FOREST, FISH AND GAME COMMISSION. 1 9 



Chief Protector and the Superintendent of Shellfisheries, which follow, are well 

 worth the attention of every sportsman and every taxpayer as well. Therein will 

 be found ample evidence that the money appropriated for the propagation of fish 

 and the protection of game has been well expended, and that the result secured 

 has merited the favorable comment already quoted. Communications received 

 from time to time bear witness to the fact that line fishing in the waters of the 

 State was never better, while the returns from the net fishermen prove that a far 

 greater variety of cheap food-fish of the best quality is easily procurable on account 

 of the constant care exercised by the State in stocking its waters. The increase 

 in the number of deer taken is also worth noting, as an evidence of the wisdom 

 of existing laws. So also is the suggestion which experience has shown to be 

 necessary for the preservation of certain fisheries by stopping fishing through the 

 ice. Protective action would also seem to be necessary to keep the Black Bear from 

 extermination. 



The Commission, in conclusion, takes pleasure in calling attention to the success 

 which has thus far attended the work of restoring Moose to the Adirondacks, and 

 to the valuable additions made to the herds of Elk during the past year. 



The following recommendations are presented for your consideration : 



That the number of expert foresters be increased to four, and their compensa- 

 tion be made such as to retain them in the service of the State. 



That the John Brown house be repaired so as to preserve this historic structure. 



That spring shooting of wild fowl and birds of all kinds be prohibited. 



That the shooting of Black Bear in the Adirondack region be prohibited for a 

 period of five years. 



That a license fee of fifty dollars be imposed on non-resident hunters, excepting 

 members of organized clubs in the Adirondacks, who shall present certificates of 

 membership, and Adirondack landowners. 



That provision be made for the licensing of guides. 



BY THE COMMISSION. 



John D. Whish, 



Assistant Secretary. 



