State of New York 

 Education Department 



commissioner's room 



Albany, August 31, 190S 



This is the report of the State Geologist covering a painstaking 

 investigation of the extent of deposits of iron ore in the State^ 

 and having particular reference to the territory, something like one 

 hundred miles in length, extending through the central part of the 

 State, from Oneida and Otsego counties on the east to Wayne 

 county on the west, for which a special appropriation was provided 

 in the annual supply bill of 1907. Having very earnestly recom- 

 mended the appropriation, I find much satisfaction in the assurance 

 of the Geologist that a conservative estimate, based upon this investi- 

 gation, of the quantity of iron ore deposited in this region places 

 the amount at six hundred millions of tons. If this estimate is war- 

 ranted, New York might yet easily become the leading iron state in 

 the Union. Of course, this report is scientific and technical, but 

 surely signifies much ; and if it points the way truly, as the experi- 

 ence, attainments and assiduity of Dr Clarke, the State Geologist, 

 warrant me in believing it does, it adds much to the economic re- 

 sources, and is of much moment to the commercial prosperity of the 

 State. The information it contains should be extended as quickly 

 and as widely as practicable. Publication is approved and I hope it 

 may be expedited. 



Commissioner of Education 



