FORE\^ORD 



T am gratified to have this opportunity to say a few things 

 that are much in my mind about research as it exists within the 

 Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife. Xo better medium 

 exists for my thoughts than this "lead-off"' for the annual report 

 of oui' %\'ildlife research program. These activities, which have 

 their roots in the earliest days of wildlife conservation in this 

 comitry, and which boast a great record of accomplishment over 

 the years, constitute what is one of man's most serious efforts to 

 better understand his environment and to harmonize his interests 

 with the living world about him. 



As we soar toward anticipated population peaks, the vital 

 necessity of reconciling man in nature will become increasingly 

 apparent. Xot only must we achieve the knowledge necessary to 

 retain the elements of nature identified by our Bureau, namely, 

 fish and wildlife : but in a larger sense, we must help through our 

 efforts to find a way to prevent deterioration of the total environ- 

 ment on which mankind is destined to be dependent for many 

 years to come. 



Thus our wildlife— and fishery — research activities, I believe, 

 have a larger framework than those associated merely with man's 

 use or enjoyment of wild animals, or his troubles with them if 

 that should occasionally occur. Through our contributions to 

 \\-ildlife knowledge we are making substantial additions to the 

 ultimate miderstanding which will help to keep this world a fit 

 place for human beings. 



This report presents for administrative and management use 

 some of the highlights of the infoiiuation obtained in 1964. 



C^V^tJ76u^(^^ 



Director. 



