182 



TWENTY-EIGHTH FRUIT- GROWERS' CONVENTION. 



is seriously handicapped because of the competition of Europe and the West Indies. 

 From these islands the fruit can be landed fresh in New York, in less than four days, 

 and at a freight rate per box of from 60 to 70 cents less than that charged on California 

 fruit. Yet we must pay much more for labor. Any lowering of the present tariff rates 

 would work incalculable injury to our great industry, and bring ruin to many of the 

 growers. 



Eighth— We would also urge upon your attention the great need of a postal parcel sys- 

 tem, in which respect we are behind many European countries, and even our neighboring 

 republic of Mexico. Its introduction in our country would be an inestimable boon to 

 our orchardists and to all other classes of our people. 



Ninth — We wish to call your attention to the magnitude of our citrus industry, and 

 the insidious nature of destructive fungi and bacteria, and to urge strongly the desira- 

 bility of a specialist to give his exclusive attention to citrus fruit diseases. 



Tenth — We would be gratified if you should deem it in line with public interests that 

 you appoint a commission to investigate the complaints of California fruit-growers, 

 which commission should be empowered to redress such of these grievances as are 

 grounded in fact. 



On motion, the report was adopted and the Convention adjourned 



sine die. 



JOHN ISAAC, 



ELLWOOD COOPER, 



President. 



Secretary. 



