No. 7. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 17 



likely to be reported to a local member of the Board of Agriculture 

 and by him reported to the Department than they are to be reported 

 direct to the Department, so that the Board furnishes a means of 

 communication between the Department and the public that many 

 times proves very helpful. 



In concluding this report, I wish to express my appreciation of 

 the counsel and assistance you have always been so ready to give, 

 and to assure you that by these courtesies you have done much to 

 assist me in performing the arduous duties of the important position 

 to which I have been assigned. 



I desire also to express my recognition of the valuable help re- 

 ceived from the State Board of Agriculture, the State Horticultural 

 Association, the State Livestock Breeders Association and the State 

 Dairy union. The etforts of all these organizations working in har- 

 mony with each other and this Department, directed to the improve- 

 ment of agricultural conditions in our beloved Commonwealth, 

 must result in good beyond our power to forsee or estimate. 



The public press of the State has again made its helpful influence 

 felt by encouraging needed improvements, and in many instances 

 pointing out rational methods by which such improvements may 

 be made. 



I have the honor to be. 



Very sincerely yours, 



Secretary of Agriculture. 



2—7—1908. 



