Conditions in the Northern Field 205 



Seed for these beds was formerly brought from the 

 Chesapeake, but in recent years, oystermen have fol- 

 lowed the example of Connecticut culturists, and now 

 produce much of their own stock for planting. Some 

 planters, however, still depend largely on the natural beds 

 for their supply. 



Thus during the past few years a great industry has 

 been developed on the barren bottoms of these northern 

 bays. Each year it contributes many millions of dol- 

 lars to the wealth of the states that have fostered it. 

 But its benefits are not confined to one region. Its meth- 

 ods, and the vexed experiences of its development may 

 be avoided in other regions where an industry has yet to 

 be established. The more serious problems have been 

 solved by the northern culturist. 



