Forestry Problems of N. C. Banks 
137 
1908] 
Material for the palisade needed in the building up of the barrier 
dune represents a first cost of $900 at present prices and labour for 
its construction will add at least $500. The cost of maintenance 
cannot be predicted. 
Grass planting on the coast strip and the littoral dune will be 
expensive and at least $500 must be allowed for this work exclusive 
of maintenance. 
The entire cost of the work of fixation, exclusive of any expense 
necessary in the acquisition of the lands, will reach at least 
$40,000. 
Advisability of Project . — This report does not aim to outline 
a policy. It merely suggests a definite plan by which the areas 
under discussion can be protected and leaves the advisability of 
the action to the proper authorities. 
The work of fixing the sands will serve to accomplish the per- 
petuity of the only forest remaining on the banks above Beaufort 
Inlet. If prompt measures, such as outlined above, are not taken, 
the destruction of the forest is certain. The lands will become a 
sand waste similar .to the larger part of the area of the banks. 
The cost of the work, however, is large and it is doubted if the 
value of the property to be protected will equal the cost. 
Aside from the intrinsic value of the property, it must be con - 
sidered that this area supports a considerable population which will 
be seriously affected should the land become waste. These people 
are entitled to protection by the State and, although relief could 
be secured by temporary measures involving less immediate 
expense,, the method of treatment recommended necessitates the 
lowest coast consistent with permanent protection. 
If, however, the project is undertaken, it is strongly advised 
that the work of carrying out the details of the general plan 
advised be entrusted to a competent official and be made a part of 
his duties. 
The Beaufort Inlet Project 
The Department of War maintains a series of sand fences on 
either side of Beaufort Inlet at the entrance to the harbor. These 
fences are to hold the sand as it is brought to the beach in order 
to build up the beach and prevent the inlet from increasing in 
