to ship your files and records to the Regional Office, or returned to the Regional Office unused.
Enclosure
Chief, WFA Program
[ May 13, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS:
SUBJECT: Leave Slips in Connection with Termination
Copy to District Officers:
When recommending termination of a field employee, the WFA Field Agent should include in the letter to the Regional Office a blank leave slip (Form AD-17-A) signed by the employee on the first line and by himself as officer "In Charge."
From personnel records, the Regional Office will determine the amount of leave, if any, owing the employee and will credit him with this amount. This requirement will be incorporated in WFA Instruction 905.1, Employment of Administrative and Clerical Personnel for WFA Field Offices, Section IX.
Chief, WFA Program
[ May 12, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS:
SUBJECT: Weekly Report
Copy to: All District Officers
Enclosed for your information is a copy of the complete weekly report covering the activities of all WFA field offices for the period ended Friday, May 8, 1942, and a chart showing by districts the proportion of acreage subject to relinquishment which has been transferred to date.
As you know, this report is based on weekly telegrams submitted by all field offices. The report must be in the hands of military officials Monday morning. These telegrams are received Saturday, and all the work of tabulating, calculating and typewriting must be finished that day. Under the best of conditions this involves considerable overtime work for clerical and administrative personnel.
A glance at the report will show you that until the last telegram has been received, it is impossible to compute district, state and four-state totals. It has been our experience each week for two or three offices to be tardy in submitting their telegraphic reports. While the complex problems confronting the field personnel in the collection of this data are recognized, it is nevertheless mandatory that all weekly telegraphic reports be filed Friday evening for arrival in the regional office early Saturday morning. Special reference cannot be made to individual field offices, as different ones are late each week. Field Agents must therefore be impressed with the necessity for submitting a telegram Friday evening either furnishing the data requested or reasonable estimates, together with reasons why the data is in arrears.
On the whole, field personnel are to be commended for the promptness and accuracy with which they are submitting information of a difficult nature.
Attachments - 2
Chief, WFA Program
Report of Farm Security Administration Participation in the WCCA Program for the Period Ending May 8, 1942 [page 1]
Report of Farm Security Administration Participation in the WCCA Program for the Period Ending Survey. May 8, 1942 [page 2]
Acreage Registered for Relinquisment
[ May 9, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
May 9, 1942
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
Subject: Confidential; Plans for Reduction of WFA Staff
Copy to: District Officers
According to word received from Army officials it is anticipated that the work of the WFA program, other than that of servicing and collecting the loans that have been made, will be concluded on or about June 30, 1942. In some areas it is possible that earlier dates may be set. Plans are in process of preparation at the present time with respect to the method of handling to be employed in providing for the servicing of loans after present WFA activities are discontinued.
In some of the field offices Japanese have been excluded from the entire area served by the office some time ago. In other offices portions of the office territory have heretofore been made subject to exclusion orders. In still other office territories registration preparatory to exclusion is now under way or is expected to be under way within a few days.
There have been found two principal factors affecting the necessity for retention of personnel temporarily employed in the WFA program after evacuation of the territory served by the WFA office: (1) The number of farm transfer transactions not actually completed at the time of evacuation and (2) the number and types of loans which either are in process of preparation or approval or have yet to receive completion and satisfaction of the loan closing conditions.
As a general matter of administrative policy it is not contemplated that FSA representation will be removed completely from WCCA offices until it has been demonstrated that the entire problem of transfer of Japanese operations has been met as completely as possible and until all except the routine servicing and collection has been completed on any pending or approved WFA loans. At the same time, every effort possible should be made to restrict the use of services of personnel especially employed to work in this program to only that degree actually necessary to complete the work of the field office prior to closing.
In some offices, where evacuation of the entire area served has already been accomplished and where no loan work remains to be done, it might be possible to reduce the FSA office staff to the Field Agent in charge and a stenographer,
In offices where none or only a small part of the area has been evacuated, but where transfer transactions have been completed on substantially all of the registered farms, it may be possible to reduce the staff to a fraction of the number employed at the peak of operations. In such cases, if it appears that it might be necessary to recall some of the personnel to duty during the actual evacuation process, it may be desirable, instead of recommending immediate termination of services, simply to place the affected WAE employees off duty for a temporary period.
In offices where a considerable number of farms remain to be transferred or where considerable loan work remains to be done, it is desired that as many of the field employees be retained on the rolls as may be necessary to complete the work assigned to the office.
It should be noted that a large number of temporary 60-day appointments effected during the first few weeks of the WFA program will be expiring within a short time. In order that this office may be able to formulate plans, and determine the extent of necessity of extending some of these appointments for a longer period, each Field Agent is requested to submit by return mail a narrative discussion of the probable need for extension of appointments and the plans for terminating or "laying off" WAE personnel within the next few weeks. It will be helpful if the Field Agent can find it possible to list the personnel in various classes (clerk-stenographer, field agent) in the order of their need for retention on the program. In other words, indicate which employees should be terminated first and, if possible, when the approximate date of termination should occur. There may be some offices which, because of resignations or premature terminations, are actually in need of additional personnel. In addition there is possibility that positions may later be available in the FSA for some of the people who have been employed in the WFA program. Therefore, in the Field Agent's reply to this letter reference to cases of apparently outstanding ability will be quite helpful and may result in extended employment for personnel who might otherwise be terminated.
District Officers are requested to keep in close contact with and to advise Field Agents relative to keeping employment in field offices at the level consistent with the work to be done.
Chief, WFA Program
[ May 4, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL DISTRICT OFFICERS:
SUBJECT: Voluntary Services on Behalf of the WFA Program
Copy to: Special Field Agents;
WFA Section Heads
In a number of instances since the inception of the WFA Program, and especially during the beginning weeks of the program, numerous field agents and district officers have been given extremely valuable assistance in the form of personnel detailed to work on WFA functions without compensation from Farm Security Administration.
In order that proper acknowledgment may be made by the Regional Director's office for such assistance, it will be appreciated if each District Officer, Special Field Agent and WFA Section Chief will submit to this office a statement of the principal facts in connection with each such detail. The information to be provided should include the name and address of the employee whose services were furnished, the name, address, position and agency or organization of the official who was responsible for providing the service and, if possible, a statement of the inclusive period served, the nature and extent of the work done, and any other significant facts. It would be additionally helpful if the District Officer concerned can find time to submit with the information a proposed draft of the letter of appreciation which he suggests might be recopied for the signature of the Regional Director.
The names and other data concerning individuals not attached to an established organization or agency who have likewise contributed materially and without compensation to the operation of the WFA Program should also be reported.
Chief, WFA Program
[ May 1, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL FIELD AGENTS Subject: Register of New Operators Taking Over Farm Lands of Japanese
Copy to: District Officers
Military authorities have requested to be furnished with specific data concerning all persons entering upon or operating lands formerly farmed by Japanese evacuees or by Japanese facing evacuation. Therefore, it is requested that each Field Agent submit to this office the following information with respect to each registered relinquisher's farm property in the territory covered by his office:
- 1. Name of relinquishing farm operator.
- 2. Mailing address or location of farm.
- 3. Name of new farm operator, if any, who has taken over operation of farm. (If not yet transferred, so indicate.)
This information should be prepared in list form on letter-size sheets with the three items of information presented in three columns across the sheet. The first page of each list should be headed in accordance with the specimen attached, each page should be numbered and, for purposes of uniformity, it is desired that there be as little deviation as necessary from the form shown. The names of original relinquishing operators of all farms registered to date should be arraneged [arranged] in alphabetical order and numbered for identification. The "address or location" of farms should be such as to permit their being located readily. In any case where the new operator is a corporation, association or legal entity other than a natural person, information should be provided, as in the attached exhibit, as to the principal business address of the organization.
As additional farms, if any, are finally transferred to new operators supplemental lists should be submitted to this office. Each list should be prepared in an original and three copies, the original and two copies of which should be submitted to the Regional Office, attention Records, Reports and Procedure Unit. Every effort possible should be made to have the completed lists in the Regional Office by not later than May 8, 1942 and to have each list in as correct condition as possible in order to permit immediate referral to military officials.
Chief, WFA Program
LIST OF PERSONS ENTERING UPON OR OPERATING LANDS FORMERLY FARMED BY JAPANESE EVACUEES OR BY JAPANESE FACING EVACUATION
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Reported by Special FSA Office at _________________________, _________________________ Date _________________________
| Name of Japanese Operator | Address & Location of Farm | Name of New Operator |
| 1. Abe, Yoshio | Route 3, Box 16 Salinas, California (5 miles south of Salinas on Hitchcock Road) | Not transferred |
| 2. Akiyoshi, T. | Route 2, Box 295 Watsonville, California (Riverside Road District) | Laurence Baker |
| 3. Ayoama, Shunju | Route 1, Box 74 Salinas, California (Hitchcock Road near Japanese Schoolhouse) | Andrews & Johnson Produce Company Watsonville, California |
| 4. Baba, Toyozo | Route 2, Box 314 Salinas, California (Hubbard's Lane between airfield and golf course) | Harry Buckingham |
| 5. Baba, Takeji | Route 3, Box 215 Gilroy, California (3 miles northwest of Gilroy on Woodbridge Road) | Gilmore Berry Corporation Gilmore, California |
[ April 30, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
TO ALL EVACUATION AGENTS, ASSOCIATE EVACUATION AGENTS AND DISTRICT EVACUATION AGENTS:
SUBJECT: Control Station Operation.
In a recent evacuation project, 39 Japanese farm operators were routed through the Control Station and interviewed by other agency representatives without being referred to the Farm Security Administration. This failure, properly to refer cases, required a complete re-check of all cases and special arrangements for the return of Japanese farm operators to the Control Station.
In another evacuation, the same situation was encountered, although the result was less serious. In still another instance, special precautions had to be taken soon after the station was in operation to avoid a similar result. Other complaints have come into this office from practically every area where evacuation has taken place.
It is quite clear that no rigid formula can be used to correct this situation. Therefore, each Evacuation Agent, Associate Evacuation Agent, and District Evacuation Agent is hereby charged with the responsibility of using his own resources to provide that every Japanese farm operator, nurseryman, greenhouse operator, or oyster farmer among the Japanese evacuees clears through the Farm Security Administration Control Unit.
In some instances the Evacuation Agent will find it necessary to examine the envelopes of the evacuees and compare the contents with his own records. In other instances an FSA representative will need to be stationed at the control desk for a few hours when the station is opened to see that the Public Assistance workers make proper references. Other situations may be encountered which will require still different action. It will be your responsibility to see that necessary measures are taken.
You are instructed to carry a few extra copies of this letter with you and provide a copy to each new Civil Control Station Manager when you enter upon a new assignment. These people have been very cooperative and will be glad to help you in making whatever arrangements are necessary, and in clarifying instructions to interviewers who represent other agencies.
Chief, Evacuation Control Unit
[ April 30, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS:
Subject: Revised Reporting Procedure
You are being sent herewith Instruction 929.9 (Rev. 4-30-42), Telegraphic Reports from WFA Field Offices. This should be used as a guide in preparing and submitting telegraphic reports, as directed by telegrams from this office.
From time to time, you will receive instructions varying the content of these reports. Instruction 929.9 should therefore be used primarily as a guide to the meanings of the items most frequently requested.
For your information, we are listing below figures for the last weekly report, summarized by state.
| State | Total Farms In Area | Total Farms Registered | Percent of Farms Registered | Acreage Registered | Prospective Operators Applying for Farms |
| Arizona | 30 | 30 | 100.0 | 1,820 | 32 |
| California | 5,293 | 5,281 | 99.8 | 194,482 | 4,182 |
| Oregon | 357 | 357 | 100.0 | 14,960 | 309 |
| Washington | 792 | 792 | 100.0 | 16,521 | 977 |
| TOTAL | 6,472 | 6,460 | 99.8 | 227,783 | 5,500 |
| State | Total Deals Closed | No. Original Farms Involved | Percent of Reg. Farms Involved | Total Acreage Transferred | Percent of Registered Acreage Transferred |
| Arizona | 28 | 28 | 99.3 | 1,759 | 96.6 |
| California | 4,067 | 4,290 | 81.2 | 154,691 | 79.5 |
| Oregon | 344 | 354 | 99.2 | 14,021 | 93.7 |
| Washington | 275 | 277 | 35.0 | 9,461 | 57.3 |
| TOTAL | 4,714 | 4,949 | 76.6 | 179,932 | 79.0 |
| State | Loans Submitted | Loans Approved | Loans Rejected Or Cancelled | Loans in Process Regional Office | No. of Loan Applications in Process Field Offices | ||||
| No. | Amount | No. | Amount | No. | Amount | No. | Amount | ||
| Arizona | 3 | 2,715 | 3 | 2,715 | - | — | - | — | 1 |
| California | 270 | $1,417,052 | 210 | $1,021,252 | 22 | $194,335 | 38 | $201,465 | 221 |
| Oregon | 58 | 222,187 | 43 | 148,884 | 4 | 38,960 | 11 | 34,343 | 8 |
| Washington | 134 | 1,106,023 | 120 | 495,665 | 2 | 17,124 | 12 | 593,234 | 33 |
| TOTAL | 465 | 2,747,977 | 376 | 1,668,516 | 28 | 250,419 | 61 | 829,042 | 263 |
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 29, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
In reply refer to: WFA-LNF
TO ALL EVACUATION CONTROL UNIT PERSONNEL:
SUBJECT: Submission of Final Reports.
I have had mimeographed and sent to you the attached copy of a letter which was received in my office from Mr. Joyce at the close of the Civil Control Station in Santa Barbara.
This letter will suggest to you a type of analysis and action which may be very desirable in some areas when the stations are closed.
If you find reason to believe that the number of Japanese farmers who are registered in the Control Station is appreciably less than the number shown either in the census or in the Field Agent's records, you are requested to find out why such a difference exists.
If the farmers have passed through the station without being referred to FSA, a request should be submitted immediately to the manager of the station to arrange whatever corrective measures are required so that our Evacuation Unit can establish contacts with these farm operators. If the difference is due to previous voluntary evacuation a letter of the type Mr. Joyce has written will be appreciated as part of the permanent record in my office.
Any such information which seems essential as a supplement to Form WFA 31 may be reported in this type of letter.
You are requested to prepare Form 31 carefully, including a transcription of information to all of the appropriate columns in order that those reports may be used as an overall reference summary of our activities. Some of these reports are being received in incomplete condition.
Chief, Evacuation Control Unit
[ April 28, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
TO ALL FSA TRAVELERS WORKING IN CONNECTION WITH THE WCCA PROGRAM
SUBJECT: Submission of Travel Vouchers
Six weeks ago the WCCA Program started very fast and it was necessary that a number of persons travel almost immediately and without notice, and without adequate financial arrangements to take care of the emergency requirements thrust upon them by sudden and extensive travel.
Arrangements were made whereby the Finance Regional Manager advised that in the case of an emergency he would willingly receive and process a travel voucher covering a two-week period, or a specific trip, if the employee was in rather straitened circumstances, for employees working on this program. These arrangements were not intended to replace the normal travel submissions of once every 30 days. They were intended only as a special consideration and not as a regular routine to be established. It now appears that a number of our employees are submitting travel vouchers for amounts less than $25 on a 15-day basis. This would appear to be unnecessary; such submissions just double the amount of work for all concerned in the preparation and handling of vouchers. As a matter of fact, the volume of vouchers on this basis is so great that it may actually delay gettin [getting] out travel checks due to lack of time to complete the audits and prepare the schedules.
You are urgently requested not to submit your vouchers more than once a month unless you are decidedly in need of funds in order to carry on travel for the balance of the month. Emergency requests will be granted but it is desired that all employees cooperate so that the volume of additional work will be kept at a minimum.
Regional Director.
[ April 27, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS AND DISTRICT OFFICERS
Subject: Preparation and Submission of Mortgage
Copy to: All Regional Office
WFA Personnel
Supplementing Field letter of April 2, subject, Submission of Security Instruments with Loan Docket, the following suggestions are offered to help in the preparation of the mortgage:
- 1. Except for the date, Part I of the mortgage must be completely filled in, including the additional advance clause.
- 2. Part II, description of land in the mortgage:
- (a) The land description can be taken from the description given in the lease or deeds, or from the county records, and should be complete and detailed. However, such descriptions may be unduly long; and therefore, for convenience, or to save recording costs, a description which would enable a stranger to locate the property after making inquiries suggested thereby would be sufficient. When this procedure is followed, the acreage, if known; the distance and direction from the nearest town; the name and/or number of the adjoining highway; the name by which the farm is commonly known; and the names of the abutting fields or farms, or their owners, should be given.
- (b) Part II, Paragraphs 2 and 3, description of chattels: A complete, detailed description of all chattels offered as security for the WFA loan, including those purchased from the relinquisher and/or third parties, as well as all chattels owned by the applicant, must be included in the mortgage. In those cases where detailed descriptions of chattels to be purchased from third parties are not available at the time the loan docket is forwarded to the Regional Office, such information must be obtained and the mortgage must be completed prior to execution and recording.
- (c) Part III, Paragraph 1, must show the names of any prior lien-holders and the amount, or amounts, of any existing mortgages on any chattel and/or crops offered as security for the WFA loan by the applicant. Also, identify the chattels listed in Part II, Paragraphs 2 and/or 3, which are covered by such existing mortgages. In case there are no prior liens or encumbrances, the word "none" should be written in this space.
-
(d) Part III, Paragraph 2 (Fictitious Crop and Chattel Mortgage recording data) must in all cases be completed. This applies only to mortgages which are to be recorded in California and/or Arizona.
Copy of "Crop and Chattel Mortgage Covenants" (Form FSA-Le 30.4A) must be executed by mortgagors.
To eliminate additional work in the field, it is suggested that the mortgages be completely typed when the loan docket is prepared, thereby eliminating duplication of work at the time the loan is closed! Mortgages should be prepared as follows:
- 1. California and Arizona: One original and three copies. The mortgage must be signed, acknowledged, and recorded at the time loan check is delivered.
- (a) The original mortgage, properly executed, acknowledged, and recorded, will be forwarded to:
Chief, WFA Program
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
after it has been returned from the County Recorder's office. - (b) One unexecuted copy must be forwarded to the Regional Office with the loan docket as an advance copy to be retained—awaiting regular recorded copy.
- (c) One unexecuted copy to be retained for field office records.
- (d) One unexecuted copy to be delivered to client at time loan is closed.
- (a) The original mortgage, properly executed, acknowledged, and recorded, will be forwarded to:
- 2. Washington and Oregon: One original, one certified copy Certified copy: identical copy of the original, showing all signatures and other matters added to the original at the time
of its execution and recordation for filing, on which has been typed, or to which has been attached a rider containing, a
certification that it is a true and correct copy of the original., and three unexecuted copies.
- (a) The original, properly executed and acknowledged, to be filed for record in the County Clerk's or Recorder's office.
- (b) The certified copy, stamped by the County Clerk or Recorder, with notations thereon of filing or recording data (place,
time, file, book and page, or docket number) must be forwarded to:
Chief, WFA Program
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California - (c) One unexecuted copy to be retained for field office records.
- (d) One unexecuted copy to Regional WFA Office with loan docket as an advance copy to be retained—awaiting certified copy.
- (e) One copy to be delivered to client at time loan is closed.
See WFA Instruction 931.1 Revised 4/5/42, Paragraph X B:
"Field Agents will be responsible for recording and filing legal documents within the shortest time possible after their execution. In order to insure against intervening liens such filing or recording shall always be accomplished within not more that 48 hours after execution, even if it is
― 3 ―necessary to mail the instrument to the county recorder's office with the required fee."
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 27, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
TO ALL FSA PERSONNEL DETAILED TO THE WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION:
SUBJECT: Administration Order Number 6, WCCA, relating to information policy.
Your attention is called to Administration Order No. 6 of the WCCA, issued by Colonel Karl R. Bendetsen, Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil Affairs, Western Defense Command and Fourth Army, on April 22.
In general this order coincides with the WFA Information Policy as laid down in WFA Instruction 921.1 issued on March 16. It authorizes the U.S.E.S. manager to furnish to the press and radio information regarding the functions of the various agencies working out of the WCCA centers. Releases regarding the WFA program should be approved by the U.S.E.S. manager and issued by him, or by WFA field agents with his approval.
Please observe and follow this procedure. Your particular attention is called to item No. 4 of the order, which is as follows:
"4. NOT TO BE RELEASED BY LOCAL W.C.C.A. SERVICE OFFICES:
- "a. Any information regarding time—or predicted time—of evacuations within the area served by the W.C.C.A. Service Office.
- "b. Any information regarding assembly centers, reception centers and actions of W.C.C.A.
- "c. Army over-all evacuation policy, unless this is quoted literally from W.C.C.A. press releases.
- "d. Information that pertains only to the functions of the respective agencies unless approved by Farm Security Administration, Federal Reserve Bank or Federal Security Agency."
The order does not cancel previous WFA instructions authorizing WFA field agents to originate and issue, with approval of the U.S.E.S. manager, factual stories concerning Farm Security's role in the W.C.C.A. program.
"It must be distinctly understood that the program is a military mission, in which all the agencies are aiding the Western Defense Command and Fourth Army, and the W.C.C.A., in evacuating Japanese from Military Area No. 1. Accomplishment of this mission will protect the Japanese in the United States, minimize danger of sabotage and espionage. Cooperation of all federal agencies will minimize crop loss, economic dislocation, and danger of disorder.
Regional Director
[ April 25, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco
California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
TO ALL DISTRICT OFFICERS AND FIELD AGENTS, EVACUATION AGENTS AND SPECIAL NEGOTIATORS.
SUBJECT: Problem of Agricultural Machinery and Equipment and Available Procedures.
The Wartime Civil Control Administration has seen fit to impress upon me the absolute necessity of taking all steps which may be necessary to insure that farm machinery and equipment belonging to evacuees is properly handled and that the Farm Security Administration be prepared to act with reference thereto.
There has previously been made available to you a release issued April 22, 1942 designated "For Action As Indicated", the subject of which is "Disposition of Farm Machinery and Equipment to or through Equipment Dealers". There is transmitted herewith a statement of policy of the Farm Security Administration with reference to agricultural equipment and machinery and WFA Instructions 951.2 and 952.2 relating to custody agreements and powers of attorney and the exercise of the freezing power insofar as farm machinery and equipment is concerned.
I have advised the Wartime Civil Control Administration that the Farm Security Administration has formulated and put into effect procedures which will make certain that we will meet the problem of farm machinery and equipment equally as well as we have been meeting all other problems which we have encountered in connection with the evacuation program of the Wartime Civil Control Administration. I therefore am calling your attention to these instructions and releases and wish to emphasize the importance of the material contained therein.
Regional Director.
[ April 25, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION ONLY
TO ALL FSA PERSONNEL WORKING IN CONNECTION WITH THE WCCA PROGRAM
SUBJECT: Letter of Commendation
I have recently received the attached letter from Colonel Bendetsen, Chief of the Wartime Civilian Control Administration program. The sentiments expressed by Colonel Bendetsen are a direct result of the splendid work of each member of this organization.
I thought you would like to know that your efforts are appreciated.
Attachment
Regional Director
[April 22, 1942 Letter]
WESTERN DEFENSE COMMAND AND FOURTH ARMY
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
1231 Market Street
San Francisco, California
Mr. Larry I. Hewes
Regional Director
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
I desire to express the appreciation of the Commanding General, Western Defense Command and Fourth Army and to add thereto my own for the exemplary and altogether efficient system of reporting instituted and continued at your direction by your agency during the evacuation program.
The comprehensive nature of the reports, their frequency and composition makes manifest the fact that you have, with dispatch and facility, created an excellent organization to cope with those phases of federal responsibility incumbent upon the Department of Agriculture in connection with Japanese evacuation.
It is a pleasure to offer my congratulations. Where organization is sound, successful accomplishment of the objective should be virtually assured.
Colonel, G.S.C.
Assistant Chief of Staff
Civil Affairs Division
[ April 23, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Preparation of Revised Approval of Loan (Form WFA-14)
Copy to: District Officers;
Special Field Agents;
All Regional Office WFA Employees
Attached is a copy of Form WFA-14 revised 4-22-42. You will note four conditions have been written in proper form, and since these conditions ordinarily apply to all loans, it will save typing in the field office.
Condition "3" regarding Bills of Sale will not always apply; if it does not, the condition should be crossed out.
When this form is prepared by a District Officer on loans of $5,000 or less, it must be submitted to the Regional Office in triplicate, using two copies of the form and one yellow file copy. Be sure you definitely state the county or counties in which mortgage should be recorded in connection with Condition "1". This information should be shown in the space between Conditions 1 and 2 in addition to listing the additional security.
Complete and detailed preparation of Form WFA-14 according to instructions will avoid unnecessary delays.
Chief, WFA Program
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco
California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL DISTRICT OFFICERS AND FIELD AGENTS, EVACUATION AGENTS AND SPECIAL NEGOTIATORS
SUBJECT: Disposition of Farm Machinery and Equipment to or through Equipment Dealers.
Our experience to date has indicated that in many instances in which Japanese have been able to effect arrangements for the care, management, operation, sale or other disposal of agricultural property, these arrangements result in the Japanese having left on his hands miscellaneous items of farm machinery and equipment which substitute operators, for one reason or another, do not need or are unable to use. In an effort to eliminate the problems presented thereby and to prevent the destruction, scrapping and sale for junk of such equipment which is so vitally needed at the present time, I have contacted the trade association representatives of farm equipment dealers in California and propose to contact the trade association representatives of such dealers in Oregon and Washington. The purpose thereof is to enlist the assistance of such equipment dealers in developing a program whereby such farm equipment and machinery will be purchased by such dealers or will be accepted for storage and sale in the ordinary channels of trade in the agricultural communities in which such property is presently located.
The trade association representatives have expressed a sincere desire to cooperate in developing such a program and have indicated they would proceed to contact local equipment dealers and to urge them to assist in the accomplishment of this objective. The trade representatives were advised, and they in turn have agreed to advise the individual dealers, that in participating in such program they must not attempt to purchase machinery or to exercise rights with reference thereto where doing so will interfere with the ability of an evacuee to transfer and the ability of a substitute operator to receive and take over a complete and effective farm unit. In other words, this particular program is confined only to equipment not needed by substitute operators to enable them properly to continue with the agricultural operations of the evacuees. The local equipment dealers will be advised to contact field agents, evacuation agents, and special negotiators of the FSA and, consequently, you may expect within the next day or two to receive inquiries from equipment dealers. A list of the principal farm machinery dealers in the states of California and Arizona is attached hereto.
The general plan of procedure is somewhat as follows. Evacuees will be urged to sell and dispose of such items of equipment by sale to third persons, including equipment dealers, who may be able to use such equipment for agricultural purposes and, in the event such sales may not be made, to enter into agreements with equipment dealers providing for the storage (because of the desire of the military authorities that conventional storage facilities not be utilized for such purposes, the storage will in most instances be in open areas) of all items of agricultural equipment, except motor vehicles as defined in WCCA Form FRB-4, a copy of which is attached hereto. Such agreements will further authorize and empower an equipment dealer to sell the equipment for the account of the evacuee, to retain a sum to be agreed upon as a sales commission (the suggested commission is 15 percent and should be no greater), to satisfy any liens or indebtedness against such items and to transmit the balance to the evacuee or to deposit it in trust for him. A copy of a suggested agreement form (WCCA-Form FSA-119) to be used by evacuees and equipment dealers is attached hereto. While it is not compulsory that such form be used, it is desirable that you urge its use.
It is proposed that the evacuee tag each item of equipment to be delivered to or possession of which is to be taken by a dealer. A form of tag (WCCA Form FSA-43) which may be used for this purpose is being made available to you. As you will observe, it is contemplated that the stub will be filled out and signed by an authorized representative of the dealer. This stub will constitute the evacuee's receipt.
Such arrangements between evacuees and equipment dealers should be entered into as soon as an evacuee has completed arrangements for the disposal of the remainder of his agricultural property. After an evacuation control center has been set up, it is imperative that every effort be made to see that such arrangements are effected by the evacuee. While it is contemplated that the FSA will accept the custody of such items of equipment pursuant to custody agreements and powers of attorney, Form WFA-100 (See WFA Instruction 951.2), where evacuees are unable to make any other arrangements therefor, the instances in which the FSA does accept custody of such items should be kept at an absolute minimum, particularly since the continuity of agricultural production will be furthered if all equipment is absorbed in the customary trade channels.
Regional Director.
[ April 22, 1942 Letter]
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS AND DISTRICT OFFICERS
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS AND DISTRICT OFFICERS
Copy to: All Regional Office
WFA Personnel
SUBJECT: Change in Correspondence Headings.
Hereafter the following will be strictly adhered to:
1. All correspondence, Circular Letters, Notices, etc. prepared in the WFA Field Office and WFA Regional Office will be headed as follows:
"WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION 30 Van Ness Avenue San Francisco, California"
- or as much of the above as may be appropriate should be used.
2. All future forms pertaining to the WFA program will be lettered WCCA-FSA followed by the appropriate number of the form.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 21, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION ON POLICY
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Eligibility of non-citizens and aliens to receive WFA loans.
Copy to: District Officers;
Special Field Agents;
All Regional Office WFA Employees.
In our letter of April 15, subject "Eligibility of non-citizens and aliens to receive WFA loans" the last paragraph concerning aliens of non-enemy nationalities applies only to aliens who are eligible for citizenship, thus excluding Chinese aliens.
This paragraph does not concern Filipinos who are not aliens and whose status with regard to WFA loans is covered in second and third paragraphs of the letter of April 15.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 21, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION ONLY
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Lien Searches
Copy to: District Officers; Special Field Agents; All Regional Office WFA Personnel
The purpose of the title report is to disclose the existence of prior liens that may be of record against the security offered. Title searches should be made, whenever a mortgage is taken as security, covering all mortgagors and relinquishers. Names of the mortgagors to be covered by searches should be set forth the same as they appear in the mortgage. If the mortgagor and/or relinquisher is married, search must cover both husband and wife.
The search must be for a period of four years in California, five years in Washington and Oregon, and six years in Arizona.
All searches must include:
- (1) Search of tax records to determine tax delinquencies
- (2) Search of the records for chattel mortgages and conditional sales contracts.
- (3) Check county records to see if suits have been filed against relinquishing operator or applicant for WFA loans, and whether there are any judgments, attachments, or executions which name the mortgagors and relinquishers, or any of them, as defendants.
A statement from the owner of real estate as to any real estate obligation of the landlord which would affect applicant's possession of the property during the term of the WFA loan should be sufficient. A search of the real estate records will be necessary only when the loan is large and/or doubt exists in the Field Agent's mind as to the correctness of statements made by the landlord.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 21, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
In reply refer to: WFA-AH
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS AND DISTRICT OFFICERS
SUBJECT: Securing Signatures after Evacuation
Copy to: All Regional Office WFA Personnel
In completing transfers and closing WFA Loans it may become necessary to secure the signature, on a particular document, of a person or persons who have been evacuated to reception centers. Every effort should be made to secure the signature on all documents prior to the time the evacuee leaves for the reception center. However, if in a particular case this is impossible, the procedure of securing such signatures will be as follows:
The document on which the signature of the evacuee or evacuees is needed, will be forwarded to the evacuee in care of the manager of the reception center. A request will be forwarded to the manager of the reception center asking him to secure the evacuees signature to the document.
There is notary service available at the reception centers so that those documents which must be signed before a notary may be executed at the reception center.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 17, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA DISTRICT OFFICERS AND FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Forms for farm listings
Numerous requests have been received from newspapers and radio stations for more specific information on the Japanese-operated farms available to other farmers. With the general story of our program fairly well known by now, it is desirable at this time for field agents to start issuing such listings of farms to newspapers and radio stations, and that such information be furnished the regional office for wider dissemination.
The attached forms are for your convenience in disseminating this information. It will not be necessary that all farms be listed at once. Forms listing a dozen or so farms can be made the basis of newspaper and radio releases. Field agents should send duplicates as soon as they are compiled to the Program Chief, attention the Information Officer. Southern California agents should also send duplicates to Robert Brownell, Southern California information officer, at 707 South Spring Street, Los Angeles.
Field agents should contact radio stations and suggest that the radio station provide time for listings of farms, preferably on regular schedule. Agents may write their own radio scripts to go with such listings if desirable.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 16, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Noss Avenue
San Francisco, California
SUBJECT: Change in Official Station
YOUR PERSONAL TRAVEL PROBLEM
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS AND OTHER PERSONNEL IN TRAVEL STATUS:
Due to an Administrative ruling, your designated official station has been changed to San Francisco. Attached is this amendment to the Travel Authorization which was recently issued to you. Hereafter you will reflect San Francisco as your official station designation on all Travel Vouchers which you submit.
This new designation is not to be construed in any way to permit you to claim per diem while in the corporate limits of your ordinary post of duty.
Regional Director
Region 9, FSA
[ April 16, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA PROGRAM
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
April 16, 1942
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS, DISTRICT OFFICERS, AND SPECIAL FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Termination of Employment of Field Personnel
When the services of clerical and administrative personnel employed under WFA Instruction 905.1 are no longer required because the work for which they were hired is completed, the Field Office has closed, or for some other reason, the Field Agent will address a letter to the Regional Office requesting termination. This letter must contain the following information:
- 1 The full name of the employee to be terminated
- 2 EO grade
- 3 Salary
- 4 Last date of active duty
- 5 Reason for the requested termination.
It is to be expected that the majority of such termination requests will be for the reason "WORK COMPLETED". In instances where termination is desired for disciplinary reasons the Field Agent should communicate with his District Office before requesting the Regional Office to take action.
If an employee leaves the service of the FSA on his own initiative, it will be necessary for the Field Agent to submit a letter of resignation, Form AD-39, properly executed by the employee.
When a Field Office closes, the Field Agent with the concurrence of his District Officer will submit a letter requesting termination, or reporting other disposition of the employees when their services are to be used in another office.
It will be the responsibility of the Regional Office to determine the effective date of terminations because of the necessity to keep in mind such factors as leave.
Before the last pay checks can be released the employee must surrender to the Field Agent, District Officer, or immediate supervisor:
- 1 All Receipt books
- 2 Travel Identification Card
- 3 Government Driver's License
- 4 Travel Request Book
- 5 Any other Government property charged to him.
The supervising official will immediately transmit this material to the Regional Office. As soon as the proper termination notice has been prepaid and the property accounted for, the final pay check can be released.
It is urgently requested, when there appears to be no further need for the services of an individual, that a request for termination be submitted.
This letter supersedes Paragraph IX of WFA Instruction 905.1. This Instruction is now in process of revision.
All Field Personnel actions are in the nature only of requests. Appointments and terminations can be made only by the Field Employment Officers designated by the Secretary of Agriculture for this program. These are Mr. L. I. Hewes, Mr. M. V. Cole, and Mr. L. Lazar, all of the Regional Office.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 15, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Nass Avenue
San Francisco, California
April 15, 1942
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS AND DISTRICT OFFICERS
SUBJECT: Preparation of Partial Release of Assignment of Proceeds of Sale of Mortgaged Crops
Copy to: All Regional Office WFA Personnel
Since the WFA loan ordinarily contemplates the making of advances for cultural costs, it should not be necessary for a marketing organization to make advances for such costs for the reason that a duplication of advances can develop which might impair the position of either the marketing organization or the United States.
Only ordinary deductions which marketing organizations customarily make, namely, those deductions to cover the costs of seed, processing, marketing, etc., should be authorized. However, in those cases where the WFA loan does not provide sufficient funds to cover all cultural and harvesting costs included in the operating plan because the grower anticipates using the proceeds of sale of certain crops to finance the production and/or harvest of other crops, including living expenses, the marketing organization may make such advances to the grower if authorized in writing to do so by the District Officer on Form WFA-42 (attached).
"Partial Release of Assignment", Form WFA-42 is to be used instead of the sample form outlined on the reverse of our letter on the subject, "Preparation of Assignment of Proceeds of Sale of Mortgaged Crops", to authorize the marketing organization to make such advances or deductions. The information requested on the form should be complete in every detail. Extreme caution should be exercised to avoid release of crop proceeds to cover costs already contemplated and provided for in the loan.
Attachment
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 15, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION ON POLICY
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Eligibility of non-citizens and aliens to receive WFA loans.
Copy to: District Officers; Special Field Agents; all Regional Office WFA Employees.
Information has been received which makes it possible to revise the information on policy contained in our letter of April 5, 1942 on the subject of "Eligibility of non-citizens and aliens to receive WFA loans." The statement of policy contained herein entirely supersedes that contained in the earlier letter referred to, and should be the basis for the submission of applications for non-citizens and aliens for WFA loans in the future.
Aliens of enemy nationalities and American citizens of Japanese ancestry are not eligible to become WFA loan borrowers. Filipinos born in the United States are citizens, and are eligible to receive WFA loans. Filipinos born outside the United States who have served in the armed forces of the United States and who have received honorable discharge may, in most circumstances, be considered eligible for WFA loans; in the case of such an application, full facts regarding United States military service should be submitted with the loan docket in order that determination may be made.
Filipinos not born in the United States and not having served in the armed forces of the United States may also be considered eligible to receive WFA loans in California, Arizona, Oregon and Washington.
Aliens of non-enemy nationalities (Mexicans, Canadians, etc.,) are eligible for WFA loans if they have lived for several years in the United States and have indicated their intention of remaining in the community.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 14, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL DISTRICT OFFICERS:
SUBJECT: Use of Form WFA-14-A Rejection or Suspension of Loan.
You are being sent a supply of Form WFA-14-A, Rejection or Suspension of Loan. This is to be used by you in notifying the Field Agent if a WFA loan application is rejected or if it should be placed in suspense in the Field Office, pending the securing of additional information, etc.
Prepare Form WFA-14-A in a single copy only. This copy should remain in the Field Office together with the application papers. An extra copy need not be forwarded to the Regional Office.
The Regional Office will also use this form to notify the Field Agent of rejection or suspension. When used by the Regional Office, it will be prepared in an original and one copy. The original will accompany the loan submission papers which are returned to the Field Office in case of a rejection. The copy will remain in the applicant's loan docket in the Regional Office. When the application is placed in suspense, the original form will be forwarded to the Field Office and the copy will remain in the applicant's docket.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 14, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
TO ALL FSA EMPLOYEES WORKING IN CONNECTION WITH THE WCCA PROGRAM:
Mr. Russell Robinson has been appointed to the position of Manager of the California Evacuated Farms Association. Mr. Robinson will be in charge of the field operations that may be entered into by this Association.
Mr. Robinson will perform duties in this connection in addition to those for which he is ordinarily responsible.
Regional Director
[ April 13, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
TO ALL FSA EMPLOYEES WORKING IN CONNECTION WITH THE WCCA PROGRAM:
The following persons are hereby authorized to approve recommendations for exercising of the Freezing Power (Forms WFA 103, 104) as outlined in WFA Instruction 952.1, Paragraph IV, A, 1. These persons are also authorized to take Powers of Attorney as outlined in WFA Instruction 951.1, Paragraph III, A. These designated persons shall supervise all activities of field agents mentioned in WFA Instruction 953.1, Paragraph IV, A, B, and C.
- Ernst Behr
- Waldo J. Blaisdell
- Boyd Class
- Walter L. Cline
- Oscar W. Dennis
- Frank Doyle
- Richard F. Elam
- Fred Farr
- D. H. Graham
- George Homsy
- Cecil Kent
- Frank Kirshisnik
- Roland Lapp
- Wiekko A. Lund
- George Penrose
- Harry Oakley
- R. Robinson
- James L. Shelly
- L. Taylor
- Anthony Tarlock
- F. E. Thompson
No other person has authority or shall exercise the functions referred to in these Paragraphs.
Additions or substractions [subtractions] from this list may from time to time be made at the direction of the Regional Director. You will be notified in all such instances.
Regional Director
[ April 11, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA PROGRAM
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Survey of Deals Closed
Copy to: District Officers
It appears that many transfer transactions are taking place without the aid or knowledge of the WFA Field Office.
As most offices have already registered 100% of all farms in their area, it should not be impossible by frequent follow-ups to learn of every deal closed, and to briefly note each on Form WFA-1.
To run such a complete and continuous survey may require additional field personnel. As you have the authority and procedure for hiring assistance, lack of personnel should not be a reason for failing to collect and report complete information.
Accordingly, we shall assume that beginning with your reports for the period ending Friday, April 17, 1942, all figures for deals closed will reflect complete coverage of the area served by each Field Office.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 10, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS, EVACUATION AGENTS AND OTHER PERSONNEL EMPLOYED IN THE EVACUATION PROGRAM OF THE FSA
SUBJECT: The Exercise of the Freezing Power
There has been distributed to all personnel a copy of WFA Instruction 952.1, which sets forth the nature of certain extraordinary powers, commonly referred to as the "freezing power", which have been vested in me, as Regional Director of the FSA, and indicates the very limited use to be made of such powers.
As pointed out in WFA Instruction 952.1, the freezing power imposes upon the FSA duties and responsibilities with reference to its use, which are commensurate with the extraordinary character of those powers. It is absolutely imperative that these powers be used sparingly and with the greatest of caution to insure against any possible abuse. The Administrator of the FSA has repeatedly impressed upon me the need of avoiding hasty and ill-considered action. I believe it is unnecessary for me to advise you that the improper use of the freezing power will not only occasion considerable embarrassment to and invite serious criticism of the FSA but, of much greater importance, will defeat the very purpose which the FSA seeks to accomplish - namely, the continuation of agricultural production.
The abuse of the power may result either from its improper exercise or from careless references to the existence of the power and the ability to make use of it. I must therefore advise you that under no circumstances whatsoever may any of you indicate to an evacuee or to any person in the relation of landlord, lienor or creditor of an evacuee, that any particular act or failure to act on his part will result in the exercise of the freezing power. In other words, you may not under any circumstances threaten or imply that the freezing power will be exercised. In any situation in which it appears to you that the freezing power should be exercised, the proper procedure to follow is that set forth in WFA Instruction 952.1. You are expected to adhere strictly to that procedure and not to deviate therefrom. I feel very deeply the responsibility which is placed upon the FSA and therefore wish to advise you that the failure of any employee to exercise the proper degree of restraint and caution in connection with the use of the freezing power will be the subject of prompt and full investigation.
Regional Director,
Region IX, FSA.
[ April 9, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL DISTRICT OFFICERS:
SUBJECT: Use of Form WFA-14
Attached is a supply of Form WFA-14 (Rev. 4-8-42). This is a form letter to be used by you in approval of WFA loans under the authority set forth in WFA 931.1 Instructions (Rev. 4-5-42), Paragraph X.
The procedure to be followed by District Officers in approval of loans is described in Paragraph XIII of WFA Instructions 931.1. It is requested that a white tissue copy of WFA-14 be submitted with the docket approved by the District Officer in addition to the signed original and copy required by the instructions. This tissue copy should bear the initials of the District Officer approving the loan.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 9, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION ON POLICY
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS AND DISTRICT OFFICERS
Copy to: Special Field Agents; Regional Office WFA Employees
SUBJECT: Farm management practices and planning as reflected in Form WFA 6, "Application and Operating Plan"
Paragraph XII E of WFA Instruction 931.1 (Revised 4-5-42) outlines the procedure to be followed in the preparation of the borrower's "Application and Operating Plan", and states that this plan is to be prepared by the field agent. It is specifically to be noted that preparation of this plan by the field agent is intended as a matter of convenience, and to assure that the information presented therein has been correctly entered in the proper spaces so as to present as accurately and uniformly as possible a picture of the cropping and other plans which the borrower intends to carry out.
It is to be noted that there is no intention that the field agent will dictate to the borrower or applicant the type or method of farming operation to be engaged upon. It is not intended that the field agent will operate in a supervisory capacity to furnish advice and guidance in farm and home management practices in the manner in which this is carried out in usual FSA rural rehabilitation activity. There is neither the assurance that the WFA program as it now exists will be extended for a period of time which would permit of such supervision and guidance, nor is it intended that the assurance of repayment of the WFA loan be obtained other than through the physical security to be taken and the definite assurance that the borrower is qualified to produce the crop as planned, and that he intends to do so.
The necessity for this letter is prompted by the evidence noted in some loan cases submitted, that WFA field agents who have acted in the past as RR supervisors of the FSA may not have fully realized that the considerations in the making of WFA loans are essentially different in many respects from those normally observed in the making of RR loans.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 1942 [?] Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
Copy to: District Officers; Special Field Agents; All Regional Office WFA Employees
SUBJECT: Preparation of Assignment of Proceeds of Sale of Mortgaged Crops
Attached is a copy of Form WFA-40. The upper or assignment portion constitutes an assignment on the part of the member of the proceeds of sale of all crops produced by the member and delivered to the marketing agency. The assignment directs the marketing organization to deliver all proceeds of sale that are made available by the marketing organization to the member during the marketing season, together with the proceeds of sale available from crops subsequently produced and delivered by the member. The assignment also includes all existing refunds and credits then due together with all refunds, revolving funds and any credits that are subsequently made available to or that accrue in favor of the grower.
The assignment is also a warranty on the part of the member to the effect that he has given no prior assignments of the proceeds of sale of the crop and further agrees that the assignment will remain in effect as long as the member is indebted to the United States. All assignments should be released in writing immediately after the member's loan account has been repaid. In the assignment the member agrees to deliver his crop(s) to a specified marketing organization. The member should be instructed to notify the Field Office immediately should he change marketing organizations.
Particular attention should be given to having the assignment executed by all person(s) in whose name(s) the crops are marketed and by any individual having any interest in the crops.
The lower portion of the form, "Acceptance of Assignment and Subordination Agreement," first of all acknowledges a consideration, the consideration being the granting and extension of credit on the part of the United States to the grower. In recognition of that consideration, the marketing organization subordinates any lien, claim or indebtedness that it may have or that it may thereafter have against the grower or his crops. The subordination is to the assignment and to the extent that the grower is and becomes indebted to the United States. The subordination is followed by a certification that the assignment is a first assignment and the marketing organization then agrees to pay to the United States the proceeds of sale of the crops, reserving the right to deduct such advances as the United States may have consented to in writing.
Where the marketing organization desires to obtain the right to deduct from the proceeds of sale certain advances, the following sample form is recommended for use:
"The WFA Field Agent hereby authorizes _________________________ to deduct from the proceeds of the sale of any such crops all expenses incurred by the marketing organization for the grower in connection with the processing and marketing thereof during the current season and not to exceed the actual costs thereof, such deductions to include the usual expense of picking, packing, hauling, delivery to market, selling and advertising said crops, and maintenance of any well established revolving fund, anything to the contrary in any contract or otherwise between said grower and the undersigned notwithstanding.
_________________________ Field Office
By_________________________"
Agent
If a member is indebted to a marketing organization, private or cooperative at the time that an assignment of proceeds is submitted for an acceptance, the debt of the member to the marketing organization should either be subordinated as called for by the terms of the assignment of proceeds or the amount owing the marketing organization should be specifically set forth as not being subject to the subordination. The Field Agent could then determine the effect of the debt upon its position from a credit point of view and determine whether or not it should proceed in view of the existing claims of the marketing organization.
Initial supplies of Form WFA-40 are being sent to you today.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 7, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS, DISTRICT OFFICERS, AND SPECIAL FIELD AGENTS
Copy to: All Regional Office WFA Personnel
SUBJECT: Travel Authorizations and Regulations
Regular FSA employees detailed to the WFA Program will use their existing Letters of Travel Authorization. Persons newly appointed for the WFA Program will receive special Letters of Travel Authorization, as soon as these can be prepared and issued by the Finance Division. These formal notices, which indicate the authorization number, per diem rate, mileage rate, and other data needed in preparing travel vouchers, should be in the hands of WFA field employees within the next few days.
You are also being sent, under separate cover, a handbook on travel, which has been prepared by the Finance Division. Pending the issuance of formal WFA travel procedure, the following instructions should be especially noted and followed in preparing and submitting travel vouchers:
- 1. Vouchers must be transmitted to the WFA Program Chief in an original (Form 1012) and two carbon copies (Form 1012a). Form 1012e, Statement of Travel by Motor Vehicle, must be attached in triplicate to every set of vouchers.
- 2. Regular FSA employees assigned to the WFA Program should indicate as headquarters their previous FSA headquarters. All new employees appointed on the WFA Program must indicate the field headquarters shown on their Letter of Travel Authorization. In most instances, this will be their present field station
- 3. The Letters of Travel Authorization issued to all new employees temporarily appointed to the WFA Program authorize the use of privately-owned automobiles. As the rate per mile has been administratively determined to be more economical and advantageous to the Government, no statement of the impracticability of the use of common carrier is required. However, in the case of regular FSA employees detailed to the WFA Program, the impracticability statement and other required certifications must be shown on the vouchers, since the Letters of Authorization for such personnel have not been amended to expressly cover their travel in the WFA Program.
- 4. Per diem rates for regular FSA employees detailed to the WFA Program will be adjusted as of April 1, 1942.
- 5. Attention should be paid to the proper certification on Form 1012e, Statement of Travel by Motor Vehicle.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 7, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION ONLY
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS, DISTRICT OFFICERS, AND SPECIAL FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Securing rubber tires, recapping or retreading
Copy to: All Regional Office WFA Employees
The regulations established for the rationing of tires require that application for the purchase of new tires, recapping, or retreading of owned tires, must be made first to the local Tire Rationing Board. Until this regulation can be amended or revised to exempt FSA employees engaged in the WFA Program, it will be necessary to make such application. In your application for a certificate authorizing you to secure new tires (or recapping or retreading services), you should state that you are employed by the Department of Agriculture, Farm Security Administration and specifically detailed to a program directly connected with the war effort, namely: "The Enemy Alien Evacuation Program, as set up by the Western Defense Command, under the unit known as the Wartime Civilian Control Administration."
According to the tire-rationing regulations established by the Office of Emergency Management (OEN), you are eligible for classification on list "B, paragraph 4," namely: "Transportation on official business of federal, state or local government employees engaged in the performance of government functions essential to the public health, safety, or war effort."
If your application for a certificate for new tires, or recapping, or retreading service is denied by the local board, because of a lack of available quota or because of an adverse interpretation of your status under the terms of the tire-rationing regulations, please submit a full statement of the facts to this office. The matter will then be taken up with the regional office of the OEM in order to secure a more favorable interpretation of the ruling, or to determine how new tires, recapping or retreading may be secured.
As a matter of general information, be advised that the local tire rationing boards have complete authority to issue certificates under the present regulations. It is therefore desirable to try to make the best possible arrangements with your local board before reporting the matter to this office for referral to the OEM.
If you need tires immediately, it is suggested that you attempt to secure used ones. This is the quickest method at the present moment of securing tire replacements. The Price Administrator has set up a schedule of maximum prices which may be charged for used car and truck tires. These price schedules are available at all Tire-Rationing Boards.
As an example, based on the condition of the tire; a 600 × 16 can be purchased under the following schedule:
Tires Retaining 7/32" or More Tread Design Depth When Measured at the Shallowest Point $8.10
Tires Retaining More Than 3/32" but Less Than 7/32" Tread Design Depth When Measured at Shallowest Point $6.65
Tires Retaining 3/32" or Less Tread Design Depth When Measured at the Shallowest Point and Regrooved Tires $4.45
Tires with Smooth Treads and Other Basic Tire Carcasses $1.50
As soon as arrangements can be worked out with the OEM to obtain exemptions or relaxations of the stringent tire rationing regulations, you will be notified.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 6, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Use of Revised Loan Forms
Copy to: District Officers; Special Field Agents; All Regional Office WFA Employees.
You are being sent herewith a supply of Form WFA-22 (Rev. 4-6-42), Field Agent's Narrative and Report, and of Form WFA-6 (Rev. 4-6-42), Application and Operating Plan. These forms immediately replace Form WFA-22 (4-3-42), WFA Loan Narrative and Form WFA-6, (3-16-42), Loan Application and Farm Plan.
The use of these forms is described in WFA Instruction 931.1, copies of which have been sent you today. Both forms must be completed for all loan dockets hereafter submitted for approval.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 5, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION ON POLICY
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Eligibility of non-citizens and aliens to receive WFA loans.
Copy to: District Officers; Special Field Agents; all Regional Office WFA Employees.
Aliens of enemy nationalities and American citizens of Japanese ancestry are not eligible to become WFA loan borrowers. Filipinos born in the United States are citizens and are eligible to receive WFA loans. Filipinos born outside the United States who have served in the armed forces of the United States and who have received honorable discharge may, in most circumstances, be considered eligible for WFA loans; in the case of such an application, full facts regarding United States military service should be submitted with the loan docket in order that determination may be made.
Filipinos not born in the United States and not having served in the armed forces of the United States may not be considered eligible to receive WFA loans, pending further clarification and legal determination as to the effect of alien land laws on persons who are neither aliens nor citizens.
Aliens of non-enemy nationalities (Mexicans, Canadians, etc.,) are eligible for WFA loans if they have lived for several years in the community, have indicated their intention of remaining in the community, and have applied for first naturalization papers.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 5, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION ONLY
TO ALL WFA DISTRICT OFFICERS
SUBJECT: Supervision of Special Field Agents.
Copy to: All WFA Special Field Agents.
It was discovered a few days ago that the administrative position of the Special Field Agents located in the Federal Reserve offices in Los Angeles, Seattle, Portland and San Francisco had not been clarified.
It is directed that Special Field Agents shall be under the supervision of the District Officers in whose territory the particular Federal Reserve office is located.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 4, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION ONLY
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS, DISTRICT OFFICERS AND SPECIAL FILL AGENTS
Copy to: All Regional Office WRA Employees.
SUBJECT: Further information regarding cooperation with U.S.D.A. War Boards
Attached are copies of material prepared by Mr. Dave Davidson, Chairman of the California U.S.D.A. War Board for the use of County War Boards. This information should prove useful to you in establishing a liaison with the War Boards, as suggested in Mr. Hewes' circular letter of April 1, 1942.
Chief, WFA Program
[ March 1942 [?] Memo
MEMORANDUM TO CHAIRMEN OF COUNTY AGRICULTURAL CONSERVATION COMMITTEES:
SUBJECT: COOPERATION OF WAR BOARDS IN THE WARTIME CIVILIAN CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
Attached is a copy of War Board Letter No._____. This letter is self-explanatory, but the California Agricultural Conservation Committee wishes to emphasize more fully than was done in the War Letter the need for positive action on the part of AAA in assisting in this transfer and continued operation of Japanese farm lands.
All agencies connected with the War Board have the responsibility of doing everything that can be done to obtain the needed production of agricultural commodities. However, AAA because of its wide-spread organization and its many contacts with farmers has responsibility for a larger share of this work than any other agency. Not only does this apply to the over-all job with farmers, but it can and should also apply to this specific undertaking of maintaining in production these lands which have been operated by Japanese farmers.
In working on this assignment in addition to the general suggestions contained in the attached War Letter and our War Letter No. 81, we would like to suggest more specifically the following procedures to be used:
- 1. After the meeting of the War Board with the Farm Security Administration representative in the local USES office, we believe that the County Committee should meet and discuss in even further detail how AAA can function in doing its part in this assignment. At such a meeting definite plans should be made.
- 2. In addition to War Board publicity on this subject, AAA can and should immediately make use of all its information facilities to inform farmers of the opportunity to take over Japanese farms and of the need for their continued operation. Press releases, radios, personal contacts, and every other means can be utilized.
- 3. In counties where there are substantial numbers of operations, we believe it would be well to send out an individual letter to farmers. Perhaps this letter could be limited to certain groups, but in some counties it could well go to your entire mailing list. We are not inclosing a sample letter because it would need local adaptation and should be developed at the county meeting referred to above. It should, however, contain all the pertinent information and it should stress the point that even though the recipient himself is not prepared to take on additional operations, he should pass this information on to others who might be interested.
- 4. It also should be worthwhile to call a meeting of all community committeemen in counties where there are numbers of Japanese
farm operators. At this meeting, a thorough-going discussion of this entire subject should be held and the active support
of all community committeemen should be enlisted. They should make it their job in all of their contacts throughout the county
to promote
― 2 ―interest in this transfer of property and to induce farmers to take on what lands they can efficiently operate. In any event, they can pass the word along to others. At this community committeemen meeting, it is suggested that there be a thorough-going discussion of the general War Board work, in addition to this specific subject. At every opportunity, we should tie in all of our community committeemen more closely with this extremely important wartime work which the agencies of the USDA are carrying on. Also, and in line with the same objective, this meeting will serve as an opportunity to review again with community committeemen your plans for the wheat marketing quota referendum. This year it is extremely important. Further, at this same meeting, there can be discussed plans which you may have for carrying out compliance work and the other matters connected with the AAA Program where community committeemen are and should be effective, including the emphasis on conservation. - 5. In addition to these more wide-spread activities, it is necessary in connection with this particular problem that you make all necessary preparations to give satisfactory service in the county office which, as you will remember, is also the War Board office. This work will mean that your clerk or clerks now working on War Board matters at the counter and others who are assisting should be completely informed and ready to respond to calls, no matter from what source they come. Also the County Committee will, of course, need to be prepared to give any help that is asked. Specifically, you should be prepared to inform persons that call at the office about this Wartime Civilian Control Administration and to refer them to the Farm Security Administration at the USES office. Also questions about the capability of farmers referred to you by the FSA should be handled through your organization. If AAA is the agency to whom such questions are referred, then they should give the best possible service. In many instances, the County Committee can supply the information needed, and in other cases, they can be referred to field supervisors, or best of all, to community committeemen. It might be well to remember in your general meeting, referred to above, that community committeemen should be told that they will be called upon to make recommendations in individual cases. In addition to these specific items, your office should be prepared to do whatever is necessary to assist in this particular project.
We have gone into considerable detail with the hope of emphasizing the need for prompt action in connection with the transfer of these Japanese operated farms and trying to point out some of the ways in which AAA can be helpful. You, of course, will adapt whatever has been said to your own local conditions, but we are expecting active cooperation on this important effort.
Enclosure:
War Letter No. _____
California Agricultural Conservation Committee
[March 1942] War Letter No. _____
March, 1942MISCELLANEOUS - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - No. _____
Re: COOPERATION OF WAR BOARDS WITH THE WARTIME CIVILIAN CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
On March 19, we sent you War Letter No. 81 which set out the activities of the Wartime Civilian Control Administration in connection with the evacuation and replacement of Japanese farm operators and more particularly, the part that the Farm Security Administration has in that Program. In that letter we made a number of suggestions as to ways in which the County War Boards could be of assistance to the Farm Security Administration with this very heavy assignment.
It has now been called to our attention that there is particular need for assistance in the matter of obtaining qualified farm operators and, in some cases, farm supervisors who will be willing and able to take over the agricultural operations of Japanese. On March 24, Lieutenant General DeWitt announced curfew regulations in regard to enemy aliens and all Japanese, as well as the prohibition of voluntary movement of Japanese, which latter went into effect Sunday, March 29. Since then, large numbers of Japanese have come to the local U.S. Employment Service offices with requests for assistance in the transfer or operation of their farm properties. So far, there have not been received by the Farm Security Administration a sufficient number of requests on the part of white operators for the opportunity to farm this land. Consequently, they are limited to what they can do with this Japanese-operated property.
It is suggested that each County War Board meet with the FSA representative in their county and discuss ways and means of assisting in this matter before too much production is lost. In making plans for such help, each agency should be prepared to utilize its own facilities in informing farmers of the opportunity and in emphasizing to farmers the need for the operation of and continued production from these lands. In our former letter, referred to above, we made a number of suggestions. These suggestions are still good and should be followed. However, we believe that it is now necessary to give more positive assistance, even to the extent of initiating a number of personal contacts with farmers. For instance, the AAA County Committee might follow through on this project by informing all their community committeemen of the need so that they in turn could give the information to the large number of farmers that they regularly come in contact with. Also, the A.E.S., F.C.A., S.C.S. and other agencies might make special effort to obtain operators to take over Japanese farms.
In addition to some War Board releases to tell farmers of this Wartime Farm Adjustment Program, each agency that has radio broadcasts, regular news releases, and other media for disseminating information can well assist in this particular job. In so doing, it is suggested that the War Board connection with the FSA assignment be emphasized. We have already sent you one news
This letter has application to areas in the State which contain no substantial number of Japanese, as well as to those places from which the Japanese are moving. In other words, good operators who care to move and take over Japanese farms, should be informed of the possibilities. The information about their desires and capabilities should be passed on to the appropriate counties. In case you do not know where there is land available, please send the information to the State War Board, and we will see that it gets to the proper place.
The importance of quick action in executing the transfer of these lands now operated by Japanese will be self-evident to all Members of County War Boards. In this State those lands represent a substantial proportion of the production of a number of needed commodities. Consequently, we would like to emphasize again the urgency of this matter and request that you give all the positive assistance that you can now.
In the near future you will probably be called on for a much more active part in this evacuation program even than is indicated in this letter. When that happens you will receive full authority to act. Meanwhile, County War Boards should be prepared to respond to any request for individual or collective action that involves advice, arbitration or other assistance with problems connected with this program that FSA may submit. Your Board now cooperates with local Draft Boards and makes recommendations on request of those Draft Boards. Similar action should be taken by County War Boards on any request from FSA as a part of the function of War Boards.
California USDA. War Board
[ April 3, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA EMPLOYEES IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY
SUBJECT: Cooperation with Los Angeles County U.S.D.A. War Board and other agencies
In general it is desirable that Farm Security Administration personnel assigned to the WCCA Program utilize exhaustively the facilities of the U.S.D.A. County War Boards. These Boards are in a position to be of great assistance to the Farm Security Administration in connection with the WCCA Program.
In the case of Los Angeles County an unusual situation exists in that the County of Los Angeles has established the office of Agricultural Coordinator, which has a field staff. Valuable information has been collected by this agency, and it is in a position to effectively further the work which the FSA is carrying on for the WCCA.
The agreement to this end, as you are aware, has gone out to all FSA and Agricultural Coordinator's field men in Los Angeles County. This statement generally is approved and should be followed. However, in order that regular department policy regarding the use of the U.S.D.A. War Boards be followed, it is also necessary that the facilities of the U.S.D.A. War Boards be used by FSA personnel.
Further, in any problem involving the relationship between the FSA and the Agricultural Coordinator's Office where a decision or where arbitration is necessary, such cases are to be referred for a decision to the U.S.D.A. War Board. In this manner the U.S.D.A. War Boards are in a position to exercise most effectively the function which they are intended to perform, namely that of formulating general policy, and in the case of the WCCA program, specifically of providing collective judgements in problems requiring arbitration and negotiation.
The Chairman of the California State U.S.D.A. War Board will confirm the foregoing in a release to the Los Angeles County U.S.D.A. War Board.
Regional Director
[ April 2, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT, WFA Loan Repayment Schedules
Copy to: District Officers; All Regional Office WFA Employees
WFA Instruction 931.1, paragraph IV A states, "WFA loans will be made to cover a period of one year or less". Paragraph IV C reads as follows: "Repayments on loans will be set up in the Loan Agreement and Note in such installments as are determined to be in accordance with the anticipated maximum ability of the borrower to repay."
A good many of the loans currently being submitted to the Regional Office call for repayment of the entire account in one payment only, and very often this payment is set forward one year from the date when it is anticipated that the loan will be approved. There may exist circumstances where such practice is entirely proper, but the majority of loans examined have covered types of operations where the larger portion of income will be derived at various periods much earlier than one year from the loan approval date.
It is quite undesirable and unnecessary for borrowers to be allowed to retain large sums of money derived from the sale of mortgage property or crops for a considerable length of time before the repayment installment or installments become due. Therefore, in the future, care will be taken to see that repayment schedules are synchronized with the prospective dates of security or crop sales, taking into consideration, of course, the probable needs of the borrower for crop harvesting and other farm and home operating expenses, and adjusting the amounts and dates of scheduled repayments accordingly.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 2, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
SUBJECT: Submission of Security instruments with loan dockets.
Copy to: District Officers; All Regional Office WFA Personnel
Effective immediately, crop and chattel mortgages, crop or produce assignments and other proposed security instruments will be prepared as completely as possible and submitted to the Regional Office as part of the loan application docket.
Such instruments should not be executed or dated. If the loan application is approved, the mortgage and other security instruments will be returned with other documents for signature and recording prior to delivery of the check.
Submission of the mortgage and other instruments as above will provide more complete information to the loan approval staff in the Regional Office as to the security being offered by the borrower. In addition, it will be required that the chattels to be purchased from the proceeds of the loan be encumbered when the loan is returned to the field.
Paragraph V D of WFA Instruction 931.1, Making Special WFA Production Loans, will be revised in accordance with this letter.
Chief, WFA Program
[ April 1, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
TO ALL FSA EMPLOYEES DETAILED TO THE WARTIME CIVILIAN CONTROL ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM
SUBJECT: Cooperative Relationship with U.S.D.A. War Boards
It is highly desirable that the Farm Security Administration, in carrying out its responsibility under the Wartime Civilian Control Administration Program, utilize effectively all facilities made available by the U.S.D.A. State and County War Boards. The State and County War Boards stand ready to cooperate with us in every possible way and we will, therefore, be able to do a much more effective job if we use the facilities of these War Boards.
The assistance of the War Boards is particularly important in connection with situations where arbitration or advice is necessary. For instance, a situation may exist where a number of Japanese poultrymen must dispose of their flocks. The U.S.D.A. War Boards might be in a position to act with regard to the establishment of a fair price in the community, and also to make allotments and allocations of the number of birds which should be allowed to any one poultryman. Numerous other instances will arise in your daily work in which the War Boards will be of assistance to you.
It is your responsibility, therefore, to consult immediately with the War Boards and make arrangements for a continuing cooperative relationship.
Regional Director
[ April 1, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Noss Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION ONLY
TO ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS
Copy to: District Officers; Special Field Agents; All Regional Office WFA Personnel
SUBJECT: Supervised Bank Accounts
As a matter of loan policy, requirements that loan funds be deposited in supervised bank accounts, for expenditure by counter-signature check, will not ordinarily be made in connection with WFA loans.
The Rural Rehabilitation Division of the FSA usually makes such requirement a condition of RR loans in order to provide assurance that there will be adequate supervision of the borrower's financial and farming operations. It is not intended to provide farm management supervision for WFA borrowers.
In cases where for reasons of security (capital goods purchases not immediately made, etc.) it is deemed necessary, the Regional Office may, in exceptional cases, require the deposit of loan proceeds in supervised bank accounts. In the event any such requirement is made, it will be necessary that the Field Agent concerned be bonded as a counter-signing officer in the amount of $7400.
Chief, WFA Program
[ March 26, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
March 26, 1942 FOR ACTION AS INDICATED
TO ALL FIELD AGENTS
Copy to: District Officers, WFA
SUBJECT: Establishment and disestablishment of WFA Field Agents at U.S.E.S. offices
Recommendations and suggestions from Field Agents regarding the establishment of additional WFA Field Agents at U.S.E.S. offices in cities other than those presently served, the discontinuance of WFA Field Agents at present locations, and the consolidation of FSA activities on the three-man teams from two or more present offices to a single office, will be referred to the District Officer instead of to this office. District Officers have been instructed as to the considerations to be observed and the necessary concurrences to be obtained before their own recommendations are transmitted to this office.
District Officers are authorized to transfer or exchange Field Agents between Field Offices within their own districts simply by immediately notifying this office by telegraph as to the action taken after they have made all necessary arrangements to see that attendance reports will be properly taken care of.
Where District Officers propose to transfer or exchange Field Office personnel with Field Offices in other districts, the combined recommendation of both District Officers concerned must be submitted.
Chief, WFA Program
[ March 26, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
March 26, 1942 FOR INFORMATION ONLY
TO WFA FIELD AGENTS
Copy to: District Officers; Special Field Agents; WFA Section Chiefs.
SUBJECT: Operating Problems
You will be interested and pleased to know that Army and W.C.C.A. officials have expressed many complimentary remarks on the part played by FSA personnel in the opening phases of the alien evacuation program. You and the Federal Security and Federal Reserve team members in the local U.S.E.S. offices have won great respect for the energy and agressiveness with which the first steps have been taken, especially in view of the haste with which organization had to be established and the complete lack of any opportunity to accomplish even preliminary training.
Probably the most concrete evidence of the high regard in which your work is being held has been the continued addition of greater authority and responsibility to our offices by those in charge of the W.C.C.A. program.
Naturally, there have existed many obstacles and difficulties, and undoubtedly we have many more to face before the job assigned to us can be completed. Some of the legal and administrative problems which have been presented during the first ten days are still in process of being cleared, and we may expect even more perplexing problems to arise as our work progresses. It has not even been possible to prevent the occurrence of mechanical operating difficulties in spite of our efforts to give you the maximum of assistance and service.
Many Field Agents are to be commended for the independent and sometimes ingenious methods used in securing local assistance without expense; in obtaining supplies; in duplicating forms and other assistance and services. Additional District Officers have been added to the staff and you are now in better position to discuss your problems personally with these officials, and thus to secure quicker, more concerted action in ironing out your operating difficulties. The Regional Office, also, is now better organized to take care of your needs and we expect that from now on, to the greatest extent possible, you will be able to concentrate on solving the major administrative and legal problems involved in the negotiations between evacuees and prospective farm operators, and in carrying out the credit and custodial phases of the responsibilities assigned to the FSA.
Thank you for being so patient. You are doing a fine job. Keep it up!
Chief, WFA Program
[ March 26, 1942 Letter]
Farm Security Administration
WFA Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
March 26, 1942 FOR INFORMATION ONLY
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Copy to: District Officers; Special Field Agents.
SUBJECT: Furnishing of Maps, Statistical Data, Etc. by County Agricultural Commissioner and Others
Attached for your information and guidance is a copy of a circular letter dated March 21, 1942 from W. J. Cecil, Director of the California State Department of Agriculture, and other related officials.
Most of you have already obtained considerable valuable assistance and information from the County Agricultural Commissioners. Mr. Cecil's letter makes clear that he approves the furnishing of these data, etc. for your use.
Attachment
Chief, WFA Program
[ March 21, 1942 Letter]
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
W. J. CECIL, DIRECTOR
SACRAMENTO
Members, State Board of Agriculture
Members Agricultural Prorate Advisory Commission
Members, Committee on Agricultural Resources and Production, State Council of Defense
Administrators of Divisions and Bureau Chiefs
FROM: W. J. CECIL
(In re Alien Evacuation)
1. Attached for your information is a copy of a Farm Security Administration field letter of March 15 from Regional Director L. I. Hewes, Jr., and a copy of an initial press release used March 18, both relating to the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program announced by General J. L. DeWitt recently. It is believed you will find the enclosures fully self-explanatory.
2. For specific and detailed information or assistance relative to a particular community, refer all inquiries to the F. S. A. Field Agent in that community. Such Agent in most instances will have offices with the local office of the U. S. Employment Service (there are approximately 80 such offices in California).
3. Agricultural Commissioners: May I call your particular attention to Item 1A near the bottom of Page 2 of the attached field letter (specific data relative to Japanese farms) —- The detailed three-page questionnaires which most of you filled out for each Japanese farm in your respective counties pursuant to my request of January 21 will be of invaluable aid to the F. S. A. Field Agent in his important work. Accordingly, please make arrangements to turn over your completed questionnaires to him, even though you may not yet have finished your survey. Some of you have likewise made excellent maps as a result of your survey, a copy of which should also be given to the F. S. A. Field Agent. Please do not await a local request for these data, but take them to the Field Agent at the earliest possible date.
4. Additional information on the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program (other than that issued from time to time as press releases by the Farm Security Administration and General DeWitt) will be forwarded to you as it is made available to us.
Attachments (2)
Director
[ March 21, 1942 Letter]
California
Arizona
Oregon
Washington
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR INFORMATION AND FUTURE REFERENCE
TO: ALL WFA FIELD AGENTS AND DISTRICT OFFICERS
FROM: W. C. HELVEY, PROGRAM CHIEF
The following items require your immediate attention. Further information on each subject will be forthcoming as soon as it is available.
Boundaries of Areas Served by Field Offices: District Officers will immediately establish definite boundaries with their Field Agents for areas served by each field office, and describe all areas agreed upon in an airmail letter to the Program Chief. Make this report as brief as possible to cover the subject.
German and Italian Aliens: The problems and the farming operations of German and Italian aliens are of equal importance with the problems of Japanese. All German, Italian, and Japanese aliens, and Japanese citizens, are subject to evacuation in the same manner; therefore, the Field Agent is concerned with all of these groups. However, in the case of German and Italian aliens, arrangements may often be made to turn over farming operations without interruption to an American-born relative or in some cases to a German or Italian who has acquired citizenship status.
Responsibility for Crop Production: Field Agents should keep constantly informed of instances where farm lands in their areas have been abandoned or where crops needed for the War effort are not being produced, and report such information to the Program Chief by telegram.
Disposition of Farm Machinery: It is the responsibility of Field Agents to see that farm machinery on property to be evacuated continues in full use for wartime food production. They should make every effort to prevent the disposal of such machinery by Japanese until arrangements have been made for carrying on their farming operations by someone else. At such time, determination can be made as to whether the new operator will need the machinery. If the machinery is not needed by the new operator, there is no objection to its sale or removal. However, in the case of sale, you should see that the Japanese gets fair treatment from dealers and other purchasers.
Cooperating Agencies: A great deal of highly useful information has been collected by various local groups in your area. Establish close relationships with all such agencies as the following:
- County U.S.D.A. War Board
- Agricultural Adjustment Administration
- Soil Conservation Service
- Farm Labor Subcommittee, Land Use Planning Committee
- County Agricultural Commission
- Farm Advisor (County Agent)
- County Sheriff's Office
- District Attorney's Office
[ March 16, 1942 Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
From: Ted L. Smith, Regional Finance and Business Manager
Subject: Travel Expenses - Wartime Farm Adjustment Program
Since you are now detailed to a special program, all travel expenses incurred by you will be charged to this special program. You are authorized, therefore, to submit a travel voucher covering any travel you performed up to the day that you entered on duty in the special program, in order to clear out your regular FSA travel.
All travel vouchers which you submit in the future covering your activities in this special program should be submitted in an original and two copies and should be clearly marked on the front in the upper left corner with the capital letters WFA in order that they may be readily identified in our accounts. We will give preferential handling to these specially marked accounts and will endeavor to reimburse you as promptly as possible.
Please check your travel vouchers carefully to be sure that they are in order so that it will not be necessary for us to return them to you for correction. If any of you do not have the Travel Handbook issued January 1, 1942, please write for one immediately. We are anxious that you be reimbursed for your expenses promptly, but it is up to you to submit your vouchers in proper order.
[ Letter]
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Farm Security Administration
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
Subject: Your Immediate Assignment and Detail to Wartime Farm Adjustment Program
Effective at the close of business, Monday, March 16, you are relieved of your duties as an assistant or associate county RR supervisor of the RR Division. Effective Tuesday morning, March 17, you are detailed and assigned for an indefinite period to the new Wartime Farm Adjustment Program. You are instructed to report at 9 a.m. on March 17 to the United States Employment Service Office in, California, the detailed address of which is contained in an attached list. You will remain on the FSA pay roll.
Specific detailed procedures and instructions covering the operation of the program which you will conduct, necessary forms for your use, and other immediately required material will be in your hands at your new post of duty on Tuesday morning. Please take with you from your present RR county office a moderate initial supply of such articles as stationery, envelopes, pencils, a few note books, rubber bands, paper clips, etc., sufficient to take care of your needs for a few days until additional supplies can be shipped to you.
Your new working title will be Field Agent, Wartime Farm Adjustment Program. You will be under the immediate supervision of a District Officer of the WFA program. Mr. Ernst Behr will be District Officer for Southern California (south of Tehachapi), and Mr. George Homsy will be District Officer for all of California north of the Tehachapi. Contact will be made with you either by your District Officer, or by one of the other officials identified with this program, sometime during the day on Tuesday, March 17.
Clearance has already been made with the USES offices with respect to space arrangements, desks, typewriters, and other office equipment, but if you find any difficulty has presented itself in this regard, please communicate by wire (collect) with Mr. W. C. Helvey, Program Chief, at this address.
Your are authorized to claim per diem at the rate specified in your present travel letter of authorization during your stay away from your present official headquarters, or until further notice.
You may or may not need stenographic assistance immediately. If the need does not permit your requesting and receiving the appointment of a stenographer through the channels which will be described to you in the forthcoming procedure, you should ask for voluntary aid from any local FSA office (which office will be reimbursed for any help thus furnished). If there is no FSA office in the
Attachment
P.S. You may proceed to your new headquarters either by use of travel requests, or in your own automobile.
Assistant Regional Director, RR
[ March 15, 1942 Letter]
California
Arizona
Oregon
Washington
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Wartime Farm Adjustment Program
30 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California
March 15, 1942TO: ALL DISTRICT OFFICERS AND FIELD AGENTS OF THE WARTIME FARM ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM
FROM: LAURENCE I. HEWES JR., REGIONAL DIRECTOR
The Regional Director of the Farm Security Administration in Region IX has been assigned the vital emergency job of seeing that agricultural production continues on the lands of Japanese aliens and citizens, and other persons subject to evacuation, who voluntarily leave their land and move from prohibited and restricted military areas.
To accomplish this essential war task the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program has been created. Its primary purpose will be to supervise the fair disposition of alien agricultural lands and to assure continued production on those lands by aiding qualified farmers to take over the vacated land and obtain credit to operate.
The Wartime Farm Adjustment Program will be headed by Mr. William C. Helvey as Program Chief, working under the direct supervision of Mr. Ralph W. Hollenberg, Assistant Regional Director, RR. Mr. Lee Fryer will be Deputy Program Chief. The work will be performed by Field Agents, usually located in U. S. Employment Service offices. Their work will be coordinated and supervised by District Officers. The operating area of the program will be California, Washington, Oregon and Arizona.
The Program will have three Sections: Loan, Records and Reports, and Information. The Loan Section will have the following units: Processing, Security, Legal, Cooperative, Farm Management and Credit. The Program will operate under the authority of, and with funds supplied by, the Western Defense Command and Fourth Army.
The Wartime Farm Adjustment Program's assignment at present is limited strictly to the voluntary evacuation phase of the larger evacuation problem. The problems of the Japanese and others subject to evacuation orders who fail to voluntarily move will be handled later. Immediate problems arising from the evacuation of aliens, such as assistance in moving, or employment for evacuees, will probably be handled by the Federal Security Agency through the U. S. Employment Service.
The immediate task is two-fold. First, we must encourage the voluntary removal of Japanese and other farmers subject to evacuation orders by assisting them in the disposition of their lands and farming operations. Second and most important, we must see that the agricultural lands of these persons are continued in full production of the kind of crops already planted or for which there is a war need.
The Army and the Government desire that there be as much voluntary movement of aliens as possible. It is also important that Japanese and others get a "square deal" in making disposition of their farming interests and operations.
The primary objective of the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program will be to see that these evacuated lands continue in full production. This is matter of the greatest importance to the Nation and to our war effort. Japanese now produce from 35 to 50 percent of the vegetables grown in California, and California production in many crops constitutes from a third to two-thirds of the Nations' vegetable production.
Since increased production under the Food For Freedom program is of vital importance to our military effort— affecting not only supplies for our Army but supplies being sent to Britain and Russia — keeping the Japanese lands in production is a basic war measure.
At the Regional level the Program will work closely with the Army and with the Federal Reserve Bank. The latter, representing the Treasury, will serve as custodian of alien property after the Japanese voluntarily evacuate. The Federal Reserve Bank may also act as custodian should the Japanese evacuate before making arrangements to lease his land. The District Officers and field agents will be provided space in the U.S.E.S. office and will maintain close liaison with the local Federal Reserve representative, also to be located in the local U.S.E.S. offices. The District Officers and Field Agents will maintain similar liaison with the U.S.E.S. since the Employment Service, representing the Federal Security Agency, may be authorized to assist the Japanese farmers, after they dispose of their lands, to move and find employment in other areas, etc., if necessary. The District Officers and Field Agents will also maintain liaison with all public and private credit agencies, as helping obtain ordinary credit for continued operation of the evacuated lands is an important part of our job.
THE JOB OF THE FIELD AGENT
The initial job of the field agent will be the following:
- 1. The Field Agent will give information to Japanese farmers and others proposing to evacuate their land, and to farmers interested
in taking over such lands. This will require:
- A. A knowledge of the number and nature of Japanese farms in his area.
- B. A knowledge and list of qualified farmers who desire to take over Japanese operations.
- C. Qualifying of farmers as to ability to grow the desired kind of produce.
- D. Stimulating Japanese to move voluntarily and qualified farmers to take over Japanese farming operations, if necessary.
- E. Bringing of Japanese and qualified farmers together.
― 3 ― - 2. The Field Agent will oversee arrangements between Japanese and qualified farmers. This will require that the field agent:
- A. See that these arrangements will guarantee maximum desired production of farm produce.
- B. Assure fair treatment of the Japanese. This will require equitable arrangements with landlords, lien holders, produce buyers, contractors and others.
- C. Assist proposed qualified operators in working out over-all plans of farm operations covering estimates of credit needs; amounts of expense items, and when and for what purpose needed; and income to be obtained from the farming operations. The farmer must be enabled, with the field agent's assistance, to show his qualifications and eligibility for credit.
- 3. The Field Agent will refer applicants who have made proper arrangements to use evacuated land to appropriate credit agencies for their usual types of loans. This will require working relationships with banks, seed companies, processors, Farm Credit Administration and the R. R. offices of the Farm Security Administration. It will also require a knowledge of the credit policies and requirements of all private and government credit sources. Many of the applicants will be eligible for FSA standard rural rehabilitation or "Food for Freedom" loans. All Department agencies, including RR offices of the FSA, will give first priority to these loans. Field Agents should request private credit sources to give priority to such applicants.
- 4. The Field Agent will be able to make special production loans to qualified farmers who have made satisfactory arrangements with Japanese if they cannot readily obtain credit elsewhere. If the Field Agent, from his knowledge of credit policies of other agencies, predetermines that the farmer could not obtain credit from other sources, or if the applicant is refused credit by other sources, the field agent has the authority and funds to make Wartime Farm Adjustment Loans to these applicants. Funds will be supplied by the Army. It is probable that the RR offices of the FSA and other government credit agencies will not receive additional funds to make loans to these applicants, and neither the FSA's RR offices nor the other agencies are expected to relax their usual credit standards.
- 5. The Field Agent will service and collect the Wartime Farm Adjustment (WFA) loans which he has made. Orderly, continued use of Japanese lands so that production is not curtailed is the objective, but payment in full and on schedule is expected.
- 6. Each WFA Field Office will make a weekly report, for the week ending each Friday night, beginning March 20, showing progress in the office. Appropriate instructions will be issued before that date. It is imperative that these reports, compiled and summarized, be laid on the desk of the Commanding General, Western Defense Command and Fourth Army, every Monday morning.
Specific, detailed instructions on procedures and forms to be used in the work of the Wartime Farm Adjustment Program will be in your hands Tuesday morning, March 17. Instructions on the extent of your authority to release news stories and to solicit aid of newspapers and other public media in getting the important facts out to both Japanese and qualified farmers will also be given you.
In the meantime, it must be remembered that speed is the essence of this program. It is a military necessity that crops be planted on schedule. Field Agents will immediately open offices in the local U.S.E.S. office and prepare to put the program in full operation Tuesday morning.
Regional Director
Supplemental Report of the Participation of the FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
In the Evacuation Program of the WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION CIVIL AFFAIRS DIVISION WESTERN DEFENSE COMMAND AND FOURTH ARMY in Military Area Number 2
Covering the period June 1, 1942 through August 8, 1942
Laurence I. Hewes, Jr. Regional Director Region IX
30 Van Ness Avenue San Francisco, California
I INTRODUCTION
Between June 1 and August 8, 1942 the Wartime Civil Control Administration evacuated all persons of Japanese ancestry from that portion of California lying in Military Area No. 2. The Farm Security Administration was responsible for the agricultural phases of this program, performing functions similar to those carried on previously in Military Area No. 1.
This report on the activities of the Farm Security Administration in Military Area 2 supplements the Final Report on Area 1 submitted June 5, 1942. It presents data relating exclusively to Military Area 2, and does not repeat material contained in the Final Report, to which it is a sequel.
II BASIC AUTHORITIES
A confidential memorandum from Colonel Karl R. Bendetsen, Assistant Chief of Staff, Western Defense Command, on May 27, 1942 instructed the Farm Security Administration to prepare to administer the agricultural phases of evacuation in Military Area No. 2 of California. This memorandum is attached as Exhibit 1.
During the activity of the Farm Security Administration in Area 2, all of the directives and authorities by which it had operated in Area 1 continued in effect. These included the authority to make emergency production loans to farm operators taking over evacuated lands and the "freezing power" to prevent unfair transactions.
III CHARACTERISTICS AND IMPORTANCE OF JAPANESE AGRICULTURE IN MILITARY AREA NO. 2
About three-fourths of the Japanese working population evacuated from the California portion of Military Area No. 2 had been engaged in agriculture.
Japanese farms in Area 2 numbered 647, totalling 24,582 acres. Of these, 93, with 4,092 acres, were located in the Sacramento Valley, 554, with 20,490 acres, in the San Joaquin, and two farms, embracing 320 acres, in the Mohave desert near Yermo, California
Fruit, truck and specialty crops predominated, and, as in Military Area 1, the Japanese share in this type of intensive agriculture was highly important in relation to their numbers and the size of their farms.
The specialization of Japanese farmers in and around Visalia and Ivanhoe was very significant and presented an important problem in preparing this area for evacuation. The main crops grown were of strawberries, tomatoes, nursery stock, peas, beans, fruit and melons. Much acreage was planted and harvested two or more times a year.
In and around Reedley grapes is the main crop and although the relative concentration of Japanese farmers was heavy, they produced only a small percentage of the total grapes grown in this locality.
The same peculiar problems of land tenure affecting Japanese farm operation in Military Area 1 prevailed in Area 2. Transferring the operation of such holdings to substitute operators involved highly complex transactions and required the services of technically trained personnel.
IV OUTLINE OF PROGRAM ORGANIZATION
The organization which the Farm Security Administration developed within the framework of the Wartime Civil Control Administration for operations in Military Area No. 1 continued to function in Area No. 2. However, the relatively smaller volume of activity permitted the gradual curtailment of staff and the progressive consolidation of functional units. In this process the Farm Security Administration organization was continually refined, as the more experienced and capable members of the staff built up in Area 1 were retained for use in Area 2.
WFA and Evacuation Control Units: Evacuation Control Agents were assigned to work with WFA Field Agents in preparing Military Area No. 2 for evacuation. Thus, in the weeks prior to the issuance of a Civilian Exclusion Order, both types of personnel would cooperate in registering Japanese Farm operators and prospective substitutes and in promoting transfers. When a locality was posted for evacuation, the Evacuation Agents would process the farm operators through Civil Control Stations. Their activities continued in close coordination with those of the WFA field office. In some cases, the same personnel performed both functions consecutively.
Information and Public Relations Unit: The WFA Information and Public Relations Unit was disbanded on June 10, 1942. Its functions were assumed by the Chiefs of the WFA and Evacuation Control Units in cooperation with the Chief of Public Relations, Civil Affairs Division, Western Defense Command and Fourth Army.
Service Sections: The Administrative Services Section was made a part of the regular Farm Security Administration Business Management Division, which accorded special attention to the needs of the Evacuation Program in Military Area 2.
Regional Director: The Regional Director of the Farm Security Administration in Region IX continued actively to direct the entire program.
V PROGRAM OPERATION
WFA Unit
Initiation of Activities: On May 27, 1942, the Assistant Chief of Staff, Civil Affairs Division, sent the Farm Security Administration a memorandum warning that the Army planned to evacuate all persons of Japanese ancestry from the California portion of Military Area No. 2 (See Exhibit 1). This memorandum instructed the Farm Security Administration to assign the necessary field representatives to assist in the intensive and difficult task of preparing Area 2 for evacuation.
On June 5, 1942, Farm Security Administration Field Agents commenced activities in five of the Wartime Civil Control Administration centers set up in United States Employment Service offices in Eastern California. Three of these offices were in the Sacramento Valley and two in the San Joaquin Valley. (See accompanying Table 1.)
Registration of Japanese Farmers: FSA Field Agents began immediately the job of canvassing and registering all Japanese farms subject to relinquishment. This activity continued throughout the period of operation, although 80 percent of the task was accomplished within the first week. (See accompanying Table 2.) This registration procedure, which was established early in the program of evacuation of Military Area No. 1, was a very important factor in promoting the orderly transfer of farm property and in laying indispensable ground work for the various operations performed during the exclusion period.
Registration of Prospective Operators: The second phase of the activities performed by Field Agents was the registration of prospective farm operators qualified to assume management of farms subject to relinquishment, and prospective purchasers of crops, farm machinery and other types of farm assets.
Registration of prospective substitute operators and of operators who had already contracted to assume management of Japanese farms was continued throughout the program in Area 2. Before closing each field office, FSA Field Agents secured virtually a complete record of the farm operators replacing the Japanese, or who purchased crops or equipment from them.
Promotion of Transfer Transactions: The main reason for registering Japanese farm properties and prospective substitute operators was to promote transfers of holdings from the former to the latter. Experience gained in the evacuation of Military Area No. 1 regarding the characteristics of farm operation and tenure as well as of farm finance, enabled the Field Agents to assist both parties in arriving at satisfactory terms, and to
| Field Office | Date Opened | Date Closed |
| SACRAMENTO VALLEY | ||
| Chico | June 5 | July 9 |
| Marysville | June 5 | July 11 |
| Lincoln | June 5 | July 12 |
| SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY | ||
| Reedley | June 5 | August 7 |
| Visalia | June 5 | August 7 |
| REPORTING PERIOD ENDING | MILITARY AREA 2 | SACRAMENTO VALLEY | AN JOAQUIN VALLEY | |||
| Farms | Acres | Farms | Acres | Farms | Acres | |
| June 9 | 200 | 7,729 | 30 | 1,489 | 170 | 6,240 |
| June 10 | 348 | 12,940 | 73 | 3,162 | 275 | 9,778 |
| June 11 | 415 | 15,967 | 85 | 4,042 | 330 | 11,925 |
| June 12 | 468 | 17,636 | 85 | 3,739 | 383 | 13,897 |
| June 15 | 543 | 20,638 | 83 | 3,807 | 460 | 16,831 |
| June 17 | 591 | 22,515 | 85 | 3,822 | 506 | 18,683 |
| June 19 | 610 | 23,140 | 87 | 3,887 | 523 | 19,253 |
| June 22 | 616 | 23,327 | 87 | 3,887 | 529 | 19,440 |
| June 24 | 623 | 23,635 | 87 | 3,887 | 536 | 19,748 |
| June 26 | 627 | 23,733 | 89 | 3,955 | 538 | 19,778 |
| June 29 | 627 | 23,733 | 89 | 3,955 | 538 | 19,778 |
| July 1 | 626 | 23,693 | 89 | 3,955 | 537 | 19,738 |
| July 13 | 638 | 24,243 | 93 | 4,092 | 545 | 20,151 |
| July 20 | 640 | 24,383 | 93 | 4,092 | 547 | 20,291 |
| July 27 | 647 | 24,582 | 93 | 4,092 | 554 | 20,490 |
| Source of Data: Farm Security Administration Field Reports | ||||||
Office files were kept up to date and lists of available farms and equipment were posted on large bulletin boards. These were referred to constantly by large numbers of interested farmers.
In addition to circumstances similar to those which hampered transfers in Military Area l—scarcity of qualified substitutes, fear of labor shortage, etc.— progress was handicapped in Area 2 by the presence of many Japanese farmers who had voluntarily evacuated Area 1 and who were developing new farm units which required much additional outlay of labor and capital before they could be brought into profitable production.
However, the relatively longer period of time between initiation of field activities and the date of actual evacuation in this area was used to good advantage by the Field Agents and the Japanese in negotiating sound and equitable agreements with substitute operators. An important instrument was the dissemination through field offices of information to the public and to the Japanese accurately describing the facilities and opportunities available at the Wartime Civil Control Administration service centers. A final report of WFA Field Office registrations and transfers is attached as Exhibit 3.
Providing Credit to Substitute Operators: Only one major change in policy was made in the administration of the program in Military Area 2. The policy with reference to the use of loan funds made available from the President's emergency funds was modified on June 12, 1942 to the effect that loans involving farm properties located in Military Area 2 would not be made to corporations, associations or legal entities unless the members, directors or shareholders of such organizations would assume unlimited personal responsibility for the repayment of such loans. WFA Notice 10 covering instructions to the field on this point is attached as Exhibit 2.
A good deal of public pressure was exerted in the early period of the evacuation of Military Area 2 for modification of this new loan policy to permit corporation or association loans without assumption of personal liability. However, as the evacuation proceeded, satisfactory arrangements were made for substitute operators to take over all Japanese properties and the special Farm Security Administration production loans which were necessary in Military Area 1 to facilitate transfer of farm properties were not once needed in Area 2, not even for individual substitute operators. The more advanced season and the relatively longer period of time for completion of transfers were factors which made the usual channels of credit sufficient to meet the need. However, even though the lending authority was unused in Military Area 2, the knowledge that special loans could be made in
Several Farm Security Administration representatives who were familiar with the records were assigned to assist the War Relocation Authority in a liaison capacity to interpret and catalogue these records. The memorandum referred to above also relieved the Farm Security Administration of responsibility relating to the protection of evacuee farm property at the completion of the evacuation of Military Area No. 2, and delegated this responsibility to the War Relocation Authority.
VI ANALYSIS OF OPERATIONS AND RESULTS
For most purposes of evaluation, the effects of evacuation on the 93 farms in the Sacramento Valley portion of Military Area No. 2 were very similar to those applying to Area 1.
However, circumstances affecting the 554 farms in the San Joaquin Valley made the work of the Farm Security Administration in this section more difficult. In most instances the substitute operators were financially independent farmers currently operating, or experienced in operating, farm enterprises of the type being vacated by the Japanese. In view of reported agricultural labor shortages, most of them were hesitant to expand their holdings except under very favorable conditions. The Japanese themselves were operating well developed and desirable farm units for which they insisted on securing fair prices. Meeting these conditions and prices required considerable effort but produced relatively permanent results.
From the standpoint of fairness to evacuees and substitute operators, and of assured continuity of agricultural production, the transactions concluded in this part of Area 2 are considered even sounder and more enduring than those effected elsewhere in Military Areas No. 1 and 2, although accomplished with considerable more difficulty.
In not more than two or three instances was it necessary for Farm Security Administration representatives to allude to action which the government might take in order to force equitable settlement. These few cases involved landlords who expected to acquire valuable operating units and growing crops without adequately compensating their Japanese tenants. In each such case the landlord's attorney was able to convince his client that it would be advantageous to compromise rather than have his property blocked.
In no instance was it necessary to mention to a Japanese operator the possible use of the "freezing power" in order to compel him to conclude a deal with a substitute operator so that production would continue uninterrupted. This fact is particularly to be noted in light of heavy agricultural investments recently made in Military Area No. 2 by Japanese who voluntarily moved from Area 1 into Eastern California before evacuation was announced.
Farm machinery which had been used by the Japanese was generally made available to the new operators. This materially furthered the transfer of evacuated property.
VII CONCLUSION
All of the conclusions which were drawn by the Farm Security Administration from its operators in Military Area No. 1 may be equally applied to the California portion of Area 2.
EXHIBITS
Exhibit 1
WESTERN DEFENSE COMMAND AND FOURTH ARMY
Office of Assistant Chief of Staff, Civil Affairs Division
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
1231 Market Street
San Francisco, California
Telephone Klondike 2-2611
MEMORANDUM FOR: Farm Security Administration
1. This memo is in the form of a warning order and its contents until further notice must remain confidential.
2. It is planned to evacuate all persons of Japanese ancestry from that portion of California in Military Area No. 2. In connection with this evacuation it is anticipated that the number involved will be approximately 15,000. Approximately 2,500 of these evacuees are north of a line drawn east and west from Tanforan through Merced and will be evacuated to the Tule Lake Relocation Center. These persons are concentrated to a depth of approximately 40 miles along the line of Military Area No. 2 from Marysville southeasterly to the Placer-El Dorado County line. Approximately 12,500 are south of this line and will be evacuated to the Gila Relocation Center at Pima. These persons are concentrated to a depth of approximately 80 miles along the line of Military Area No. 2 extending from the Fresno-Madera County line, southeasterly to a point directly east of Tulare.
3. The Gila Relocation Center will not be ready until approximately July 1st, and although the Tule Lake Center will be prepared in advance of this date, it is desired to start the two movements simultaneously, starting approximately July 1st.
4. Persons to be evacuated in this area understood that no further movement would be required of them. It is believed that they have made substantial investments and that this evacuation will come as a distinct shock. For this reason it is felt that there is a considerably higher responsibility in connection with property protection than heretofore. It is therefore desired that the FSA carefully select from among their
5. As mentioned in 1. above, this is merely a warning order and further information will be forwarded at a later date.
Colonel, G.S.C.
Assistant Chief of Staff
Civil Affairs Division
Exhibit 2
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FARM SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
(Classification 931)
DISTRIBUTION: ALL WFA Personnel
NOTE: Modifies paragraph IV of WFA Instruction 931.1 and WFA Notice 6 (Classification 931).
(6-12-42)
WFA LOANS TO OTHER THAN INDIVIDUALS
WFA Loans involving farm properties located in Military Area No. 2 will not be made to corporations, associations or other legal entities, unless the members, directors or shareholders of such organizations can and will assume unlimited personal liability for the re-payment of such loans.
Exhibit 3
| FARMS SUBJECT TO RELINQUISHMENT | AREA SUBJECT TO RELINQUISHMENT | |||||
| OFFICE | Registered | Transferred | Registered | Transferred | ||
| Number | Number | Percent | Acres | Acres | Percent | |
| TOTAL MILITARY AREA NO. 2 | 647 | 647 | 100 | 24,582 | 24,582 | 100 |
| SACRAMENTO VALLEY | 93 | 93 | 100 | 4,092 | 4,092 | 100 |
| Chico | 24 | 24 | 100 | 643 | 643 | 100 |
| Lincoln | 52 | 52 | 100 | 2,876 | 2,876 | 100 |
| Marysville | 17 | 17 | 100 | 573 | 573 | 100 |
| SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY | 554 | 554 | 100 | 20,490 | 20,490 | 100 |
| Reedley | 373 | 373 | 100 | 13,985 | 13,985 | 100 |
| Visalia | 181 | 181 | 100 | 6,505 | 6,505 | 100 |
| Source of Data: Farm Security Administration Field Report | ||||||
Exhibit 4
| Control Station | Order No. | Project No. | Closing Date | Total Registration | Cases with Arrangements Complete | Cases with Arrangements Incomplete | Total Acreage operated by Evacuees | Acreage with Arrangements Complete | Acreage with Arrangements Incomplete |
| Chico | 100 | A-1 | July 9 | 23 | 23 | 0 | 606 | 606 | 0 |
| Marysville | 101 | A-2 | July 11 | 35 | 35 | 0 | 2,063 | 2,063 | 0 |
| Lincoln | 102 | A-3 | July 12 | 69 | 69 | 0 | 3,676 | 3,676 | 0 |
| Clovis | 103 | A-4 | July 16 | 75 | 75 | 0 | 2,138 | 2,138 | 0 |
| Lindsay | 104 | A-8 | July 16 | 68 | 68 | 0 | 3,363 | 3,363 | 0 |
| Feedles | 105 | A-9 | July 15 | 2 Isolated and not served by a WFA Field Office. | 1 | 1 | 160 | 144 | 16 |
| Sanger | 106 | A-5 | Aug. 7 | 286 | 286 | 0 | 9,943 | 9,943 | 0 |
| Reedley | 107 | A-6 | Aug. 7 | 109 | 109 | 0 | 4,484 | 4,475 | 9 |
| Visalia | 108 | A-7 | Aug. 7 | 200 | 200 | 0 | 8,103 | 8,103 | 0 |
| 867 Includes 186 farms located in Military Area No. 1, and registered by Japanese who moved to Military Area No. 2 during period of voluntary evacuation. | 866 | 1 | 34,536 ** Includes 6,717 acres located in Military Area No. 1. | 34,511 | 25 |
Exhibit 5
WESTERN DEFENSE COMMAND AND FOURTH ARMY
Office of Assistant Chief of Staff, Civil Affairs Division
WARTIME CIVIL CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
1231 Market Street
San Francisco, California
Telephone Klondike 2-2611
1. Upon the completion of evacuation of Areas Nos. 1 and 2, the responsibilities of the Farm Security Administration relating to the protection of evacuees' property will be accepted by the War Relocation Authority, exclusive of cases wherein loans were made to substitute operators.
2. In order to enable War Relocation Authority effectively to service individual problems arising out of transactions effected through you, as an agency of the Wartime Civil Control Administration, it may be necessary for certain data pertinent to these transactions now in your files to be made available for perusal and copying by that Authority. It is desired that appropriate arrangements be made between you and WRA for enabling the Authority to have such access to such pertinent records.
3. In addition, it is suggested that a representative of your administration familiar with the program and who can devote sufficient time to the task, be assigned to assist WRA in a liaison capacity until that Authority is able to carry out fully the responsibilities imposed upon it by reason of the transfer above mentioned.
Colonel, G.S.C.
Assistant Chief of Staff
Civil Affairs Division
Courtesy of The Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-6000; http://bancroft.berkeley.edu/
http://content.cdlib.org/view?docId=hb009n99p1&brand=oac4
Title: Farm Security Administration reports: final report on the evacuation program of the Wartime Civil Control Administration
By: United States. Farm Security Administration, Author
Date: 1942-1943
Contributing Institution: The Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-6000; http://bancroft.berkeley.edu/
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