320 EXPERIMENT STATION RECORD. 



fifteen million cattle accredited to the quarantined States, the adult 

 cattle were valued at $7 per head less than similar animals in the 

 North. Since this difference of $7 per head is partly attributable to 

 the presence of cattle ticks, it is thus apparent that this pest causes a 

 great loss apart from the other annoyances and financial losses occa- 

 sioned by its existence. Its influence is even more far-reaching, for 

 by retarding development in animal husbandry it greatly hinders the 

 spread of diversified farming and becomes one of the greatest impedi- 

 ments to the improvement of the soil and other agricultural conditions. 



It was generally agreed by those who had given attention to this 

 problem that tick extermination from the South is both possible and 

 practicable, and that it will be accomplished. In order to get effect- 

 ive action from this unanimous sentiment the conference adopted a 

 resolution requesting Congress to make a liberal appropriation for 

 the dissemination of knowledge concerning the methods of tick exter- 

 mination, and for the work in pushing the quarantine line farther ana! 

 farther to the South. The commissioners of agriculture of the quar 

 antined States were also urged to use all possible efforts in securing 

 such uniform legislation as is necessary to bring about the most 

 effective cooperation between the State and Federal authorities in this 

 work. 



While, therefore, it is generally recognized that effective methods 

 of tick extermination have been worked out, it remains to carry on a 

 sj^stem of demonstration and education for the benefit of stockmen. 

 Stock laws must also be passed in localities where such laws do not 

 exist in order that the movements of stock may be regulated. Wher- 

 ever such laws do exist it is possible to proceed at once with tick 

 extermination, and it is believed that with the proper educational forces 

 in the field, in the line of farmers' institutes and personal contact with 

 interested stock raisers, the natural difficulties in inaugurating such a 

 movement will be overcome and the movement itself will proceed with 

 satisfactory speed. 



The conference was one of great importance and developed much 

 enthusiasm and confidence. The subject was considered as being fun- 

 damental to southern agriculture. With the knowledge alread} T at 

 hand regarding the habits and life history of the cattle tick, and the 

 proper machinery set in motion to secure concerted action, there is 

 more encouragement than ever before to look forward to the ultimate 

 eradication of this scourge. The interests involved should lead every 

 State and every farmer to do his part well. The work can be carried 

 on smoothly and economically only when the most thorough coopera- 

 tion is realized. It will be necessary for the individual farmer not 

 only to appreciate the desirability of eradicating the ticks, but of 

 cooperating in the work with the county and State officials and the 

 Federal Government. 



