24 Second Annual Report of the 



of material, $39,063.07; average damage per case, $470.64. In 

 1910 the number of trespass cases reported was 104; computed 

 value of material, $20,054.29; average damage per case, $192.82. 

 In 1911 there were 46 trespass cases reported; computed value of 

 material, $1,499.20; average damage per case, $32.59. In 1912, 

 in the 27 cases reported the computed value of material was 

 $502.23, and the average damage per case, $18.60. 



We recommend sufficient appropriations to enable the commis- 

 sion to make a careful survey in order that boundary lines may be 

 definitely established for all time, and also a valuation survey, by 

 means of which the value of the State's holdings may be accurately 

 determined". 



While the decrease noted in the number and extent of tres- 

 passes is gratifying, if the boundary lines are thoroughly estab- 

 lished an even better showing can be made. 



Forest Campers. 



At the present time campers may occupy temporary forest 

 camps on State land, but there is no provision possible for the 

 leasing thereof. It is estimated that there are 400 miles of 

 suitable camp sites on the shores of lakes and ponds owned by the 

 State in the Adirondack section alone. If it were possible for the 

 State to lease these camp sites, under suitable regulations and 

 restrictions, it is believed that the lessees, who would have a di- 

 rect interest in the preservation of the property, would efficiently 

 aid in the work of protecting the forests from destruction by fire ; 

 whereas, under the present system there is no accurate means of 

 learning the names and addresses of temporary campers, from 

 whose carelessness many serious forest fires have originated. We 

 therefore recommend that the Constitution be amended so as to 

 permit the leasing of camp sites in the forest preserve. 



Utilization of Ripe Timber on State Land. 



A more serious and important matter, in which the fundamental 

 law ought to be changed, relates to the utilization of ripe or mature 

 timber within the forest preserve. It is now known that the re- 

 moval of ripe timber is necessary to intelligent reforestation and 

 growth; and that the leaving of trees to decay not only destroys 



