Question

Consider the following quote from Franklin D. Roosevelt: In creating this civilian conservation corps we are killing two birds with one stone. We are clearly enhancing the value of our natural resources and second, we are relieving an appreciable amount of actual distress. This great group of men have entered upon their work on a purely voluntary basis, no military training is involved and we are conserving not only our natural resources but our human resources. One of the great values to this work is the fact that it is direct and requires the intervention of very little machinery.1Why is the use of machinery of any concern to President Roosevelt?

Answer 1

Without the use of machinery many Americans will be employed to do various jobs. Their unemployment rate during that time will decrease. Another consideration is that there is a need for expertise in handling heavy machinery. One must be learned enough not only to drive heavy machinery but also to operate it and maintain its good condition. 

Answer 2

More Americans can be employed if jobs do not require specialized skills like using heavy machines.