8 



the State, and the different modes adapted to redeem them, 

 the Board have determined to offer a premium, at the antici- 

 pated State fair, for the best essay on this subject. In this 

 way we expect to be able tO' present in the next annual re- 

 port, some valuable suggestions on the subject of draining 

 and ditching the large quantity of wet lands in this State. 



In offering this premium, and others, such as that for the 

 best model of a country residence, out-houses, barns, &c., 

 the best essay on rendering available and profitable our hilly 

 and broken lands, in all these, the Board seek to accomplish 

 what is always desirable, the saving of time and toil, by 

 means of the most judicious, skillful and approved application 

 of labor to any given pursuit. 



There is believed to be just cause of complaint in many 

 parts of the State, from the running at large of male stock of 

 various kinds. The wanton and malicious destruction of 

 trees, shrubs, flowers, vines, &c., has been brought to the at- 

 tention of the Board. In connection with these subjects, the 

 Board is impressed with the importance of providing by law, 

 some sure remedy for the destruction of sheep by dogs. 

 This useful and profitable animal, in many parts of the State 

 has been entirely destroyed in this way. On all these sub- 

 jects, it is believed by your Board, that efficient and stringent 

 laws are called for by the best interests of society. 



It is suggested that the general use of stone coal, demands 

 the providing by law, of some fixed and certain weight for 

 the legal bushel of coal. 



There are other articles that should receive a definite and 

 precise weight by law. I herewith attach the weight per 

 bushel to the following articles, as recognized and established 

 in some of the States. They are worthy of your considera- 

 tion: 



Of Wheat 60 poundf. 



or Shelled Corn 5C pounds. 



Of Corn in the cob 72 pounds. 



Of Rye 56 pounds. 



Of Oats 35 pounds. 



Of Barley 48 pound*. 



