NEW MEXICO. 153 



Experiments in connection with the irrifration project indicate a 

 loss of water by percolation below G feet when the land is irrigated to 

 a depth of G inches. Four 3-inch irrigations where a soil mulch 

 was maintained produced the largest yield. Pot experiments in this 

 connection showed that apparently ci 3-inch mulch, the cost of main- 

 tenance considered, is more economical and effective than either a 

 6-inch or 9-inch mulch on a sandy loam soil, under the climatic con- 

 ditions of the locality. 



In the improvement work on chillies, the horticulturist has under 

 observation 15 strains of these plants secured by selection. In the 

 crown-gall work, 100 varieties of grapes are being studied to deter- 

 mine their relative resistance to the disease and other points of value. 

 A severe freeze in 1907 destroyed the apple crop and interfered with 

 the progress of the codling-moth project. It was found impossible, 

 however, to starve out this insect, and it was observed that the moth 

 flies longer distances than is usually supposed. 



Under the Hatch fund studies were made on the adaptability of 

 small fruits to !Mesilla Valley conditions, resistance of peach buds to 

 cold, low pruning of peach trees to prevent sun scald, tests of varieties 

 of grapes and apples for sandy soils, summer, fall, and spring prun- 

 ing, and of sweet potatoes, celery, onions, cantaloups, and other 

 vegetables, as well as some ornamentals. The study of range prob- 

 lems was continued, and a bulletin on the grasses is ready. On the 

 station farm, variety tests of cereals, studies of cost of production, 

 distance experiments, fertilizer trials, and rotation experiments were 

 made. Cattle, lamb, and pig feeding experiments were conducted 

 Avith success, the object being to test the value of alfalfa and various 

 supplementary feeds. 



The following publications were received from this station during 

 the year: Bulletins GG, The range problem in New Mexico; G7, Chili 

 culture; 68, Injurious insects; and 69, Experiments on the digesti- 

 l)ility of prickly pear by cattle; numerous press bulletins; and the 

 Annual Keport for 190S. 



The income of the station during the past fiscal year was as follows: 



United States appropriation, Hatch Act $10,000.00 



United States appropriation, Adams Act 11.000.00 



Fees — 100.15 



rami products 4. 21.S. 22 



Miscellaneous ( including cooperative receipts) 1,300.00 



Total 31, G13. 37 



A rejiort of the receipts and expenditures for the T"^nited States 

 funds has l)oen rendered in accordance with the schedules prescribed 

 by this Department and has been approved. 



