BLUE-FOX FARMING IN ALASKA 
9 
The latitude, climate, and soil having been determined, the next 
important consideration is the proper location for the ranch. Fox 
ranches are now established on islands in every conceivable location. 
Some are found many miles from civilization, where transportation 
by regular means can not be had at reasonable intervals, where 
it is difficult to obtain supplies, and where the rancher is practically 
shut off from many opportunities for the sale of breeding stock. 
Energetic, progressive men will not stay long under these conditions, 
however, and this makes it difficult to secure the necessary labor. 
On the other hand, an island used for fox farming should be at least 
half a mile away from adjacent islands or the mainland, as the 
animals may escape by swimming. 
HARBOR FACILITIES 
It is possible to operate an island fur farm which lacks a harbor, 
but the disadvantages are extremely ffreat. The value of harbor fa- 
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Fig. 8. — A floating dock of the type illustrated can be built easily and cheaply and 
is a great convenience in landing supplies and tying up a boat in the harbor 
cilities can scarcely be overestimated. A harbor permits keeping 
a boat for use in obtaining feed, in feeding, in the transportation 
of skins and breeding stock, and in communicating with towns and 
the mainland (fig. 8). 
FOOD SUPPLY ♦ 
Fish is the basic article in the diet of blue foxes; hence it is essen- 
tial that it be readily obtainable throughout the year. Proximity to 
a cannery is a great advantage, as the waste material makes excel- 
lent feed. Seals and porpoises and members of the whale family 
might well be more utilized than is now the case. It is essential that 
the food be palatable, nutritious, and inexpensive. 
WATER 
The presence of fresh-water springs, streams, or ponds on an 
island is important. During the whelping season especially it is 
