LOWLAND DISTKIOT. 51 



must be furnished. In the coast lands and river meadows, the 

 elevated ranges and sheltered valleys of the region now under 

 consideration, every variety of pasture is furnished or may be 

 provided by proper methods ; and if we do not already possess the 

 breeds of sheep which are naturally fitted to occupy these pastures, 

 and yield the highest quality of mutton, they may be procured by 

 importation at a very moderate cost. 



The Eastern region may be subdivided into three districts ; the al- 

 luvial coast lands ; the valley and bottom lands ; and the mountains. 



THE COAST LANDS 



include all that portion subject to the influences of salt water ani 

 the sea air. Salt marshes are not detrimental to the health of 

 sheep, but fresh water marshes, if undrained, are utterly destruc- 

 tive of them ; and when drained, are only fitted for the pasturage 

 of one or two breeds which have been bred and raised for cen- 

 turies upon such lands. The herbage of salt marshes gives a 

 peculiar flavor to the flesh of sheep fed upon it, which renders the 

 mutton very desirable in the markets. Along the Atlantic coast 

 are millions of acres of pasture lands which could support at least 

 three sheep to the acre. From Maine to Virginia, the Atlantic 

 coast is indented with bays and inlets containing numerous 

 islands and promontories that are excellently adapted for sbeep 

 farms. By fencing across their bases, the promontories may be 

 rendered safe, and the islands are naturally guarded against the 

 depredation of dogs, the greatest pest of the shepherd in this por- 

 tion of the country. From personal observation of these coast 

 lands, the author is satisfied that no more healthful pastures exist 

 anywhere, and nowhere is land cheaper or more easily brought 

 into profitable condition to support flocks of sheep. The higher 

 portions of these lands very much resemble the " downs " of Eng- 

 land, and the traveller who has seen the numerous Southdown 

 flocks of that country, pasturing upon the gently swelling shore 

 lands, and inhaling the wholesome sea breezes, can not but be im- 

 pressed with the favorable opportunities here offered for the same 

 profitable and pleasing industry. 



The Southern portion of this coast district has a remarkably 

 mild climate, which is very favorable, so far as cost is concerned, 

 for the feeding of sheep through the winter. A specially well 

 adapted locality is that comprising the eastern peninsula of Vir- 

 ginia. A private letter to the author, from Mr. C. R. Moore, of 

 Johnsontown, in this locality, states that sheep in that climate are 

 Unaffected by any disease whatever, and that farms suitable foj 



