XXXVI.-DISTRIBUTION OF SHAD THROUGH CENTRAL STATION 

 BY THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION IN 1882. 



By M. McDonald. 



In anticipation of the increased demand for shad fry for planting in 

 new waters extensive i)rej)arations were made to utilize to the fullest 

 extent the resources of the Potomac and Susquehanna Rivers. In con- 

 sequence of the low temperature of water prevailing during the season 

 in both these rivers the catch of shad was unexpectedly small, and the 

 river fisheries were comparatively a failure. The same conditions which 

 influenced unfavorably the catch affected also the number and quality 

 of eggs secured. The total number of fry obtained for distribution 

 amounted to 20,037,000. Of these 800,000 were furnished by the station 

 on the Susquehanna Eiver, near Havre de Grace, Md., and the balance 

 by the Potomac River stations; the Navy- Yard contributing 14,444,000 

 and Central Station 5,393,000. 



For convenience of reference a summary of distribution arranged 

 alphabetically by waters is also appended. 



The distribution was made mainly by car service, one distinguishing 

 feature of the season being the concentration of large numbers of fish 

 in single plants in comparatively few localities. 



The total mileage of the cars in making this distribution was for car 

 No. 1, in charge of Mr. George H. H. Moore, 9,730 miles, and car No. 

 2, in charge of Mr. J. Frank Ellis, 2,462 miles. 



Of the entire number planted 6,110,000 were placed in the Mississippi 

 River or its tributaries, and 5,440,000 in the minor tributaries of the 

 Gulf of Mexico. 



tl] 899 



