CLAM AND SCALLOP INDUSTRIES 629 



oyster and scallop. Without prejudice we must decide what would 

 be the greatest good to the greatest number. 



We need not here enter into a discussion of the ethical aspect of 

 the case. One naturally has great sympathy for the weak, who are 

 contending for existence against the strong. This is a practical 

 question, and will be determined according to the desires of the 

 majority of those interested. If we can not have them both in 

 abundance, shall we have a sufficient supply of oysters or of clams 

 and scallops? The answer to this question will determine the action. 

 It is unfortunate in this case that we do not know more about the 

 little-neck clam and the possibilities of its artificial propagation. 

 For, under control, it is possible that the shores of Long Island are 

 really sufficient to support both oysters and clams in such numbers 

 as to supply the rapidly growing demand for both for some time to 

 come. Venus can probably be cultivated as well as the oyster. 

 The trouble lies in the difficulty of educating the public to an ap- 

 preciation of the results already demonstrated in closely allied 

 forms. 



So far as the soft clam is concerned, the way is clear. When the 

 general public has the facts which demonstrate the practicability of 

 culture methods in this form, suitable legislation may be obtained 

 for the protection of the new industry, which would surely arise. 

 Not only is it absolutely essential that ancient laws governing the 

 shore rights be repealed, but new and more favorable laws must be 

 enforced. 



When anyone is free to dig the beaches, it is folly to attempt 

 culture methods. Suppose that laws are formulated, as they were 

 in Massachusetts, which provide for the leasing of ground to in- 

 dividuals. Unless these laws are enforced by state authority, they 

 are absolutely useless, as they were at Essex. 



New York was far-sighted in providing for the oyster industry. 

 Everyone rejoices in its great growth. Let us hope that, after a 

 careful and unprejudiced examination of the possibilities of the ne^V 

 industries, and their relation to oyster culture, the state may also 

 wisely provide for the development of clam and scallop culture. 



