Drainage in New York. 



^17 



hills, along streams which occupy such positions and in other places it 

 forms a fringe around lakes or occupies the site of former lakes, which 

 have been filled up to this swampy condition. The first condition is type- 

 fied by the numerous swampy areas in Wayne county; the second is typi- 

 cally developed in southern Monroe county and around 'Oneida lake. 

 Both phases are most largely developed in the region adjacent to Lake 

 Ontario. Similar conditions are also ,' found in other parts of the State, 

 the most notable examples of which are the Walkill valley in Orange 

 county and the southern shore of Long Island where much land is sub- 

 ject to tidal overflow and the reclamation of which often involves the con- 



The result of poor drainage in a peach orchard 

 Many trees missing. 



struction of levees. Much of this marshy or swamp land consists of large 

 accumulations of organic remains forming muck and peat. The remainder 

 consists of variable material rich in organic matter derived from the wash 

 from the soils at higher elevations. 



These areas are low and flat and it is frequently very difficult to get a 

 satisfactory outlet. They also involve several practical difficulties in "the 

 construction of drains. They are so fully saturated with water that its 

 removal involves the readjustment of the soil, particularly if it is muck or 

 peat. This readjustment should be permitted to take place before any 

 form of closed drain is installed. The conditions implied by 'the term 

 " quick sand " also require similar treatment. 



