FOREST, FISH AND GAME COMMISSIONER. 43 



Highlands of the Hudson. Except for the villages and settlements named, 

 it presents substantially the same appearance to-day, except for a lesser 

 tree growth, than it did when first discovered by Henry Hudson. 



For many years foreign and American travelers have visited two great 

 national attractions in this country, Niagara and the Hudson river, because 

 they had been told by visitors that these were of exceptional interest and 

 beauty. To-day, it is true, our great West has opened regions of dramatic 

 interest and beauty; yet, wonderful as the latter are, the Hudson river 

 holds its high place in American scenery. The region is now being des- 

 poiled chiefly by the cutting of the timber. This cutting, which was profit- 

 able at first, because of the high quality of the timber, does nothing better 

 now than feed the brick yards, and the methods used are primitive and 

 unremunerative as compared with what might be. The passing of the trees 

 is followed by the disappearance of the good soil, and by a stream flow 

 resulting and alternating in freshets and droughts. 



In this region there might be given an illustration of an object lesson 

 in modern forestry. Nothing need be taken from present owners; neither 

 land, nor the privilege of using it for residential or farming purposes. Wild 

 land suitable for farming (though of this there is but little) may be turned 

 from timber land into farming lands, the towns and the State and Federal 

 positions being undisturbed. Land which is suitable for the growing of 

 trees only might well be used for forest cultivation. This land has been, 

 and is being misused. It would be not only wise but patriotic if legislation 

 should arrange for the purchase of low-priced land, some at least of which 

 has little value because of recent denuding. This land could be replanted. 

 Legislation could provide for the future cutting of timber under the direc- 

 tion of the Forestry Bureau; the historic place could be rescued from its 

 present condition and a very desirable public work done. 



Suggestions and Recommendations 



In view of the existing conditions and the facts hereinbefore stated, 

 the following suggestions are made: 



First — ■ It would seem to be reasonable that the Constitution should 

 be amended to provide for the sale or exchange of land outside of the Blue 



