LXXYIII 
year 77 and 78 has not influenced at all this increase. The re- 
sults of the return of the fish hatched during these years will 
be felt only in subsequent years. 
In fulfilling the duties imposed upon us by the act under 
which the Fish Commission was organized, we cannot do more 
than call attention to the recommendations for protection 
which have been made in our previous reports. 
The necessity for the construction of a fish-way to enable 
the migratory fish to ascend the river beyond the Great Falls 
of the Potomac becomes more urgent each year. For several 
years we have placed a sufficient number of shad in the upper 
waters of this river to insure their returning in sufficient num- 
bers to make their presence felt, if proper means are provided 
for them to overcome this barrier to their ascent. Ho doubt 
those fish that have gone down to the sea over the falls will 
on their return make every effort to ascend them. Great as 
is the importance of a fish-way at this point to the inhabitants 
above the falls, it is of almost equal importance to those living 
below, as it would extend the spawning grounds to a very 
great extent and insure a future supply to the important fish- 
eries of this river. 
The need for efficient protective laws on the Potomac is 
greatly felt, and we would earnestly urge upon the assemblies 
of both Virginia and Maryland to pass similar laws protect- 
ing the river and giving the officers of the law concurrent 
jurisdiction. 
We take pleasure in repeating our acknowledgments to the 
several transportation lines for continued courtesies. 
Respectfully submitted, 
T. B. FERGUSON, 
THOS. HUGHLETT, 
Commissioners. 
