Forestry Associations. 



In addition to the State Forest Commission there are various 

 local forestry associations in this State which have taken an active 

 part in promoting the public welfare in this respect. These 

 associations have accomplished much in awakening and stimulat- 

 ing public interest in forestry matters, tree planting, arboriculture 

 and other kindred subjects. This department desires to acknowl- 

 edge the assistance and support derived from their efforts, and 

 trusts that the public-spirited citizens who have identified them- 

 selves with this noble work will continue in their highly com- 

 mendable enterprise. 



There are three prominent organizations of this character, — 

 The New York State Forestry Association, of New York city ; 

 the Adirondack League Association, of New York city ; and the 

 Genesee Valley Forestry Association, of [Rochester, N. Y. 



The New York State Forestry Association 



was organized in 1885, its inception being largely due to the 

 efforts of Edmund B. South wick, Ph. D., with whom the idea 

 seems to have originated, and who sent out the first letters of 

 invitation to a number of men interested in the work. The first 

 meeting was held in Dr. South wick's office, in the Arsenal build- 

 ing, Central Park, New York city, at which time officers were 

 elected and plans formed for the first public meeting, which was 

 held in the city of Utica in the autumn of 1885. 



The aims and objects of the association have always been the 

 conservation of the interests of the State in the protection of 

 its woodlands, watercourses and game; to further the interest 

 in Arbor Day and its general observance; to encourage the for- 

 mation of societies for tree planting and tree protection ; to keep 

 alive the interest in village improvement societies ; to prevent 

 railroad companies from constructing lines through lands in the 

 Forest Preserve ; to prevent the damming of streams and destruc- 



