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on a scale of any magnitude by entomologists. The experience of the 
present season, which, by the way, is not ended, is presented at this 
time to call attention to its capabilities, and also for the purpose of 
eliciting criticisms and suggestions from fellow-workers. The establish- 
ment of this corps of observers had in view several objects: First, to 
bring the office into ‘closer relations with the public; secondly, it 
_ was very desirable to receive regular reports from different sections of 
the State, and in doing this we ascertained how things appeared to 
the individual, who in many cases was a practical man of affairs, and 
in a great number of instances was directly connected with agricul- 
ture in some branch or other. ‘It was not expected that it would be 
possible to find readily a sufficient number of persons who would be as 
well qualified for the work as though they had been trained entomolo- 
gists; hence we have also aimed to educate the voluntary observers to 
some extent, and also to reach others through them. This is being 
accomplished by sending to the observers special directions whenever 
necessary by supplying them with all entomological publications issued 
by the office, naming insects for them, and by answering inquiries freely. 
While the work was undertaken for but one year, itis hoped that it will 
be continued, and that the mass of data being collected from all sections 
of the State will, in the course of years, throw considerable light on the 
causes controlling the abundance of insects and their distribution, and 
those leading to a modification in habit or a change in life history. 
With this latter in view, the voluntary observers were instructed to 
include in their reports all data relating to insects, especially those of 
economic importance. 
A circular letter was prepared in the winter months and sent to par- 
ties in all sections of the State. It outlined the work as follows: 
To all interested in entomology : 
~ New York State with its enormous and varied agricultural interests suffers im- 
mense losses yearly from the depredations of insects. Its large area renders it 
impossible for one man, or even a moderate force of men, to observe properly the 
many insects within its borders and warn the inhabitants of threatened loss by their 
attacks. In order to bring this office into closer relations with the public and render 
it of greater practical value, it is desired to establish an auxiliary force of voluntary 
observers who will serve without pay and send short reports to the State entomolo- . 
gist weekly during the growing season and less frequently at other times. Though 
few entomologists will be able to take up this work, many valuable facts regarding 
the relative abundance of insects, the extent of their depredations, the effect of 
climate, soil, and altitude, the distribution and spread of insect pests, etc., may be 
collected from all sections of the State. As necessity arises, directions will be issued 
in regard to what insects should be looked for and where the observations should 
be made. 
Voluntary observers will be appointed by the regents on the recommendation of 
the State entomologist, and will receive copies of future State entomologic publica- 
tions. Each person will be given due credit in these publications for all his obser- 
vations and contributions of specimens, and in the course of a year should learn 
many valuable facts, as all inquiries for further information concerning an insect or 
in regard to its identity will be cheerfully answered. Those wishing to join in this 
volunteer service are respectfully requested to communicate at once with the under- 
