Conservation Commission 87 



The question of having an adequate supply of tools and camp 

 outfits properly located at various points throughout this enor- 

 mous area is not only of great importance but is surrounded with 

 difficulties. It is impossible to predict where fires are going to 

 originate; hence the difficulty in properly placing the necessary 

 tools. We have, however, endeavored to have a suitable supply 

 for all ordinary fires located at advantageous points. The two 

 large fires of the present year necessitated greater equipment ; 

 eight new tool depots were established during the past season; 

 and the Adjutant-General kindly lent the Commission a complete 

 camp outfit for eighty men who were employed in fighting fire. 

 The Quartermaster of the United States Army also lent a quantity 

 of blankets for similar purposes. 



It has long been felt by the Department that the efficiency of 

 the ranger force could be improved by bring the men together 

 for a few days of practical instruction in matters pertaining to 

 their work. Accordingly a convention was held in the Albany 

 office. February 4 to 8, inclusive. 



To Iks were given by members of the office force on various sub- 

 jects, including fire fighting, top lopping, looking up survey lines, 

 making valuation surveys, silviculture, etc. The rangers were 

 given practice in plotting fires, estimating areas, making out re- 

 ports, and drawing simple maps. The rangers took an active part 

 in the discussions and many excellent ideas were advanced. Sub- 

 sequently the men showed a greater interest ; and increased effi- 

 ciency has been secured. This work has been continued in a 

 similar degree by smaller meetings in which the men in all or a 

 portion of a district were called together, and discussed matters 

 of mutual benefit. 



The Legislature of the past year re-enacted the top lopping law 

 and provided that the limbs and branches of evergreen trees which 

 were cut in the area under fire protection, should be cut off from 

 the trunks or branches over 3 inches in diameter. The penalty of 

 $2 per tree for failure to comply with the law was also restored. 

 The enforcement of this law has been entrusted to the rangers, 

 and most of the operators have cheerfully complied with the pro- 

 visions of this section. 



