Report of tf)e Depat^ Commissioner 



on tf)e estate Hatcheries 



for tfyzyear ljol 



Hon. D. C. Middletox, Forest, Fish and Game Commissioner: 



DEAR SIR. — -It is a matter of genuine satisfaction to me to be able 

 to report that the State hatchery system, of which I have had 

 charge under your direction, has fully maintained its high stand- 

 ing during the past year. Very effective work has been done in stocking 

 our inland waters, and full appreciation of this has been shown by the 

 fisherman. Thanks to the wisdom of the last Legislature in granting 

 several necessary appropriations, many long-needed improvements have 

 been begun, and the outlook for even better work during the coming year 

 is excellent. 



My object has been throughout to conduct the hatchery system on a 

 strictly business basis, regarding it as a great plant for the purpose of pro- 

 ducing a cheap and desirable food for the people. Taking this view of the 

 subject, it becomes apparent that the plant will from time to time require 

 improvements and extensions to meet the demands made upon it, just as 

 would any other successful business enterprise. The main object in view, 

 in my judgment, should always be effective work and a maximum product 

 at the least cost possible, having always in mind the importance and extent 

 of the requirements. During the past season the value of the fish distrib- 

 uted for the purpose of stocking the inland waters of the State was, at the 

 lowest market price charged by commercial hatcheries, $119,684.67, which 

 is a larger value than that of the previous season and secured without any 

 great additional expense The detailed distribution for the year and the 

 work done by each hatchery are fully shown elsewhere. 



Some idea of the increase in the demands made on the hatcheries may 



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