213 



ests of the stations and the reputation of the whole scheme. It is with 

 the desire to call forth discussion to this end, rather than any expecta- 

 tion of adding any valuable or new suggestions, that I prepare this 

 paper. 



NEW OR STRANGE INSECTS. 



It occurs to me that one of the most important duties that will de- 

 volve upon us is to keep ourselves and the farmers informed in relation 

 to new insect pests. Every year will doubtless bring insects new to our 

 localities if not to the country. A few years ago Agrotis fennica, until 

 then a very rare insect in all sections of our country, ai)peared in various 

 parts of Michigan in overwhelming numbers. Its ravages were some- 

 thing alarming, and the people were in despair. By advising in such 

 cases, explaining the habits and natural history of the insects, and in- 

 forming as to the probabilities, which we are usually able to do, we 

 allay fear, restore quiet, and make new and strong friends for the 

 stations. We may also work out the life history of the insect, experi- 

 ment regcirding its destruction, and so do works that will benefit other 

 States as well as our own. The present season several injurious insects 

 have, for the tirsttime, attracted attention in Michigan by their ravages, 

 which in some cases, as with the linden span worm, Hybeniia tiliaria, 

 were very serious. These insects attacked the apple, elm, and bass- 

 wood in devastating numbers. It was easy to suggest a remedy, and the 

 people appreciate such information most heartily as it oftens means 

 bread and butter to them. Every State needs and should have an ad- 

 viser of this kind. The practical results are patent and immediate. I 

 believe that such work will tell as strongly towards making the stations 

 popular as any that may be attempted. 



STUDYING LIFE HISTORIES. 



This is scientific as well as practical work, and is so important that 

 no word of commendation is ueeessary. A full description if presented 

 in a non-technical style will interest the general reader as well as bene- 

 fit science. Thus our best work will be constantly educating our read- 

 ers, making them more and more competent to study, observe, and con- 

 quer the insect pests. We see that this best work that will fall to our 

 hands will bring a triple blessing. It will develop science, show us 

 how to overcome the enemies — for to know an insect's full life history 

 and afiinities is often the major part in its destruction if it is an 

 enemy — and will interest and instruct the public as nothing else can. 



A bulletin discussing a species that threatens some important crop 

 will be read and reread. Men will always thoroughly study that which 

 touches their pocket books. Thus, if carefully done, we can weave much 

 of science into our reports which will not only be palatable, but eagerly 

 sought after. We issued large editions of my bulletins on the grain 



