1907.] PUBLIC DOCUMENT No. 73. 45 



residential sections has been highly effective, the only thing 

 possible in the line of woodland work has been the spraying and 

 burlapping of the infested borders and the main streets, and as 

 a result gypsy moth colonies have increased in such sections. 



In the Pine Banks Park, which is one of the most beautiful 

 small parks lying to the north of Greater Boston, a strong cam- 

 paign was made against the moths during the past season. This 

 park lies within the borders of Maiden and Melrose, and 

 is controlled by a joint board of park commissioners representing 

 both cities. Upward of 600 dead pines, killed by the gypsy 

 moth, were removed ; and during the caterpillar season a vigor- 

 ous campaign of spraying was carried on, with the result of 

 greatly lessening the numbers of the insects. Burlap bands 

 were used with good effect during the caterpillar season, while 

 spraying operations were equally successful. While this park is 

 still badly infested, it is but fair to say that a notable improve- 

 ment in conditions is apparent over those existing in 1905. If 

 this park is to be preserved for the benefit of the two cities, in 

 whose ownership it is held conjointly, a thorough and systematic 

 campaign against the gypsy moth will be necessary. At the 

 present time the park is regarded somewhat in the light of an 

 onus upon both cities; yet the superintendent believes that 

 future years will amply demonstrate the wisdom of thoroughly 

 caring for this, one of the most beautiful pleasure spots in the 

 entire metropolitan district. It is to be hoped that the gypsy 

 moth problem here will be placed in the hands of some board or 

 official representing both cities, so that necessary operations may 

 be prosecuted in proper season, and with the proper financial 

 support. 



So far as the general proposition of caring for the infested 

 district at Melrose is concerned, it may be said that the cost of 

 keeping under observation the streets and residential districts 

 will be less than in 1905. The operations in woodlands and 

 partly improved property should be prosecuted with the utmost 

 vigor. Burlaps will be generally required throughout the city, 

 and a vigorous spraying campaign should show good results. 



V- 



