REPORT OF STATE ENTOMOLOGIST 1899 537 
and other gatherings, but also for a complete collection of the injurious 
and beneficial insects, which should be maintained as one of the perma- 
nent exhibits of the museum. Such collections are educators of the 
greatest value to the agriculturist, who in no better manner can become 
familiar with the habits of the important insect pests he must fight. A 
more detailed account of the exhibit at Syracuse will be found on subse- 
quent pages. 
Voluntary observers. A corps of voluntary observers in entomol- 
ogy was established for the purpose of bringing the entomologist into 
closer relations with the public and also to facilitate the gathering of 
information; for the reception of weekly reports during the growing 
season from all sections of the state could but result in bringing together 
many important facts. The value of the service will be enhanced as the 
work continues, for many of the previous records concerning some of our 
more common injurious insects are remarkable either for their scarcity or 
vagueness. There are now 43 observers, representing 39 counties. 
Most of the reports submitted are valuable, while a few could hardly be 
improved on. As the purpose of the service becomes better understood, 
it is expected that more effective work will be accomplished. A sum- 
mary of the work of this organization will be found on subsequent 
pages. 
Entomological society of Albany. The organization of a local 
entomologic society, though in no way officially connected with the 
division, is worthy of mention, because it is an effort to quicken a home 
interest in this important branch of natural history. The society was 
organized May 19, now has an active membership of 23, and gives 
promise of awaking considerable interest in insect life. In order to 
encourage this movement, the facilities of the office are placed at the 
disposal of the society and its members, provided there is no interference 
with official duties. 
Acknowledgments. The thanks of the entomologist for aid ren- 
dered are due to other workers along the same lines, particularly to those 
connected with the United States department of agriculture, who have 
most obligingly complied with every request. The hearty support and 
encouragement given by the regents have done much to make the work 
of the year successful, and it is with the greatest pleasure that I acknowl- 
edge the same. 
Respectfully submitted 
EPHRAIM PORTER FELT 
State entomologist 
