Report of tf)e C3f)ellfisf) Commissioner. 



To tl>e Fisheries, (ictme and Forest Commission: 



GENTLEMEN. — I have the honor of transmitting the following report of the 

 Shellfish Department of the Fisheries, Game and Forest Commission, of which I 

 have charge, covering the period from October I, 1898, to October 1, 1899. 



During the past year we have received forty-two applications for oyster grounds 

 covering 1,303 acres located in Long Island sound, Raritan bay and Jamaica bay, 

 principally in the latter water. This shows an increase in the acreage applied for, 

 over the fiscal year ending October 1, 1898, of 163 acres. 



These applications have been duly granted after surveying, advertising and sell- 

 ing, as provided for by law. 



I believe the coming year will be one of greater advancement to the oyster inter- 

 ests of the State, as the greatest set of young oysters ever occurring in any one 

 year came as a reward to those who worked their grounds. The prospect of our 

 seed-buying oystermen being able to obtain their plants from our own waters in the 

 future will enable them to get their seed in much better condition and for less 

 money than formerly. 



The set has been so universal with all who prepared their ground that none can 

 complain. Encouragement is thus given to others to take up grounds in the near 

 future. 



It must not be forgotten that with the set of young oysters come also a set of 

 young star fish. This will require the constant attention of the oystermen, as the 

 star fish must be destroyed or they will certainly ruin the oysters. With the 

 improved appliances now in use up-to-date oystermen can successfully cope with 

 these enemies of the oyster. 



Long Island sound is the principal field of this State for seed oyster raising. 



The marketable oysters are in good condition, and, although the price is low, 



the oystermen are encouraged, as the growth of the past year has been unusually 



good. 



All of which is respectfully submitted. 



EDWARD THOMPSON, 



Shellfish Commissioner. 

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