PROPAGATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF FOOD FISHES, 1926 327 



much better suited to the work than that at the former site will be 

 available. 



The degree of success attained in shad propagation at eastern sta- 

 tions of the bureau has not been encouraging. The practicability of 

 rearing shad in ponds of 100 to 500 acres in area should be deter- 

 mined. It is quite apparent that if the supply of this valuable fish 

 is to be maintained in Atlantic coastal streams scientific investiga- 

 tions should be made to determine what regulations are necessary. 

 In the meantime it is suggested that an annual closed season that will 

 shorten fishing operations be provided. In addition, a weekly closed 

 period extending from sundown Friday to sunrise Monday should 

 be adopted and the number of nets should be curtailed and the dis- 

 tance between them increased. Under existing conditions fishermen 

 are allowed to operate their nets near the mouths of rivers and to 

 catch shad before they are in spawning condition. If a sufficient 

 number of shad can not reach their natural spawning grounds, it 

 will not be possible for the hatcheries to accomplish anything in shad 

 propagation owing to their inability to obtain ripe spawn for <he 

 work. The reservation of certain areas in which shad could be 

 allowed to spawn without molestation of any kind would do much 

 to assist in the rehabilitation of the species in eastern rivers. Pol- 

 lution and the dumping of trade wastes into many important streams 

 has had a harmful effect on the run of shad and should be prevented. 



