LABOR, LIVE STOCK SANITARY BOARD, FORESTRY 127 



The erection of four fire observation towers during the period 

 marks the beginning of what should develop into a state-wide forest 

 fire detection system. The steel towers range in height from 75 to 100 

 feet and were erected through State, Federal, and private owner co- 

 operation. This brings our total number of towers to five, with an 

 observation territory of approximately 100,000 acres each. Each tower 

 has living quarters for the watchman at its base. Rest camps with 

 tables and water facilities have been provided that tourists and local 

 visitors may be led to visit these towers and thereby gain a conception 

 of the work. The location of these towers is as follows: 



TOWERS ERECTED AND MANNED COOPERATIVELY 

 During the Period January 1, 1928-June 30, 1929. 



To connect these towers with the wardens and district offices ap- 

 proximately 100 miles of telephone line were constructed. In all 

 telephone construction so far, the one-wire system has been used. It 

 is desired that the metallic system gradually supersede the one-wire 

 system, as soon as funds will permit. It is only when connected by 

 telephone with the fire fighting force that the lookout on the tower 

 becomes really effective. In many cases telephone communications 

 have been given to outlaying sections where telephone lines have not 

 existed before. 



Exhibits were placed in twenty of the more timbered counties 

 during the annual county fairs. Due to small personnel these were 

 all the counties that could be reached during the time when these 

 gatherings were held. 



The use of posters and signs has been found of the greatest value 

 in reaching the local and traveling public. These signs call to their 

 attention that they should be careful with fire, reminding them that 

 everyone loses when the woods burn. 



Ten warden meetings were held in the cooperative association 

 area. These meetings are schools of instruction, designed so that 

 the different problems that confront the wardens in their relationship 

 with the public may be discussed and better efficiency and morale 

 encouraged in the organization. 



