No. 4.] THE GYPSY MOTH. 267 



led to a great reduction in the number of the insects. A fair 

 estimate, based on the number of the species destroyed, indicates 

 that the eggs existing on October 1, as compared with those dis- 

 covered at that time the previous year, were in proportion of about 

 one to thirty. The records of the work also indicate that three 

 or four hundred colonies of the species which originally existed 

 in various localities have been exterminated, and that the bounds 

 of the region which it occupies apparently have not been extended 

 during the year. 



While the committee are convinced that the expenditure during 

 the next year of the large sum which they have suggested is 

 eminently desirable, that it is indeed necessary, to prevent the 

 danger of the spreading of the pest, they are of the opinion that 

 with the amount of money allotted last year it will be possible to 

 still further reduce the numbers of the insects in the densely 

 infested localities, and to eradicate many of tlie smaller colonies. 

 If this last-named policy is followed, there will, however, be great 

 danger that the insect may extend its hold in the thickly forested 

 parts of the field which it occupies, with the result that it may be 

 much moi*e difficult to secure its extirpation. 



Experience having shown that the moth can be eradicated, that 

 it has been destroyed in many limited fields, it now appears 

 advisable to push forward the work of destruction as rapidly 

 as may be found compatible with the careful expenditure of the 

 money, and with the means which the Commonwealth may be will- 

 ing to devote to the task of protecting its citizens from a grave 

 danger. 



As it seems clear that the danger arising from the presence of 

 the gypsy moth in this country is a matter of national importance, 

 the question arises whether this committee may not hereafter seek 

 aid from the Federal government in the prosecution of this work. 



The following is the financial report for 1892 of the gypsy moth 

 department. State Board of Agriculture : — 



Balance on hand Jan. 1, 1892, $5,213 13 



Appropriation, 75,000 00 



$80,213 13 



