16 DiKECTou's Rei-okt of tub 



goncral tendoncj of certain cliangos to affoct tlio milk flow, 

 Observations were made in this case only in regard to tlie im- 

 mediate effect of tliese changes. 



Only rations which approximated those of the common feed- 

 ing standards were considered. Within these limits changes in 

 the amount of total digestible organic matter showed a greater 

 and more constant influence than any other. An increase^ in 

 amount of the total nutrients had a generally favorable effect 

 on the milk yield, and a reduction an unfavorable one, either 

 when the amount was more or less than the 15.5 lbs. jier day 

 for each 1,000 lbs. live weight. 



Changes in the fuel value of the ration showed effects cor- 

 responding to those in amount of total nutrients both above and 

 below the value of 30,000 Calories. 



Changes in the protein content of the ration within the ordi- 

 nary limits showed less effect than changes in the amount of 

 nutrients. In general an increase in the amount of protein up 

 to 2.5 lbs. per day for each 1,000 lbs. live weight affected 

 the milk flow favorably. Above that amount, for ordinary cows, 

 a reduction had a favorable effect. 



The effects of changes in the nutritive ratio corresponded in 

 a general way to those following changes in the protein content. 



DBPARTMEXT OF BACTERIOLOGY. 



Much of the work performed in the department was a union 

 of effort with the chemical department in studying the factors 

 which are operative in the curing of cheese and so far as 

 reported this is summarized in what is presented from the 

 chemical department. Study has also been given to certain 

 cheese troubles, a report of which will be made after the accu- 

 mulation of further data. 



DEPARTMENT OP BOTANY. 



Currant anfhracnose. — In the Hudson Valley there has been an 

 epidemic of currant anthracnose, a fungous disease which 

 causes the leaves to fall prematurely. Much damage was done. 



