Al 
signed, and, as an earnest of what may be expected in the future, to send in a few of 
their more important observations on insects of last year. All observations should 
be recorded, as they are always of value and the absence of records is difficult to sup- 
ply in later years. Soon after the appointments are made, appropriate stationery 
will be sent to those selected. 
The plan offers present correspondents the advantage that it will systemize their 
work and increase the interest of all in the important study of applied or economic 
entomology. Ifthe recipient of this communication does not care to undertake per- 
sonal observations, he is requested to place it in the hands of one who will be inter- 
ested in taking part in the service. 
It was the intention to have approximately one observer in each of 
the sixty-one counties of the State, though it was by no means expected 
that. every county would be represented. From the list of applicants 
the appointment of thirty-nine persons, representing thirty-three coun- 
ties, was recommended on April 19. This number was augmented by 
the subsequent appointment of eight others, and in turn was reduced 
by the resignation of four. One resigned on the receipt of the sta- 
tionery, on account of its appearing too official. Another was forced 
to give up the work before its inception because of a severe illness, 
and two others found themselves unable to comply with the require- 
ments from pressure of other duties. On May 16 acireular letter, with 
copies of Bulletin 26, was mailed to forty-two observers. The following 
extracts from the letter are given for the purpose of showing the gen- 
eral scope of the work: 
To voluntary observers: 
It is not expected that many will have time to prepare long reports. I desire 
specially to gather in brief form the observations and experiences of practical men 
with insects. Under no circumstances omit the weekly report during the growing 
season, for even negative results have value. It is most desirable that the reports 
should be regular and received in Albany about the same time, so that they may be 
collated and the more valuable facts made known. For this reason each observer 
is urged to mail his report every Wednesday or Thursday in order that it may be 
received at the office on Friday of each week. Ten stamped envelopes with paper 
are sent herewith and more will be supplied as needed. 
The matter of more general interest in the reports will be brought together in 
brief form and supplied to agricultural papers, each observer receiving full credit 
for his work. For the most part give attention to species of economic importance, 
_such as those injuring plants of value, annoying live stock, or proving a nuisance 
_in the household. Inquiries regarding insects will be welcomed and answered as 
fully as practicable. In most cases the reports will be more valuable if accompa- 
nied by specimens of the insect or its work, preferably both. Useful hints for col- 
lecting and observing insects will be found in Museum Bulletin 26, mailed under 
separate cover. The species mentioned under ‘‘ Distribution of insects” are of 
special interest and should receive close observation from every fruit grower and 
farmer. 
Finally, do not become discouraged if at first there appears littie that is new or 
of interest, but record what is seen, because one object of this organization is to 
ascertain actual facts regarding insect life. In time the eye will become trained 
and many things hitherto unnoticed will be observed and much of this will be of 
considerable value, not only to the scientist and the public, but to the observer. 
Though the appointments were unfortunately delayed longer than was desired, it is 
a decided advantage to begin such work when there is plenty to see. 
