314 PEESIDENX'S ABDEESS. 



by means of systematic observations, to make out accurately the 

 geographical and seasonal distribution of the various food-fishes 

 in our district, and their habits as regards breeding, food, migra- 

 tion, etc."^ Secondly, by the establishment of a hatchery, to aid 

 in keeping up and improving the supply of fish. I might, per- 

 haps add a third clause, to include the establishment of oyster, 

 cockle, and mussel beds, etc. Measures of this kind must, of 

 course, involve considerable expense, but the resulting advantage 

 could scarcely fail to be more than commensurate with the out- 

 lay. To deal Math these matters in detail would be beyond the 

 bounds of my time and space for this evening, and would more- 

 over be premature. I will only add that if a hatchery should 

 sooner or later be established in our district, as I hope it may, 

 there should be associated with it, in the shape of a Biological 

 station, some facilities, however humble, for the scientific study 

 of our marine fauna. A work of this kind comes fairly within 

 the powers of the County Councils, which have already shown a 

 commendable care for the interests of Agriculture, and a desire 

 generally to help forward technical and scientific education. 

 They could scarcely employ themselves more usefully, or more 

 materially benefit the whole community, than by taking in hand 

 the whole question of the preservation and improvement of our 

 local fisheries. 



* The species of fishes inhabiting our local waters are fairly well-known, — thanks to 

 the persevering observations, extended over many years, of various naturalists and 

 anglers, — notably of the late Mr. John Hancock, Dr. Embleton, and our excellent 

 Secretary, Mr. Howse. In the last volume (Vol. X.) of the "Natural History Transac- 

 tions of Northumberland and Durham," Mr. Howse published a Catalogue of the local 

 fishes, — complete, so far as our present knowledge goes, and containing much of in- 

 terest as regards the Natural History and habits of the various species. 



