BUREAU OF MARKETS. 441 



STUDIES IN PRIMAKY M AUKiniNfl. 



Studies were made in selected primary markets with a view to 

 securing data which would form a basis for assistance in improving 

 present marketing conditions. The studies included the value of a 

 knowledge of grade before sale, the effect of stai)lc upon the average 

 price of a market, the value of growing a uniform variety, coopera- 

 tive marketing of cotton, selling cotton in even-running lots of grade 

 and staple, and a comparison of prices paid in various primary mar- 

 kets. Results were used to check observations which had previously 

 been made in primary markets and were published in Department 

 Bulletin 457, Relation between Primary Market Prices and Qualities 

 of Cotton. 



STUDIES OF STAPLE. 



The long-staple survey begun in 1916 in those sections which 

 produce cotton of l^'V inches in length of staple or longer was con- 

 tinued during 1917. The objects were to determine the premiums 

 received by producers for the different lengths^ the relative qualities 

 of long-staple cotton produced in different sections, and the general 

 conditions under which the crop was marketed. During 1917 there 

 were collected 4,769 samples, together wdth prices and dates of sales, 

 from 23 markets. They have been classed and the data are being 

 compiled. The results are of especial value in connection with the 

 investigations regarding the possibility of establishing official cotton 

 standards of the United States for length of staple. 



The Sea Island survey begun in 1916 was continued during 1917. 

 The objects were to determine the varying qualities of the cotton, the 

 prices received by the producers, and general information relating 

 to the handling and marketing of this crop. During the cotton season 

 of 1916-17 there were secured 2,019 samples, together with prices and 

 dates of sales. The samples have been classed and the data are being 

 compiled. Types have been obtained from different commercial firms 

 representing their ideas as to proper standards for sea-island cotton. 



COTTON W^AREHOUSING INVESTIGATIONS. 



The cotton warehousing investigations have been continued under 

 the direction of Mr. R. L. Nixon. 



The work of obtaining information in regard to the location, name, 

 capacity, construction, cost, insurance rate on stored cotton, charges 

 for storage, whether loans can be secured on stored cotton, and in- 

 terest rates has been continued, and reports from many warehouses 

 that did not report previously haA'e been received. This additional 

 information has been incorporated in the tabulations and outline 

 maps already established. The lists of warehouses have been revised 

 frequently and changes made in order to keep the lists up to date. 



The system of accounts for cotton warehouses reported previously 

 includes simple and adequate forms for keeping the accounts and 

 records of cotton warehouses. The forms of warehouse receipts 

 which are shown in connection with the system have been designed 

 with the idea of increasing their negotiability and value as collateral. 

 It is hoped that the distribution of the bulletin, together with the 



