po N. J. Mosquito Extermination Association 



We considered first whether a machine with the power to operate 

 it should constitute a single unit. After much consideration we de- 

 cided that the experience in designing the ditch-digging machine was 

 valuable and that we would separate the cleaning machine from the 

 power that moved it because the power required and the speed of 

 operation could not be definitely determined. After the cleaner had 

 been developed, the power for pulling it could easily be worked out. 

 By use of a dynamometer, we could determine the power necessary 

 for different speeds and thus fix the specifications for the power 

 plant. It is probable that a modified form of the Cleveland tractor 

 with a drum on the rear will prove most practicable. The machine 

 can run ahead at good speed, and anchoring, draw the ditch-cleaning 

 machine after it; or there may be some other development. 



The consideration of a ditch-cleaning machine thus led to the con- 

 clusion that two types would be required, one to be used where the 

 meadows are reasonably firm, and the other to be used where there 

 are a great many salt holes or soft spots. In the latter case a ma- 

 chine of the power type would not leave a ditch behind it, for the 

 ditch would fill in as fast as the machine was pulled through. 



The first type of machine was based on an experimental machine 

 which was made in Essex County two or three years ago and which 

 seemed to show some merit ; but Mr. Reiley of Atlantic County 

 was able to give some very valuable suggestions in redesigning it. 

 The one to be used for the salt holes would necessitate an elevator 

 or conveyor, with the same power to operate it, so that the machine 

 might draw up the soft mud while not necessarily moving forward. 

 Mr. Reiley's idea is that as it reaches a salt hole it shall be stopped 

 and the little elevator or conveyor will throw out all the soft mud 

 which will come up and clear the space, and then it will cross the 

 salt hole. As the machine for the harder meadow would cost very 

 much less than the other, it is our recommendation that it be built 

 first. In developing it some features might be discovered which 

 will enable us to avoid making a mistake in the second machine. 

 The committee makes the following recommendations : 



1. That two machines be built for cleaning lo-inch ditches on the salt 

 marshes. 



2. That one of these machines be designed chiefly for use in the northern 

 part of New Jersey where salt holes on the meadows are not numerous ; this 

 machine to be referred to as the scoop machine. 



3. That one of these machines be designed chiefly for use in the southern 



