44 
BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 
The map represents the extensive clam hats at the mouths of the Essex and 
Castle ISTeck rivers within the townships of Essex, Ipswich, and Gloucester. To the 
north and west of Choate Island, and connected with this, is an area of beds nearly 
as extensive as those represented in the map.* The main features illustrated are — 
1. The present extent of the “natural beds” (this was determined in August of 
1898). These are represented by stippling. Though the beds appear to be extensive, 
the clams are in some places much scattered, and in others so densely packed as not 
to be able to grow. Very few marketable clams are taken from these beds. 
2. The great areas — represented by oblique shading lines — wliere every natural 
condition is favorable for the growth of clams. These beds are and have been for 
years practically barren. At one time producing an immense harvest, they were 
reduced and have since been kept down by excessive digging. The flats planted in 
the culture experiment are those directly west of Conomo Point and along the river 
banks. 
3. The thatch banks, submerged at high tide, which, on account of their tough 
roots, hold great numbers of clams safe from molestation. They probably produce 
great numbers of young, which under favorable conditions should replenish the losses, 
from judicious digging, of the entire area. 
4. The extent of the flats as a whole, indicating how great an industry might be 
supported in this region. 
* While ninny kindly gave their assistance, I am especially indebted to Mr. J. B. Fuller and to 
Mr. E. Hobbs, of Essex, for their aid in collecting Ihc data used in text and map. 
