356 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 



fisheries, what steps can we recommend as an abatement to this standing menace to 

 the sad remnant of a once grand industry? Many of our people would be thrown out 

 of employment and much capital now invested in the pound nets would be sacrificed 

 if the pound nets were to be abolished. Nor could one State alone repair the damage, 

 already too long continued, without the hearty cooperation by legislation of all the 

 Atlantic States — concurrent legislation. The efforts of the fish-culturisrs will be 

 barren of good results without this heroic treatment as supplementary to artificial 

 propagation, and a close period during their spawning season and perfect freedom to 

 reach their natural spawning grounds. 



It is to the serious consideration of this matter that I would call the attention of 

 gentlemen here to-day. 



