ASHBROOK THE FUR TRADE 
7 
foreign trade. Prior to the world war, the worid^s fur market was in 
Europe j but since then it has been transferred to the United States. 
The largest fur sales in the history of the world are held in St. Louis 
and New York City. The winter sale held in St. Louis in 1920 totaled 
$27 j 102,588. Ever since the world began, people have worn furs and 
they will probably continue to do so indefinitely. The fur business, 
therefore, has good reason for existence. 
Information regarding seasons when pelts are prime is necessary for 
trappers and state legislators in order that the trapping seasons of 
practically all fur bearers may be properly limited. It is also essential 
to establish close seasons for certain fur bearers that need this protec- 
tion. Enforcement of such laws will most certainly prove very effec- 
tive in conserving the fur-bearing animals, thus establishing the future 
of the fur trade. 
Fur farming is a commendable and hopeful adjunct to the fur in- 
dustry. Foxes are being raised successfully and the industry has 
attracted much attention, principally on account of the high prices 
paid for breeding stock. Skunks, muskrats, and beavers have under 
certain conditions been raised successfully. Fur farming, therefore, 
occupies a place in the general scheme of conservation, but the extent 
to which this industry may become a factor in increasing the production 
of fur will be determined only by future developments. 
Biological Survey^ Washington^ Z). C. 
