MUSSEL BEDS OF SCOTLAND 25 



the Ferryden Fishermen's Society. They are 

 closed each year from the beginning of July to 

 the end of November, but mussels can then be 

 had from the beds on the Dun Sands, on the 

 north side of the river. These grounds are leased 

 by Messrs. Johnston, and are between 70 and 80 

 acres in extent 



The Ythan Beds, Aberdeen, are the pro- 

 perty of Undy of Undy, and are let on lease. 

 The beds are very irregular, some parts being 

 a considerable height above low-water mark. 

 Transplanting is carried on, and the beds are 

 scoured to a certain extent. Fishermen lift their 

 own mussels, and have also to assist in trans- 

 planting. Collieston, Newburgh, and Old Castle 

 fishermen are supplied first of all, and there are 

 seldom any shell -fish available for men from a 

 greater distance. The annual crop is estimated 

 as being only about 300 tons. 



The Findhorn Beds are the property of 

 Mr. Munro Ferguson of Novar, and are let on 

 lease. The yield of the Findhorn district in 

 1893 is officially stated to have been 2255 cwts., 

 showing a decrease of 2237 cwts. on a larger 

 return for 1892. The Findhorn river beds are 

 limited in extent, and the crop fluctuates con- 



