286 



REPOET OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 



another Avasbing, and ai^ain spread upon the beach. Three such 

 operations usually suffice, though at times six or seven washings are 

 required. The seaweed is thus thoroughly cleansed and at the same 

 time partially bleached. About two weeks' exposure in warm sunshine 

 completes the curing process, and great care is exercised to prevent 

 rain from spoiling the crop. When a storm is impending the moss is 

 hastily raked into piles and covered with canvas. Should it chance 

 to get wet in the last week of curing its market value is greatly depre- 

 ciated. After the curing is completed about two weeks' time is 

 required to sort and pick over and prepare the product for shipment. 



The above information was obtained through the courtesy of Mr. 

 William H. Burke, of Scituate, who is engaged in the Irish moss 

 industry. 



The following tables give the number of persons emplojxd, the 

 number and value of vessels, boats, and fi.^ing apparatus, the value 

 of shore and accessory propert}", the amount of cash capital, and the 

 quantit}^ and value of products taken in the vessel and shore fisheries 

 of Massachusetts in 1902: 



Persons employe^}. 



Table of apparatus arid capital. 



aThe harpoons, guns, etc., used on whaling ve.sseLs are included with the 

 fishing. 



outtits" of vessels 



