SALMON INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALBATROSS IN THE 
SUMMER OE 1900. 
By JEFFERSON F. MOSER, 
Commander , United Slates Navy , Commanding. 
INTRODUCTION. 
The main features of the work of the Albatross during the summer of 1900 were 
a continuation of the exploration and examination of the stream and lake systems of 
Alaska, their general features and characteristics so far as they relate to salmon and 
other fishes, spawning-grounds, condition and nature of the water, character of shores 
and vegetation, the species of salmon entering and their movements, the time and 
duration of runs, the size and abundance of fish, waste species, signs and causes of 
depletion, the mortality of different species on the spawning-grounds, natural and 
artificial obstructions to the passage of fish, fishing methods and their relation to the 
maintenance of supply, and data relating to conditions for hatcheries. At the can- 
neries statistics were obtained. of the streams fished by them, and detailed statistics 
relating to the men, vessels, boats, and apparatus employed in the fisheries, together 
with the catch and pack of the various species forTho years 1898, 1899, and 1900. 
The photographic and hydrographic works, so far as they relate to the subject, were 
also continued. 
Except in the interior waters of southeastern Alaska, the salmon streams lie in 
unsurveyed localities usually dangerous to approach without local knowledge, and, 
while we were able when detained in port to add something to the hydrographic 
information bv surveys and sailing directions, yet but little was accomplished in a 
field where much remains to be done. 
Before proceeding with my report, 1 desire to express my appreciation of the 
work performed by the officers of the Albatross and the courtesies extended by those 
interested in the salmon fisheries. Lieut. Hugh Rodman, U. S. N., besides his 
duties as executive and navigating officer, was indefatigable in conducting the stream 
and lake explorations and in making the local surveys. Ensigns A. J. Hepburn, 
U. S. N., and Cyrus R. Miller, U. S. N., assisted in the field work. Ensign Clarence 
S. Kempff, U. S. N. , besides his duties in charge of the engineer’s department, made 
a number of the stream and lake examinations and assisted on the surveys. Mr. 
H. C. Fassett assisted me generally in the collection of data, and had charge of all 
the photography, in which he rendered valuable service. All performed their duties 
to my entire satisfaction. 
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