LXXIV 
enable us to trace the further development of the oyster, but 
would, no doubt, be of great benefit as a model on which es- 
tablishments of a similar kind can be constructed. 
If the artificial propagation of the oyster prove a success 
practically, and if the art of manipulating them can be easily 
acquired, as Dr. Brooks’ descriptions would indicate, an almost 
indefinite supply of young oysters could be derived in this 
manner, and they could be easily transferred to localities sui- 
table for their final development. Much of the present drain, 
on the natural beds, for transplanting would become unneces- 
sary, and the supply for cultivation in shoal waters could be 
derived by this simple artificial propagation. The planted 
beds could then be furnished at much less expense to the cul- 
tivator. 
By pursuing this method, the beds would not only be re- 
lieved of the necessity for disturbing them during the periods 
when they should be at rest, but a strong inducement to vio- 
late the protective laws would be removed. We feel satisfied 
that the able Board, under whose special care the oysters are 
placed, will suggest most proper and efficient means for their 
protection. We simply place within their reach the results of 
recent investigations which have been conducted in connection 
with our study of the waters of the State, and we trust that 
they will be found to contain something of value. The oys- 
ter, as we have already said, must have a very important 
bearing on the fish yield of our waters, and for this reason is 
ever a matter of interest to us. 
It is well known that quite a large population on the sea- 
coast of France derive their chief support from the cultivation 
of the oyster, and many of the marine departments owe their 
prosperity mainly to this industry. The Europeans have, 
however, confined themselves to collecting, carefully protect- 
ing and caring for the oyster after it has reached that stage 
when it attaches itself to some stationary object. Dr. Brooks 
has pointed out to us how we can go far beyond the oyster 
culturists of Europe in being able to artificially impregnate 
the eggs as in fish culture, and in this way, to a great extent, 
control the increase. 
