16 Direcror’s REPORT OF THE 
general tendency of certain changes to affect the milk flow, 
Observations were made in this case only in regard to the im- 
mediate effect of these changes. 
Only rations which approximated those of the common feed- 
ing standards were considered. Within these limits changes in 
the amount of total digestible organic matter showed a greater 
and more constant influence than any other. An increase in 
amount of the total nutrients had a generally favorable effect 
on the milk yield, and a reduction an unfavorable one, either 
when the amount was more or less than the 15.5 lbs. per day 
for each 1,000 lbs. live weight. 
Changes in the fuel value of the ration showed effects cor- 
responding to those in amount of total nutrients both above and 
below the value of 30,000 Calories. 
Changes in the protein content of the ration within the ordi- 
nary limits showed less effect than changes in the amount of 
nutrients. In general an increase in the amount of protein up 
to 2.5 Ibs. per day for each 1,000 lbs. live weight affected 
the milk flow favorably. Above that amount, for ordinary cows, 
a reduction had a favorable effect. 
The effects of changes in the nutritive ratio corresponded in 
a general way to those following changes in the protein content. 
DEPARTMENT OF BACTERIOLOGY, 
Much of the work performed in the department was a union 
of effort with the chemical department in studying the factors 
which are operative in the curing of cheese and so far -as 
reported this is summarized in what is presented from the 
chemical department. Study has also been given to certain 
cheese troubles, a report of which will be made after the accu- 
mulation of further data. 
DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY. 
Currant anthracnose.—In the Hudson Valley there has been an 
epidemic of currant anthracnose, a fungous disease which 
causes the leaves to fall prematurely. Much damage was done. 
