LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL. 



Vll. 



Mr. Brooks has in these pages given a graphic account of 

 the former timber wealth of the State, and its rapid disappear- 

 ance though the combined attacks of fire, farmers, and saw 

 mills, and has also given a summary of the forestry laws in our 

 sister States showing how our neighboring commonwealths have 

 attempted to deal with the question of future lumber supply, 

 as well as with the all important question of protecting water 

 sheds. The interesting story he has given shows for itself how 

 well he has performed the allotted task. It is hoped that the 

 perusal of this volume by the citizens of the State may lead to 

 a more intelligent appreciation of the great potential value to 

 all the people of a wise forest policy which shall lead to the 

 rapid reforestation of millions of acres of our cut-over and 

 burnt-over lands that are so happily adapted to forest growth, 

 and but poorly fitted for agricultue. 



Very respectfully, 



I. C. WHITE, 

 State Geologist. 



Morgantovm, W. Va. 

 February 1st, 1911. 



