134 ANNUAL REPORT SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION, 1955 



The laboratory storerooms in the new building, which will also 

 house the library, herbarium, and species index, should be stocked 

 with chemicals, preservatives, laboratory glassware, and other neces- 

 sary equipment. 



A separate dry room should be built on the ground floor of the new 

 building to provide a storage area free from mold for visiting scien- 

 tists to store their cameras, clothing, and luggage. A similar dry room 

 is needed in the old large building for the storage of such items as 

 linens, towels, and bedding to keep them free from the musty odors 

 of the humid tropics; and dry closets should be installed on the up- 

 per floor of this building and in the old Z-M-A cottage, the old Chi- 

 chi cottage, the Barbour guest house, and the Chapman house. 



Tables are needed for the additional laboratory rooms, the library, 

 herbarium, and kitchen to replace the miscellaneous collection of odds 

 and ends that have been serving as tables. These can be economically 

 built of Dexion slotted angles and heavy plywood. 



Repainting of the exteriors of all buildings is needed. Considera- 

 tion is being given to making this a paint- test program to determine 

 which paint gives the longest and most satisfactory service at the least 

 cost. 



Since electricity is now available 24 hours a day, 4 attic fans, 6 

 oscillating fans, and 2 window air-conditioning units should be in- 

 stalled in carefully chosen areas. These will help to reduce the in- 

 terior temperatures and humidity of the laboratory buildings, and 

 thus contribute to the comfort and efficiency of the scientists. 



The 29-year-old building occupied by the three laborers is in a bad 

 state of disrepair and must be rebuilt. Originally the U. S. Depart- 

 ment of Agriculture used this building for long-term termite tests, 

 and termite damage has contributed largely to its present unsatisfac- 

 tory condition. 



The dock at the island, though it has been extended each year be- 

 cause of silting from the Allee and Lutz streams, is already at an un- 

 safe distance from the shore. Consideration is being given to the 

 relocation of the dock on the south shore of laboratory bay where soil 

 deposition is less likely to occur. A trail will have to be made from 

 the dock to the landing and this will require the purchase of more 

 Decauville track. 



The engine of the U. S. Moon^ which carried the heavy burden when 

 the U. S. Snook was laid up for repairs, is still serviceable, but needs 

 to be overhauled soon to prevent more extensive and costly repairs at 

 a later date. 



FINANCES 



The rate for scientists and visitors for one-day visits is $3 per 

 person. This provides for the launch trip from Frijoles to the island, 

 a guide on the trail, noon meal, and launch trip back to Frijoles in 



