38 a EXPERIMENT STATION. [Jan. 



to cause a large removal of calcium in the drainage waters, and 

 it seems probable that the so-called acidity of soils fertilized 

 "with this substance is due, in part at least, to the solvent action 

 of the ammonium sulfate on the calcium. 



It has been shown in the feeding experiments carried on in 

 this department that fish meal may be used as a source of a 

 part of the protein in the ration for dairy cows, although, owing 

 to the cost of such meal, it is doubtful if this would be the most 

 ]jrofitable practice. 



Extensive experiments with Molassine meal have shown that 

 at usual relative prices it is not an economical food for cows. 



The report of the chemist, found in later pages, discusses 

 these matters in greater detail. In this report will be found 

 also a fuller statement than that found earlier in this report of 

 the work of the fertilizer, feed and dairy sections of the de- 

 j)artment, as well as a brief account of its general analytical 

 and other work. 



The botanical department has published a bulletin, ^' The 

 Relation of Light to Greenhouse Culture." This presents the 

 results of numerous experiments, which clearly show the close 

 relation of varying light conditions to the development and 

 health of crops. Upon these results are based important recom- 

 mendations as to the location and construction of greenhouses. 



The principal line of investigation followed in the depart- 

 ment for several years — the effects of environment upon the 

 growth of plants and crops, both in health and disease — has 

 been continued. 



A new form of spray nozzle, which is unusually efficient at 

 a considerable distance from the point of discharge, has been 

 perfected and patented. 



Another subject which is receiving careful investigation is the 

 relation of light to burning, following application of niiscible 

 oils. 



The report of the botanist, found in later pages, discusses the 

 matters here referred to in greater detail. 



The investigation work in the poultry department has been 

 well started. The principal line of work in progress is a 

 thorough study of the capacity of each hen in a carefully se- 



