80 FISH AND GAME. 



BIOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS. 



The report of the biologist of the Commission, Dr. David L. 

 Belding, follows: 



To the Commissioners on Fisheries and Game. 



GENTLEMEN:--! herewith submit a resume of the work of 

 the biological department during the year 1916, and a sum- 

 mary of a special report upon the Massachusetts alewife 

 fisheries. 



Respectfully submitted, 



DAVID L. BELDING, Biologist. 



GENERAL REPORT. 



Introduction. - - An important factor in the growth and ac- 

 tivities of a fish and game commission is the continual improve- 

 ment of methods and the correct diagnosis of the problems 

 intimately connected with the work. Results can only be ac- 

 complished by definitely planned experimental work, and it is 

 this type of service which the biological department renders. In 

 no other way except by actual experimental work can our Fish 

 and Game Commission hold that reputation for progress which 

 Massachusetts has always maintained in the past. 



The investigations of the biological department have been 

 conducted upon various phases of the fresh and salt water 

 fisheries and upon problems of bird propagation, in addition to 

 the organization of an educational bureau for the instruction of 

 the public in matters pertaining to fish and game. 



Laboratory. Through the courtesy of Dr. Frank C. Richard- 

 son, director of the Evans Memorial Hospital, the biologist has 

 been provided with excellent laboratory facilities for conducting 

 experimental work. The Commission desires to express to Dr. 

 Richardson its appreciation for the privileges thus afforded. 



Assistants. One assistant, Mr. Leslie J. Gilbride, has been 

 associated with the biologist during the past year, and has proved 

 of special service in handling routine correspondence, in extending 

 the educational work and in the preparation of reports. 



Pathological Examinations. - - From all parts of the State birds 

 and fish are sent, either by individuals or through the district 



