7 
CONCLUSION. 
Having studied and tested the methods of weevil control which have 
hitherto been recommended, the writer firmly believes that the destruc- 
tion of the stalks in the early fall is the most effective method known 
of actually reducing the numbers of the pest. This destruction will 
cost but a small fraction of the expense necessary in the frequent pick- 
ing up in the spring of the squares infested by the hibernated weevils, 
and is far more thorough as a means of reducing the numbers of the 
weevils than is the practice of picking hibernated weevils from the 
young plants. Early destruction of the stalks is essential to the greatest 
success of any system of controlling the pest. All other practices rec- 
ommended, though very valuable in securing a crop, are of the greatest 
value as they are followed in connection with this one prime essential. 
Since the earliest investigations of the boll weevil made by this Depart- 
ment, it has been recognized that this practice is of the first importance, 
and the experience of recent years has added but certainty to this con- 
~viction. A number of planters have adopted it, and their work has 
abundantly demonstrated its efficiency. Jt must not be thought that 
the procuring of the immediate crop is the only thing to be desired. 
Early and complete destruction of the stalks 1s undoubtedly the most 
important single element insuring success for the subsequent year. 
Concerted action in fall destruction is, of course, desirable. The 
greatest benefit will only result when whole communities adopt the 
method. But no planter should hesitate on account of the indifference 
of his neighbors. The fact that weevils move about but little until the 
time when the bulk of the crop is safe will assist materially in saving 
one field though nearby ones have not been properly treated, and, even 
under such circumstances, the success of the method in one field will 
be a powerful stimulus toward its general adoption the following season. 
It is true that the recommendations contained in this circular involve 
considerable change in the practice of producing cotton. Nevertheless, 
the important changes that have been brought about up to this time in 
the use of improved seed and fertilizers have also been revolutionary in 
their character. It is hoped by the Department that the agencies that 
assisted in that matter—namely, organizations of business men—will 
everywhere devote the same energy towards encouraging the practice of 
what is, after all, the most important step in maintaining the supremacy 
of the cotton crop in the weevil regions. 
Approved: 
JAMES WILSON, 
Secretary of Agriculture. 
WASHINGTON, D. C., October 10, 1904. 
O 
