The Smith-Lever Act was enacted in 1914 in the United States to establish a system of cooperative extension services. This act aimed to provide agricultural education and resources to rural communities, helping farmers improve their practices and productivity. It facilitated the collaboration between the federal government, state governments, and land-grant universities, ensuring that research findings reached the public.
Through the Smith-Lever Act, local extension agents were appointed to deliver educational programs directly to farmers and families. This initiative not only enhanced agricultural techniques but also promoted community development and improved quality of life in rural areas across the nation.