OYSTER-CULTURE IN SOUTH CAROLINA. 
305 
The total water area surveyed amounts to about 81,280 acres, or 127 square miles, 
of which it is estimated that about one-fourth, iu its present condition, is suitable for 
oyster-planting. The extent of the natural oyster beds in the same area is placed at 
about 775 acres. Other territory, which was not examined from the lack of time, would 
greatly increase these figures, and much of the bottom not now regarded as favorable 
might be rendered so by proper treatment. Furthermore, it is believed that the 
marshes and flats along the coast channels are well adapted for the establishment of 
tidal ponds, which could readily be constructed by excavating the soft material to 
a slight depth, or in some places by building dikes. In this manner the oyster- 
producing territory could be greatly extended, and the plan suggested would give the 
oysterman complete control over his stock. This system of oyster- culture, however, 
has not yet been introduced into this country, and until experiments have been made 
which shall determine the best and most economical methods it is deemed inexpedient 
to enlarge upon the subject. 
In the present report, by Mr. John D. Battle, will be found a detailed account of 
the hydrographic survey, including the density observations at all the localities vis- 
ited. It is accompanied by seven charts showing the topography of the coast region, 
the location and extent of all the natural oyster beds discovered, and the specific 
gravity of the water in each stream. These charts are based upon the field sheets of 
the U. S. Coast and Geodetic Survey, the use of which for this purpose was freely 
granted by the Superintendent, Dr. T. C. Mendenhall. In fact, the only additions 
actually made to them by the Fish Commission have been the indications of the oyster 
beds, the specific gravities, the delineation of a few streams not previously surveyed, 
and some references to the depths and character of the bottom. 
The report of Dr. Bashford Dean will treat especially of the character and con- 
ditions of the natural oyster beds and their environment ; the food of the oyster, its 
character, distribution, and abundance in the region examined; and the chemical 
composition and physical characteristics of the water upon the oyster grounds. The 
account of the general natural history of the region has not yet been completed. 
F. C. B. 1890—20 
