FORESTER'S REPORT. 73 



street grades and straight curb lines without in jurying trees. A 

 solution of such difficulties must be sought in compromise, before, 

 not after, the street work is begun. And those whose trees have 

 been injured or killed by illuminating gas are recommended to make 

 sure of the facts, and upon them, not upon assumption, to enter 

 reasonable claims upon the responsible company. Exorbitant de- 

 mands will be contested, naturally, but in our experience a loser 

 can always get fair compensation, or a new tree of good size, with- 

 out resorting to legal action. 



DROUTH. 



The dry weather that last year caused the loss of so many valued 

 trees was less universal this year. Deficiency of rainfall again made 

 some trouble but only where the trees were newly planted or where 

 reasonable care had been long denied. The occurrence of periodi- 

 cal droughts emphasizes the need of systematic care for all valued 

 trees. 



SHADE TREE BOOK. 



Through the generosity of Mr. Charles Lathrop Pack, a member 

 of the Forest Commission, it was made possible to publish in at- 

 tractive form a revised edition of the series of papers on the 

 Planting and Care of Shade Trees first issued in the Commission's 

 report for 1908. This publication apparently meets an actual need 

 in that it tells what to do when trees are to be planted, when they 

 are injured, when they suffer in any way. The book is still avail- 

 able and will be sent to any citizen who asks for it. 



ASSISTANCE TO FOREST OWNERS AND OTHERS. 



The organization now maintained by the Forest Commission 

 makes it possible to give proper attention to private interests as 

 well as to look after the State forest reserves. Assistance may be 

 asked for by any citizen who wants to develop a forest, to plant a 

 forest, to provide for the proper care of shade trees, or to remedy 

 some ill or danger to shade trees or forests. Advice by mail will 

 be given freely. When the situation warrants or requires an ex- 

 amination a competent forester will be sent to study it and give 

 advice on the ground. For such service individuals are required 



