307 
The band at Kalauao appears to be larger and has probably 
been at liberty longer. It is said not to be uncommon to see rab- 
bits at the point where the government road makes a sharp turn, 
where there is an artesian well in the angle. It seems likely that 
these rabbits may have got away from Orientals living in that 
vicinity. 
In view of the very serious damage to agricultural crops and 
other vegetation which rabbits can do when in large numbers the 
questions of getting rid of these two bands seems to me one that 
should receive the attention of the Board. I understand that some 
years ago this Territory suffered severe loss from depredations of 
rabbits, at which time was enacted the special legislation in regard 
to these animals now on the statute books (Game Law: Rabbits: 
Chap. 37, Revised Laws; Sections 465-468). In this connection, 
too, members of this Board do not need to be reminded of the 
extensive damage which rabbits have caused in California and in 
the Australian states. 
I am not sure how far the Board of /^griculture has power or 
authority to act in this matter, but it is evident that the time to 
check a pest like rabbits is when the bands are still few in number. 
The expenditure of a comparatively small sum now, in the em- 
ployment of men to exterminate all tlie rabbits at large, would be 
money well spent. If the Board may not itself take up this mat- 
ter I recommend that steps be taken to bring it forcibly to the at- 
tention of those who are in a position to act. 
Very respectfully, 
Ralph S. Hosmer, 
Superintendent of Forestry. 
HAWAII IRRIGATION COMMITTEE. 
(Forester Special Correspondence.) 
Chicago, Illinois, August 31. — Governor Frear writes in a 
recent letter to the headquarters of the National Irrigation Con- 
gress .that he has appointed an advisory committee with which 
the officers of the Irrigation Congress can cooperate in making 
its coming meeting here, December 5 to 9, of the greatest benefit 
to Hawaii. 
Members of the advisory committee appointed by the Governor 
are Ralph S. Hosmer, William O. Smith, Alonzo Gartley, Walter 
F. Dillingham, and Jared G. Smith. 
''Save the forests, store the floods, reclaim the deserts, make 
homes on the land," is the motto of the National Irrigation Con- 
gress, and clearly sets forth its objects. Of particular interest is 
the consideration the cong^ress will give at this session to rec- 
lamation by drainage. This year its sessions are held simul- 
