16 



DEPARTMENTAL EBPORTS. 



The control of grazing has brought a marked improvement in 

 range conditions on a number of the reserves, and there is no longer 

 any doubt that a large part of the forage crop which was formerly 

 wasted by improper handling of the stock is now saved and utilized. 



Range conditioris in general are very satisfactory, and the stock- 

 men are enjojang a prosperity which gives them confidence in the 

 future. 



GRAZING FEES. 



The announcement that a moderate charge would be made for 

 grazing on the reserves after January 1, 1906, roused objection in 

 some localities. INIeetings were held and petitions were presented 

 asking for modifications in the rates, and in a few cases for the 

 entire remission of the fee. 



By firm yet considerate action on the part of the Forest Service, 

 and with the strong support of yourself and the President, all seri- 

 ous conflict was avoided. Stockmen realized the benefits of a proper 

 system of range control, and have shown willingness to bear a just 

 portion of the expense. When the regulations were modified better 

 to meet existing conditions and a one-half rate was given to settlers 

 for a limited number of cattle, all active opposition to the grazing fee 

 ceased, and it has been paid almost everywhere without complaint. 



The total amount received for fees on grazing permits during the 

 year was $514,086.74, of which about two-fifths was on account of 

 permits for cattle and horses and three-fifths for sheep and goats. 



PERMITS ISSUED. 



The creation df 38 reserves available for grazing under regula- 

 tion during the past season, and large additions to 14. of the old re- 

 serves, added greatly to the carrying capacity of the forest ranges. 

 Slight increases in the number of stock were made in some of the 

 older reserves, where the range conditions showed a marked im- 

 provement, and in others, after careful investigation, new areas were 

 opened. In some of the newer reserves, where the range has been 

 overstocked, reductions were made in the number allowed. 



In the 92 reserves which were under administration before May 1 

 a total of 18,040 applications for grazing permits were approved by 

 the forest officers in charge, and 16,593 permits were issued, as 

 follows : 



