292 FIFTEENTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE 



66,000 barrels of oysters. The greater proportion of this seed came from 

 Long Island Sound, whereas, formerly they were caught in Staten Island 

 Sound. The reason for this is that Staten Island Sound, once the most 

 prolific of seed grounds, is now unproductive on account of the beds having 

 been depleted of shells, thus making them unsuited to successful propa- 

 gation. 



' The shipments to Europe have fallen off in recent years on account 

 of the very active competition of the Portuguese market. Owing to the 

 cheaper freight rates and other conditions the European buyers turn their 

 attention to their home markets which have been stimulated to activity 

 by American shipments. 



" What this infant industry needs (for it is as yet an infant) is wise 

 subsidizing legislation that will encourage and not hinder its growth and 

 development. On account of the great reduction in prices the profits on 

 investments are greatly lessened. The best lands have been taken up and 

 to induce planters to cultivate the hitherto barren lands, legislation must 

 be liberal. Light taxes must be imposed until after these lands have been 

 tried and found productive. The lessee can then pay the State an adequate 

 and just tax for the land he uses. I believe the Shellfish Commissioners 

 should be men who know what is necessary to further its interest and who 

 will have plenary powers to make fair adjustments as exigencies may arise 

 or the welfare of the pioneer cultivator and planter require. This may 

 seem to favor the planter, but a little thought will show that where no money 

 is spent by the State, simply an abatement of oppressive taxation for an 

 experimental period, the reclamation of these barren lands will be a splendid 

 increment to the State. The taxes will be a source of revenue, and the 

 wonder will be that this plan was not put in operation long before." 



Jurisdiction of Lands under Water 



1. Lands in Jamaica Bay. In certain locations, where for years lands 

 have been considered within the jurisdiction of the department, it seems to 

 be held by the Supreme Court that the title is not in the State. In certain 

 other localities where the State has not, up to this time, exercised jurisdiction 

 we learn from a similar source and from opinions of the Attorney-General, 



