NINETEENTH REPOET OF STATE ENTOMOLOGIST 31 



matters. We know that much damage is being done to the principal 

 crops of the State by other insects and we are unable to give them any 

 attention whatever. Almost no attention has been paid to the alfalfa 

 weevil during the past three years. It may be, and very likeh^ is, 

 present unrecognized in some part of Montana at this time. It is 

 very unwise to neglect to survey the State for the alfalfa weevil 

 and other pests of like character. There have been times when the 

 Assistant State Entomologist, with time available, has remained in the 

 office because there was no money for traveling expenses. 



The time has come when another assistant must be employed in 

 this work. It is recognized that the condition of the State treasury 

 does not warrant branching out into new expenditures, but this is not 

 the place to economize. Under present conditions, instead of taking 

 an aggressive attitude toward the pest situation we are compelled to 

 do the best we can in meeting emergencies only and explain to farmers 

 and county officials that we have no funds. 



"Without hesitation and in full knowledge of the condition of the 

 State treasury, I urge that increased funds be made available to this 

 office. 



Following is the budget of estimated expenses as it has been sub- 

 mitted through the proper channels: 



1923-24 1924-25 



Office assistance $ 150 $ 150 



Assistant State Entomologist 2,700 2,700 



Second assistant - -.. 2,000 2,000 



Labor ..| 200 200 



Other employees (temporary assistance — May, 



June, July) 450 450 



Sundry office supplies — 40 40 



Telephone and telegraph 100 100 



Express, freight and drayage 15 15 



Traveling expense 1,450 1,450 



Printing and binding publications 50 50 



Poisons and chemicals 40 40 



Laboratory supplies 150 150 



General supplies and expenses 15 15 



Library and reference books 50 50 



Totals - $7,410 $7,410 



