SEED INSPECTION 



Philip H. Smith, in Charge, Elizabeth F. Hopkins* and Oliver W. Kelly, 

 Seed Analysts, Clarice L. Beane, Assistant Seed Analyst. 



This bulletin contains the results of the first inspection made under the provi- 

 sions of the new Massachusetts Seed Law which became effective November 1, 

 1927. The Statute gives the Commissioner of Agriculture authority to enforce 

 the law; he in turn has delegated the duty of analyzing seed samples which may 

 be collected by his agents or submitted by citizens of the state to the Agricultural 

 Experiment Station where a seed laboratory has been established for this purpose. 



Elizabeth F. Hopkins, a graduate of Vassar College with eight years' experience 

 in the seed laboratory of the New York Experiment Station, was the first 

 appointed seed analyst. To her fell the duty of installing the new laboratory 

 and acquainting seed dealers and their customers with the requirements of the 

 law. In May, 1928, Miss Hopkins was obliged to resign on account of ill health. 

 The successful continuation of this work will rest in no small measure upon the 

 excellent foundation laid by Miss Hopkins. 



In acquainting the public with the seed law a circular entitled, "How the 

 Massachusetts Seed Law Operates" was printed and distributed. This is a 

 resume of the law in non-technical language. Copies will be furnished upon 

 request. In addition, talks and demonstrations were given at several meetings 

 at the College, and in March the purpose and benefits of the act were explained 

 over the Radio in the Farmers' Forum. 



The extent to which dealers have availed themselves of the facilities of the seed 

 laboratory in determining germination and purity of the seeds they propose to sell 

 indicates that a considerable proportion of those furnishing farm seeds are inter- 

 ested in quality. These facilities are available to any who may wish to take 

 advantage of them. As the seed laboratory becomes better known it is believed 

 that the number of samples submitted will be increased materially. The fees are 

 based on the actual cost of doing the work. A summary of the work accomplished 

 from November 1, 1927, to October 1, 1928, follows: 



Non- 

 Type of Test Official Official Total 



Purity analysis only (Special grass seed mixtures) 51 29 80 



Germination test only 346 143 489 



Both purity and germination required 152 68 220 



Total number private and official samples examined 549 240 789 



Total 549 240 789 



While it is believed that this collection is representative of the variety and 

 quality of seed offered for sale, samples were taken from but few dealers. It is 

 planned in the fviture to make a more general collection. 



♦Resigned 



