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-The Project Gutenberg EBook of A Report upon the Mollusk Fisheries of
-Massachusetts, by Commissioners on Fisheries and Game
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
-other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of
-the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
-www.gutenberg.org.  If you are not located in the United States, you'll have
-to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook.
-
-Title: A Report upon the Mollusk Fisheries of Massachusetts
-
-Author: Commissioners on Fisheries and Game
-
-Release Date: February 8, 2015 [EBook #48195]
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK REPORT--MOLLUSK FISHERIES MASSACHUSETTS ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by Richard Tonsing, Sandra Eder and the Online
-Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
-file was produced from images generously made available
-by The Internet Archive)
-
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-
-
-                  The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
-
-                               A REPORT
-                                 UPON
-                         THE MOLLUSK FISHERIES
-                                  OF
-                            MASSACHUSETTS.
-
-
-                            [Illustration]
-
-                                BOSTON:
-             WRIGHT & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,
-                        18 POST OFFICE SQUARE.
-                                 1909.
-
-                              APPROVED BY
-                    THE STATE BOARD OF PUBLICATION.
-
-
-
-
-The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
-
-
-                                    COMMISSIONERS ON FISHERIES AND GAME,
-                                     STATE HOUSE, BOSTON, Jan. 15, 1909.
-
-  _To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives._
-
-We herewith transmit a special report upon the mollusk fisheries of
-Massachusetts, as ordered by chapter 49, Resolves of 1905, relative to
-scallops; chapter 73, Resolves of 1905, relative to oysters; chapter
-78, Resolves of 1905, relative to quahaugs; and chapter 93, Resolves of
-1905, relative to clams.
-
-                        Respectfully submitted,
-
-                                                            G. W. FIELD,
-                                                             _Chairman_.
-
-
-
-
-REPORT ON THE MOLLUSK FISHERIES OF MASSACHUSETTS.
-
-
-
-
-INTRODUCTION.
-
-
-The general plan of the work was outlined by the chairman of the
-Commission on Fisheries and Game, who has given attention to such
-details as checking up scientific data, editing, revising, and
-confirming results, reports, etc. The work has been under the direct
-charge and personal supervision of the biologist to the commission, Mr.
-D. L. Belding. The able services of Prof. J. L. Kellogg of Williams
-College were early enlisted, and many valuable results which we are
-able to offer are the direct outcome of the practical application of
-the minute details discovered by Professor Kellogg in his careful study
-and original investigations of the anatomy and life histories of the
-lamellibranch mollusks.
-
-Of the other workers who, under the direction of Mr. Belding, have
-contributed directly, special mention should be made of Mr. J. R.
-Stevenson of Williams College, W. G. Vinal of Harvard University, F. C.
-Lane of Boston University, A. A. Perkins of Ipswich and C. L. Savery of
-Marion. Those who have for a briefer time been identified with the work
-are R. L. Buffum, W. H. Gates and K. B. Coulter of Williams College,
-and Anson Handy of Harvard University.
-
-In addition to the results here given, much valuable knowledge has been
-acquired, particularly upon the life histories of the scallop and of
-the quahaug, and the practical application of this knowledge to the
-pursuit of sea farming. It is hoped that the commission will later be
-enabled to publish these results.
-
-The present report is limited to a statement of the condition of
-the shellfish in each section of our coast, and to consideration of
-practical methods for securing increased opportunities for food and
-livelihood by better utilization of naturally productive lands under
-water. Since the chief purpose of legislative action under which this
-work was undertaken was to ascertain how the best economic results
-could be secured, we have thought it wise to embody the results of our
-investigation in a plan which is suggested as a basis for appropriate
-legislation for making possible a suitable system of shellfish
-cultivation similar to that which already exists in Rhode Island,
-Connecticut and many other coast States, and which has been carried on
-for more than two thousand years on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.
-
-The following tentative outlines are offered, and it is intended to
-subject each topic to an unprejudiced examination and discussion:--
-
-
-A PROPOSED SYSTEM OF CULTURE FOR THE TIDAL FLATS AND WATERS OF
-MASSACHUSETTS.
-
-_The Purpose._--The proposed system of shellfish culture aims to
-develop the latent wealth of the tidal waters, to increase the output
-of tidal flats already productive, and to make possible the reclamation
-of large portions of the waste shore areas of our Commonwealth. It
-is further designed to foster dependent and allied industries; to
-extend the shellfish market, both wholesale and retail; to multiply
-opportunities for the transient visitors and shore cottagers to fish
-for clams and quahaugs for family use, and to ensure fishermen a
-reliable source of bait supply; to increase the earnings of the shore
-fishermen, and to furnish work to thousands of unemployed; to increase
-the value of shore property; to add to the taxable property of the
-shore towns and cities of the State; to secure to all the citizens of
-the State a proper return from an unutilized State asset; to furnish
-the consuming public with a greater quantity of sea food of guaranteed
-purity; and in every way, both in the utilization of present and in the
-creation of new resources to build up and develop the fast-declining
-shellfish industries of the Commonwealth.
-
-_Private v. Public Ownership of Tidal Flats._--The first difficulty
-confronting this proposed system is the too frequently accepted fallacy
-that all lands between the tide marks now are and should be held in
-common by the inhabitants of the shore communities, to the exclusion
-of citizens from other sections of the State,--an assumption which is
-directly contrary to the more ancient law, supported by decisions of
-the highest courts, that the right of taking shellfish is a public
-right, freely open to any inhabitant of the State. Such unwarranted
-assumption of exclusive rights in the shellfisheries by individuals,
-corporations or towns sacrifices the rights of the majority. The
-disastrous effect of this policy is plainly demonstrated in the history
-of the rise and decline of the shellfisheries of Massachusetts.
-
-Secondly, this fallacious assumption is contrary to the fundamental
-principles of all economic doctrines. It may be safely affirmed that
-the individual ownership of property has proved not only a success but
-even is a necessary condition of progress, and has in fact at length
-become the foundation of all society. It inevitably follows that if
-the system is justifiable in the case of farm lands it is equally
-justifiable in the case of the tidal flats, for the same principle
-is involved in each. It is therefore fair to assume that if private
-ownership of farm land has proved to be for the best interests of
-human progress, so private ownership of the tidal flats will also be a
-benefit to the public.
-
-It is not our purpose to discuss the underlying principle involved
-in private ownership of property,--it is simply our purpose to call
-attention to two facts: (1) if individual control of real estate is
-just, private ownership of tidal flats and waters is likewise just; (2)
-that individual control of such areas is the only practical system yet
-devised capable of checking the alarming decline in the shellfisheries
-and of developing them to a normal state of productiveness, and
-rendering unnecessary an annually increasing mass of restrictive
-legislation.
-
-_The Present System._--The present system of controlling the
-shellfisheries is based on the communal ownership of the tidal flats.
-Ownership by the Commonwealth has degenerated into a system of town
-control, whereby every coast community has entire jurisdiction over its
-shellfisheries, to the practical exclusion of citizens of all other
-towns. Thus at the present time the mollusk fisheries of Massachusetts
-are divided into a number of separate and disorganized units, which are
-incapable of working together for the best interests of the towns or
-of the public. This communistic system is distinctly unsound, and is in
-direct opposition to the principles of social and economic development.
-The man who advocates keeping farm lands untilled and in common, for
-the sake of the few wild blackberries they might produce, would be
-considered mentally unbalanced; but it is precisely this system which
-holds sway over our relatively richer sea gardens. With no thought of
-seed time, but only of harvest, the fertile tidal flats are yearly
-divested of their fast-decreasing output by reckless and ruthless
-exploitation, and valuable territories when once exhausted are allowed
-to become barren. All hopes for the morrow are sacrificed to the
-clamorous demands of the present. The more the supply decreases, the
-more insistent becomes the demand; and the greater the demand, the more
-relentless grows the campaign of spoliation. The entire shore front
-of the Commonwealth is scoured and combed by irresponsible aliens and
-by exemplars of the "submerged tenth" who are now but despoilers, but
-who if opportunity were present might become cultivators of the flats
-rather than devastators. The thoughtful fisherman, who would control
-the industry in a measure, is under present conditions overruled by
-his selfish or short-sighted fellow workers, and is of necessity
-forced to join their ranks by the clinching argument that if the
-shellfisheries are to be ruined anyway, he might as well have his share
-as long as they last. The theory of public ownership of shellfisheries
-has been weighed in the balance and found wanting. The necessity for
-some radical change in the present system is becoming more and more
-apparent, and a system of private control, with certain modifications,
-is the logical result.
-
-_Need of Reform._--The shellfish supply of Massachusetts is steadily
-declining. So extensive is this decline that it is unnecessary to
-mention the abundant proofs of almost complete exhaustion in certain
-localities and of failing output in others. While the apparent cause
-of this decrease is overfishing and unsystematic digging, the real
-cause can be readily traced to the present defective system of town
-control, which has made possible, through inefficiency and neglect, the
-deplorable condition of this important industry. Unless the decline is
-at once checked, within a very few years our valuable shellfisheries
-will be exhausted to the point of commercial extinction. The
-legislation of former years, essentially restrictive and prohibitory
-in character, has unfortunately been constructed on a false economic
-basis. Its aim has been to protect these industries by restricting
-the demand rather than by increasing the supply. What the future
-requires is not merely protective or restrictive legislation, but
-rather constructive laws for developing the shellfisheries. The system
-of shellfish culture here presented appears to be the only practical
-method for improving the condition of these industries in such a way as
-to protect all vested interests of both private and public rights, and
-at the same time to make possible adequate utilization of the natural
-productive capacity.
-
-In brief, the proposed system of shellfish culture is based upon a
-system of leases to individuals. These leases should be divided into
-two classes: (1) those covering the territory between the tide lines,
-and consisting of small areas, from 1 to 2 acres; (2) the territory
-below low-water mark, comprised of two classes of grants, which differ
-only in size and distance from the shore,--the smaller (_a_), from 1 to
-5 acres, to include the shore waters, small bays and inlets, and the
-larger (_b_), of unrestricted size, to be given in the deeper and more
-exposed waters. The owners of all grants shall be permitted to plant
-and grow all species of shellfish, and shall have exclusive control of
-the fisheries area covered by such lease. The large and more exposed
-grants, which cannot be economically worked without considerable
-capital, should be available for companies; while the smaller holdings,
-for which but small capital is required, are restricted to the use of
-the individual shore fishermen. For the tidal flats and shore waters
-but one-half of the whole territory in any one township shall be
-leased, the other half still remaining public property.
-
-_Success of this System._--The system of private control by leased
-grants is by no means a new and untried theory. In actual operation for
-many years in this and other States, in spite of lack of protection
-and other drawbacks which would be eliminated from a perfected system,
-it has proved an unqualified success. The rapid depletion and even
-extermination of the native oyster beds necessitated legislative
-consideration, and for years the oyster industry above and below
-low-water mark in this and other States has been dealt with by a
-similar system. The plan here suggested would be but a direct extension
-of a well-tested principle towards the cultivation of other species of
-mollusks. The financial value to the fishermen of such a step has been
-proved beyond all question in this State during the past three years
-by the demonstrations of the Massachusetts department of fisheries and
-game. These experiments have proved that tidal flats, with small outlay
-of capital and labor, will yield, acre for acre, a far more valuable
-harvest than any upland garden.
-
-This system has the further element of success by being based on
-individual effort, in contrast to the present communal regulation
-of shellfisheries. In all business individual initiative and effort
-furnish the keynote of success, and the future wellfare of the
-shellfisheries depends upon the application of this principle.
-
-Nature cannot without the aid and co-operation of man repair the
-ill-advised, untimely and exhaustive inroads made in her resources.
-This is shown in the thousands of acres of good farm lands made
-unproductive by unwise treatment, and by the wasteful destruction
-of our forests. It is as strikingly shown in the decline of our
-shellfisheries. The fisherman exhausts the wealth of the flats by
-destroying both young and adults, and returns nothing. The result is
-decrease and ultimate extermination. The farmer prepares his land
-carefully and intelligently, plants his seed and in due time reaps a
-harvest. If the fisherman could have similar rights over the tidal
-areas, he could with far less labor and capital and with far greater
-certainty year by year reap a continuous harvest at all seasons. The
-success of the leasing system in other States, notably Louisiana, Rhode
-Island and others, is definite and conspicuous.
-
-_The Obstacles to this Proposed System._--Before the proposed system
-of titles to shellfish ground can be put in actual operation, it
-is absolutely necessary to have all rights and special privileges
-pertaining to shore areas revested in State control by repeal of
-certain laws. In this centralization of authority four main factors
-must be carefully considered: (1) communal rights to fisheries in
-tidal areas, as in the colonial beach law of 1641-47; (2) the theory,
-practice and results of town supervision and control; (3) the rights
-of riparian owners; (4) the rights of the fishermen and of all other
-inhabitants of the State. So important are all four that it is
-necessary to discuss each in turn.
-
-(1) _Communal Fishery Rights of the Public._--The fundamental principle
-upon which the shellfish laws of the State are founded is the so-called
-beach or free fishing right of the public. While in other States shore
-property extends only to mean high water, in Massachusetts, Maine and
-Virginia, the earliest States to enact colonial laws, the riparian
-property holders own to mean low-water mark. But by specific exception
-and according to further provisions of this same ancient law the right
-of fishing (which includes the shellfisheries) below high-water mark is
-free to any inhabitant of the Commonwealth. The act reads as follows:--
-
-    SECTION 2. Every inhabitant who is an householder shall have
-    free fishing and fowling in any great ponds, bays, coves and
-    rivers, so far as the sea ebbs and flows within the precincts
-    of the town where they dwell, unless the freemen of the same
-    town or the General Court have otherwise appropriated them.
-
-It is necessary that some change be made in this law, which at present
-offers no protection to the planters. Its repeal is by no means
-necessary, as the matter can be adjusted by merely adding "except for
-the taking of mollusks from the areas set apart and leased for the
-cultivation of mollusks."
-
-(2) _Results of Town Administration of Mollusk Fisheries._--All
-authority to control mollusk privileges was originally vested in the
-State. The towns, as the ancient statutes will show, derived this
-authority from the higher State authority, developed their systems
-of local regulations or by-laws only with the State permission, and
-even now they enjoy the fruits of these concessions solely with the
-active consent of the Legislature. Thus the State has ever been, and
-is at present, the source of town control. The towns have no rights of
-supervision and control over shellfisheries except as derived from the
-General Court. The State gave them this authority in the beginning. It
-follows, therefore, that the Legislature can withdraw this delegated
-authority at any time when it is convinced that it is for the benefit
-of the State so to do. To those few who are directly profiting at the
-expense of the many, this resumption of authority by the State may seem
-at first sight a high-handed proceeding, but a brief survey of the
-facts will prove it to be justly warranted and eminently desirable. The
-present system of town control has had a sufficient trial. It is in its
-very essentials an un-business-like proceeding. A large number of towns
-acting in this matter as disorganized units working independently of
-one another could not in the nature of things evolve any co-ordinated
-and unified system which would be to the advantage of all. The problems
-involved are too complicated, requiring both broad and special
-knowledge, which cannot be acquired in a short term of experience.
-Lastly, the temptations of local politics have been found to be too
-insistent to guarantee completely fair allotment of valuable privileges.
-
-The Legislature has not only acted unwisely in allowing the towns
-in this respect thus to mismanage their affairs, but it has not
-fulfilled its duty to the Commonwealth as a whole. The Legislature
-has unwittingly delegated valuable sources of wealth and revenue, the
-fruits of which should have been enjoyed at least in some degree,
-directly or indirectly, by all citizens of the Commonwealth alike as
-well as by those of the coast towns. Many of the coast cities and
-towns have dealt with this opportunity very unwisely, and few have
-developed or even maintained unimpaired this extremely valuable asset
-of the State. It cannot be too strongly emphasized that such important
-sources of wealth as the shellfisheries are not the property of the
-coast towns alone; they are the property of the whole Commonwealth,
-and the whole Commonwealth should share in these benefits. In
-allowing these valuable resources to be mismanaged and dissipated by
-the shore towns, the Legislature has done a great injury to all the
-inland communities, and, indeed, even to those very coast towns for
-whose benefit such legislation was enacted. The Legislature was not
-justified, in the first place, in granting jurisdiction over these
-important industries belonging equally to the whole Commonwealth and
-to the coast towns. It was but an experiment. Inasmuch as these towns
-have grossly mismanaged the trust placed in them, the Legislature is
-doubly under the obligation to take advantage of the knowledge gained
-by this experimental delegation of the State authority to cities and
-towns. The completely obvious obligation of the Legislature is to
-remove what is either tacitly or frankly acknowledged by many city and
-town authorities to be an impossible burden upon the city or town, and
-to restore to State officers the general administrative control and
-supervision of the public rights in the shellfisheries.
-
-(3) _Riparian Ownership does not include Exclusive Fishing
-Rights._--The third objection is that in the assumption of State
-control is involved the much-discussed and vaguely understood question
-of riparian ownership. To make plain the conditions relative to the
-fisheries, including the shellfisheries on the tidal flats, it should
-be borne in mind that in only four States, Virginia and Maryland,
-Massachusetts and Maine, does the title of the riparian owner extend
-to low-water mark, but in these States the right of fishing, fowling
-and boating are specifically mentioned as not included in the title.
-Under the existing laws owners of seashore property in Massachusetts
-possess certain rights (though perhaps not in all cases clearly
-defined) over the tidal areas within 100 rods of the mean high-water
-mark. As the proposed system of shellfish grants deals with this
-territory between high and low water marks, it is necessary to see in
-what manner, if any, the rights at present possessed by riparian owners
-would be impaired by the leasing of certain rights of fishing. While
-the riparian owner has in a measure authority over the territory which
-borders his upland, there are certain specific limitations to this
-authority. He does not have exclusive rights of hunting, boating and
-fishing between the tide lines on his own property, but participates
-in these rights equally with every citizen of this Commonwealth. The
-courts have distinctly held that shellfish are fish, and that a man may
-fish--_i.e._, dig clams--on the tidal flats adjoining the shore without
-the consent of the riparian owner.
-
-(4) _Rights of the Fishermen and of All Citizens._--The fishermen as
-a class are best located to benefit most from an opportunity to lease
-exclusive fishing rights, whether they chance to be riparian owners
-or not, though every other citizen of this Commonwealth who so desired
-would not be excluded from an opportunity to secure a similar lease.
-The personnel of the fisher class has vastly changed in the past
-decade. There are to-day two distinct types: The permanent resident,
-usually native born, bound to a definite locality by ties of home and
-kin and of long association,--a most useful type of citizen. Contrasted
-with this is the other, a more rapidly increasing class,--foreign born,
-unnaturalized, nomadic, a humble soldier of fortune, a hanger-on in
-the outskirts of urban civilization, eking out an existence by selling
-or eating the shellfish from the public fishing grounds. Too ignorant
-to appreciate the importance of sanitary precaution, the alien clammer
-haunts the proscribed territory polluted by sewage, and does much to
-keep the dangerous typhoid germ in active circulation in the community.
-
-The public mollusk fisheries only foster such types of non-producers,
-and prevent them from becoming desirable citizens. The best class
-of fishermen and citizens has no advantage over the worst, but is
-practically compelled to engage in the same sort of petty buccaneering
-and wilfully destructive digging, in order to prevent that portion
-and privilege of fishing which the law says shall belong to every
-householder and freeman of the Commonwealth from being appropriated by
-these humble freebooters, who are at once the annoyance, the terror and
-the despair of cottagers and shore dwellers.
-
-All these conditions would be almost completely corrected by the
-lease of the flats to individuals, thus removing from the fishermen
-stultifying competition and compelling these irresponsible wandering
-aliens to acquire definite location. But most particularly a system of
-leasing would permit each person to profit according to his industry,
-perseverance, thrift and foresight.
-
-_The Grants._--As previously stated, the grants should be made into
-two divisions: (1) including suitable areas between the high and low
-water marks; (2) territory below mean low-water mark. The privilege of
-planting and growing all shellfish should be given for both classes
-of grants. Class 1 would be primarily for the planting of clams,
-with additional rights over oysters and quahaugs; class 2 would be
-primarily for the planting of quahaugs and oysters, with possible
-rights over clams and scallops.
-
-The grants should be leased for a limited period of years, with the
-privilege of renewal provided the owner had fulfilled the stipulated
-requirements of the lease. In order, however, that these leases should
-not degenerate into deeds, to be handed down from father to son, it
-might be necessary to assign a maximum time limit during which a man
-might remain in control of any particular lease. This would be merely
-fair play to all concerned, for it would not be just to allow one man
-to monopolize a particularly fine piece of property, while his equally
-deserving neighbor had land of far less productive value. In connection
-with this clause should follow some provisions for payment of the value
-of improvements. Should there be more than one claimant for lease of
-any particular area, some principle of selection, such as priority of
-application, highest bid, etc., should be established.
-
-That there may be no holding of grants for purposes other than those
-stipulated in the agreement, there should be a certain cultural
-standard of excellence to be decided upon relative to the use made
-of the granted areas. A clause of this kind is necessary in order to
-keep the system in a proper state of efficiency, and to insure the
-development of the shellfish industries.
-
-All taxes on the capital invested in these grants and taxes upon the
-income should go to the town in which the leasehold is situated. In
-addition, there should be a just and equable revenue assessed by
-the State on every grant, as rent for the same. This rent should be
-apportioned according to a fixed scale in determining the relative
-values of the grants, and should be paid annually, under penalty of
-forfeiture. The revenue might be divided into two parts: one part to
-go to the State department having the control of the shellfisheries,
-for the maintenance of a survey, control and protection of property
-on leased areas, and other work; the second part to go to the town
-treasury of the community in which the grant is located, to be expended
-under the direction and control of responsible State officials in
-restocking barren flats and otherwise developing the shellfish upon
-its unleased territory which is open for free public use.
-
-_Grants to be Nontransferable._--These grants, while designed for the
-use of all citizens of the Commonwealth, should be made especially
-available for the poor man with little capital. In order to assure
-the poor man of the enjoyment of his privilege, it is necessary to
-guard against the possibility of undue monopolization. Leases must,
-therefore, be strictly nontransferable. Neither should areas be rented
-to another individual under any consideration whatever. Every grant
-must be for the benefit of its individual owner. He should be at
-liberty to hire laborers to assist him in working his grant, but not
-to transfer it in any way. Any attempt on his part to do so should not
-only immediately result in the forfeiture of his grant, but should also
-subject him to a heavy penalty.
-
-_Survey._--In order to guard against confusion and to maintain an
-orderly system, an accurate survey of all granted areas should be made.
-The ranges of every grant should be determined and recorded. The plots
-should be numbered and properly staked or buoyed, and a record of the
-same, giving the name of the owner, yearly rental and value, should
-be kept on file at the proper town and State offices. The same system
-which is now in operation in the oyster industry of other States should
-be applied to all the mollusk fisheries of Massachusetts.
-
-_Administration._--The department of the State government under whose
-jurisdiction this system of leases may come should be indued with full
-authority, properly defined, to supervise the grants, furnish them with
-adequate protection by the employment of State or town police, oversee
-the survey, allot the grants, and to exercise such other powers as may
-be necessary to develop the system, remedy its defects and strengthen
-its efficiency.
-
-_Protection of Property and of the Rights granted by the Lease._--No
-system of shellfish grants is possible without absolute protection.
-The lessee must be permitted to cultivate his grant free from outside
-interference, and thus, with reasonably good fortune, he can enjoy the
-fruits of his labors. This protection, which is the greatest and most
-vital need of the entire system, and the foundation upon which depends
-its whole success, must be insured by proper legislation rigorously
-enforced, and accompanied by severe penalties.
-
-_Leasing of the Grants._--Every citizen of the Commonwealth is entitled
-to participate in this system, but for obvious reasons an inhabitant
-of any coast town should be given first choice of grants within the
-boundary of his particular town. The first grants might be given by
-allotment, but after the system had become well established, they could
-be issued in the order of their application.
-
-_Water Pollution._--The sanitary condition of the marketed shellfish
-taken from contaminated waters is not only at present to some extent
-endangering the public health, but is placing an undeserved stigma
-upon a most reputable and valuable source of food supply for the
-public. The public should demand laws closing, after proper scientific
-investigation, these polluted areas, and conferring the power to
-thoroughly enforce such laws. The danger arising from contamination
-should be reduced to a minimum by prescribing some definite regulations
-for transferring shellfish from these polluted waters to places free
-from contamination, where the shellfish may in brief season be rendered
-fit for the market.
-
-It should be unlawful to use any brand, label or other device for
-designation, intended to give the impression that certain oysters
-offered for sale were grown at specified places, _e.g._, Cotuit,
-Wellfleet, Wareham, etc., unless such oysters were actually planted,
-grown or cultivated within the towns or waters designated, for a period
-of at least three months immediately previous to the date of marketing.
-Furthermore, there should be appointed proper inspectors, whose duties
-would be to guarantee by certificates, labels and stamps the purity
-of shellfish placed upon the market, and likewise have the power of
-enforcing severe penalties on violators.
-
-
-
-
-THE SHELLFISHERIES OF MASSACHUSETTS: THEIR PRESENT CONDITION AND EXTENT.
-
-
-               By D. L. BELDING, assisted by F. C. LANE.
-
-  DR. GEORGE W. FIELD, _Chairman, Commission on Fisheries and Game_.
-
-SIR:--I herewith submit the following report upon the present extent
-and condition of the shellfish industries of Massachusetts. The
-following biological survey was made in connection with the work done
-under chapters 49, 73, 78 and 93, Resolves of 1905, and chapter 74,
-Resolves of 1906. The statistics and survey records which furnish the
-basis of the report were obtained by D. L. Belding and F. C. Lane.
-
-                        Respectfully submitted,
-
-                                                       DAVID L. BELDING,
-                                                            _Biologist_.
-
-
-INTRODUCTION.
-
-When money was first appropriated in 1905 for a three-year
-investigation of the life, habits and methods of culture of the clam,
-quahaug, oyster and scallop, provision was made for a survey of the
-present productive and nonproductive areas suitable for the cultivation
-of these four shellfish. The following report embodies the results of
-this survey.
-
-_A. Method of Work._--In making this survey two objects were in view,
-which permit the grouping of the work under two main heads:--
-
-(1) A survey of the productive and nonproductive shellfish areas of
-the State was undertaken, showing by charts the location, extent and
-abundance of each of the four shellfish, as well as the biological
-conditions of the waters and soils of the areas along the entire coast
-which could be made more productive under proper cultural methods.
-Wherever possible, information as to the production of certain areas
-was obtained from the shellfishermen as a supplement to the survey work.
-
-(2) Statistical records of the four shellfish industries were
-formulated, showing their value and extent as regards (_a_) production,
-(_b_) capital invested, (_c_) men employed. Data for these records were
-obtained from town records, from market reports and from the dealers
-and shellfishermen, both by personal interviews and by tabulated forms
-of printed questions. Owing to the present chaotic condition of the
-shellfisheries, it has been impossible to obtain absolutely exact data.
-The statistics that have been obtained are to all purposes correct, and
-are the most exact figures ever published on the subject.
-
-_B. Value of the Survey._--Before any reform measures of practical
-value can be advanced, accurate and comprehensive knowledge of the
-present shellfish situation in Massachusetts is absolutely essential.
-Up to this time there have been only vague and inaccurate conjectures
-as to the value of the shellfisheries, and even the fisherman, outside
-his own district, has little knowledge of their extent and their
-economic possibilities. The consumer has far less knowledge. For
-the first time this problem of the Massachusetts shellfisheries has
-been approached from the point of view of the economic biologist.
-This survey is intended to present a concise yet detailed account of
-the present status of the shellfisheries of Massachusetts, and is
-therefore the first step towards the preservation of our shellfisheries
-by providing a workable basis for the restocking of the barren and
-unproductive areas. It is hoped that it will be of interest both to the
-fishermen and consumers.
-
-_C. Presentation of the Report._--The first part of the report presents
-the general results of the survey, _i.e._, the present condition of
-the shellfisheries, while the second part deals directly with details
-of the survey. The report is divided into four parts, each shellfish
-being considered separately. Under each is grouped (1) the industry as
-a whole; (2) a statistical summary of the industry for the whole State;
-(3) the towns of the State and their individual industries. A series
-of charts showing the shellfish areas of the State makes clear the
-description of the survey.
-
-_Geographical Situation._--The peculiar geographical situation of
-Massachusetts renders possible the production of the four edible
-shellfish--clam, oyster, quahaug and scallop,--in great abundance.
-Cape Cod forms the dividing line between the northern and the southern
-fauna, which furnish the coast of Massachusetts with a diversity of
-molluscan life. Zo�logically, the Massachusetts coast is the point
-where the habitats of the northern (the soft clam, _Mya arenaria_)
-and the southern clam (the quahaug, hard clam or little neck, _Venus
-mercenaria_) overlap. Nature has favored Massachusetts with a coast
-indented with bays, estuaries and inlets which are especially adapted
-for the growth of marine food mollusks.
-
-_Former Natural Abundance._--If we compare the natural shellfish areas
-of to-day with those of former years, we find a great change. All
-four shellfish formerly throve in large numbers in the numerous bays
-and indentations of our coast line. The area between tide marks was
-formerly inhabited by quantities of soft clams, and the muddy patches
-just below low-water mark produced great numbers of quahaugs. In the
-estuaries were extensive natural oyster beds. On our shoals it was
-possible to gather many thousand bushels of scallops. Now thousands
-of acres once productive lie barren, and we have but a remnant of the
-former abundant yield.
-
-_Historical Wastefulness._--History tells us that the Pilgrims at
-Plymouth "sucked the abundance of the seas" and found health and
-wealth. But between the lines of history we can read a tale of
-wastefulness and prodigality with hardly a parallel, and to-day we
-find the natural heritage of the shellfisheries almost totally wasted
-through the careless indifference of our forefathers. Prof. James L.
-Kellogg, in the introduction to his "Notes on Marine Food Mollusks of
-Louisiana," gives the following excellent account of the exploiting of
-natural resources:--
-
-    As one looks over the record of the settling of this country,
-    and notes how a continent was reclaimed from a state of
-    nature, he can hardly fail to be impressed with the reckless
-    wastefulness of his ancestors in their use of the treasures
-    which nature, through eons of time, had been collecting.
-    In thousands of cases, natural resources, which, carefully
-    conserved, would have provided comfort and even luxury for
-    generations of men, have been dissipated and destroyed
-    with no substantial benefit to any one. They scattered our
-    inheritance. Such knowledge dulls a feeling of gratitude that
-    may be due to them for their many beneficent acts,--though
-    the truth probably is that few of them ever had a thought of
-    their descendants. Men seldom seem to have a weighty sense of
-    responsibility toward others than those who immediately follow
-    them. The history of the prodigality of our ancestors since
-    their occupation of this great continent has not fully been
-    written,--and it should be, in such a way that the present
-    generation might know it; for sometimes it seems as if the
-    present generation were as criminally careless of the natural
-    resources that remain to it as were any of those that are gone.
-    Perhaps it is hardly that. We have learned some wisdom from the
-    past, because our attention has recently been drawn to the fact
-    of the annihilation of several former sources of subsistence.
-    Rapidly in America, in recent years, the struggle to obtain
-    support for a family has become more severe to the wage earner.
-    In thirty years the increasing fierceness of competition
-    has resulted in a revolution of business methods. In every
-    profession and in every line of business only the most capable
-    are able to obtain what the mediocre received for their honest
-    labor in the last generation.
-
-    But it is easier to condemn the past for its failures than
-    to recognize and condemn those of our own generation. The
-    average man really has a blind and unreasoning faith in his
-    own time, and to laud only its successes is to be applauded
-    as an optimist. In the present stage of our national life we
-    certainly have no room for the pessimist, who is merely a
-    dyspeptic faultfinder; nor for the optimist, who blinds his
-    eyes to our faults and mistakes, and so fails to read their
-    priceless lessons. Instead, our intelligence, as a race, has
-    reached that degree of development which should give it the
-    courage to consider "things as they are."
-
-    Considering things as they are, we must admit that we are not
-    realizing our obligations to future generations in many of
-    the ways in which we are misusing our natural resources. This
-    waste is often deliberate, though usually due to the notion
-    that nature's supplies, especially of living organisms, are
-    limitless. The waste of 70 or 80 per cent, in lumbering the
-    Oregon "big trees," and the clean sweep of the Louisiana pine,
-    now in progress, is deliberately calculated destruction for
-    present gain,--and the future may take care of itself. In
-    making millionaires of a very few men, most of whom are still
-    living, a large part of the lower peninsula of Michigan was
-    made a hopeless desert. To "cut and come again" is not a part
-    of the moral codes of such men. It seems to mean sacrifice; and
-    yet they are woefully mistaken, even in that.
-
-    But most often, no doubt, the extinction of useful animals and
-    plants, that we have so often witnessed, has been due to the
-    ignorant assumption that, under any circumstances, the supply
-    would last forever. This idea seems especially to prevail
-    concerning marine food animals. The fact that the sea is vast
-    might naturally give the impression that its inhabitants are
-    numberless.... But when a natural food supply nears complete
-    annihilation, men begin to think of the necessity of a method
-    of artificial culture.[1]
-
-_Present Unimproved Resources._--In spite of the wastefulness of former
-generations, many areas can again be made to produce the normal yield
-if proper and adequate measures are promptly taken to restore to the
-flats, estuaries and bays of Massachusetts their normal productive
-capacity. In spite of the fact that some of the natural beds have
-entirely disappeared, either "fished out" or buried under the d�bris of
-civilization, and others are in imminent danger of becoming exhausted,
-Massachusetts still possesses a sufficient natural supply to restock
-most of these barren areas.
-
-_Possibilities of Development._--Opportunities for development are
-alluring. The shellfisheries could be increased, in these days of rapid
-transit and marketing facilities, into industries which would furnish
-steady employment for thousands of men and women, both directly and
-indirectly, resulting in a product valued at a minimum of $3,000,000
-annually, with possibilities of indefinite expansion. At present the
-idea of marine farming attracts popular attention. The conditions are
-parallel to agriculture, except that in the case of marine farming the
-crops are more certain,--_i.e._, are not subject to so many fatalities.
-The experiments of the Department of Fisheries and Game for the past
-three years have proved that cultivation of shellfish offers great
-inducements and profit to both individuals and towns. When the present
-waste areas are again made productive, the value of the annual catch
-should be increased tenfold.
-
-         _Statistical Summary of the Shellfisheries for 1907._
-
-  =================+=====================++=========+===========+==========
-                   |     PRODUCTION.     ||         |           |
-  NAME OF MOLLUSK. +----------+----------++ Area in |  Capital  |    Men
-                   | Bushels. |  Value.  || Acres.  | invested. | employed.
-  -----------------+----------+----------++---------+-----------+----------
-  Clam,            |  153,865 | $150,440 ||   5,111 |  $18,142  |   1,361
-  Oyster,          |  161,182 |  176,142 ||   2,400 |  268,702  |     159
-  Quahaug,         |  144,044 |  194,687 ||  28,090 |   94,260  |     745
-  Scallop,         |  103,000 |  164,436 ||  30,900 |  121,753  |     647
-                   +----------+----------++---------+-----------+----------
-      Total,       |  562,091 | $685,705 ||  66,501 | $502,857  |   2,912
-  =================+==========+==========++=========+===========+==========
-
-In the above table the areas for the scallop, clam and quahaug are only
-approximate. The scallop and quahaug fisheries cover nearly the same
-areas, and employ to a great extent the same men and capital.
-
-         _Annual Yields (in Bushels) of the Shellfisheries of
-     Massachusetts since 1879, from United States Fish Commission
-                               Reports._
-
-  ===============+=========+==========+=========+==========+=========
-      YEAR.      |  Clam.  | Quahaug. | Oyster. | Scallop. | Totals.
-  ---------------+---------+----------+---------+----------+---------
-  1879,          | 158,621 |   11,050 |  36,000 |   10,542 | 216,218
-  1887,          | 230,659 |   35,540 |  43,183 |   41,964 | 351,346
-  1888,          | 243,777 |   26,165 |  45,631 |   26,168 | 341,741
-  1898,          | 147,095 |   63,817 | 101,225 |  128,863 | 441,000
-  1902,          | 227,941 |  106,818 | 103,386 |   66,150 | 504,295
-  1905,          | 217,519 |  166,526 | 112,580 |   43,872 | 540,497
-  1907,[2]       | 153,865 |  144,044 | 161,182 |  103,000 | 562,091
-  ===============+=========+==========+=========+==========+=========
-
-Massachusetts fishermen to-day receive an annual income of $685,705
-from the shellfisheries, which approximately cover a productive
-area of 40,000 acres. Under the present methods of production, the
-average value per acre is only $17; each acre, if properly farmed,
-should furnish an annual production of at least $100, or six times
-the present yield. The shellfish areas of Massachusetts which are at
-present utilized are giving almost a minimum production, instead of
-the enormous yield which they are capable of furnishing. All that
-is necessary to procure the maximum yield is the application of
-systematic cultural methods, instead of relying on an impoverished
-natural supply. Not only are the productive areas furnishing far less
-than they are capable of producing, but also Massachusetts possesses
-6,000 acres of barren flats, which should become, under the proper
-cultural methods, as valuable as the productive areas. (This has been
-experimentally demonstrated by the commission.) While it is possible
-to develop, through cultural methods, these latent natural resources,
-it will take years to bring them to a high degree of development. It
-can be partially accomplished, at least, in the next few years, and the
-present production increased several times, _as nature responds to the
-slightest intelligent effort of man, and gives large returns_.
-
-
-DECLINE OF THE SHELLFISHERIES.
-
-_A. Is there a Decline?_
-
-(1) So obvious is the general decline of the shellfisheries that almost
-every one is aware, through the increasing prices and difficulty of
-supplying the demand, that the natural supply is becoming exhausted.
-
-(2) Statistical figures of the shellfish production not only show a
-decline, but conceal a rapid diminution of the supply.
-
-(3) Production statistics alone should never be taken as typifying the
-real conditions of an industry, as such figures are often extremely
-deceiving. For instance:--
-
-(4) The increased prices, stimulated by an increasing demand, have
-caused a greater number of men, equipped with the best modern
-implements, to swell the production by overworking shellfish areas
-which in reality are not one-fourth so productive as they were ten
-years ago.
-
-While the general decline of the shellfisheries is a matter of public
-knowledge, specific illustrations of this decline have been lacking.
-The present report calls attention to actual facts as proofs of the
-decline of each shellfishery, by a comparison of the present conditions
-in various localities with the conditions of 1879. The only past record
-of Massachusetts shellfisheries of any importance is found in the
-report of the United States Fish Commission for 1883, and, although
-this is very limited, it is sufficient to furnish many examples of the
-extinction or decline of the shellfisheries in certain localities.
-
-In a general consideration of the shellfisheries, it is noticeable that
-in certain localities the extinction of the industry has been total, in
-others only partial, while others have remained unchanged or have even
-improved. This last class is found either where the natural advantages
-are so great that the resources have not been exploited, or where
-men have, through wise laws and cultural methods (as in the oyster
-industry), preserved and built up the shellfisheries.
-
-_1879_ v. _1907_.--In comparing the present condition of the
-shellfisheries with that of 1879, it will be seen that many changes
-have taken place. Even twenty-five years ago inroads were being made
-upon the natural supply; from that time to the present can be traced
-a steady decline. During the past five years the production has been
-augmented by additional men, who have entered into the business
-under the attraction of higher prices, and the extension of the
-quahaug and oyster fisheries. Though the annual catch is greater,
-a disproportionately greater amount of time, labor and capital is
-required to secure an equal quantity of shellfish.
-
-  ==========================+==========+==========+==========
-                            |   1907.  |   1879.  |   Gain.
-  --------------------------+----------+----------+----------
-  Production (bushels),     |  562,991 |  264,818 |  297,273
-  Men,                      |    2,912 |      910 |    2,092
-  Capital,                  | $502,857 | $165,000 | $337,857
-  Area (acres),             |   66,501 |   66,501 |        -
-  ==========================+==========+==========+==========
-
-The following instances illustrate specific decline in the various
-natural shellfisheries:--
-
-(1) Oyster industry, natural beds: Wareham, Marion, Bourne, Wellfleet,
-Charles River.
-
-(2) Sea clam industry: Dennis, Chatham, Nantucket.
-
-(3) Scallop industry: Buzzards Bay and north side of Cape Cod
-(Barnstable).
-
-(4) Clam industry: Essex, Plymouth, Duxbury, Buzzards Bay, Annisquam,
-Wellfleet, Nantucket.
-
-(5) Quahaug industry: Chatham, Buzzards Bay, Fall River district.
-
-These are only a few of the more prominent cases. Similar cases will be
-found all along the coast of Massachusetts, and no one can deny that
-the natural supply is rapidly becoming exhausted, and that methods are
-needed to increase the production, or at least to save the little that
-remains.
-
-_B. Causes of the Decline._
-
-I. _An Increasing Demand._--The indirect cause of the decline of
-the shellfisheries is the increased demand. To-day more shellfish
-are consumed than ever before, and the demand is much greater each
-succeeding year. It is an economic principle that there must be an
-equilibrium between supply and demand. If the demand is increasing,
-either the supply has to increase to meet the demand, or the price of
-the commodity goes up and a new equilibrium is established. The supply
-must equal the demand of the market. This increasing demand has worked
-havoc with the shellfisheries. There was a time when the natural supply
-was of such abundance that the moderate demand of those early days
-could be met without injury to the fishery. Soon this limit was passed,
-and with a steadily increasing demand came a corresponding drain on the
-natural resources, which little by little started a decline, the result
-of which is to-day apparent.
-
-The ill-advised policy of the past has been to check the demand by
-various devices, such as closed seasons, limited daily production,
-etc. These not only have proved without benefit to the fisherman,
-but also have hurt the consumer by the increased price. The demand
-can be checked by raising the price, but this tends towards a class
-distinction between the rich and the poor. The poor man should be able
-to enjoy "the bounties of the sea" as well as the rich. The policy of
-the future should be not to check the demand, but rather to increase
-the supply.
-
-Several causes contribute to this demand, which has unlimited
-possibilities of expansion:--
-
-(1) The popularity of shellfish as an article of diet is steadily
-increasing, not merely for its nutritive value, but for variety and
-change in diet. Fashionable fads, _i.e._, the "little neck" of the
-restaurants and hotels, contribute to the popularity of these shellfish.
-
-(2) In the present age, transportation facilities and cold storage make
-possible shipments to all parts of the United States, and continually
-widen the market for sea foods.
-
-(3) The influx of summer people to the seashore not only causes an
-additional summer demand, but also widens the popular knowledge of
-these edible mollusks.
-
-(4) Advertising and more attractive methods of preserving and selling
-sea food by the dealers still further increase the demand.
-
-II. _Overfishing._--The immediate and direct cause of the decline
-is _overfishing_. Increased demand causes a severe drain upon the
-shellfish beds, which soon leads to _over_fishing. It is not merely
-the hard working of the beds, but the continuous unmethodical and
-indiscriminate fishing which has caused the total extermination of once
-flourishing beds in certain localities. Under present methods a bed is
-worked until all its natural recuperatory power is exhausted, and then
-it is thrust aside as worthless, a barren area. Prof. Jacob Reighard,
-in "Methods of Plankton Investigation in their Relation to Practical
-Problems,"[3] aptly sums up the situation in his opening paragraph:--
-
-    In this country the fisherman as a rule continues to fish
-    in any locality until fishing in that locality has become
-    unprofitable. He then moves his operations to new waters until
-    these in turn are exhausted. He is apt to look upon each new
-    body of water as inexhaustible, and rarely has occasion to ask
-    himself whether it is possible to determine in advance the
-    amount of fish that he may annually take from the water without
-    soon depleting it.
-
-In this way the shellfish beds have become exhausted through the
-indifference and lack of knowledge on the part of the fishing public.
-In colonial days the resources of the shellfisheries were apparently
-inexhaustible. The conviction that man could ever exhaust the resources
-of nature took firm hold of the Puritan mind, and even in the present
-generation many still cling to this illogical doctrine, although proof
-to the contrary can be seen on all sides. This idea has caused great
-harm to the shellfisheries, stimulating men to wreck certain localities
-by overfishing.
-
-III. _Pollution of Harbors and Estuaries and the Ill Effects upon
-Public Health through the Shellfisheries._--The unscientific disposal
-of sewage, sludge, garbage and factory waste may tend to rapidly fill
-up the harbor channels, as well as the areas where the currents are not
-so rapid.
-
-Competent authorities scout the idea that Boston harbor is at present
-filling up to any considerable degree with sewage sludge, but the
-problem must be met in the not distant future. This sewage sludge upon
-entering salt or brackish water precipitates much more rapidly than in
-fresh water or upon land, and becomes relatively insoluble, hence the
-accumulation in harbors, _e.g._, Boston and New Bedford harbors and
-the estuaries of the Merrimac, Taunton and other rivers. This sludge,
-instead of undergoing the normal rapid oxidation and nitrification,
-as it does when exposed to the air on land, undergoes in the sea
-water a series of changes, mainly putrefactive, which results in the
-production of chemical substances which in solution may (1) drive away
-the fish which in incredible quantities formerly resorted to that
-place; (2) impair the vitality and even kill whatever fish spawn or
-fry may be present; (3) check the growth of or completely destroy the
-microscopic plants and animals which serve as food for the young fish
-and shellfish; (4) by developing areas of oily film floating upon the
-surface of the water, enormous numbers of the surface-swimming larv� of
-clams, quahaugs, scallops, oysters, mussels and other marine animals
-may be destroyed annually. But most serious of all is the fact that
-all the edible mollusks, notably the clam, quahaug, oyster and mussel,
-act as living filters, whose function is to remove from the water
-the bacteria and other microscopic plants and animals. Most of these
-microscopic organisms serve as food for the mollusk; and in instances
-where the mollusk is eaten raw or imperfectly cooked, man is liable to
-infection, if the bacillus of typhoid fever or other disease chances
-to be present in the mollusk. Though the chance of such infection is
-remote, it is nevertheless actually operative. Many typhoid epidemics
-in this country and abroad have been found to be directly referable to
-shellfish from sewage-polluted waters. For these reasons approximately
-1,500 acres in Boston harbor and 700 acres in New Bedford harbor
-have become unsuitable for the growth of shellfish; and the State
-Board of Health, after investigation, decided that clams, oysters and
-quahaugs found within these areas are likely to be the direct cause of
-a dangerous epidemic of typhoid. For this reason the taking of these
-shellfish for any purpose was very properly prohibited; but at the last
-session of the Legislature a bill was passed which permitted the taking
-of such shellfish for bait, upon securing permits from the Board of
-Health, and providing heavy penalties for both buying and selling. As
-a matter of fact, however, it is well-nigh impracticable to properly
-enforce this law, for the reason that it is possible only in very rare
-instances to keep any one lot of clams known to have been dug under
-these conditions under surveillance from the time of digging until they
-are placed upon the hook as bait. Complete prevention of the _taking_
-of such shellfish is the only method by which the public health can be
-properly safeguarded. Even though in our opinion the annual financial
-loss to the public from the destruction of this public fishery by the
-dumping of city sewage into the water is not less than $400,000, the
-public health is of greater consequence, and should not be jeopardized,
-as is the fact under present conditions. Until such a time as the
-public realize that economic disposal of sewage must take place on land
-rather than in water, laws absolutely preventing any contact with the
-infected shellfish should be enforced without exception. In instances
-like these it is greatly to be deplored that but rarely under our
-system of government can legislation, which the best knowledge and
-common-sense demand for the public weal, be passed in its adequate and
-beneficial entirety, but is so frequently emasculated in the selfish
-interests of a few persons.
-
-IV. _Natural Agencies._--The above causes are given as they are
-obviously important, but by no means are they to be considered the only
-reasons. Geographic and climatic changes often explain the extinction
-of shellfish in certain localities.
-
-
-THE PRESENT ABUSES OF THE SHELLFISHERIES.
-
-Not only has this survey shown by specific examples the alarming but
-actual decline of the natural shellfish supply (in spite of deceptive
-production statistics), but it has brought to light numerous evils
-of various kinds. These abuses have developed gradually with the
-rise of the shellfisheries, until at the present day they cannot be
-overlooked or considered unimportant. So closely are these connected
-with the present status of our shellfishery that upon their abolition
-depends its future success or failure. Some need immediate attention;
-others will require attention later. After a thorough and competent
-investigation, remedies for the correction of each evil should be
-applied.
-
-In the future Massachusetts will have to utilize all her wealth of
-natural resources, to keep her leading position among the other States
-of the Union. To do this she should turn to her sea fisheries, which
-have in the past made her rich, and hold forth prospects of greater
-wealth in the future. Untold possibilities of wealth rest with her
-shellfisheries, if obsolete methods and traditions can be cast aside.
-In any age of progress the ancient and worthless must be buried
-beneath the ruins of the past, while the newer and better take their
-place. There is no more flagrant example of obsolete methods and
-traditions holding in check the development of an industry than with
-the shellfisheries, and it is time that Massachusetts realized these
-limitations.
-
-The shellfisheries of Massachusetts are in a chaotic state, both
-legally and economically. The finest natural facilities are wasted,
-and thousands of acres of profitable flats are allowed to lie barren
-merely for a lack of initiative on the part of the general public.
-This chaotic and unproductive state will exist until both the consumer
-and the fishermen alike understand the true condition of affairs, and
-realize that in the bays, estuaries and flats of Massachusetts lies as
-much or more wealth, acre for acre, as in the most productive market
-gardens.
-
-In Rhode Island the clam and scallop fisheries have almost disappeared.
-Five or ten years from now the shellfisheries of Massachusetts will be
-in a similar condition, and beyond remedy. Now is the time for reform.
-The solution of the problem is simple. Shellfish farming is the only
-possible way in which Massachusetts can restore her natural supply to
-its former abundance.
-
-I. _The Shellfish Laws._--The first evils which demand attention
-are the existing shellfish laws. While these are supposed to wisely
-regulate the shellfisheries, in reality they do more harm than good,
-and are direct obstacles to any movement toward improving the natural
-resources. Before Massachusetts can take any steps toward cultivating
-her unproductive shellfish areas, it will be necessary to modify the
-worst of these laws.
-
-_A. Fishery Rights of the Public._--The fundamental principle upon
-which the shellfish laws of the State are founded is the so-called
-beach or free fishing rights of the public. While in other States
-property extends only to mean high water, in Massachusetts the property
-holders own to extreme low-water mark. Nevertheless, according to
-further provisions of this ancient law, the right of fishing (which
-includes the shellfisheries) below high-water mark is free to any
-inhabitant of the Commonwealth.
-
-(1) _Origin._--The first authentic record of this law is found under
-an act of Massachusetts, in 1641-47, by which every householder
-was allowed "free fishing and fowling" in any of the great ponds,
-bays, coves and rivers, as far "as the sea ebbs and flows," in their
-respective towns, unless "the freemen" or the General Court "had
-otherwise appropriated them." From this date the shellfisheries were
-declared to be forever the property of the whole people, _i.e._, the
-State, and have been for a long period open to any inhabitant of the
-State who wished to dig the shellfish for food or for bait.
-
-(2) _Early Benefits._--In the early days, when the natural supply was
-apparently inexhaustible and practically the entire population resided
-on or near the seacoast, it was just that all people should have common
-rights to the shore fisheries. As long as the natural supply was more
-than sufficient for the demand, no law could have been better adapted
-for the public good.
-
-(3) _Present Inadequacy._--Two hundred and fifty years have passed
-since this law was first made. The condition of the shellfisheries has
-changed. No longer do the flats of Massachusetts yield the enormous
-harvest of former years, but lie barren and unproductive. The law which
-once was a benefit to all has now become antiquated, and incapable of
-meeting the new conditions.
-
-(4) _Evil Effects._--If this law were merely antiquated, it could
-be laid aside unnoticed. On the contrary, as applied to the present
-conditions of the shellfisheries it not only checks any advancement,
-but works positive harm. From the mistaken comprehension of the
-so-called beach rights of the people, the general public throughout
-the State is forced to pay an exorbitant price for sea food, and the
-enterprising fishermen are deprived of a more profitable livelihood.
-The present law discriminates against the progressive majority of
-fishermen in order to benefit a small unprogressive element.
-
-(5) _Protection._--If shellfish farming is ever to be put on a paying
-basis, it is essential that the planter have absolute _protection_. No
-man is willing to invest capital and labor when protection cannot be
-guaranteed. What good does it do a man to plant a hundred bushels of
-clams, if the next person has a legal right to dig them? Since the
-law absolutely refuses any protection to the shellfish culturist,
-Massachusetts can never restock her barren flats and re-establish
-her shellfisheries until this law is modified to meet the changed
-conditions.
-
-(6) _Who are the Objectors?_ Objectors to any new system are always
-found, and are not lacking in the case of shellfish culture. These
-would immediately raise the cry that the public is being deprived of
-its rights. To-day the public has fewer rights than ever. The present
-law causes class distinctions, and a few are benefited at the expense
-of the public. The industrious fisherman suffers because a few of the
-worthless, unenterprising class, who have no energy, do not wish others
-to succeed where they cannot. In every seacoast town in Massachusetts
-the more enlightened fishermen see clearly that the only way to
-preserve the shellfisheries is to _cultivate the barren areas_.
-
-Hon. B. F. Wood, in his report of the shellfisheries of New York, in
-1906, clearly states the case.[4]
-
-    There is, unfortunately, in some of the towns and villages
-    upon our coast an unprogressive element, composed of those who
-    prefer to reap where they have not sown; who rely upon what
-    they term their "natural right" to rake where they may choose
-    in the public waters. They deplete, but do not build up. They
-    think because it may be possible to go out upon the waters for
-    a few hours in the twenty-four (when the tide serves) and dig a
-    half peck of shellfish, that it is sufficient reason why such
-    lands should not be leased by the State to private planters. It
-    might as well be said that it is wrong for the government to
-    grant homestead farms to settlers, because a few blackberries
-    might be plucked upon the lands by any who cared to look for
-    them.
-
-The following is taken from the report of the Massachusetts
-Commissioners on Fisheries and Game for 1906:[5]--
-
-    There are at least four distinct classes within our
-    Commonwealth, each of which either derive direct benefits from
-    the mollusk fisheries of our coast, or are indirectly benefited
-    by the products of the flats:--
-
-    (1) The general public,--the consumers, who ultimately pay the
-    cost, who may either buy the joint product of the labor and
-    capital invested in taking and distributing the shellfish from
-    either natural or artificial beds, or who may dig shellfish for
-    food or bait purposes for their own or family use.
-
-    (2) The capitalist, who seeks a productive investment for money
-    or brains, or both. Under present laws, such are practically
-    restricted to _distribution_ of shellfish, except in the case
-    of the oyster, where capital may be employed for _production_
-    as well,--an obvious advantage both to capital and to the
-    public.
-
-    (3) The fishermen, who, either as a permanent or temporary
-    vocation, market the natural yield of the waters; or, as in the
-    case of the shellfisheries, may with a little capital increase
-    the natural yield and availability by cultivating an area of
-    the tidal flats after the manner of a garden.
-
-    (4) The owners of the land adjacent to the flats, who are under
-    the present laws often subjected to loss or annoyance, or even
-    positive discomfort, by inability to safeguard their proper
-    rights to a certain degree of freedom from intruders and from
-    damage to bathing or boating facilities, which constitute a
-    definite portion of the value of shore property.
-
-    All of these classes would be directly benefited by just laws,
-    which would encourage and safeguard all well-advised projects
-    for artificial cultivation of the tidal flats, and would deal
-    justly and intelligently with the various coincident and
-    conflicting rights of the fishermen, owners of shore property,
-    bathers and other seekers of pleasure, recreation or profit,
-    boatmen, and all others who hold public and private rights and
-    concessions.
-
-    That any one class should claim exclusive "natural valid
-    rights," over any other class, to the shellfish products of the
-    shores, which the law states expressly are the property of "the
-    people," is as absurd as to claim that any class had exclusive
-    natural rights to wild strawberries, raspberries, cranberries
-    or other wild fruits, and that therefore the land upon which
-    these grew could not be used for the purpose of increasing the
-    yield of these fruits. This becomes the more absurd from the
-    fact that the wild fruits pass to the owner of the title of the
-    land, while the shellfish are specifically exempted, and remain
-    the property of the public.
-
-    The class most benefited by improved laws would be the
-    fishermen, who would profit by better wages through the
-    increased quantity of shellfish they could dig per hour, by
-    a better market and by better prices, for the reason that
-    the control of the output would secure regularity of supply.
-    Moreover, when the market was unfavorable the shellfish could
-    be kept in the beds with a reasonable certainty of finding
-    them there when wanted, and with the added advantage of an
-    increased volume by growth during the interval, together with
-    the avoidance of cold-storage charges. Thus the diggers could
-    be certain of securing a supply at almost any stage of the tide
-    and in all but the most inclement weather, through a knowledge
-    of "where to dig;" moreover, there would be a complete
-    elimination of the reasoning which is now so prolific of ill
-    feelings and so wasteful of the shellfish, viz., the incentive
-    of "getting there ahead of the other fellow."
-
-_B._ All the shellfish laws should be revised, to secure a unity and
-clearness which should render graft, unfairness and avoidable economic
-loss impossible, and be replaced with a code of fair, intelligent and
-forceful laws, which would not only permit the advancement of the
-shellfish industry through the individual efforts of the progressive
-shellfishermen, but also protect the rights of the general public.
-
-_C._ The majority of the shellfish laws of the State are enacted by
-the individual towns. In 1880 the State first officially granted
-to each town the exclusive right to control and regulate its own
-shellfisheries, as provided under section 68 of chapter 91 of the
-Public Statutes. This was slightly modified by the Acts of 1889 and
-1892 to read as follows (now section 85 of chapter 91 of the Revised
-Laws):--
-
-    SECTION 85. The mayor and aldermen of cities and the selectmen
-    of towns, if so instructed by their cities and towns, may,
-    except as provided in the two preceding sections, control,
-    regulate or prohibit the taking of eels, clams, quahaugs and
-    scallops within the same; and may grant permits prescribing the
-    times and methods of taking eels and such shellfish within such
-    cities and towns and make such other regulations in regard to
-    said fisheries as they may deem expedient. But an inhabitant of
-    the commonwealth, without such permit, may take eels and the
-    shellfish above-named for his own family use from the waters
-    of his own or any other city or town, and may take from the
-    waters of his own city or town any of such shellfish for bait,
-    not exceeding three bushels, including shells, in any one day,
-    subject to the general rules of the mayor and aldermen and
-    selectmen, respectively, as to the times and methods of taking
-    such fish. The provisions of this section shall not authorize
-    the taking of fish in violation of the provisions of sections
-    forty-four and forty-five. Whoever takes any eels or any of
-    said shellfish without such permit, and in violation of the
-    provisions of this section, shall forfeit not less than three
-    nor more than fifty dollars.
-
-Responsibility has thus been transferred from the State to the towns,
-and they alone, through their incompetence and neglect, are to blame
-for the decline of the shellfisheries. The town laws are miniature
-copies of the worst features of the State laws. While a few towns have
-succeeded in enacting fairly good laws, the majority have either passed
-no shellfish regulations at all, or made matters worse by unintelligent
-and harmful laws. It is time that a unified system of competent by-laws
-were enacted and enforced in every town.
-
-The ill-advised features which characterize the present town laws are
-numerous, and are best considered under the following headings:--
-
-(1) _Unintelligent Laws._--One of the worst features of our town
-shellfish laws is their extreme unfitness. Numerous laws which are
-absolutely useless for the regulation and improvement of these
-industries have been made by towns, through men who knew nothing
-about the shellfisheries. These laws were made without any regard
-for the practical or biological conditions underlying the shellfish
-industry. It is to be expected that laws from such a source would
-often be ill-advised and unintelligent, but under the present system
-it cannot be avoided. Until sufficient knowledge of the habits and
-growth of shellfish is acquired by the authorities of State and town,
-Massachusetts can never expect to have intelligent and profitable
-shellfish laws. While the majority of these unintelligent laws do no
-harm, there are some that work hardship to the fishermen and are an
-injury to the shellfisheries.
-
-(2) _Unfairness; Town Politics._--Town politics offers many chances
-for unscrupulous discrimination in the shellfish laws. Here we find
-one class of fishermen benefiting by legislation at the expense of the
-other, as in the case of the quahaugers _v._ oystermen. In one town
-the oystermen will have the upper hand; in another, the quahaugers. In
-every case there is unfair discrimination, and a resultant financial
-loss to both parties. The waters of Massachusetts are large enough for
-both industries, and every man should have a "square deal," which is
-frequently lacking under the present r�gime.
-
-Besides party discrimination, there is discrimination against
-certain individuals, as illustrated in giving oyster grants. Town
-politics plays a distressing part here. Favoritism is repeatedly
-shown, and unfairness results. All this shows the unpopularity and
-impracticability of such regulations and the method of making them.
-
-(3) _Present Chaotic State._--The present town laws are in a chaotic
-condition, which it is almost impossible to simplify. No one knows the
-laws, there is merely a vague impression that such have existed. Even
-the selectmen themselves, often new to the office and unacquainted with
-the shellfisheries, know little about the accumulated shellfish laws
-of the past years, and find it impossible to comprehend them. The only
-remedy is to wipe out all the old and replace them with unified new
-laws.
-
-(4) _Unsystematic Laws._--The present laws are unsystematized.
-Each town has its own methods, good and bad, and the result is a
-heterogeneous mixture. Often there are two or three laws where one
-would definitely serve. To do absolute justice there should be a
-definite system, with laws elastic enough to satisfy the needs of all.
-
-(5) _Nonenforcement._--The worst feature of allowing town control of
-the shellfisheries is the nonenforcement of the laws already passed.
-We find in many towns that good by-laws have been made, but from
-inattention and lack of money these have never been enforced and have
-become practically nonexistent. The 1�-inch quahaug law of several
-towns is an instance of this. In but one town in the State, Edgartown,
-is any effort made to enforce this excellent town by-law, although
-several of the other towns have passed the same. The proper enforcement
-of laws is as important as the making, as a law might as well not be
-made if not properly enforced. The only way that this can be remedied
-is either to take the control completely out of the hands of the town,
-or else have a supervisory body which would force the town to look
-after violators.
-
-Besides the town by-laws there are other evils which result from the
-present system of town control.
-
-II. _Lack of Protection in Oyster Industry._--In no case is the
-management by towns more inefficient and confusing than in the case of
-the oyster industry. As this subject will be taken up in the oyster
-report which follows, it is only necessary here to state that there
-is great need of a proper survey of grants, fair laws, systematic
-methods, etc. Protection is necessary for the success of any industry,
-and is especially needed for the oyster industry. The oyster industry
-of Massachusetts will never become important until adequate protection
-is guaranteed to the planters. Under the present system, uncertainty
-rather than protection is the result.
-
-III. _Town Jealousy._--The evil of town jealousy, whereby one town
-forbids its shellfisheries to the inhabitant of neighboring towns, is
-to-day an important factor. It is fair that a town which improves its
-own shellfisheries should not be interfered with by a town which has
-allowed its shellfisheries to decline. While this is true perhaps of
-the clam, quahaug and oyster, it does not hold true of the scallop. The
-result of this close-fisted policy has resulted in the past in a great
-loss in the scallop industry. The town law in regard to scallops is all
-wrong. The scallop fisheries should be open to all the State, and no
-one town should "hog the fishing," and leave thousands of bushels to
-die from their dog-in-the-manger attitude.
-
-IV. _Sectional Jealousy._--Another evil, which in the past has been
-prominent, but is becoming less and less as the years go by, is the
-jealousy of the north shore _v._ the south shore, Cape Cod _v._ Cape
-Ann. In the past this has been a stumbling block against any advance,
-as any plan initiated on the south shore would be opposed from sheer
-prejudice by the north shore representatives, and _vice versa_. The
-cry of "entering wedge" has been raised again and again whenever any
-bill was introduced for the good of the shellfisheries by either party.
-Merely for political reasons good legislation has been defeated.
-However, the last few years have shown a decided change. The jealous
-feeling has in a large measure subsided; the shellfisheries need
-intelligent consideration, and all parties realize that united effort
-is necessary to insure the future of these industries.
-
-V. _Quahaugers_ v. _Oystermen_.--On the south shore the worst evil
-which at present exists is the interclass rivalry between the
-quahaugers and oystermen. This has caused much harm to both parties,
-through expensive lawsuits, economic loss, uncertainty of a livelihood,
-as well as retarding the proper development of both industries.
-
-VI. _Waste of Competition._--At the present day the utilization of
-waste products in all industries is becoming more and more important.
-In this age material which was considered useless by our forefathers is
-made to play its part in the economic world. Through science industrial
-waste of competition is being gradually reduced to a minimum, although
-in any business which deals with perishable commodities, such as fish,
-fruit, etc., there is bound to be a certain amount of loss.
-
-Under the present system the shellfisheries suffer from the effects of
-waste resulting from competition. Both the fisherman and the consumer
-feel the effects of this, in different ways,--the fisherman through
-poor market returns, the consumer through poor service. As long as the
-shellfisheries are free to all, there is bound to be that scramble
-to get ahead of "the other fellow," which not only results in the
-destructive waste of the actual catch, but also causes a "glutted"
-market, which gives a low return to the fisherman. Thousands of dollars
-are thus lost each year by the fishermen, who are forced to keep
-shipping their shellfish, often to perish in the market, merely because
-the present system invites ruthless competition. The fishermen in this
-respect alone should be the first to desire a new system, which would
-give to each a shellfish farm and the privilege of selecting his market.
-
-VII. At the present moment there are two evils which demand attention,
-and which can be lessened by the passage of two simple laws:--
-
-(1) During the past three years many thousands of bushels of quahaugs
-under 1� inches have been shipped out of the State, merely passing into
-the hands of New York oystermen, who replanted, reaping in one year a
-harvest of at least five bushels to every one "bedded." Through the
-inactivity of town control, the incentive to get ahead of the other
-fellow and the ignorance that they are wasting their own substance have
-caused many quahaugers in the past to do this at many places.
-
-The 1�-inch quahaug law has been for years a law for many towns
-in the State. It has been practically a dead letter in all but
-Edgartown, where it is enforced thoroughly. There should be a State law
-restricting the size of the quahaugs taken.
-
-(2) The enforcement of a 1�-inch clam law, especially in the towns of
-Fall River and Swansea, where the digging has reduced the clams to a
-small size, likewise deserves immediate attention.
-
-All the present evils have each contributed their share toward the
-ruin of the shellfisheries, and can be best summed up under one head,
-_i.e._, the abuse of nature. All the above evils have either directly
-or indirectly worked towards this end. This "abuse of nature" has
-resulted in several ways: (1) indiscriminate fishing, restricted by no
-laws, augmented by unwise laws; (2) overfishing in certain localities
-until the supply is exhausted, as, among other instances, with the
-Essex clam flats and the natural oyster beds of the Weweantit River;
-(3) exploiting and wasting the natural resources, so that nature cannot
-repair the inroads. Nature cannot cope with despoiling man,--man must
-assist nature.
-
-In the past there has been much feeling, especially among the clammers
-of the north shore, against the Fish and Game Commission. It therefore
-is necessary to correct a mistaken impression, which has arisen among
-the clammers, that "the State is going to take the clam flats away from
-us." This idea is on the face of it absurd. The Massachusetts Fish
-and Game Commission is seeking only to have this question solved in
-such a manner as to yield the most satisfactory results for the public
-good. At the present time it would be highly undesirable to take the
-complete control of the shellfisheries from any town, as long as that
-town shows itself capable of regulating them wisely. At the present day
-but few towns show any signs of this. What is necessary and desirable
-is to have an intelligent supervisory body, with power to compel each
-town to take proper care of its shellfisheries. It is advisable that
-there be a central power, co-operating with the town control in all
-matters pertaining to the shellfisheries, whether it be regulations or
-the restocking of barren areas. A board of arbitration, a committee
-of appeal for any grievance under the town control, and a commission
-that would act for the interests of the whole State, are what is
-most desirable at the present time. Such an arrangement would not be
-changing radically the present system of town control, but it would
-free it from its existing evils, place it on a firm and just basis, and
-give the shellfisheries a chance for improvement.
-
-
-THE FISHERMAN AND LAWS.
-
-The fisherman of to-day, though nominally his own master, is in reality
-subject to the demands of the market. To gain a living he is forced to
-work in all kinds of weather, at cold, disagreeable work. Under the
-present system he is oppressed by useless special town laws, which
-merely increase his daily labors without benefiting the fishery in the
-least. A few good laws only are necessary for the shellfisheries. It
-is time that the fisherman, one of the great factors in the commercial
-supremacy of Massachusetts, should be freed from all unnecessary
-burdens through a new system of satisfactory laws.
-
-
-THE REMEDY.
-
-In spite of all the existing evils of the town shellfisheries,
-the outlook is far from hopeless. To-day the shellfisheries of
-Massachusetts, owing to great natural resources, are as good or better
-than those of any other coast States, and only await development
-under proper methods to ensure a bright future. The Commissioners on
-Fisheries and Game can only point the way of reform; the result lies
-in the hands of the intelligent voters of this Commonwealth, whose
-action decides the future success or failure of the shellfisheries. It
-should be the object of every thinking voter, whether he be fisherman
-or consumer, to see that the right action be taken in regard to the
-shellfisheries.
-
-As shown in the preceding pages of this report, the attempted remedy
-has been based upon the false economic basis of attempting to check the
-demand by prohibiting digging for certain periods (closed seasons),
-limiting the amount to be legally dug by any one person, etc. It would
-be quite as logical for a town or city to prohibit by by-laws the use
-or digging of potatoes or any other food crop, when the supply was
-short, rather than to attempt to _increase_ the supply. An increasing
-demand cannot be checked by any such ill-advised measures, but can be
-met only by a corresponding increase in the natural production. The
-only remedy that can be applied successfully is shellfish culture,
-which means the utilizing of thousands of acres of barren shore area
-for the planting of farms which will furnish harvests of shellfish. In
-this way the latent potentialities of nature, which it is criminal to
-neglect, will be utilized for the good of the entire population of the
-State. /#
-
-We learn from the dictionaries that a farm is defined to be a tract
-of land under one control, devoted to agriculture, etc.; and that
-agriculture is the cultivation of the soil for food products or other
-useful or valuable growths. All this is very familiar knowledge, as
-applied to the dry land; but that there may fairly be brought within
-these definitions the operations of an industry in which lands covered
-by the salt waters of our bays and harbors are tilled, cultivated,
-raked, harrowed and planted with seedling bivalves, and harvests of a
-valuable product garnered, constituting a superb food for the masses,
-is less familiar, and to many may seem quite astonishing. It is within
-a comparatively few years that this unique style of farming has had its
-growth and development, until now many thousands of acres of land under
-water have been carefully surveyed, and the boundaries marked by buoys
-and stakes.[6]
-
-To bring the shellfisheries of Massachusetts to their maximum
-production will take years, but within five years the production can
-be nearly doubled, if work in the right direction is begun at once.
-Patience will be required to overcome the obstacles which must be met,
-and the change must necessarily be gradual.
-
-Every year the difficulties of reform increase. Owing to a steadily
-increasing demand, the natural supply is becoming smaller, and
-consequently the difficulty of increasing it becomes so much the
-harder. Soon the line of possibility will be crossed, and the
-shellfisheries will become an industry of the past. A few shellfish
-will always remain, but as an important industry, the shellfisheries,
-if no remedy is applied, in twenty-five years will be commercially
-extinct. While there is still time, let action be taken.
-
-The utilization of the barren shellfish areas, wise laws, good
-regulations and systematic methods of culture are necessary, in
-order to obtain the maximum production from these sea farms. The sea
-farm possesses one advantage over the ordinary farm,--the soil never
-becomes exhausted, as the shellfish derive their sustenance from the
-water, utilizing indirectly the waste nitrates of the land. To do this
-it is necessary that shellfish culture be at once begun, either by
-individuals or by towns.
-
-Three methods of shellfish culture offer ways of approach towards the
-utilization of the waste areas:--
-
-(1) To leave the matter wholly in the hands of the town. This is the
-poorest way, as has been shown in the past. Unless the town officials
-were well informed about the shellfisheries, it would be an absurd
-farce to entrust the future of this important industry wholly in their
-hands.
-
-(2) Place all power with the State, instead of with the town. Have
-a unified and simplified system, whereby shellfish farms and grants
-can be leased by the individuals. This plan, much better than the
-first, and possibly the final solution, is, however, not practical of
-application to the existing conditions. Later, when these conditions
-are removed, it may prove the best solution of the problem.
-
-(3) The present system of town control to remain. The appointment of
-the Fish and Game Commission, or a similar commission, to have complete
-advisory power over the towns, and power to force each town to properly
-protect its shellfish. A State law would be passed, legalizing grants
-to individuals and dividing the flats into two equal parts,--public
-and private. The leasing of grants would be in the hands of the town
-authorities, but subject to appeal for any grievance to the Fish and
-Game Commission.
-
-In the chapter relating to each shellfish will be given the practical
-methods of cultivation for reclaiming the waste areas. These methods
-have been proved by the experimental work of this commission,
-the results of which may be published in a subsequent scientific
-report upon the shellfish. The commission has definitely shown that
-shellfish culture in Massachusetts is a possibility, and, moreover, a
-remunerative possibility.
-
-
-WHO WOULD BENEFIT?
-
-(1) Under the proposed system of practical shellfish culture, many
-classes of people would be benefited. The person who would be primarily
-benefited is the fisherman. In the following ways the condition of
-the industrious fisherman would be bettered: (_a_) his work would be
-steady, not uncertain; (_b_) he would know his exact annual income, and
-could govern his living expenses accordingly; (_c_) he would receive
-more money, with less hardship; (_d_) he would ensure steady market
-returns, which under the present system are very uncertain; (e) he
-would be his own master, and not forced to work for poor pay, under the
-stress of wasteful competition.
-
-(2) The shellfisheries are not for any particular class, but should
-benefit all, and any improvement in the industry affects all people. A
-second class would also be benefited by an increase in the shellfish
-industries. This class can be divided into two groups: (_a_) those
-directly influenced; (_b_) those indirectly. In the first group are
-the middlemen,--dealers. By an increased trade, more firms enter the
-business, more men are hired, etc. Comprising the second group are
-teamsters, coopers, shop owners, sailors, transportation lines,--an
-indefinite list, which would be indirectly benefited by an increase in
-the shellfish industry.
-
-(3) Thirdly, the consumer would receive the benefit of improved quality
-of goods, reasonable prices, etc. Through increased transportation
-facilities the inland consumer would have the pleasure of partaking of
-sea food, and what were once the luxuries of the rich could be had by
-all.
-
-
-CAPITAL.
-
-Capital is needed for the best success of any business. In a broad
-sense, the tools, implements, etc., of the shellfisherman are capital.
-In the future, if the shellfisheries are to become a great industry,
-money as working capital is indispensable. Blind objection to the
-employment of capital on the part of the fishermen works against the
-best interests of the shellfisheries.
-
-
-SHELLFISH MONOPOLY.
-
-For years the fishermen have feared that the shellfisheries would
-fall into the hands of a few companies or trusts, and the individual
-fisherman thereby lose his independence. As the present age tends
-toward the formation of monopolies in all business, the fears of the
-fishermen are not altogether groundless in this respect; nevertheless,
-while there are certain chances of monopoly in the shellfisheries,
-these chances are very small. In the first place, a monopoly of a raw
-edible product, such as shellfish, is hardly possible. Never can it
-be possible for any one company to control all or the majority of a
-shellfish supply, which possesses unlimited possibilities of expansion.
-
-Secondly, there are but two ways in which a monopoly of the
-shellfisheries can be obtained: one is the control of the market by
-buying up all the shellfish,--a thing far easier under the present
-conditions; the other, by buying through contract the rights of the
-individual planters. The success of such an enterprise would depend
-wholly upon the personnel of the shellfishermen, and such a result
-could never become possible if each shellfisherman would refuse to sell
-his rights.
-
-
-SUMMARY.
-
-This survey has shown (1) that the shellfisheries have declined (an
-established fact); (2) that the causes of the decline are overfishing
-and unwise laws; (3) that the remedy is, not to check the demand,
-as has been previously attempted, but to increase the production
-by the utilization of vast areas of barren flats, which have been
-experimentally proved capable of yielding a great harvest; (4) that the
-present chaotic laws render this impossible; (5) that there is a need
-of reform, or else the shellfisheries will soon disappear; (6) that the
-first step is the removal of these laws to permit the application of
-proper cultural methods.
-
-FOOTNOTES:
-
-[1] Gulf Biologic Station, Cameron, La., Bulletin No. 3, 1905.
-
-[2] Returns of Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Game.
-
-[3] United States Fish Commission Pamphlet, 1898.
-
-[4] New York Shellfish Report, p. 7.
-
-[5] Report on the Shellfisheries, pp. 33-35.
-
-[6] Forest, Fish and Game Commission Bulletin, Shellfish Culture in New
-York, 1905. By B. Frank Wood.
-
-
-
-
-QUAHAUG (_Venus mercenaria_).
-
-
-Inhabiting common waters with the scallop, the northern range of the
-quahaug (the hard-shell clam or "little neck") in Massachusetts is
-Plymouth. Commercially it is found both on the north and south side
-of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay, the principal fisheries being at
-Wellfleet, Orleans, Edgartown, Nantucket and in Buzzards Bay.
-
-The quahaug, while essentially a southern and warm-water form, being
-found in the United States along the Atlantic seacoast as far south
-as the Gulf of Mexico, practically reaches its northern range in
-Massachusetts. In a few sheltered bays on the Maine coast quahaugs are
-sometimes found, but in small quantities. However, at Prince Edward
-Island there is said to be an abundance.
-
-Along the coast of Massachusetts north of Boston very few quahaugs
-are found, although they were formerly taken near Salem. The black
-quahaug (_Cyprina islandica_), so called from its dark epidermis, is
-often caught in the trawls, but this is a deep-sea form, and by no
-means a true quahaug. In Essex and Ipswich rivers and on Plum Island
-experimental beds have shown that quahaugs grow in these waters, but
-no spawn has yet been noticed, though ripe eggs were developed in the
-planted quahaugs. Owing to the swift currents, which carry the spawn
-perhaps for miles, it is impossible to determine accurately whether any
-set has taken place.
-
-During the past three years, as outlined by chapter 78, Resolves
-of 1905, the Fish and Game Commission has conducted a series of
-experiments upon the quahaug, designated to furnish sufficient data
-concerning the growth of this mollusk under a variety of conditions, to
-demonstrate the possibilities and value of practical quahaug farming.
-The results of these investigations upon the life, habits and culture
-of the quahaug are to be published in a later scientific report. It is
-necessary here to say that all statements in this report concerning
-the growth and culture of quahaugs have been proved by experiments,
-the results of which are on file at the office of the department of
-fisheries and game.
-
-It is the object of this report to present both to the fishermen and
-consumers (1) actual statistical figures of the industry of the State
-for 1907; (2) a biological survey of the quahauging areas, outlined
-by maps and descriptions; (3) a description of the industry. This
-survey should furnish a basis for determining any decline or advance
-in the quahaug industry of the future, as well as affording comparison
-with the United States Fish Commission survey of 1879, made by Ernest
-Ingersoll.
-
-Massachusetts, situated at the northern limit of the quahaug industry
-of the United States, is handicapped in comparison with other States,
-as only the southern waters of the State are given to this industry.
-Nevertheless, though possessing only a partial industry, Massachusetts
-ranks the fourth State in quahaug production, according to the 1906
-report of the United States Fish Commission.
-
-The same natural conditions which suit so well the shallow-water
-scallop are also adapted to the growth of the quahaug. In nearly
-all the sheltered bays, inlets and rivers of the southern coast
-of Massachusetts the quahaug can be found in varying abundance.
-Technically, there is more territory which admits the possibility of
-quahaug growth than of any other shellfish. The bathymetric range of
-the quahaug is extensive, as the quahaug is raked in all depths of
-water up to 50 feet. In spite of the vast territory nature has provided
-for the quahaug in the waters of Massachusetts, the commercial fishery
-is found only in small parts of this large area. Scattered quahaugs
-are found over the rest of the area, but in paying quantities only in
-limited places.
-
-The possibilities of developing this great natural tract of quahaug
-ground are especially alluring,--far more so than any of the other
-shellfisheries. The quahaug has a greater area, greater possible
-expansion and a more profitable market. Nature has equipped southern
-Massachusetts with numerous bays with remarkable facilities for the
-production of quahaugs; it only remains for man to make the most of
-these.
-
-_Method of Work._--The method of work used in preparing this portion of
-the report varied but little from that relating to the other shellfish,
-though several features made it harder to obtain accurate information.
-There is a more general obscurity about the history of the quahaug than
-about any of the other shellfish, even though the quahaug industry is
-commercially the youngest of all. This is due, perhaps, to the gradual
-rise of the industry through the discovery of new territory. The only
-historical record obtainable is E. Ingersoll's report on the quahaug,
-in 1879, in which he deals briefly with the industry in Massachusetts.
-Town records help but little in determining the history of the
-industry, as only of late years have the towns required the taking of
-permits.
-
-In making the biological survey, the difficulty arises of defining what
-constitutes quahaug ground, since scattering quahaugs are found over
-vast territories, but only limited areas are commercially productive.
-The estimates of the quahaugers, both historically and in regard to
-production and areas, are often erroneous and vary greatly. By the use
-of market reports, express shipments, estimates of dealers, estimates
-of several reliable quahaugers, and all methods at our command, the
-facts of the industry were compiled and errors eliminated as far as
-possible. The home consumption is hard to determine, and is merely an
-estimate. The area of the quahaug territory was plotted on the map,
-and calculations made from the plots. Whenever personal inspection was
-not possible, as in Falmouth, the estimates of several quahaugers were
-taken.
-
-
-_Results._
-
-1. _Is the Quahaug Fishery declining?_--The decline of the quahaug
-fishery is well recognized. Even the production figures, which,
-when stimulated by high prices, usually give a deceptive appearance
-of prosperity to a declining industry, since more men enter the
-fishery, show a decline in the last few years. When such a point is
-reached,--when, in spite of higher prices and more men, the annual
-production becomes less and less,--not many years will pass before the
-industry will collapse completely.
-
-Increased prices show either an increase in demand or a falling off of
-the supply. Both are perhaps true of the quahaug industry. The demand,
-especially for "little necks," has been steadily on the increase, and a
-broad inland market is gradually opening, since the quahaug is capable
-of long transportation without perishing. So the increased prices are
-a sign of the diminution of the supply, as well as of an increased
-demand, the indeterminable factor being what ratio the one bears to the
-other.
-
-The only way to determine accurately the decline in the natural supply
-is to compare the amount the average quahauger could dig ten or twenty
-years ago with the amount dug to-day. Even this comparison is unfair,
-as the better rakes, improved methods, etc., of the present time tend
-to increase the daily yield of the quahauger.
-
-This decline can best be shown by taking special localities:--
-
-(1) _Buzzards Bay._--The quahaug industry in Buzzards Bay has shown
-a great decline in the past ten to twenty years, and the industry is
-now at a low ebb, especially in the towns of Marion and Mattapoisett.
-Wareham, Bourne and Fairhaven still manage to ship about 27,000 bushels
-annually, employing over 200 men; but this is hardly up to their former
-standard. To-day at Wareham the daily catch per man is one-fifth of
-what it was twenty years ago; in 1887 a man could dig 5 bushels to a
-catch of 1 bushel now. Buzzards Bay perhaps has shown the greatest
-quahaug decline.
-
-(2) _South Side of Cape Cod._--While not so marked a decline has taken
-place as in Buzzards Bay, every quahauger agrees that the industry is
-gradually failing. In Bass River, at Hyannis, and in Chatham, there
-is a marked decrease, while at Cotuit and Osterville the industry has
-remained stationary.
-
-(3) _North Side of Cape Cod._--The best quahaug fishery of
-Massachusetts, except at Edgartown, is found on the north side of Cape
-Cod, in the towns of Wellfleet, Eastham and Orleans. These three towns
-give an annual yield of 75,000 bushels. Only about fifteen years old
-commercially, the industry has passed its prime and is on the decline.
-This decline is shown both by production figures and by the gradual
-moving to deeper water. As the quahaugs were thinned out in shallow
-water, the fishermen moved farther and farther out, using long rakes,
-until 60-foot rakes are now used at a depth of 50 feet. Probably the
-60-foot limit will never be exceeded, unless a method of dredging is
-devised; and it will be only a question of years when the industry will
-become extinct.
-
-(4) _Nantucket._--The industry here has generally declined, though in
-the last few years there has been a slight increase in production.
-
-(5) _Edgartown._--The quahaug industry at Edgartown has declined
-little, if any, while the fishery has been carried on for many years.
-The natural resources have not been seriously impaired, owing to the
-efficient town management; and Edgartown can be congratulated on being
-the only town in the State that can boast of a protected industry.
-
-Although the quahaug industry has not openly shown the tendency to
-decline that the soft clam has manifested in southern Massachusetts,
-the danger is nevertheless very great, and the disaster would be far
-worse. The fishermen of Cape Cod realize that the clam industry has
-practically gone; but they are blind to the fact that a far more
-important one--the quahaug industry--is in as grave danger, and only
-when it is too late will they wake to a realization of the situation.
-
-The clam industry on Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay will never assume the
-importance it possesses on the north shore, owing to lack of extensive
-flats. Rather the quahaug industry is the main shellfish industry of
-the south shore, as it is more valuable, more important, and capable of
-vast expansion. The development of the quahaug industry should bring
-many hundred thousand dollars to Cape Cod.
-
-II. _Causes of the Decline._--The direct cause is overfishing. The
-quahaug is hardy, little harmed by climatic changes, and has but few
-natural enemies. Man alone has caused the decline of the natural
-supply. Not satisfied with taking the mediums and large quahaugs,
-but spurred on by the high prices offered for the "little neck,"
-the quahaug fisherman has cleaned up everything he can get, and the
-natural supply has suffered greatly. If the market demands the capture
-of the "little neck," it is necessary to leave the large quahaugs as
-"spawners." At the present time, by the capture of both the industry is
-being ruined.
-
-
-_The Remedy._--_Quahaug Farming._
-
-There is only _one way_ in which the present decline can be checked,
-and that is, to increase the natural supply by cultural methods to meet
-the demands of the market. The only way to accomplish this increase
-is to plant and raise quahaugs,--in fact, have a system of _quahaug
-farming_ for the whole south shore of Massachusetts. In considering
-quahaug farming, many questions naturally arise: (1) Is quahaug farming
-an established fact, or a mere theory? (2) Possibilities of quahaug
-farming. (3) What is the growth of the quahaug, and how long does it
-take to raise a crop? (4) What is the value of a quahaug farm? (5) What
-benefits would the quahaug industry receive from such a system?
-
-(1) _Quahaug Farming an Established Fact,--not a Theory._--It is
-not the object of this report to go into a scientific treatise upon
-experiments in quahaug culture. For the past three years the Commission
-on Fisheries and Game has been conducting experiments upon the growth
-and culture of quahaugs, the results of which will be published in a
-subsequent report. These experiments have shown that quahaug farming is
-no theory, but an established fact, and that, if taken up, it will make
-the quahaug fishery the most important shellfish industry of the State.
-These experiments, consisting of small beds one one-thousandth of an
-acre in area, were located at different places along the coast. Various
-conditions in regard to food, current, tide, soil, etc., were tested.
-The results from nearly every bed were excellent, and showed the ease
-of culture and the great profit which would result if larger areas were
-thus worked.
-
-The results obtained from the experiments of the commission alone are
-sufficient to prove the practicability of quahaug farming, even if
-there were no other proofs. As it is, there have been many tests made
-by the oystermen, both outside and inside the State. Some years ago the
-oystermen near New York realized the possibilities of raising quahaugs
-on their oyster grants, and to-day Massachusetts ships many barrels of
-"seed" quahaugs out of the State to these far-sighted business men,
-who reap large returns by replanting these small "little necks." The
-Massachusetts oystermen have not been slow to realize the large returns
-afforded by quahaug culture, and some have planted many bushels of the
-"seed," thus turning their grants into partial quahaug farms. These
-men have proved that this style of farming is practical, and that as a
-money-making proposition the quahaug is far ahead of the oyster.
-
-As affairs exist to-day in Massachusetts, a few men alone have the
-privilege of raising quahaugs, while the rest stand idle. Theoretically
-and legally, no one has the right to plant and raise quahaugs in the
-State; but practically and secretly it is done with great success.
-Who can blame the oysterman for raising quahaugs with his oysters, in
-view of the fast-declining quahaug industry? Rather by so doing he is
-helping perpetuate the natural supply. The objection to this present
-system of secret quahaug farming is its unfairness. A few men are
-enjoying the privileges that many others should likewise enjoy. There
-is plenty of room, and quahaug farming might as well be carried on
-openly, to the benefit of all.
-
-While the oystermen have made a move toward general quahaug farming,
-and have shown the great possibilities that this system possesses, the
-quahaugers have also exhibited a tendency in a similar direction. The
-originators of the town law in Eastham, Orleans and Wellfleet, which
-provides for the leasing of 5,625 square feet of flat for bedding the
-catch, and thus makes possible the advantage of a favorable market,
-probably did not imagine that this was the first great step on the part
-of the quahaugers towards shellfish farming. The success of this scheme
-has here opened the eyes of the intelligent quahaugers to the even
-better possibilities of quahaug culture, and any well-devised scheme of
-shellfish farming will be favorably received.
-
-The main impulse that makes people turn to quahaug culture is the
-steady decline of the industry, especially during the last few years.
-In the previous pages of this report there have been shown: (1) the
-actuality of the decline; (2) the causes of this decline. The proof
-of the decline is so generally apparent that it has created a popular
-demand for a fair system of quahaug farming, to check the diminution of
-the present supply.
-
-(2) _Possibilities of Quahaug Farming._--The quahaug has a wide range;
-it is found in all depths of water, from high tide line to sixty feet,
-and in various kinds of mud and sand bottom. This natural adaptability
-gives the quahaug a wider area than any other shellfish, as it will
-live in nearly any bottom, although the rate of growth depends
-essentially upon its location in respect to current. This permits the
-utilization of vast areas which to-day are unproductive, and which
-can all be made into profitable quahaug farms. Quahaugs will grow on
-thousands of acres of flats, such as the Common Flats of Chatham, if
-they are planted. There are indefinite possibilities of expansion in
-quahaug farming through the reclamation of this unproductive sea bottom.
-
-(3) _Rate of Growth of Quahaug._--The rate of growth of the quahaug
-varies greatly in regard to its location in respect to the current.
-The quahaugs which have the better current or circulation of water
-show the faster growth. The fastest growth recorded by the experiments
-of the Department on Fisheries and Game was a gain of 1 inch a year;
-_i.e._, 1�-inch quahaugs attained in one year a length of 2� inches.
-The average growth is between � and � inch a year, or a yield of 3 to 5
-bushels for every bushel planted, or the return in one year of $4 for
-every $1 invested. In the more favorable localities there would be the
-enormous gain of $8 for every dollar invested. All this can be done in
-six months, as the quahaug grows only during the six summer months. The
-above figures are taken from experiments which have been conducted on
-Cape Cod, in Buzzards Bay and at Nantucket.
-
-(4) _Value of a Quahaug Farm._--An acre of "little-neck" quahaugs has a
-high market value. A conservative estimate of 10 per square foot gives
-the yield in one year of 2�-inch quahaugs as 600 bushels per acre; This
-means that 120 bushels of 1�-inch quahaugs were planted to the acre.
-The price paid for the same would be $600, at the high price of $5 per
-bushel. The price received for the same, at $3 per bushel, would bring
-$1,800, or a gain of $3 for every $1 invested. This is a conservative
-estimate on all sides. Quahaugs could be planted two or three times
-as thick, seed might be purchased for less money, more money might be
-received for private shipments, and faster growth can be obtained. The
-only labor necessary is gathering the quahaugs for market. The quahaug
-farm requires no such care as the agricultural farm, and offers far
-more profit.
-
-(5) _Advantage of Quahaug Culture._--The quahaug is the most
-remunerative of any of our shellfish. It possesses several advantages
-over the oyster: (1) it is hardier,--less influenced by climatic
-conditions; (2) it has fewer enemies, as it lies protected under the
-sand; (3) it possesses a market the whole year; (4) there is more money
-for the planter in raising "little necks" than in raising oysters. If
-oyster culture has succeeded in Massachusetts, there is no question
-that, given a proper chance, quahaug culture can be put on a firm
-basis, and made the leading shellfish industry of Massachusetts. The
-value of the present quahaug industry lies chiefly in the production of
-"little necks." Under a cultural system of quahaug farms, this could be
-made a specialty. Old quahaugs would be kept as "seeders," and "little
-necks" alone raised for the market. The advantage of furnishing "little
-necks" of uniform size would lead to increased prices; steady customers
-would be obtained and certainty of production guaranteed. All the
-advantages lie with quahaug farming, as opposed to the present method
-of "free-for-all" digging.
-
-The quahaug industry of the future, if put on a cultural basis, will
-not only check the decline of a valuable industry, but will increase
-the present production many fold. A far larger supply, work for more
-men and better prices for the consumer will result.
-
-(6) _Spat Collecting._--The main obstacle that stands in the way
-of permanent quahaug culture is a lack of sufficient young "seed"
-quahaugs. While several heavy sets have been recorded, the "seed"
-quahaugs are never found in vast quantities, as are the young of the
-soft clam (_Mya arenaria_). The set of quahaugs is usually scattering
-and slight. A method of spat collecting, _i.e._, catching the spawn and
-raising the small quahaugs, is alone necessary for the complete success
-of quahaug culture. While nothing of practical importance has yet been
-found, indications are favorable that some means will be devised in the
-next few years, and that quantities of young quahaugs can be raised.
-Experiments have already shown that as many as 75 can be caught per
-square foot in box spat collectors; but a more practical method than
-this must be found to make the business profitable.
-
-
-_The Quahaug Industry._
-
-_Methods of Capture._--Several methods of taking quahaugs are in vogue
-in Massachusetts, some simple and primitive, others more advanced and
-complex, but all modifications of simple raking or digging. These
-methods have arisen with the development of the industry, and record
-the historical changes in the quahaug fishery, as each new fishery or
-separate locality demands some modification of the usual methods.
-
-(1) "_Treading._"--The early settlers in Massachusetts quickly learned
-from the Indians the primitive method of "treading" quahaugs, which
-required no implements except the hands and feet. The "treader" catches
-the quahaug by wading about in the water, feeling for them with his
-toes in the soft mud, and then picking them up by hand. Nowhere in
-Massachusetts is it used as a method of commercial fishery.
-
-(2) _Tidal Flat Fishery._--Often quahaugs are found on the exposed
-tidal flats, where they can sometimes be taken by hand, but more
-often with ordinary clam hoes or short rakes. Owing to the scarcity
-of quahaugs between the tide lines, this method does not pay for
-market fishing, and is only resorted to by people who dig for home
-consumption.
-
-(3) _Tonging._--In most parts of Buzzards Bay and in a few places
-on Cape Cod quahaugs are taken with _oyster tongs_. This method is
-applicable only in water less than 12 feet deep, as the longest tongs
-measure but 16 feet. Four sizes of tongs are used, 8, 10, 12 and 16
-feet in length. Tonging is carried on in the small coves and inlets,
-where there is little if any rough water. A muddy bottom is usually
-preferable, as a firm, hard soil increases the labor of manipulating
-the tongs, which are used in the same manner as in tonging oysters.
-
-(4) _Raking._--The most universal method of taking quahaugs is with
-rakes. This method is used in every quahaug locality in Massachusetts,
-each town having its special kind of rake. Four main types of rakes can
-be recognized:--
-
-(_a_) _The Digger._--In some localities, chiefly in Buzzards Bay,
-the ordinary potato digger or rake, having four or five long, thin
-prongs, is used. Usually it has a back of wire netting, which holds the
-quahaugs when caught by the prongs. As the digger has a short handle
-of 5 feet, it can be used only in shallow water, where the quahauger,
-wading in the water, turns out the quahaugs with this narrow rake. This
-method yields but a scanty return, and is more often used for home
-consumption than for market.
-
-(_b_) _The Garden Rake._--The ordinary garden rake, equipped with a
-basket back of wire netting, is in more general use in shallow water,
-either by wading or from a boat, as it has the advantage of being wider
-than the potato digger.
-
-(_c_) _The Claw Rake._--This type of rake varies in size, width and
-length of handle. It is used chiefly at Nantucket. The usual style has
-a handle 6 feet long, while the iron part in the form of a claw or
-talon is 10 inches wide, with prongs 1 inch apart. Heavier rakes with
-longer handles are sometimes used for deep water, but for shallow water
-the usual form is the short-claw rake.
-
-(_d_) _The Basket Rake._-The greater part of the quahaug production is
-taken from deep water, with the basket rake. These rakes have handles
-running from 23 to 65 feet in length, according to the depth of water
-over the beds. Where the water is of various depths, several detachable
-handles of various lengths are used. At the end of these long handles
-is a small cross-piece, similar to the cross-piece of a lawn mower;
-this enables the quahauger to obtain a strong pull when raking. The
-handles are made of strong wood, and are very thin and flexible, not
-exceeding 1� inches in diameter. The price of these handles varies
-according to the length, but the average price is about $2. As the long
-handles break very easily, great care must be taken in raking.
-
-Three forms of the basket rake are used in Massachusetts. These
-rakes vary greatly in form and size, and it is merely a question of
-opinion which variety is the best, as all are made on the same general
-principle,--a curved, basket-shaped body, the bottom edge of which is
-set with thin steel teeth.
-
-_The Wellfleet and Chatham Rake._--This rake is perhaps the most
-generally used for all deep-water quahauging on Cape Cod, and finds
-favor with all. It consists of an iron framework, forming a curved
-bowl, the under edge of which is set with thin steel teeth varying
-in length from 2 to 4 inches, though usually 2�-inch teeth are the
-favorite. Formerly these teeth were made of iron, but owing to the
-rapid wear it was found necessary to make them of steel. Over the bowl
-of this rake, which is strengthened by side and cross pieces of iron,
-is fitted a twine net, which, like the net of a scallop dredge, drags
-behind the framework. An average rake has from 19 to 21 teeth, and
-weighs from 15 to 20 pounds.
-
-_Edgartown Basket Rake._--The basket rake used at Edgartown and
-Nantucket is lighter and somewhat smaller than the Wellfleet rake. The
-whole rake, except the teeth, is made of iron. No netting is required,
-as thin iron wires 1/3 inch apart encircle lengthwise the whole basket,
-preventing the escape of any marketable quahaug, and at the same time
-allowing the mud to wash out. This rake has 16 steel teeth, 1� inches
-long, fitted at intervals of 1 inch in the bottom scraping bar, which
-is 16 inches long; the depth of the basket is about 8 inches. Much
-shorter poles, not exceeding 30 feet in length, are used with this
-rake, and the whole rake is much lighter. The price of this rake is
-$7.50, while the poles cost $1.50.
-
-The third form of basket rake is a cross between the basket and claw
-rakes. This rake is used both at Nantucket and on Cape Cod, but is not
-so popular as the other types. The basket is formed by the curve of
-the prongs, which are held together by two long cross-bars at the top
-and bottom of the basket, while the ends are enclosed by short strips
-of iron. This rake exemplifies the transition stage between the claw
-and basket types, indicating that the basket form was derived from the
-former. Handles 20 to 30 feet long are generally used with these rakes.
-
-_Shallow v. Deep Water Quahauging._--Two kinds of quahauging are found
-in Massachusetts,--the deep and the shallow water fisheries. This
-arbitrary distinction also permits a division of localities in regard
-to the principal methods of fishing. Although in all localities there
-exists more or less shallow-water fishing, the main quahaug industry of
-several towns is the deep-water fishery. In all the Buzzards Bay towns
-except Fairhaven and New Bedford the shallow-water fishery prevails;
-this is also true of the south side of Cape Cod. On the north side
-of Cape Cod the opposite is true, as the quahauging at Wellfleet,
-Eastham, Orleans and Brewster is practically all deep-water fishing. At
-Edgartown and Nantucket, although there is considerable shallow-water
-digging, the deep-water fishery is the more important.
-
-The deep-water fishery is vastly more productive than the shallow-water
-industry, furnishing annually 118,500 bushels, compared to 23,227
-bushels, or more than 5 times as much. The deep-water fishery, _i.e._,
-the basket-rake fishery, is the main quahaug fishery of the State, and
-each year it is increasing, because of the opening of new beds. On the
-other hand, the shallow-water grounds are rapidly becoming barren from
-overfishing.
-
-The deep-water quahauging is harder work, requires considerable capital
-but has fewer working days. Naturally the earnings from this fishery
-should surpass those of the shallow-water industry. The deep-water
-quahauger averages from $5 to $8 for a working day, while the
-shallow-water fisherman earns only from $2 to $3 per day.
-
-_Deep-water Quahauging._--Both power and sail boats are used in
-deep-water quahauging, though power is gradually replacing the old
-method of sailing, because of its increased efficiency and saving of
-time. When the quahaug grounds are reached, the boat is anchored at
-both bow and stern, one continuous rope connecting both anchors, which
-are from 500 to 600 feet apart, in such a way that the bow of the
-boat is always headed against the tide. A sufficient amount of slack
-is required for the proper handling of the boat, which can be moved
-along this anchor "road" as on a cable, and a large territory raked.
-The rake is lowered from the bow of the boat, the length of the handle
-being regulated by the depth of the water, and the teeth worked into
-the sandy or muddy bottom. The quahauger then takes firm hold of the
-cross-piece at the end of the handle, and works the rake back to the
-stern of the boat, where it is hauled in and the contents dumped on the
-culling board or picked out of the net. In hauling in the net the rake
-is turned so that the opening is on top, and the mud and sand is washed
-out before it is taken on board. The long pole passes across the boat
-and extends into the water on the opposite side when the rake is hauled
-in. This process is repeated until the immediate locality becomes
-unprofitable, when the boat is shifted along the cable.
-
-The usual time for quahauging is from half ebb to half flood tide, thus
-avoiding the extra labor of high-water raking. Deep-water raking is
-especially hard labor, and six hours constitute a good day's work.
-
-_Boats._--Nearly all kinds of boats are utilized in the quahaug
-fishery, and are of all values, from the $10 second-hand skiff to
-the 38-foot power seine boat, which costs $1,500. The shallow-water
-industry requires but little invested capital. Dories and skiffs are
-the principal boats, costing from $10 to $25. Occasionally a sail
-or power boat may be used in this fishery. The deep-water industry
-requires larger and stronger boats. These are either power or sail
-boats, often auxiliary "cats," and their value runs anywhere from $150
-to $1,500. The average price for the sail boats is $250, while the
-power boats are assessed at $350. At Orleans several large power seine
-boats, valued at about $1,500, are used in the quahaug fishery. These
-seine boats are 30 to 38 feet over all, have low double cabins, and are
-run by 8 to 12 horse-power gasolene engines. The ordinary power boats
-have gasolene engines from 2 to 6 horse-power. In this way each method
-of quahauging has its own boats, which are adapted for its needs.
-
-_Dredging._--So far as known, dredging is never used in quahauging
-in Massachusetts, although it is sometimes used on sea-clam beds. It
-has been tried, but without success, chiefly because of the uneven
-nature of the bottom. The invention of a suitable dredge is necessary,
-and there can be little doubt that in the future, if this difficulty
-is overcome, dredging will be used in the quahaug fishery. In 1879
-Mr. Ernest Ingersoll reports in Rhode Island the use of a quahaug
-dredge similar in structure to our rake. Evidently this form was never
-especially successful, possibly because these dredges could not be
-dragged by sail boats.
-
-_Outfit of a Quahauger._--The implements and boats used in quahauging
-have already been mentioned. The outfit of the average quahauger in
-each fishery is here summarized:--
-
-                        _Deep-water Quahauging._
-
-  Boat,                                          $300
-  2 rakes,                                         20
-  3 poles,                                          6
-                                                -----
-                                                 $326
-
-                      _Shallow-water Quahauging._
-
-  Boat,                                           $20
-  Tongs or rakes,                                   3
-  Baskets,                                          2
-                                                -----
-                                                  $25
-
-_Season._--The quahaug fishery is essentially a summer fishery, and
-little if any is done during the winter. The season in Massachusetts
-lasts for seven months, usually starting the last of March or the
-first of April, and ending about the first of November. The opening of
-the spring season varies several weeks, owing to the severity of the
-weather; and the same is true of the closing of the season.
-
-As a rule, the Buzzards Bay industry, where digging is done in the
-shallow waters of protected bays and coves, using short rakes and
-tongs, has a longer season than the quahaug industry of Cape Cod, where
-the fishery is carried on in deep and open waters. With the former,
-the cold work and hardship alone force the quahaugers to stop fishing,
-a long time after storms and rough weather have brought the latter
-industry to an end.
-
-The actual working days of the deep-water quahauger number hardly over
-100 per season, while those of the shallow-water fishermen easily
-outnumber 150. The deep-water quahauger's daily earnings are two or
-three times the daily wages of the shallow-water quahauger, but the
-additional number of working days in part make up this difference.
-
-The quahaug season can be divided arbitrarily into three parts: (1)
-spring; (2) summer; (3) fall. The spring season lasts from April 1 to
-June 15, the summer season from June 15 to September 15, and the fall
-season from September 15 to November 1. These seasons are marked by an
-increase in the number of quahaugers in the spring and fall. The men
-who do summer boating quahaug in the spring before the summer people
-arrive, and in the fall after the summer season is over. The opening
-of the scallop season, in towns that are fortunate enough to possess
-both industries, marks the closing of the quahaug season. These two
-industries join so well, scalloping in the winter and quahauging in the
-summer, that a shellfisherman has work practically all the year.
-
-_The Principal Markets._--The principal markets for the sale of
-Massachusetts quahaugs are Boston and New York. In 1879 the Boston
-market, according to Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, sold comparatively few. At
-the present time the Boston market disposes of many thousand bushels
-annually, but nevertheless the greater part of the Massachusetts
-quahaugs are shipped to New York. This, again, is due to the better
-market prices offered by that city. Besides passing through these two
-main channels, quahaugs are shipped direct from the coast dealers to
-various parts of the country, especially the middle west. This last
-method seems to be on the increase, and the future may see a large
-portion of the quahaug trade carried on by direct inland shipments.
-
-_Shipment._--Quahaugs are shipped either in second-hand sugar or flour
-barrels or in bushel bags. The latter method is fast gaining popularity
-with the quahaugers and dealers, owing to its cheapness, and is now
-steadily used in some localities. When quahaugs are shipped in barrels,
-holes are made in the bottom and sides of the barrel, to allow free
-circulation of air and to let the water out, while burlap is used
-instead of wooden heads.
-
-"_Culls._"--Several culls are made for the market. These vary in number
-in different localities and with different firms, but essentially are
-modifications of the three "culls" made by the quahaugers: (1) "little
-necks;" (2) "sharps;" (3) "blunts." The divisions made by the firm of
-A. D. Davis & Co. of Wellfleet are as follows: (1) "little necks,"
-small, 1�-2� inches; large, 2�-3 inches; (2) medium "sharps," 3-3�
-inches; (3) large "sharps," 3� inches up; (4) small "blunts;" (5) large
-"blunts."
-
-_Price._--The prices received by the quahaugers are small, compared
-with the retail prices. "Little necks" fetch from $2.50 to $4 per
-bushel, sharps and small blunts from $1.10 to $2, and large blunts from
-80 cents to $1.50, according to the season, fall and spring prices
-necessarily being higher than in summer. The price depends wholly upon
-the supply in the market, and varies greatly, although the "little
-necks" are fairly constant, as the demand for these small quahaugs is
-very great. To what excess the demand for "little necks" has reached
-can best be illustrated by a comparison between the price of $3 paid to
-the quahauger per bushel, and the actual price, $50, paid for the same
-by the consumer in the hotel restaurants.
-
-_Bedding Quahaugs for Market._--By town laws in Orleans, Eastham
-and Wellfleet, each quahauger may, upon application, secure from
-the selectmen a license, giving him not more than 75 feet square of
-tidal flat upon which to bed his catch of quahaugs. While no positive
-protection is guaranteed, public opinion recognizes the right of each
-man to his leased area, and this alone affords sufficient protection
-for the success of this communal effort, which is the first step by
-the people toward quahaug farming.
-
-The quahauger needs only to spread his catch on the surface, and within
-two tides the quahaugs will have buried themselves in the sand. Here
-they will remain, with no danger of moving away, as the quahaug moves
-but little. The quahauger loses nothing by this replanting, as not only
-do the quahaugs remain in a healthy condition, but even grow in their
-new environment.
-
-The result of this communal attempt at quahaug culture is beneficial.
-While the market price for "little necks" is almost always steady, the
-price of the larger quahaugs fluctuates considerably, and the market
-often becomes "glutted." This would naturally result in a severe loss
-to the quahauger if he were forced to keep shipping at a low price.
-As it is, the fortunate quahauger who possesses such a grant merely
-replants his daily catch until the market prices rise to their proper
-level. An additional advantage is gained by the quahauger, who at the
-end of the season has his grant well stocked, as higher prices are then
-offered. As many as 1,000 barrels are often held this way at the end of
-the season.
-
-_Food Value._--See food value table in scallop report.
-
-_Uses._--Besides its many uses as a food, raw, cooked and canned, the
-quahaug is of little importance in Massachusetts.
-
-(1) For bait the soft clam (_Mya arenaria_) is generally preferred, and
-but few quahaugs are used for this purpose.
-
-(2) The shell was once prized by the Indians for their wampum; now it
-is occasionally used for ornamental purposes.
-
-(3) Oystermen use it for cultch when they can get nothing better;
-though more fragile shells are usually preferred, so that the masses of
-oyster "set" can be easily broken apart.
-
-(4) Shell roads are occasionally made from quahaug shells. Possibly
-lime could be profitably obtained.
-
-
-_History of Quahaug Industry in Massachusetts._
-
-South of Plymouth harbor quahaugs have always been plentiful along
-the shores of Cape Cod, Buzzards Bay and the islands of Nantucket and
-Martha's Vineyard. Frequent shell heaps show that the Indians were
-accustomed to use this mollusk as a food, and even indulged in an
-occasional clam bake. Colonial records show us that the early colonists
-were not slow in learning to "tread out" this mollusk from the mud
-flats. The shells of the quahaug were much prized by the Indians for
-wampum beads, because of their purplish color.
-
-Although reckoned inferior by many to the soft clam (_Mya arenaria_),
-the quahaug was dug for home consumption for years in Massachusetts,
-and but little attempt was made to put it on the market. The
-commercial quahaug fishery started on Cape Cod, about the first of the
-nineteenth century, growing in extent until about 1860. From 1860
-to 1890 the production remained about constant. The production in
-1879 for Massachusetts, as given by A. Howard Clark, totaled 11,050
-bushels, valued at $5,525. It is only in the last fifteen to twenty
-years that the actual development of the quahaug fishery has taken
-place. The present production of Massachusetts is 144,044 bushels,
-valued at $194,687. To the popular demand for the "little neck" can
-be attributed the rapid development of the quahaug industry during
-the last ten years. This development has furnished employment for
-hundreds of men, and has given the quahaug an important value as a sea
-food. What it will lead to is easily seen. The maximum production was
-passed a few years ago, constant overfishing caused by an excessive
-demand is destroying the natural supply, and there will in a few years
-be practically no commercial fishery, unless measures are taken to
-increase the natural supply. Quahaug farming offers the best solution
-at the present time, and gives promise of permanent success.
-
-The following statistics, taken from the United States Fish Commission
-reports, show the rapidity of the development of the quahaug fishery:--
-
-  =============+============+===========+================
-      DATE.    |  Bushels.  |   Value.  | Price (Cents).
-  -------------+------------+-----------+----------------
-  1879,        |    11,050  |   $5,525  |      50.0
-  1887,        |    35,540  |   21,363  |      60.0
-  1888,        |    26,165  |   14,822  |      56.5
-  1898,        |    63,817  |   50,724  |      79.5
-  1902,        |   106,818  |  131,139  |     124.0
-  1905,        |   166,526  |  288,987  |     155.0
-  =============+============+===========+================
-
-Not only has there been an increase in production, but also an increase
-in price, as can be seen from the above table, which shows that the
-price has more than doubled between 1888 and 1902. This increase in
-price has alone supported a declining fishery in many towns, making it
-still profitable for quahaugers to keep in the business, in spite of
-a much smaller catch. The advance in price is due both to the natural
-rise in the value of food products during the past twenty-five years
-and also to the popular demand for the "little neck," or small quahaug.
-
-_State Laws._--There are no State laws governing the quahaug fishery,
-except the regulations of the State Board of Health in regard to sewage
-pollution in Acushnet River and Boston Harbor.
-
-_Town Laws._--Regulation of the quahaug fishery was given to each town
-by the State under the general shellfish act of 1880; the industry is
-therefore entirely governed under the by-laws of the town.
-
-An interesting comparison can be made between the quahaug regulations
-of the different towns. Good, useless and harmful laws exist side by
-side. One town will pass excellent regulations, and enforce them;
-another town will make the same, but never trouble to see that they
-are observed. Edgartown enforces the 1�-inch quahaug law; Orleans,
-Eastham and Wellfleet have the same law, but fail to enforce it. Many
-towns allow the small seed quahaugs to be caught and shipped out of the
-State, thus losing $4 to every $1 gained. These towns refuse to make
-any regulation, such as a simple size limit, which would remedy this
-matter, and have no thought for the future of their quahaug industry.
-All that can be said is that the quahaug laws are the best of the town
-shellfish regulations, and that is but faint praise.
-
-
-_Statistics of the Quahaug Fishery._
-
-In the following table the towns are arranged in alphabetical order,
-and the list includes only those towns which now possess a commercial
-quahaug fishery. In giving the number of men, both transient and
-regular quahaugers are included. In estimating the capital invested,
-the boats, implements, shanties and gear of the quahauger are alone
-considered, and personal apparel, such as oilskins, boots, etc., are
-not taken into account. The value of the production for each town is
-based upon what the quahaugers receive for their quahaugs, and not the
-price they bring in the market. The area of quahaug territory given for
-each town includes all ground where quahaugs are found, both thick beds
-and scattering quahaugs.
-
-  =============+======+=========+======+=======+================+======+=======
-      TOWN.    |Number| Capital |Number|Number |1907 PRODUCTION.|      | Value
-               |  of  |invested.| of   |  of   +--------+-------+ Area |  of
-               | Men. |         |Boats.|Dories |Bushels.| Value.|  in  | Yield
-               |      |         |      | and   |        |       |Acres.|  per
-               |      |         |      |Skiffs.|        |       |      | Acre.
-  -------------+------+---------+------+-------+--------+-------+------+-------
-  Barnstable,  |   25 |    $850 |    - |    25 |   2,500| $3,700|   950| $3.95
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Bourne,      |   46 |   1,000 |    - |    46 |   5,400|  8,400| 2,500|  3.36
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Chatham,     |   50 |   5,750 |   25 |    25 |   6,700| 10,000| 2,000|  5.00
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Dennis,      |   15 |     150 |    - |    10 |     500|    950|   200|  4.75
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Eastham,     |   25 |   8,000 |   12 |     - |  10,000| 11,500| 4,000|  2.87
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Edgartown,   |   70 |  12,000 |   42 |    18 |  20,000| 32,000| 1,800| 17.77
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Fairhaven,   |  115 |   5,000 |   11 |   100 |  15,000| 16,500| 3,000|  5.50
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Falmouth,    |    - |       - |    - |     - |     100|    115|   400|   .29
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Harwich,     |    7 |     200 |    - |     7 |   1,500|  2,550|   100| 25.50
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Marion,      |   19 |     250 |    - |    19 |     800|  1,500|   400|  3.75
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Mashpee,     |    7 |      70 |    - |     5 |     250|    285|   400|   .71
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Mattapoisett,|   28 |     500 |    - |    28 |     800|  1,500|   750|  2.00
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Nantucket,   |   48 |   6,750 |   30 |    10 |   6,294|  8,487| 5,290|  1.60
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Orleans,     |   75 |  25,000 |   30 |    25 |  33,000| 41,350| 1,500| 27.56
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Wareham,     |   50 |   1,000 |    - |    50 |   6,000| 10,500| 1,300|  8.08
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Wellfleet,   |  145 |  27,500 |  100 |     - |  33,000| 41,350| 2,500| 16.54
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
-  Yarmouth,    |   20 |     240 |    - |    10 |   2,200|  4,000| 1,000|  4.00
-  -------------+------+---------+------+-------+--------+-------+------+-------
-               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |Average
-  Totals,      |  745 |  94,260 |  250 |   378 | 144,044|194,687|28,090| $6.93
-  =============+======+=========+======+=======+========+=======+======+=======
-
-
-_Barnstable._
-
-Barnstable, with its extensive bays both on the north or bay side and
-on the south or Vineyard Sound side, offers great possibilities for
-quahaug production. Although the quahaug ranks, in productive value,
-the third shellfish industry of Barnstable, the natural resources
-permit an expansion under cultural methods which would place the
-quahaug ahead of the oyster, which at the present time is the leading
-shellfish industry of the town.
-
-In Barnstable harbor, on the north coast of the town, a few quahaugs
-are found scattered in isolated patches. (See Map No. 9.) These are
-relatively of small importance commercially, and no regular fishery is
-carried on. In the future the vast barren flats of this harbor may be
-made productive of quahaugs as well as clams, although at present the
-total area of quahaug grounds is hardly 5 acres.
-
-The greater part of the quahaug industry of Barnstable is conducted
-on the south shore of the township, which is especially adapted, with
-its coves and inlets, for the successful growth of this shellfish. The
-principal fishery is in Cotuit harbor and West Bay, and is chiefly
-shared by the villages of Osterville, Marston's Mills and Cotuit, which
-lie on the east, north and west sides, respectively, of the bay.
-
-While the greater part of Cotuit harbor is taken up by oyster grants,
-there are certain parts, though limited in area, which are set aside
-for quahauging. The principal area for quahauging is the flat which
-runs along Oyster Island. This was originally an oyster grant taken
-out by Wendell Nickerson, and thrown open to quahaugers to protect
-the quahaug interests from the oyster planters. This territory, which
-comprises 70 acres, is mostly hard sand. Directly west in the center of
-the harbor lies a strip of 80 acres of mud and eel grass, where both
-quahaugs and scallops abound. The depth of water on quahauging grounds
-varies from 1 to 14 feet.
-
-Scattering quahaugs are found also in Osterville harbor, West Bay,
-Popponesset River and East Bay. This bottom is practically all sand,
-and comprises a total of 1,650 acres. This cannot all be considered
-good quahaug ground, although quahaugs can occasionally be found.
-
-At Hyannis the quahaug grounds are confined to Lewis Bay, where they
-cover an area of 800 acres. The quahaugs lie in scattered patches over
-this area, but in no place is there especially good quahauging. The
-bottom is hard, usually sandy, with patches of eel grass, while the
-average depth of water is hardly more than 6 feet.
-
-In Osterville Bay about 20 men, in Lewis Bay about 5, using the same
-number of dories, make a business of quahauging in the summer months.
-Three styles of implements are used: (1) oyster tongs, varying from 8
-to 16 feet, according to the depth of water; (2) large basket rakes,
-with 30-foot handles; (3) ordinary garden rakes, with wire basket, for
-shallow-water digging.
-
-At Cotuit the quahaugs run one-third "little necks," one-third mediums
-and one-third large. Here several men, using long-handled rakes, make
-from $3 to $5 per day in favorable weather. The markets are principally
-New York and Boston, where the quahaugs are shipped, mostly in sacks,
-which is a cheaper and better way than shipment in barrels. Here the
-quahaug season lasts from April 1 to November 1, most of the work being
-done in the summer, when the oyster business is at a standstill.
-
-There are no town laws governing the quahaug fishery, other than
-forbidding a non-resident of the town the right of quahauging; and no
-licenses are required.
-
-No records of the history of the quahaug industry at Barnstable can be
-found. A. Howard Clark in 1879 makes the following brief statement,
-which is the only record obtainable:--
-
-    Both soft clams and quahaugs are found in the harbor
-    [Osterville harbor], but no considerable fishing for them is
-    carried on.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              950
-  Number of men,                                   25
-  Number of boats,                                  -
-  Value of boats,                                   -
-  Number of dories,                                25
-  Value of dories,                               $500
-  Value of implements,                           $350
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                    800
-      Value,                                   $2,000
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                  1,700
-      Value,                                   $1,700
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                  2,500
-      Value,                                   $3,700
-
-
-_Bourne._
-
-The town of Bourne was formerly included in the town of Sandwich, and
-many old laws relating to shellfish, such as oyster regulation in
-Barlow River, were enacted by the town of Sandwich. Situated at the
-head of Buzzards Bay, and separated from the adjacent town of Wareham
-by Cohasset Narrows, Bourne has many advantages for a profitable
-quahaug industry. It possesses nearly twice as much quahaug territory
-as Wareham, but, as most of this lies unproductive, has a smaller
-annual output. The territory includes over 2,500 acres of ground, most
-of which consists of flats of mud, sand and eel grass, covered with
-shallow water. It is very sparsely set with quahaugs. Outside the
-oyster grants practically the entire stretch of coast from Buttermilk
-Bay to Wings Neck is quahauging ground, as can be seen on Map No. 17.
-Other quahaug grounds lie between Basset's Island, Scraggy Neck and
-Handy's Point. It is our opinion that this large territory, which
-to-day yields on the average less than $3.50 per acre, in the future,
-under cultivation, can be made to yield an average of $100 per acre,
-thereby bringing into the town of Bourne a yearly income of at least
-$250,000, and furnishing labor for hundreds of men.
-
-About 46 men are engaged in the quahaug fishery of Bourne, using the
-same number of skiffs and dories, which represent approximately an
-investment of $875. The fishery lasts usually seven months during the
-summer, April 1 to November 1, while the winter digging is of small
-account. Practically all the digging is done in comparatively shallow
-water, with short-handled rakes or tongs. Rather more than a third of
-the quahaugs appear to be "little necks," while the mediums constitute
-one-tenth of the total catch. "Blunts" are of little consequence.
-
-The selectmen issue permits for the taking of quahaugs and clams. In
-1906, 46 permits were issued, entitling the holder to 10 bushels of
-clams and 10 bushels of quahaugs per week.
-
-There is little to be said concerning the history of the Bourne quahaug
-industry, as no early records exist. Its development has been similar
-to that of the industries of the other Buzzards Bay towns. During the
-last few years the Bourne fishery, unlike most of the towns on Buzzards
-Bay, has shown signs of increasing. This is not due, however, to any
-increase in the natural supply, but to the decline of the oyster
-industry, which gives more opportunity to the quahaugers. The same
-antagonistic feeling that is prevalent in Wareham exists here between
-the oystermen and quahaugers.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            2,500
-  Number of men,                                   46
-  Number of boats,                                  -
-  Value of boats,                                   -
-  Number of skiffs,                                46
-  Value of skiffs,                               $875
-  Value of implements,                           $125
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                  2,000
-      Value,                                   $5,000
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                  3,400
-      Value,                                   $3,400
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                  5,400
-      Value,                                   $8,400
-
-
-_Chatham._
-
-Chatham is favorably situated in regard to the quahaug fishery, as
-this shellfish is found in the waters on the north and south sides of
-the town. The grounds are extensive, covering about 2,000 acres, the
-greater part of which consists of the vast area south of the town known
-as the "Common Flats."
-
-The quahauging grounds are in four localities: (1) Pleasant Bay; (2)
-Mill Pond; (3) Stage Harbor; (4) Common Flats.
-
-(1) Part of the waters of Pleasant Bay belong to the town of Chatham.
-In an arm of this bay, known as Crows Pond, the best Pleasant Bay
-fishery is carried on in water varying from 6 to 16 feet in depth.
-
-(2) An excellent "little neck" fishery is carried on in the upper part
-of the Mill Pond, in comparatively shallow water, comprising an area
-of 3 acres. On these bars in 1905 there was a very heavy set of small
-quahaugs, which were rapidly taken up before they had a chance to
-attain to a fair size.
-
-(3) Quahaugs are raked on the west side of Stage Harbor in 5 to 15 feet
-of water, in an area of 4 acres of muddy bottom.
-
-(4) The Common Flats comprise 1,700 acres, and are covered at low tide
-by a depth of only 1 to 2 feet of water. Quahaugs are found throughout
-this territory in scattering quantities, but practically all is good
-quahaug ground except the shifting outer part of the flat. The soil
-varies from a pure sand to a sandy mud, and in parts is thickly covered
-with eel grass, which makes raking hard. This area offers one of the
-best opportunities for successful quahaug planting in the State. The
-area is large, seed can be obtained easily and quahaugs grow well in
-this locality. If it were not for the lack of protection, Chatham could
-establish one of the best quahaug industries in the State by leasing
-out the Common Flats for planting purposes.
-
-Quahaugs are taken at Chatham only with rakes. In the deep water in
-Crows Pond and in Stage Harbor basket rakes are used; but in the
-shallow water on the Common Flats and in the Mill Pond the usual
-implement is an ordinary garden rake, with wire netting basket. Handles
-from 20 to 25 feet in length are used with the basket rakes.
-
-The quahaug industry has existed in Chatham for the past twelve years.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            2,000
-  Number of men,                                   50
-  Number of boats,                                 25
-  Value of boats,                              $5,000
-  Number of dories,                                25
-  Value of dories,                               $350
-  Value of implements,                           $400
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                  2,200
-      Value,                                   $5,500
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                  4,500
-      Value,                                   $4,500
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                  6,700
-      Value,                                  $10,000
-
-
-_Dartmouth._
-
-The quahaug industry of Dartmouth is of little consequence. In 1907,
-320 permits were granted, mostly to New Bedford fishermen for "bait."
-
-
-_Dennis._
-
-The quahauging grounds of Dennis are practically all in Bass River,
-where Dennis has equal fishery rights with Yarmouth. The area of these
-grounds is 200 acres, with a maximum depth of 6 feet of water over the
-beds. The history of the industry is the same as that of Yarmouth, as
-the two industries are closely associated, and a similar decline has
-resulted. The laws for both towns are the same.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              200
-  Number of men (transient),                       15
-  Number of boats,                                  -
-  Value of boats,                                   -
-  Number of skiffs,                                10
-  Value of skiffs,                               $100
-  Value of implements,                            $50
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                    300
-      Value,                                     $750
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                    200
-      Value,                                     $200
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                    500
-      Value,                                     $950
-
-
-_Eastham._
-
-Eastham is similar to Orleans in situation, possessing a good coast
-line on both the east and west, which affords excellent opportunities
-for the quahaug fishery.
-
-On the west or bay side are extensive beds of quahaugs, for the most
-part blunts, extending into deep water for nearly 3 miles. This
-quahauging territory comprises about 4,000 acres, which is open to the
-quahaugers of both Wellfleet and Orleans. While scattering quahaugs are
-found over approximately all this territory, the fishery is conducted
-in only certain definite places.
-
-In Nauset harbor on the east side during the season of 1906 numerous
-beds of "little necks," about the 1�-inch size, were discovered. It is
-thought that these came from the spawn of certain quahaugs which the
-life savers were accustomed to bed in the harbor for their own use.
-These quahaugs were torn up and scattered by the ice during a severe
-winter, and in this way the nucleus of a new fishery was formed. Two
-men who discovered the best of these beds cleared $60 in one week.
-
-On the west coast of the town 25 men commonly dig with long-handled
-rakes. These fishermen work at quahauging about 100 days in the year,
-and average from 5 to 6 bushels per day. Power boats are used for the
-most part, although the boats are not so large or expensive as those
-of the Orleans fishermen, for the Eastham quahauger digs in the more
-sheltered waters of Wellfleet Bay.
-
-The production for 1906 was 10,000 bushels, but this does not give the
-true yield of the Eastham flats, as the Wellfleet and Orleans fishermen
-rake to a great extent in Eastham waters, and so many more bushels are
-actually taken within the town limits.
-
-The town laws of Eastham are the same as those of Wellfleet. (See
-Wellfleet.) The history of the Eastham quahaug industry is so closely
-connected with that of Orleans and Wellfleet that no additional
-features require mention.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            4,000
-  Number of men,                                   25
-  Number of boats,                                 12
-  Value of boats,                              $7,375
-  Number of dories,                                 -
-  Value of dories,                                  -
-  Value of implements,                           $625
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                  1,000
-      Value,                                   $2,500
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                  9,000
-      Value,                                   $9,000
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                 10,000
-      Value,                                  $11,500
-
-
-_Edgartown._
-
-The finest "little neck" fishery in Massachusetts is found in Katama
-Bay, in the town of Edgartown. Two-fifths of the entire catch are
-"little necks." The most productive grounds are situated in the lower
-part of Katama Bay, while quahaugs are also found in Edgartown harbor
-and in Cape Poge Pond, the total area of these localities comprising
-1,800 acres.
-
-The fishing is mostly done from power dories or sail boats with basket
-rakes. Poles from 20 to 25 feet long are used, as the water over the
-beds is less than 20 feet deep. Some quahaugs are taken in the shallow
-water with small claw rakes. The catch is shipped to the New York and
-Boston markets.
-
-The quahaug industry of Edgartown is the best-regulated shellfish
-industry in Massachusetts. If excellent care had not been taken of
-the "little neck" fishery of Katama Bay by enforcing a size limit
-of 1� inches, through the employment of a special shellfish warden,
-the quahaug fishery of Edgartown would have been ruined long ago by
-the exportation of small "seed" quahaugs. To-day the number of small
-quahaugs which are returned to the water greatly exceeds the amount of
-marketable quahaugs taken. This is the only case in Massachusetts where
-the quahaug fishery, by careful regulations of the town, has maintained
-an undiminished supply. If other towns had taken similar care of their
-quahaug fisheries in the past, the general decline of the industry in
-this State would never have become so serious.
-
-The following is a copy of the shellfish permit, which every Edgartown
-quahauger is required to take out, at the cost of $2, before he can
-rake quahaugs for market. Any man over sixty years old obtains his
-permit free. This permit should serve as a model for other towns.
-
-                           SHELLFISH PERMIT.
-
-              TOWN OF EDGARTOWN, SELECTMEN'S OFFICE, 190_.
-
-    In consideration of having received from ____ of Edgartown the
-    sum of $2, permission is hereby granted to him to take from any
-    of the waters of this town daily, between sunrise and sunset,
-    twenty-five bushels of scallops or clams, including shells,
-    and four bushels, including shells, of quahaugs; of these four
-    bushels, not more than two bushels are to be of the size known
-    as "little necks."
-
-    The acceptance of this permit constitutes an agreement by the
-    holder thereof that he will, and that any other person who for
-    the time being has or shall have in his custody or possession
-    any building, boat, barrel, box, tub, crate or other vessel or
-    receptacle containing or suitable for or capable of containing
-    shellfish, and belonging to or under the control of the holder
-    of this permit, shall, at any time or place when requested
-    so to do by either of said selectmen or by their authorized
-    agent, or by any constable or fish warden of said town, or
-    by any other officer authorized to enforce the laws relating
-    to shellfish or shellfisheries in said town, open any such
-    building, boat, barrel, box, tub, crate or other vessel or
-    receptacle, and fully expose to them or either of them the
-    contents thereof for inspection; and if the holder of this
-    permit or such other person as aforesaid, when so requested,
-    refuses or neglects so to do, said selectmen may revoke this
-    permit or suspend the same for any stated time, at their
-    discretion.
-
-    The holder of this permit is subject to the regulations for
-    the taking of eels and shellfish as made and posted by the
-    selectmen, and also to any additional regulations which said
-    board may hereafter make and publish.
-
-    If the person having this permit for the taking of shellfish
-    violates any law of the Commonwealth or any regulation now
-    or hereafter made by said selectmen, relating to shellfish
-    or shellfisheries in said town, said selectmen may revoke
-    said permit, or suspend the same for any stated time at their
-    discretion.
-
-    No person is allowed by law to take from the waters of
-    said town, or to sell or offer for sale, or to have in his
-    possession, any "little neck" clams or quahaugs measuring less
-    than one and one-half inches across the widest part. Any person
-    violating this provision of law is liable to a fine of not less
-    than ten nor more than one hundred dollars.
-
-    This permit will expire April 1, 190�, unless sooner revoked.
-
-                                               _Selectmen of Edgartown._
-
-Ernest Ingersoll in 1879 makes the following statement concerning the
-quahaug fishery of Martha's Vineyard:--
-
-    Martha's Vineyard used to be bordered by good quahaug ground,
-    but I am not aware that many are caught there now. In an old
-    book I find the following allusion to it: "The poquau (_Venus
-    mercenaria_) is found in Old Town Harbor, at Cape Poge, and in
-    Menemsha Pond: great quantities are exported."
-
-A. Howard Clark in 1879 says:--
-
-    Soft clams and quahaugs are abundant in the harbor, and are
-    used by the fishermen for bait.... Three hundred bushels of
-    quahaugs and sea clams, valued at $150, were taken during the
-    year 1879.
-
-If such were the conditions in 1879, the industry has had a great
-development. To-day Edgartown is one of the best quahaug towns of the
-State, and produces the finest "little necks." Comparing the production
-figures of 1879 and 1907, a great increase is noted:--
-
-                    _Production, 1879._
-
-  Bushels,                                        300
-  Value,                                         $150
-
-                    _Production, 1907._
-
-  Bushels,                                     20,000
-  Value,                                      $32,000
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            1,800
-  Number of men,                                   70
-  Number of boats,                                 42
-  Value of boats,                             $10,500
-  Number of dories,                                18
-  Value of dories,                               $450
-  Value of implements,                         $1,050
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                  8,000
-      Value,                                  $20,000
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                 12,000
-      Value,                                  $12,000
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                 20,000
-      Value,                                  $32,000
-
-
-_Fairhaven._
-
-At Fairhaven the quahaug industry is of considerable importance, and
-the output from this town alone is nearly half the entire production of
-Buzzards Bay.
-
-Some 3,000 acres are more or less bedded with quahaugs. Of this,
-probably not more than one-tenth is very productive. The best
-quahauging is in Acushnet River, where digging for market has been
-forbidden because of sewage pollution (see New Bedford), and in Priests
-Cove as far as Sconticut Neck. In these grounds "little necks" are
-numerous. The grounds around West Island and Long Island, once very
-productive, are now largely dug out. Little Bay and the east coast of
-Sconticut Neck are fairly productive, while the west coast yields only
-a small amount. Most of the quahaugs now dug come from the deep water
-west-southwest of Sconticut Neck. Here, with rakes having handles from
-40 to 60 feet long, the quahaugers dig in water 7 fathoms or more in
-depth. The quahaugs, mostly large sharps, are in bluish mud or sticky
-bottom, and are all large. A number of blunts are found with these
-large sharps. In the Acushnet River, owing to the enforced closed
-season, there are a large number of "little necks."
-
-About 115 men are employed now in quahauging. Before the Acushnet River
-was closed by law, over twice that number are reported to have been
-engaged in the business. Six power boats and five cat boats, besides a
-considerable number of skiffs and dories, are used in the fishery.
-
-No permits are required for ordinary quahauging except in the
-prescribed territory of Acushnet River, where permits to catch a
-certain amount for bait are given as in New Bedford.
-
-The production for 1879, as given by A. Howard Clark in "The Fisheries
-of Massachusetts," was 3,000 bushels, which is just one-fifth of the
-present production. The supply of quahaugs has decreased the last few
-years, though new territory is constantly being opened up, as the
-quahaugers go out further into the deeper water. The increased price,
-however, probably more than counterbalances the decline in production.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            3,000
-  Number of men,                                  115
-  Number of boats,                                 11
-  Value of boats,                              $2,600
-  Number of skiffs,                               100
-  Value of skiffs,                             $1,500
-  Value of implements,                           $900
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                  1,000
-      Value,                                   $2,500
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                 14,000
-      Value,                                  $14,000
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                 15,000
-      Value,                                  $16,500
-
-
-_Falmouth._
-
-There is practically no quahaug industry in Falmouth. Hardly 100
-bushels are dug annually, and those only for home consumption. A few
-quahaugs are perhaps shipped by the oystermen.
-
-This town, with its numerous inlets, bays and brackish water ponds,
-offers perhaps as fine an opportunity for shellfish culture, especially
-for quahaugs, as exists in Massachusetts. There is no reason why the
-water of Waquoit Bay and the other brackish ponds should not produce a
-great supply of quahaugs, if properly worked.
-
-Quahaugs are found mostly in scattering quantities over a large area in
-Waquoit Bay and in small quantities on the north and west side of Great
-Pond, comprising a total of nearly 400 acres. Not all this ground,
-which is the greater part mud, is capable of producing quahaugs, but
-many parts could produce good harvests. On the bay side of the town
-small patches of good quahaugs are found at North Falmouth, Squeteague
-Pond, West Falmouth harbor on the southeast side, and a few are found
-in Hadley harbor, Naushon. These, together with the small patches
-in Great Pond, comprise about 1 acre of good quahaug ground, and are
-mostly dug by summer people.
-
-In the past twenty-five years there has been a great decline in the
-quahaug industry, especially in Waquoit Bay, which to-day barely
-produces 50 bushels. A. Howard Clark states, in 1879:[7]--
-
-    Quahaugs are plenty in Waquoit Bay, and are gathered and eaten
-    by the villagers, but none are shipped. It is estimated that
-    about 500 bushels of quahaugs are annually consumed by the
-    people of Falmouth town.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              400
-  Number of men,                                   --
-  Number of boats,                                 --
-  Value of boats,                                  --
-  Number of dories,                                --
-  Value of dories,                                 --
-  Value of implements,                             --
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                     10
-      Value,                                      $25
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                     90
-      Value,                                      $90
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                    100
-      Value,                                     $115
-
-
-_Harwich._
-
-The quahaug fishery of the town of Harwich is carried on in that part
-of Pleasant Bay which lies within the town limits. In the southern
-waters of the town, on the Sound side, scattering quahaugs are found
-in certain localities, but are not of any commercial importance. The
-most important of those localities are off Dean's Creek and in Herring
-River, where quahaugs are dug for home consumption.
-
-Harwich shares with Chatham and Orleans the quahaug fishery of Pleasant
-Bay, but has a more limited territory, as only a small portion of
-Pleasant Bay lies within the town limits. Practically all this
-territory, comprising 100 acres, is quahauging ground, though the
-commercial quahauging is prosecuted over an area of 10 acres only.
-Scattering quahaugs are found over an area of 100 acres.
-
-As the waters of Pleasant Bay are sheltered, the fishing is all done
-from dories, with basket rakes having 20 to 25 foot poles. The depth of
-water over the quahaug beds is from 6 to 16 feet.
-
-In regard to the quahaug fishery in Pleasant Bay, Mr. Warren J.
-Nickerson of East Harwich, who has been acquainted with the industry
-for many years, says:--
-
-    Pleasant Bay is and has been a very valuable quahaug ground.
-    Some fifty years ago there were shipped in vessels to New Haven
-    and other places 13,000 bushels in one year from its waters.
-    Since then there has been more or less taken from these waters
-    by fishermen from the towns of Orleans, Chatham and Harwich.
-    During the last few years there have been 25 regular fishermen
-    and perhaps 12 transient. Probably 8,000 bushels a year for the
-    last five years would be a fair estimate of the catch. Thirty
-    per cent of these were "little necks."
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              100
-  Number of men,                                    7
-  Number of boats,                                 --
-  Value of boats,                                  --
-  Number of dories,                                 7
-  Value of dories,                               $100
-  Value of implements,                           $100
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                    700
-      Value,                                   $1,750
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                    800
-      Value,                                     $800
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                  1,500
-      Value,                                   $2,550
-
-
-_Marion._
-
-The town of Marion, situated on the western side of Buzzards Bay,
-possesses a spacious harbor, the waters of which furnish excellent
-quahaug grounds.
-
-This territory, comprising a total of 400 acres, is chiefly confined
-to Marion harbor, running in a narrow strip parallel to the shore from
-Aucoot Cove all along the coast to Planting Island. Almost all the head
-of the harbor and all of Blankinship's and Planting Island Cove is
-quahaug area. Small grounds are also found at Wing's Cove and in the
-Weweantit River.
-
-The town law requires each year the possession of a permit costing $1
-before a person is entitled to dig quahaugs for sale. Nineteen of these
-licenses were issued in 1906, but not more than 2 or 3 of these went to
-men who depend upon quahauging for a living. The remaining 16 engage in
-the fishery to a greater or lesser extent in the summer season.
-
-The annual production for 1906 was 800 bushels, valued at $1,500, as
-about half were "little necks." Mediums are not numerous, and are
-bought by the quahaug dealers at $1.25 per bushel and sold by them at
-so much per hundred.
-
-In Marion the quahaug industry once flourished to a marked degree, but
-at present is very much on the decline. The coves, which once were
-bedded with "little necks" and quahaugs, are now nearly exhausted. No
-reasons exist for this condition of affairs, so far as known, except
-overdigging. Gradually for many years the supply has perceptibly
-declined, until now it is at a very low ebb. Where a thousand barrels
-were formerly produced, it is doubtful if a thousand bushels are now
-dug during the entire season, and the overworked beds are becoming each
-year more depleted. A. Howard Clark, in his report on the fisheries of
-Marion, estimates the quahaug production in 1880 as 2,000 bushels. The
-yield for 1906 is only 800 bushels, which shows an alarming decline
-in production. If once the waters of Marion could produce a large
-amount of quahaugs, there is no reason why they cannot again be made to
-produce the same, or more.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              400
-  Number of men,                                   19
-  Number of boats,                                 --
-  Value of boats,                                  --
-  Number of skiffs,                                19
-  Value of skiffs,                               $200
-  Value of implements,                            $50
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                    400
-      Value,                                   $1,100
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                    400
-      Value,                                     $400
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                    800
-      Value,                                   $1,500
-
-
-_Mashpee._
-
-The quahaug industry at Mashpee is at a low ebb. Natural facilities
-are favorable, but a lack of initiative on the part of the inhabitants
-causes a small production. The best grounds are found in Popponessett
-Bay and River, where a territory of 200 acres includes several oyster
-grants which are worked but little. On the east side of Waquoit Bay
-scattering quahaugs are found in Mashpee waters.
-
-There are 3 regular and 4 intermittent quahaugers, with an invested
-capital of $70, who are obliged by the town laws to have a permit
-costing $1. The quahaug industry of the town has remained about the
-same for the last twenty-five years, and now a good quahauger can
-scarcely average 1� to 2 bushels per day.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              400
-  Number of men,                                    7
-  Number of boats,                                 --
-  Value of boats,                                  --
-  Number of skiffs,                                 5
-  Value of skiffs,                                $50
-  Value of implements,                            $20
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                     25
-      Value,                                      $60
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                    225
-      Value,                                     $225
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                    250
-      Value,                                     $285
-
-
-_Mattapoisett._
-
-The town of Mattapoisett, situated to the west of Marion, receives but
-little income from her shellfisheries, as the waters are for the most
-part too open and exposed for shellfish culture. The quahaug fishery
-is the most important shellfish industry of the town, but even this,
-when compared with the quahaug fishery of other towns, is rather
-unimportant, as most of the suitable territory is nonproductive.
-
-Quahaugs are very unevenly distributed over 800 acres. The best
-quahaugs are found in Aucoot Cove and at Brants. In the main harbor
-quahaugs are found, though scattering, as indicated on the map.
-
-No licenses or permits are required of the 28 men and boys who add to
-their income from time to time by quahauging. Most of these depend on
-other sources of employment for their main support. The industry as a
-whole is gradually declining, as overfishing has made it impossible for
-the natural supply to perpetuate itself.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              750
-  Number of men,                                   28
-  Number of boats,                                 --
-  Value of boats,                                  --
-  Number of skiffs,                                28
-  Value of skiffs,                               $425
-  Value of implements,                            $75
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                    400
-      Value,                                   $1,100
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                    400
-      Value,                                     $400
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                    800
-      Value,                                   $1,500
-
-
-_Nantucket._
-
-The quahaug industry of Nantucket ranks second to the main shellfish
-industry, the scallop fishery, and brings annually about $8,000 to the
-island. Nantucket is especially adapted for quahaugs, as Nantucket
-harbor, Maddequet harbor and the Island of Tuckernuck possess extensive
-territory. In spite of these natural advantages, which are as fine
-as any in the State, Nantucket produces only 6,000 bushels annually,
-whereas her resources, under proper cultural methods, warrant an annual
-production exceeding even that of Wellfleet, which is at present
-shipping 33,000 bushels.
-
-The quahauging territory of Nantucket is divided into three sections:
-(1) Nantucket harbor; (2) Maddequet harbor; and (3) Tuckernuck.
-
-In Nantucket harbor quahaugs are found over an area of 2,290 acres,
-both scattering and in thick patches. The principal areas are situated
-as follows:--
-
-(1) Near the town between Monomoy Heights and the wharves is a
-territory of 240 acres. In the deep water directly out from the wharves
-there has been good quahauging although the bed was discovered only a
-few years ago.
-
-(2) On the east side of the harbor, between Abram's Point and Pocomo
-Head, including Polpis harbor, are extensive grounds, comprising about
-900 acres, of scattering quahaugs.
-
-(3) On the opposite side of the harbor lies a strip of quahaug
-territory of 250 acres, which extends between Third Point and Bass
-Point.
-
-(4) At the head of the harbor on both sides quahaugs are found over an
-area of 900 acres.
-
-Maddequet harbor on the western end of the island has approximately 300
-acres suitable for quahaugs, running from Broad Creek to Eel Point.
-
-On the eastern end of Tuckernuck Island is a bed of quahaugs covering
-about 200 acres; while on the west side, between Muskeget and
-Tuckernuck, is a large area of 2,500 acres, which is more or less
-productive. The Tuckernuck fishery is largely "little necks," and it is
-from here that the shipment of small "seed" quahaugs has been made.
-
-In the spring and fall men who have been boatmen during the summer work
-at quahauging. While 48 men work irregularly, about 18 men are engaged
-in the fishery during the entire summer, though probably never more
-than 30 are raking at any one time.
-
-The production in 1906, from April I to November I, was 2,159 barrels,
-or 6,477 bushels; value, $7,557.
-
-                          PRODUCTION, 1907.[8]
-
-  ==============+========================================+
-                |              QUAHAUGS                  |
-                |---------+-----------+---------+--------+
-                | Barrels |  Average  | Bushels |  Value |
-     MONTHS     |         | price per |         |        |
-                |         |  Barrel   |         |        |
-  --------------+---------+-----------+---------+--------+
-  April         |   138   |   $3.50   |    414  |  $483  |
-  May           |   257   |    4.00   |    771  | 1,028  |
-  June          |   460   |    4.00   |  1,380  | 1,840  |
-  July          |   355   |    3.00   |  1,065  | 1,060  |
-  August        |   312   |    3.50   |    936  | 1,092  |
-  September     |   302   |    3.42   |    906  | 1,032  |
-  October       |   123   |    4.00   |    369  |   492  |
-  November      |    50   |    3.00   |    150  |   150  |
-                +---------+-----------+---------+--------+
-    Total       | 1,997   |   $3.60   |  5,991  |$7,177  |
-  "Little necks"|   101   |           |    303  | 1,310  |
-                +---------+-----------+---------+--------+
-    Grand total | 2,098   |           |  6,294  |$8,487  |
-  ==============+=========+===========+=========+========+
-
-  +=======================================================
-  |              |            "LITTLE NECKS"
-  |              |---------+-----------+---------+--------
-  |              | Barrels |  Average  | Bushels |  Value
-  |   MONTHS     |         | price per |         |
-  |              |         |  Barrel   |         |
-  +--------------+---------+-----------+---------+--------
-  |April         |    --   |     --    |    --   |   --
-  |May           |     4   |   $14.00  |    12   |  $56
-  |June          |    13   |    14.00  |    39   |  182
-  |July          |    33   |    14.00  |    90   |  462
-  |August        |    20   |    15.00  |    60   |  300
-  |September     |    22   |    10.00  |    66   |  220
-  |October       |     9   |    10.00  |    27   |   90
-  |November      |    --   |     --    |    --   |   --
-  |              +---------+-----------+---------+--------
-  |  Total       |   101   |   $12.97  |   303   |$1,310
-  +==============|=========+===========+=========+========
-
-The month of June shows the largest production, as the summer people
-do not arrive in any numbers until July. The men who do the summer
-boating are engaged in the quahaug fishery during this month, naturally
-increasing the production.
-
-The principal method is raking from a boat or dory with a long-handled
-basket rake, very similar in form to the rake used on Cape Cod. The
-second method, applicable only in shallow water, employs the use of
-a claw rake with a much shorter handle. The quahauger uses this rake
-in the shallow water, where he can wade at low tide. The largest claw
-rakes are often wider than the basket rakes, and are much cheaper.
-
-At Nantucket about 5 per cent. of the entire catch is "little necks,"
-which are found mostly at Tuckernuck. The quahauger usually makes three
-culls of his catch: (1) "little necks"; (2) medium; (3) large. A few
-blunts are obtained. The quahaugs are shipped chiefly to New York and
-Boston markets, either directly by the quahaugers or through Nantucket
-firms.
-
-The boats used in the industry, numbering 24 sail, 6 power and 10
-single dories, and approximating $6,150 in value, are in a way
-transitory capital, and are used in the winter for scalloping and other
-fishing. Nevertheless, it is necessary to class them as capital used in
-the quahaug fishery.
-
-No special town laws are made for the regulation of the Nantucket
-quahaug fishery, although at any time by vote of the town suitable
-regulations and by-laws can be made.
-
-Quahaugs have probably always been abundant at Nantucket, as over fifty
-years ago they were reported as plentiful. It is only of late years
-that the fishery has assumed any great importance, when the increasing
-prices, especially for the "little necks," made it profitable for men
-to enter the business. As it is, many men now quahaug only when they
-have nothing else to do.
-
-From the statistics of the United States Fish Commission for 1879 we
-find that the annual catch for that year amounted to 150 bushels,
-valued at $75. As a striking contrast to this, the present production
-of 6,294 bushels, valued at $8,487, shows the great development of the
-fishery, which has been caused by more men entering the business, the
-opening up of new beds, such as the "little neck" beds of Tuckernuck,
-and the improved methods of raking in the deep water.
-
-It is rather difficult to state definitely, from lack of past
-statistical figures, whether Nantucket industry is declining or
-improving. Between 1879 and 1906 no records are obtainable. The
-production figures for 1906 show 6,477 bushels, as compared with 6,144
-bushels in 1907. Whether there was merely a sudden temporary increase
-in the supply by the opening up of new beds in 1906, or whether there
-is a steady decline, can only be determined by the production of future
-years. Many indications point to the latter, in spite of the assurance
-of the quahaugers that 1907 was a good season, because of high market
-prices.
-
-The last few years have witnessed a change in the quahaug fishery,--a
-realization that there is more money in planting and raising quahaugs
-than in oyster culture. The out-of-State oystermen, especially in New
-York, have been the first to realize this, and have been buying, at the
-rate of $4 to $5 per bushel, all the small quahaugs they can procure,
-merely replanting, to reap the following year a yield of 3 to 6 bushels
-for every bushel planted.
-
-Under the stimulus of the high prices offered, many bushels of small
-quahaugs have been shipped from the town, which thus lost what the
-planters gained. There is much feeling against such a practice, but so
-far nothing has been done by the town to stop this shipping of "seed"
-quahaugs. As the town has full control of its shellfisheries, it has
-only to pass a simple law allowing no quahaugs under 2 inches to be
-taken, and see that it is properly enforced. Such a matter should be
-attended to at once, as not only is the actual value of the catch
-diminished, but the industry is seriously impaired by the capture of
-these small quahaugs before they can spawn.
-
-The only other way to remedy this difficulty is to grant licenses
-allowing the replanting of these small quahaugs on the barren parts of
-the harbor until they have obtained a proper size. The results obtained
-from the experiments of the commission in Polpis harbor show that
-quahaugs will grow rapidly when thus replanted in suitable places, and
-that a gain of � to � of an inch, or 3 to 6 bushels for every bushel
-bedded, can be obtained during the six summer months (May to November).
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            5,290
-  Number of men,                                   48
-  Number of boats,                                 30
-  Value of boats,                              $5,800
-  Number of dories,                                10
-  Value of dories,                               $350
-  Value of gear,                                 $600
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                    303
-      Value,                                   $1,310
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                  5,991
-      Value,                                   $7,177
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                  6,294
-      Value,                                   $8,487
-
-
-_New Bedford._
-
-The quahaug industry of New Bedford was practically annihilated by the
-law of 1905, which closed the Acushnet River and Clark's Cove to both
-clammer and quahauger. Good beds of quahaugs, particularly "little
-necks," exist in both these waters, but can be taken only for bait.
-As several sewers run into the Acushnet River, and the public health
-was endangered by the consumption as food of the quahaugs taken from
-the river and the waters near its mouth, nearly 400 acres of quahaug
-territory were closed by the State Board of Health. What little
-available territory there is outside the prescribed area, off Clark's
-Point, is free to all.
-
-A license is required to dig quahaugs for bait in this territory, and
-such is issued free of charge. The maximum amount permitted to be dug
-is 2 bushels per week of clams or quahaugs, or of both. Some 320
-permits have been issued since the law was passed, in 1905. Eleven of
-these have been since revoked for unlawful conduct on the part of the
-possessors. For the first offence the license is merely revoked, for
-the second a fine of $10, and for the third $100 is imposed.
-
-
-_Orleans._
-
-Although Orleans is well represented by all four main types of
-shellfish, the quahaug fishery is the leading industry of the town. A
-favorable coast line, fronting on the west the waters of Cape Cod Bay
-and bounded on the east by Pleasant Bay, provides excellent facilities
-for the quahaug fishery.
-
-The main quahauging territory is in Cape Cod Bay. While the west coast
-of Orleans is only about a mile long, the privileges which allow
-the citizens of Orleans free fishing in Eastham waters, according
-to the act of incorporation in 1792, "whereby the benefits of the
-shellfishery were to be mutually shared," opens up an extensive tract
-of quahaug territory, from 2 to 3 miles in width, extending north as
-far as Billingsgate Island and the Wellfleet line. The actual Orleans
-quahaug territory consists only of 1,000 acres, which furnish but poor
-quahauging, while the water is several fathoms deep.
-
-On the east side an entirely different condition prevails. Here in
-the waters of Pleasant Bay is a bed of quahaugs which, though worked
-for a long time, is still in excellent condition. The proportion of
-"little necks" is larger than on the west side, running about one-half
-the entire catch; neither is the water as deep here, rarely having
-a greater depth than 12 feet, and by no means as rough as the more
-exposed waters of Cape Cod Bay. The quahauging grounds here comprise
-500 acres.
-
-Although there are 1,500 acres of quahaug territory in the town of
-Orleans, only a small part of this is commercially productive, and the
-larger part of the fishery is carried on in Eastham waters.
-
-The possession of two entirely different quahaug grounds, one on the
-east, the other on the west coast, makes practically two different
-industries, each of which will have to be considered separately.
-
-(1) _Cape Cod Bay Industry._--In Cape Cod Bay 50 men rake quahaugs
-whenever the weather will permit. Owing to the great depth of water,
-the work is difficult, requiring rakes with handles often 60 feet long.
-Two men generally go in one boat, the usual type being an elongated
-dory, some 30 to 32 feet over all, carrying from 4 to 12 horse-power
-gasolene engines. These boats are built to stand rough weather, and
-cost from $700 to $1,000 apiece. Thirty boats are employed in this
-business in the bay.
-
-The quahauger averages perhaps 100 working days in a year, as in a
-strong wind and choppy sea it is impossible to rake in the deep water.
-A good fisherman expects to rake from 2 to 3 barrels of quahaugs a
-day. Five to ten years ago as many as 15 barrels were dug in a day
-by one man, but this is impossible now. Even as it is, the profits
-are large. The best quahauger in Orleans cleared in 1906 over $1,600,
-while several others made nearly $1,400. As at Wellfleet, the Orleans
-quahaugers receive licenses to replant their quahaugs along the shore,
-and it is customary to thus keep them until the New York or Boston
-markets offer suitable prices. Nearly two-thirds of these deep-water
-quahaugs are blunts, and perhaps one-tenth of the catch is "little
-necks."
-
-(2) _Pleasant Bay Industry._--About 25 men dig here from ordinary
-dories, using short rakes and tongs. The average wages are $2 to $3 per
-day, which is considerably less than the high wages of the Cape Cod Bay
-fishery; but many more days can be utilized during the year, while the
-work is much easier and the necessary outlay of capital is slight. Here
-the quahaugs run about one-half "little necks," and the proportion of
-blunts is small.
-
-Little evidence of decline can be seen in Pleasant Bay, where the bed
-of quahaugs, although raked for a long time, still shows few signs of
-decrease. On the Cape Cod Bay side the reverse is true, and the supply
-is gradually diminishing.
-
-The same town laws for regulation of the quahaug fishery apply for
-Wellfleet, Eastham and Orleans. (See Wellfleet.)
-
-The main historical features of the quahaug industry at Orleans have
-been similar to Wellfleet, the industry lying practically dormant until
-1894, when it rapidly reached its present production. Unfortunately,
-but little data can be obtained for comparison of the industry of 1879
-with 1907. Ernest Ingersoll reports, in 1879:--
-
-    At Orleans, some few men who go mackereling in summer stay at
-    home and dig clams in winter, getting perhaps 50 barrels of
-    quahaugs among others, which are peddled in the town.
-
-Comparing the two years by table, we find:--
-
-  =======================+=================+===============================
-                         |1879.            |1907.                         |
-  -----------------------+-----------------+------------------------------+
-  Annual production,     |150 bushels,     |33,000 bushels.               |
-  Value of production,   |$82.50,          |$41,350.                      |
-  Number of men,         |A few,           |75.                           |
-  Location, quahaug beds,|Pleasant Bay,    |Cape Cod Bay and Pleasant Bay.|
-  Market,                |Home consumption,|New York and Boston.          |
-  =======================+=================+===============================
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  ==========================+===============+===============+=========
-                            | Cape Cod Bay. | Pleasant Bay. |  Total.
-  --------------------------+---------------+---------------+---------
-  Area (acres),             |      1,000    |       500     |   1,500
-  Number of men,            |         50    |        25     |      75
-  Number of boats,          |         30    |         -     |      30
-  Value of boats,           |    $23,000    |         -     | $23,000
-  Number of dories,         |          -    |        25     |      25
-  Value of dories,          |          -    |      $500     |    $500
-  Value of implements,      |     $1,250    |      $250     |  $1,500
-                            |               |               |
-          _Production._     |               |               |
-                            |               |               |
-  "Little necks":--         |               |               |
-     Bushels,               |      2,700    |     3,000     |   5,700
-     Value,                 |     $6,750    |    $7,000     | $13,750
-                            |               |               |
-  Quahaugs:--               |               |               |
-     Bushels,               |     24,300    |     3,000     |  27,300
-     Value,                 |    $24,300    |    $3,300     | $27,600
-                            |               |               |
-  Total:--                  |               |               |
-     Bushels,               |     27,000    |     6,000     |  33,000
-     Value,                 |    $31,050    |   $10,300     | $41,350
-  ==========================+===============+===============+=========
-
-
-_Provincetown._
-
-No commercial quahaug fishery is carried on at Provincetown. A few
-quahaugs, chiefly "little necks," are found in the tide pools among the
-thatch on the northwestern side of the harbor.
-
-
-_Swansea._
-
-A quahaug fishery existed in Swansea until three years ago. Since that
-time there has been no commercial fishery, though a few quahaugs are
-still dug for home consumption.
-
-
-_Truro._
-
-Occasionally a few scattering quahaugs are found on the bars, which
-extend out one-quarter of a mile from shore on the bay side. No quahaug
-fishery is carried on.
-
-
-_Wareham._
-
-The town of Wareham, situated on the northeast side of Buzzards Bay
-and separated from the adjoining town of Bourne by Cohasset Narrows,
-has a coast line indented with numerous small inlets, bays and rivers,
-which afford excellent opportunities for the growth of the quahaug.
-The villages of Onset, Wareham and part of Buzzards Bay enjoy the
-privileges of this fishery.
-
-Quahaugs are found over practically the entire territory, and comprise
-a total area of about 1,300 acres. Although much of this area is
-barren, the commercial fishery is maintained by small isolated beds
-which occur here and there.
-
-The two principal centers of the industry are in the Wareham River and
-in Onset Bay. At Onset the whole bay, except the oyster grants, as
-included between the southeast end of Mashnee Island and Peters Neck,
-is used for quahauging. A few quahaugs are found in Broad Cove, and
-fair digging is obtained in Buttermilk Bay and Cohasset Narrows. The
-Wareham River, outside the oyster grants, and a narrow shore strip from
-Weweantit River to Tempe's Knob, comprise the rest of the territory. In
-Onset Channel a fine bed exists in deep water, 2 to 4 fathoms, but the
-ground is so hard that not much digging is done.
-
-It will be seen from the map that practically 75 per cent. of the
-quahaug territory is taken up by oyster grants, especially in the
-Wareham River and Onset Bay. Town sentiment is in a chaotic state
-over the oyster and quahaug deadlock, and much friction naturally
-exists between the opposing factions, the quahaugers and oystermen.
-The struggle between these two parties was at its height several years
-ago, and the enmity still continues, though not so openly, owing to the
-decline of the quahaug industry. Rightly managed, affairs ought to be
-so arranged that prosperity might be brought to both factions; but town
-customs and town laws, poorly enforced at the best, are hardly able to
-cope with this evil, which has resulted in much expense legally and
-financially to both parties, and both industries are badly crippled in
-consequence,--the oyster industry by lack of protection and the quahaug
-industry by loss of grounds. It is hoped that in the future suitable
-arrangements can be made for both industries, and that the quahaug
-industry, which is at present declining, can be put on an equal footing
-with the oyster industry, by granting licenses to plant and grow
-quahaugs.
-
-Most of the digging is done with garden rakes, potato diggers or by
-hand. Some tongs are used, but few if any long-handled basket rakes,
-since the digging is chiefly confined to the shallow water, not more
-than 10 feet deep, except in Onset Channel, where it ranges from 12 to
-24 feet.
-
-No information or statistical records of the quahaug fishery of Wareham
-can be obtained, and it is therefore impossible to draw any comparison
-between the present industry and the industry of twenty-five years ago.
-
-The decline of the quahaug fishery in Wareham is an established
-fact. The production of 6,000 bushels for 1906 is far less than the
-production of five years ago. Since 1901 the output has steadily
-declined, and where the quahauger once was able to rake 5 bushels at
-a tide, to-day he can rake scarcely 1 bushel in the same time. It
-is only a question of a few years when the natural supply will be
-completely exterminated. The only salvation of the industry in Wareham
-is to increase the natural supply by quahaug farming.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            1,300
-  Number of men,                                   50
-  Number of boats,                                  -
-  Value of boats,                                   -
-  Number of dories,                                50
-  Value of dories,                               $750
-  Value of implements,                           $250
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                  3,000
-      Value,                                   $7,500
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                  3,000
-      Value,                                   $3,000
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                  6,000
-      Value,                                  $10,500
-
-
-_Wellfleet._
-
-The town of Wellfleet possesses the finest quahaug industry in
-Massachusetts. More men are engaged in the business and the annual
-production is larger than that of any other town of the State.
-
-In colonial days the towns of Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet were
-incorporated as one town,--the town of Eastham. In 1763 an act was
-passed incorporating the North Precinct of Eastham into a district by
-the name of Wellfleet, "Reserving to the inhabitants of said town the
-privileges by them heretofore enjoyed of all ways to and of erecting
-houses on the beaches and islands for the convenience of the fishery of
-all kinds, and of anchorage and of landing all goods or wares at any of
-their common landing places in any of the harbors of said Eastham in
-like manner as they might have done if this act had never been made and
-passed." By this act were created the two independent towns of Eastham
-and Wellfleet, which held in common all fisheries, thus giving the
-mutual right of the shellfisheries to both towns.
-
-In 1797 another act of incorporation, separating Orleans from Eastham,
-was enacted, which provided that the benefits of the shellfisheries of
-these two towns were to be mutually enjoyed.
-
-The result of these two acts was to give Eastham and Wellfleet and at
-the same time Eastham and Orleans mutual rights of the shellfishery,
-but forbidding mutual shellfisheries between Wellfleet and Orleans.
-While this may seem to give theoretically the advantage to Eastham,
-actually the town gains nothing in the quahaug fishery, as Orleans has
-practically no productive grounds on the bay side, and the Orleans
-quahaugers fish in the Eastham waters.
-
-The quahaug territory of Wellfleet comprises about 2,500 acres, and
-approximately takes up all the harbor, wherever there are no oyster
-grants, running from the "Deep Hole" between Great Island and Indian
-Neck southward to the Eastham line. Outside of these limits a few
-quahaugs are found on the flats of Duck Creek and along the shore
-flats of the town. They are more abundant on the north side of Egg
-Island, where they are taken in shallow water with ordinary hand
-rakes. The best quahauging is found in the channel extending from an
-imaginary line between Lieutenant's Island and Great Beach Hill south
-to Billingsgate. The greatest depth at low tide is 4� fathoms and the
-general average is about 3 fathoms. In this channel are found most of
-the "little necks," small blunts and small sharps.
-
-Outside of the oyster grants, quahaugs are found south of Great
-Island, north of Billingsgate Island on the west side of the harbor,
-on Lieutenant's Island bar and at the mouth of Blackfish Creek. A few
-quahaugs, both sharps and blunts, are raked with 25-foot rakes in the
-shallow water 6 to 8 feet near the beach, usually on a sandy bottom.
-
-The principal market for Wellfleet quahaugs is New York, though many
-are sent to Boston and other parts of the country, even to the middle
-west. Quahaugs have been shipped from Wellfleet to Milwaukee and
-arrived in good condition after ten days.
-
-The annual production is 33,000 bushels, one-sixth of these, 5,500
-bushels, being "little necks." There were 140 men engaged in the
-fishery in 1906, and 145 permits were granted in 1907. The average
-yield for a day's raking is 4 bushels, although an exceptional
-quahauger can sometimes rake 7 bushels.
-
-Practically all the raking is done in deep water, with rakes the
-handles of which are often 47 feet long. Each quahauger has a set
-of handles of various lengths for different depths of water. Both
-power boats and "cats" are used here in quahauging, the power boats
-possessing considerable advantage over the sail boat. Thirty-eight
-power boats and 62 sail boats, both single and double manned, are used
-at Wellfleet.
-
-At present there is every indication of a declining fishery. Until
-the last three years the industry has been steadily on the increase
-since 1894. The maximum production was reached a few years ago, and
-the industry is slowly on the decline, unless the opening up of new
-beds gives it a fresh start. Unfortunately, all the quahaugers do not
-realize the possibility of this seemingly inexhaustible supply giving
-out, and believe it will continue forever; but any one can see that
-it is impossible for the natural supply to continue when such inroads
-are yearly made, and that it is only a question of time when the best
-business asset of the town will become extinct.
-
-For years there has been an antagonistic feeling between the
-quahaugers and the oystermen, due to the conflicting interests of
-these industries. Although the quahaug territory has been narrowed
-down by the giving of oyster grants in the harbor, the quahaug fishery
-has not suffered severely, as the poorer quahaug grounds were alone
-granted, with the idea that more money could be made by using these
-for oyster culture. Although these grants were laid out in good faith,
-injustice in many instances has been done the quahaug industry; but on
-the whole the change has been for the benefit of the town. In the broad
-waters of Wellfleet harbor there is room for both industries, and there
-is no reason why both should not prosper if wisely regulated, without
-the intervention of town politics. At present this antagonism has hurt
-the interests of both, and it is manifestly unfair that either should
-drive the other out while there is room for both to prosper.
-
-Wellfleet is the only town that can boast of a quahaug club. This
-club was formed in 1904, and had an enrollment of practically all the
-quahaugers.
-
-Permits are required of every man engaged in the quahaug fishery. These
-cost $1 apiece, and are granted on application to any one who has been
-a resident of the town for six months. These permits are to be obtained
-each year, on or before May 1, after which date an additional charge of
-50 cents is made for collecting. No person without a regular permit is
-allowed to catch quahaugs for market. Permits were first issued in 1904.
-
-Section 2 of chapter 269 of the Acts of 1904 is as follows:--
-
-    SECTION 2. No inhabitant of said towns shall sell or offer for
-    sale little neck clams or quahaugs which measure less than one
-    and one-half inches across the widest part, and no person shall
-    in any of said towns sell or offer for sale little neck clams
-    or quahaugs which measure less than one and one-half inches
-    across the widest part.
-
-This excellent law was passed for the towns of Eastham, Orleans
-and Wellfleet, but has never been enforced. Although enacted and
-technically lived up to, no measures are made for its enforcement,
-which would necessitate a shellfish inspector. This furnishes an
-example of the nonenforcement of one of the few good town laws.
-
-Section 4 of chapter 269 of the Acts of 1904 is as follows:--
-
-    SECTION 4. The selectmen of the said towns may, in their
-    respective towns, grant licenses or permits for such periods,
-    not exceeding two years, and under such conditions as they
-    may deem proper, not however covering more than seventy-five
-    feet square in area, to any inhabitants of the town to bed
-    quahaugs in any waters, flats and creeks within the town at
-    any place where there is no natural quahaug bed, not impairing
-    the private rights of any person or materially obstructing any
-    navigable waters. It shall be unlawful for any person, except
-    the licensee and his agents, to take any quahaugs in or remove
-    them from the territory covered by any such license.
-
-The above should receive well-deserved praise, as it is one of the most
-useful town laws ever enacted in Massachusetts. Each quahauger is thus
-enabled to stake off a little plot 75 feet square on the flats, whereon
-he can bed his catch whenever the market price is too low for shipment.
-This not only makes steadier work for the quahaugers, since a dull
-market does not stop digging, as before, but also enables him to obtain
-a better price for his quahaugs, and he is not forced to lose through
-the wastes of competition.
-
-Quahaugs have always been abundant at Wellfleet. Forty years ago about
-15 men were engaged in the business, and shipped their catch to Boston
-by packet boats, quahaugs then wholesaling at 50 cents per bushel.
-
-In 1879 (report of the United States Fish Commission) Ernest Ingersoll
-gives the following account of the quahaug industry at Wellfleet, which
-furnishes such an excellent comparison with the present industry that
-it is given here:--
-
-    The early productiveness of Cape Cod is shown by the presence
-    of numerous shellfish heaps, particularly in Wellfleet and
-    Barnstable harbors, filled up by the Indians, and consisting
-    almost wholly of the shells of this mollusk. Though in greatly
-    depleted numbers, the quahaug still survives along the inside
-    of the Cape, and at Wellfleet has been raked from early times
-    by the settlers. Mr. F. W. True contributes some notes on
-    this place, from which I learn that the quahaug fishery as
-    a business there dates from the beginning of the nineteenth
-    century. It grew in extent until 1863, and from that time
-    until 1868 the trade was at its height, since when it has
-    diminished year by year, owing to lack of good market rather
-    than failure of the supply. Between 1863 and 1869 the average
-    catch each year was not less than 2,500 bushels. Of this amount
-    a comparatively small part was consumed at Wellfleet, and the
-    rest were shipped to Boston, Provincetown, Salem, Newport,
-    Manchester and a few other New England ports. From 1870 to 1876
-    the quantity of quahaugs taken per year decreased from 2,500
-    bushels to 1,800 bushels, and this latter amount has remained
-    constant to the present year. Of the total catch in 1878,
-    fully one-half, or 900 bushels, was consumed in Wellfleet, and
-    the remaining 900 bushels were shipped to Boston and other
-    neighboring towns. For three years, beginning with 1876, 75
-    bushels of quahaugs have been annually shipped to New York City.
-
-    Quahaugs are found in all parts of Wellfleet Bay except in a
-    small spot near the wharves, called the "Deep Hole," and a
-    similar one on the west side of the bay. Both of these places
-    are covered with a thick, soft mud. It is not usual, however,
-    to fish in parts of the bay where the average depth at low
-    water exceeds 8 feet. Most of the raking is done on the western
-    side. In ordinary years, quahaug raking is begun the last of
-    March and continues until the first of October. As a general
-    thing, no raking is done through the winter months, although
-    in some years a small amount has been done through holes cut
-    in the ice. The fishermen rake about four tides per week,
-    beginning at half-ebb and raking to half-flood. The boats used
-    are either cat boats or yawls rigged with two sails. Each boat
-    carries 1 man. The rake employed at Wellfleet is described
-    by Mr. True as similar in form to an oyster rake, but made of
-    steel instead of iron. In former days this instrument was of
-    iron, the tips of the teeth only being of steel. An average
-    rake has seventeen teeth, and weighs about 12 pounds. The
-    handle or tail is of wood, and is about 23 feet long. The
-    baskets in which the quahaugs are collected and measured are
-    of ordinary manufacture, and hold about a bushel each; and the
-    whole outfit of a quahaug fisherman does not cost over $150,
-    and the total amount of capital invested in apparatus at the
-    present time in Wellfleet does not exceed $800. This amount is
-    about evenly divided between 5 men, none of whom are engaged in
-    this fishery more than a part of their time.
-
-    Quahaugs are sent to market always in the shell, and packed
-    in second-hand flour or sugar barrels. The wholesale price
-    of quahaugs for many years averaged 60 cents per bushel, but
-    in 1879 it fell to 55 cents. One dollar and seventy-five
-    cents is the average wholesale price per barrel. Quahaugs
-    retail in Wellfleet at 80 cents per bushel. The usual method
-    of transportation is by packet, at a cost of 25 cents per
-    barrel.[9]
-
-                     COMPARISON OF 1879 WITH 1907.
-
-  =========================+======================+======================
-                           |         1879.        |         1907.
-  -------------------------+----------------------+----------------------
-  Annual production,       |1,800,                |33,000.
-                           |                      |
-  Annual value,            |$990,                 |$41,250.
-                           |                      |
-  Average price per bushel,|55 cents,             |$1.25.
-                           |                      |
-  Number of men,           |5,                    |145.
-                           |                      |
-  Capital,                 |$800,                 |$25,950.
-                           |                      |
-  Market,                  |Boston and New York,  |New York, Boston,
-                           |                      |and other cities.
-                           |                      |
-  Season,                  |April 1 to October 1, |April 1 to October 1.
-                           |                      |
-  Boats,                   |5 sail boats,         |100 boats, one-third
-                           |                      |power, two-thirds
-                           |                      |sail.
-                           |                      |
-  Deepest water,           |8 feet,               |40 feet.
-                           |                      |
-  Longest rake,            |23 feet,              |47 feet.
-                           |                      |
-  Best quahaug beds,       |West side of harbor,  |Channel.
-  =========================+======================+======================
-
-From the account of Mr. Ingersoll the above table has been formulated,
-showing the vast increase in the quahaug business of Wellfleet since
-1879, as well as certain changes in the industry. This by no means
-proves that the quahaug industry is on the increase; it merely shows
-that it has taken a tremendous development since 1879, and the
-fact that the quahaug industry of Wellfleet has passed its maximum
-production a few years ago and is now on the decline should not be
-overlooked in consulting this table, which otherwise would give an
-erroneous impression. The changing of the quahaug grounds from shallow
-to deeper water alone is a sign of the decline of the industry. The
-quahaug industry has developed to its present extent only since 1894,
-and is comparatively recent. By the opening of the great beds of
-"little necks" and quahaugs in the channel and deep water the industry
-suddenly became important.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            2,500
-  Number of men,                                  145
-  Number of power boats,                           38
-  Value of power boats,                       $14,000
-  Number of sail boats,                            62
-  Value of sail boats,                        $10,300
-  Value of implements,                         $3,200
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                  5,500
-      Value,                                  $13,850
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                 27,500
-      Value,                                  $27,500
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                 33,000
-      Value,                                  $41,350
-
-
-_Yarmouth._
-
-The quahaug grounds, which lie mostly in Bass River, are free to the
-inhabitants of Dennis and Yarmouth, as these two towns have common
-fishery rights. Quahaugs are found in four localities: (1) Bass River;
-(2) Mill Creek; (3) Barnstable Bar on the north shore; and (4) Lewis
-Bay. The total area is 1,000 acres, which includes all grounds where
-there are any quahaugs, as there are now no thick beds. The average
-depth of water over the quahaug grounds is 4 feet.
-
-The town law governing the quahaug fishery reads thus:--
-
-    All persons other than the inhabitants of the towns of Dennis
-    and Yarmouth are prohibited from taking clams and quahaugs from
-    the shores and waters of the town of Yarmouth. Inhabitants
-    of the Commonwealth not residents of Dennis and Yarmouth may
-    obtain permits of the selectmen to take sufficient quantity of
-    said shellfish for their family use.
-
-The history of the quahaug industry of Yarmouth is one of decline. The
-industry has existed for fifteen years, starting in 1892. Mr. Edgar N.
-Baker, who has been interested in the business ever since it started,
-says:--
-
-    In the last ten years it is safe to say that the catch has
-    fallen off fully 75 per cent., and nothing but the constant
-    advance in prices and lack of profitable employment has
-    prompted men to give their attention to this method of
-    obtaining their "bread and butter." The most conservative
-    estimate would not put it below 50 per cent.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            1,000
-  Number of men (transient),                       20
-  Number of boats,                                 --
-  Value of boats,                                  --
-  Number of skiffs,                                10
-  Value of skiffs,                               $100
-  Value of implements,                           $140
-
-                             _Production._
-
-  "Little necks":--
-      Bushels,                                  1,200
-      Value,                                   $3,000
-  Quahaugs:--
-      Bushels,                                  1,000
-      Value,                                   $1,000
-  Total:--
-      Bushels,                                  2,200
-      Value,                                   $4,000
-
-FOOTNOTES:
-
-[7] "The Fisheries of Massachusetts," United States Fish Commission
-Report, Section II., p. 253.
-
-[8] Returns of Special Agent Wm. C. Dunham.
-
-[9] "The Oyster, Scallop, Clam, Mussel and Abalone Industries," by
-Ernest Ingersoll. United States Fish Commission Report, Section V.,
-Vol. 2, p. 603.
-
-
-
-
-SCALLOP (_Pecten irradians_).
-
-
-The common shallow-water scallop is unknown commercially on the north
-shore, occurring only south of Boston. It is usually found in abundance
-along the southern shore of Cape Cod, in Buzzards Bay, and about the
-islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard.
-
-For the past three years investigations in regard to its growth, habits
-and culture have been carried on by the Commissioners on Fisheries and
-Game. These investigations are now practically completed. In another
-report the whole life history of this bivalve will be given, showing
-the application of this scientific study to the existing conditions of
-the industry.
-
-The scallop fishery in Massachusetts is only a partial industry, as it
-does not concern the whole coast line, but merely the Vineyard Sound
-and Buzzards Bay shore. Compared with other States, the production of
-Massachusetts is favorable, New York alone exceeding it in output.
-The southern coast of Massachusetts is especially adapted for this
-shellfish. Its bays, sheltered harbors and inlets afford excellent
-ground for the scallop, which requires protection against the heavy
-seas. Thousands of acres of eel-grass flats from 1 to 60 feet under
-water were formerly covered by beds of scallops, and in parts are still
-thickly set. While the extent of the scalloping area is large, only
-portions are ever productive at any one time. A set may be in one part
-this year, and the next year's spawn may catch in a different place.
-Thus, while all the ground is suitable for scallops, only a small part
-is in productive operation each year.
-
-While the possibilities of future development are not as alluring as
-in the other shellfisheries, yet much can be done to assist nature and
-help preserve the supply. Wise laws and well-directed efforts can save
-many bushels of the young scallops which yearly die on the exposed
-flats where they have set in unfavorable places.
-
-_Scope of the Report._--The object of this report is to present certain
-information concerning the scallop industry which will be of use to
-the scallop fishermen, and of interest to the general public and the
-consumers. While the scallop is well known as an article of food, the
-majority of people know little about the animal. It will therefore be
-necessary in the following report to give brief descriptions of the
-various methods used in the capture of this bivalve, in order to make
-clear the more technical portions.
-
-The first part of the report considers the general results of the
-survey, the history of the industry, the scallop laws, the methods of
-scalloping and the statistics of the industry. The second part gives a
-more detailed description, the following points being considered under
-each town: (1) survey; (2) statistics of industry; (3) town laws; (4)
-history.
-
-_Methods of Work._--Several difficulties stand in the way of procuring
-exact information concerning the scallop industry, especially in regard
-to historical data which should show the improvement or decline of the
-fishery. The town records are incomplete, lost, or furnish but slight
-information. Little has been written about this industry, and we were
-thus forced to rely upon the scallopers for information concerning the
-history and former production of each town. Fortunately, the scallop
-industry is of recent origin (thirty years), and the information is
-very nearly correct. By the use of town records, market reports,
-records of express shipments, personal surveys and estimates by the
-various scallopers, and by all other methods at our command, the facts
-of the last few years have been obtained in an approximately correct
-form.
-
-The area of the scallop territory was obtained by personal inspection
-and calculated by plottings on the maps. In designating the area
-suitable for scallops in any town by a certain number of acres or
-by plottings on the map, it does not mean that scallops are found
-each year over all this territory. Allowances must be made for the
-uncertainty of the scallop supply. Some years there will be no
-scallops; in other years, plenty. Even when scallops are plentiful,
-they rarely cover the whole territory, but are found only in certain
-parts in different years. The designation of an area as scallop
-territory means that scallops have been found in the past over this
-territory, and that the natural conditions of the territory appear
-favorable for scallops.
-
-
-_The Decline._
-
-The most important questions which first come to mind when considering
-the scallop industry of to-day are these three: (1) Has there been any
-decline in the industry? If so, how extensive? (2) What are the causes
-of the decline? (3) How can the fishery be improved?
-
-I. _Extent of the Decline._--There is no question but that the industry
-as a whole has declined. This decline has made itself manifest,
-especially in certain localities, _e.g._, Buzzards Bay, where until
-1907 the entire fishery, except at New Bedford and Fairhaven, had been
-totally extinct for the past seven years.
-
-Along the south side of Cape Cod, at Edgartown and Nantucket, the
-supply has on the average remained the same. Of course there is varying
-abundance each year, but as a whole the industry in these localities
-can hardly be said to have declined.
-
-On the other hand, on the north side of Cape Cod we find a marked
-decline. A scallop fishery no longer exists at Plymouth, Barnstable
-harbor, Wellfleet and Provincetown, though twenty-five years ago these
-places boasted of a valuable industry.
-
-So we have to-day in Massachusetts three localities, two of which show
-a marked decline in the scallop fishery, while the other shows some
-improvement. Of the two depleted areas, the one (north of the Cape) may
-never revive the industry; the other (Buzzards Bay) gives indications
-that the industry can once more be put on a very profitable footing.
-The only thing necessary is perpetual precaution on the part of the
-fishermen, in order to prevent this decline. Massachusetts must not
-allow the industry to become extinct, as in Rhode Island.
-
-II. _Causes of the Decline._--The causes of the decline of this
-industry can be grouped under three heads: (1) natural enemies; (2)
-overfishing by man; (3) adverse physical conditions.
-
-The natural enemy of the scallop which works the greatest mischief is
-the starfish, or "five finger," as it is often called. The starfish
-destroys the scallop in the same manner as it attacks the oyster. The
-decline of the scallop fishery in Buzzards Bay is attributed by the
-fishermen to the inroads of this pest. Undoubtedly the starfish was
-the chief apparent cause, since, according to report, dredges full of
-starfish could be hauled up. In other localities in Massachusetts the
-starfish has not been so plentiful.
-
-While the main cause of the decline of the natural clam, quahaug and
-oyster beds is overfishing by man, the decline of the scallop fishery
-cannot be so considered. The scallop has a short life, hardly 25
-per cent. passing the two-year limit; so it does no harm to capture
-the marketable scallops which are over sixteen months old, as the
-scallop spawns when one year old, and dies a natural death usually
-before it reaches a second spawning season. When only old scallops
-are taken, as is generally the case, it is probably _impossible_
-for man to exterminate the scallops by _overfishing_. Unfortunately,
-in certain localities in the past there has been a large capture of
-the "seed" scallop, viz., the scallop less than one year old, which
-has not spawned. This has worked the ruin of the scalloping in these
-localities. The capture of the spawners for another year merely makes
-the next year's set so much smaller, and causes a rapid decline.
-
-As a rule, it is hardly profitable to catch the "seed" scallop, owing
-to its small size. But a direct relation can be established between a
-high market price and the capture of seed. When the market price is
-high and scallops scarce, it becomes profitable to catch the young
-"seed." The present scallop law now defines a "seed" scallop, and
-forbids its capture. By protecting the "seed" scallop the State has
-done all that at present appears expedient to insure the future of the
-industry; the rest lies in the hands of the towns.
-
-So, while the scallop has declined in certain localities, and the
-decline has been hastened by unwise capture of the "seed" scallop,
-the main decline of the fishery cannot be attributed to wholesale
-overfishing, as it is impossible to overfish if only the old scallops
-(over one year old) are taken; for, unlike most other animals, the
-scallop usually breeds but once, and its natural period of life is
-unusually brief. These scallops, if not taken, will die, and prove a
-total loss; so every fisherman should bear in mind that, as long as the
-"seed" scallops are protected, severe fishing of large scallops is not
-likely to injure the future scallop industry.
-
-The principal causes of the decline of the fishery, besides the inroads
-of man, are best termed "adverse physical conditions." Severe winters,
-storms, anchor frost, etc., work destruction upon the hapless scallop.
-The "infant mortality" is especially great.
-
-As the scallop dies before reaching its second birthday, only one set
-of scallops spawn in any one season. There are never two generations of
-scallops spawning at one time. I quote from Ernest Ingersoll in this
-connection:--
-
-    This represents a case where the generations follow one another
-    so rapidly that there are never two ranks, or generations,
-    in condition to reproduce their kind at once, except in
-    rare individual instances, since all, or nearly all, of the
-    old ones die before the young ones have grown old enough
-    to spawn. If such a state of affairs exists, of course any
-    sudden catastrophe, such as a great and cold storm during the
-    winter, or the covering of the water where they lie for a long
-    period with a sheet of ice, happening to kill all the tender
-    young (and old ones, too, often) in a particular district,
-    will exterminate the breed there; since, even if the older
-    and tougher ones survive this shock, they will not live long
-    enough, or at any rate, will be unable to spawn again, and so
-    start a new generation.[10]
-
-The set of young scallops is abundant in shallow water upon the
-eel-grass flats, which often, as is the case of the Common Flats at
-Chatham, are exposed at extremely low tides. A severe winter often
-kills off all the "seed" thus exposed. In this case no spawn is
-obtained the following summer, causing the suppression of the scallop
-fishery in that locality for at least a few years, and possibly its
-permanent extinction.
-
-III. _Improvement; restocking Barren Areas._--The scallop industry,
-unlike the clam and quahaug, offers but little inducement to private
-enterprise. For successful private culture small bays or coves would be
-needed, and suitable areas are very scarce. The scallop offers better
-opportunity for communal culture, _i.e._, by towns.
-
-There is but one way now known of artificial propagation for the
-scallop industry, and that is by transplanting in the fall the abundant
-set from the exposed places to the deeper water before the seed is
-killed by the winter. It is merely assisting nature by preventing a
-natural loss, and in no sense can properly be termed propagation. It
-is merely a preventive, and money used in this way to preserve the
-scallops is well expended. Usually the set is abundant, and can be
-transferred in large numbers. This is the only practical method now
-known of increasing our scallop supply, though it is hoped in the
-future that other methods may be devised.
-
-In connection with the above comes the question, if we can thus
-preserve scallops doomed to destruction, will it not be profitable
-to transplant scallops to places where the scalloping has been
-exterminated by various causes, and by means of these "seeders" furnish
-succeeding generations which may populate the barren areas? This plan
-is practical and feasible, and should be given due consideration. Why
-should not scallops be transplanted to our Buzzards Bay harbors, to
-again restock these areas? Often the attempt might fail, but there is
-bound to be success if there is perseverance. The best time to plant
-these scallops is in the fall, as a double service will be given: (1)
-preservation from destruction of the seed scallops; (2) furnishing
-spawn and young in the barren locality. Ingersoll speaks of the
-restocking of Oyster Bay in 1880:--
-
-    In the spring of 1880 eel grass came into the bay, bringing
-    young scallops [the eel grass carries the scallops attached to
-    it by the thread-like byssus]; thus the abundance of that year
-    was accounted for, though there had not been a crop before in
-    that bay since 1874.
-
-If such a restocking can be accomplished by nature, it can be done with
-more certain effect with man's assistance.
-
-
-_The Industry._
-
-I. _The Methods._--The methods of scalloping follow the historical
-rise of the fishery. As the industry grew more and more important,
-improvements became necessary in the methods of capture, and thus,
-parallel with the development of the industry, we can trace a
-corresponding development in the implements used in the capture of the
-scallop.
-
-(_a_) _Gathering by Hand._--When the scallop was first used as an
-article of food, the primitive method of gathering this bivalve by hand
-was used. This method still exists on the flats of Brewster, and often
-in other localities after heavy gales wagons can be driven to the beach
-and loaded with the scallops which have been blown ashore.
-
-(_b_) _Scoop Nets._--This hand method was not rapid enough for the
-enterprising scallopers, and the next step in the industry was the
-use of scoop nets, about 8 inches in diameter, by which the scallops
-could be picked up in the water. These nets were attached to poles
-of various lengths, suitable to the depth of water. "This method,"
-writes Ingersoll, "was speedily condemned, however, because it could be
-employed only where scallops are a foot thick and inches in length, as
-one fisherman expressed it."
-
-(_c_) _The Pusher._--The next invention was the so-called "pusher." The
-"pusher" consists of a wooden pole from 8 to 9 feet long, attached to
-a rectangular iron frame 3 by 1� feet, upon which is fitted a netting
-bag 3 feet in depth. The scalloper, wading on the flats at low tide,
-gathers the scallops by shoving the "pusher" among the eel grass. When
-the bag is full, the contents are emptied into the dory and the process
-repeated. The scallopers who use the "pusher" go in dories, which are
-taken to the various parts of the scalloping ground and moved whenever
-the immediate locality is exhausted. This method is in use to-day,
-but is applicable only to shallow flats, and can be worked only at
-low tide, where dredging is impossible. It is hard work, and not as
-profitable as the better method of dredging. This method of scalloping
-is used chiefly at Chatham, Dennis and Yarmouth; occasionally it is
-used at Nantucket and other towns.
-
-(_d_) _Dredging._--The greater part of the scallop catch is taken by
-dredging, which is the most universal as well as the most profitable
-method. The dredge, commonly pronounced "drudge," consists of an iron
-framework about 3 by 1� feet, with a netting bag attached, which will
-hold from one to two bushels of scallops. Cat boats, carrying from 6 to
-10 dredges, are used for this method of scalloping. These boats, with
-several "reefs," cross the scallop grounds pulling the dredges, which
-hold the boat steady in her course. A single run with all the dredges
-overboard is called a "drift." The contents of all the dredges is said
-to be the result or catch of the "drift."
-
-When the dredges are hauled in they are emptied on what is known as
-a culling board. This board runs the width of the boat, projecting
-slightly on both sides. It is 3 feet wide, and has a guide 3 inches
-high along each side, leaving the ends open. The scallops are then
-separated from the rubbish, such as seaweed, shells, mud, etc., while
-the refuse and seed scallops are thrown overboard by merely pushing
-them off the end of the board. Each catch is culled out while the
-dredges are being pulled along on the back "drift," and the board is
-again clear for the next catch. The culled scallops are first put in
-buckets and later transferred either to bushel bags or dumped into the
-cockpit of the boat.
-
-Two men are usually required to tend from 6 to 8 dredges in a large
-cat boat, but often one man alone does all the work. This seems to be
-confined to localities, as at Nantucket nearly all the cat boats have
-two men. At Edgartown the reverse is true, one man to the boat, though
-in power dredging two men are always used.
-
-Several styles of dredges are used in scalloping, as each locality has
-its own special kind, which is best adapted to the scalloping bottom of
-that region. Four different styles are used in Massachusetts, two of
-which permit a subdivision, making in all six different forms. Each of
-these dredges is said by the scallopers using them to be the best; but
-for all-round work the "scraper" seems the most popular.
-
-(1) _The Chatham or Box Dredge._--As this dredge was first used in
-Chatham, the name of the town was given to it, to distinguish it from
-the other styles. At the present time its use is confined to Chatham
-and the neighboring towns of the Cape. With the exception of a very few
-used at Nantucket, it is not found elsewhere in Massachusetts.
-
-The style of the box dredge is peculiar, consisting of a rectangular
-framework, 27 by 12 inches, of flat iron 1 by � inches, with an
-oval-shaped iron bar extending back as a support for the netting
-bag, which is attached to the rectangular frame. To the side of the
-rectangular frame is attached a heavy iron chain about 4 feet long, to
-which is fastened the drag rope.
-
-(2) _The Scraper._--As can be seen by the illustration, this style of
-dredge consists of a rigid iron frame of triangular shape, which has a
-curve of nearly 90� at the base, to form the bowl of the dredge. Above,
-a raised cross bar connects the two arms, while at the bottom of the
-dredge a strip of iron 2 inches wide extends from arm to arm. This
-strip acts as a scraping blade, and is set at an angle so as to dig
-into the bottom. The top of the net is fastened to the raised cross bar
-and the lower part to the blade.
-
-The usual dimensions of the dredge are: arms, 2� feet; upper cross bar,
-2 feet; blade, 2� feet. The net varies in size, usually holding about a
-bushel of scallops, and running from 2 to 3 feet in length. Additional
-weights can be put on the cross bar when the scalloper desires the
-dredge to scrape deeper. A wooden bar, 2 feet long, buoys the net.
-
-Two styles of this dredge are in use. At Nantucket the whole net is
-made of twine, while at Edgartown and in Buzzards Bay the lower part of
-the net is formed of a netting of iron rings, the upper half of the net
-being twine. The iron rings are supposed to stand the wear better than
-the twine netting. This difference seems to be merely a matter of local
-choice. The "scraper" is perhaps the dredge most generally used, as, no
-matter what style is in use, a scalloper generally has a few "scrapers"
-among his dredges.
-
-(3) _The "Slider."_--The principle of the "slider" is the reverse of
-the "scraper," as the blade is set either level or with an upward
-incline, so the dredge can slide over the bottom. This dredge is used
-on rough bottom and in places where there is little eel-grass. In some
-dredges the blade is rigid, but in the majority the blade hangs loose.
-
-The "slider" used at Edgartown differs from the "scraper" by having
-perfectly straight arms and no curved bowl, the blade being fastened
-to the arms in a hook-and-eye fashion. The dimensions of this dredge
-are the same as those of the "scraper," although occasionally smaller
-dredges are found.
-
-(4) _The "Roller" Dredge._--This style of dredge is used only in
-the town of Mattapoisett, where the scallopers claim it is the most
-successful. The dredge is suitable for scalloping over rough ground, as
-the blade of the dredge is merely a line of leads, which roll over the
-surface of the ground gathering in the scallops.
-
-The dredge consists of an oval iron frame, 32 by 20 inches, which acts
-as the arms, and is attached to another iron frame, 32 by 3 inches. The
-blade of the dredge consists of a thin rope with attached leads. The
-net is made wholly of twine, and is about 2� feet long.
-
-_Scalloping with Power Boats._--The season of 1907 has witnessed in
-Massachusetts the first use of auxiliary power in the scallop fishery.
-At Edgartown the main part of the scalloping is now done by power,
-which, in spite of the additional expense of 5 gallons of gasolene per
-day, gives a proportionately larger catch of scallops. The Edgartown
-scallopers claim that their daily catch, using power, is from one-third
-to one-half better than under the old method of dredging by sail.
-Not only can they scallop when the wind is too light or too heavy
-for successful scalloping by sail, but more "drifts" can be made in
-the same time. A slight disadvantage of scalloping with power is the
-necessity of having two men, as the steering of the power boat demands
-much closer attention than the sail boat, which is practically held to
-a fixed course by the dredges. A power boat for scalloping possesses
-only the disadvantage of additional cost; but it is only necessary
-to look forward a few years, when expedition rather than cheapness
-will be in demand, to a partial revolution in the present methods of
-scalloping, whereby the auxiliary cat boat will take the place of the
-sail boat in the scallop fishery.
-
-II. _Preparing the Scallop for Market._ (1) _The "Eye."_--The edible
-part of the scallop is the large adductor muscle. The rest of the
-animal is thrown away, though in certain localities it is used as fish
-bait and in others for fertilizer. Why the whole of the animal is not
-eaten is hard to say. Undoubtedly all is good, but popular prejudice,
-which molds opinion, has decreed that it is bad, so it is not used as
-food. This is perhaps due to the highly pigmented and colored portions
-of the animal. Nevertheless, there is a decided possibility that in
-the future we shall eat the entire scallop, as well as the luscious
-adductor muscle.
-
-The adductor muscle is called by the dealers and fishermen the "eye," a
-name given perhaps from its important position in the animal, and its
-appearance. The color of the "eye," which has a cylindrical form, is a
-yellowish white.
-
-(2) _The Shanties._--The catch of scallops is carried to the shanty of
-the fisherman, and there opened. These shanties are usually grouped
-on the dock, so the catch can be readily transferred. Inside of these
-shanties, usually 20 by 10 feet or larger, we find a large bench 3 to
-3� feet wide, running the length of the shanty, and a little more than
-waist high. On these benches the scallops are dumped from the baskets
-or bags, and pass through the hands of the openers. Under the bench are
-barrels for the shells and refuse.
-
-(3) _The Openers._--The openers are usually men and boys, though
-occasionally a few women try their hand at the work. Of late years
-there has been a difficulty in obtaining sufficient openers, and the
-scallopers often are forced to open their own scallops. The openers
-are paid from 20 to 30 cents per gallon, according to the size of the
-scallops. One bushel of average scallops will open 2� to 3 quarts of
-"eyes." An opener can often open 8 to 10 gallons in a day, making an
-excellent day's work. The price now paid is more than double that paid
-in 1880, which was 12� cents per gallon. Some openers are especially
-rapid, and their deft movements cause a continual dropping of shells in
-the barrel and "eyes" in the gallon measure.
-
-(4) _Method of opening the Scallop._--The opening of a scallop requires
-three movements. A flat piece of steel with a sharp but rounded end,
-inserted in a wooden handle, answers for a knife. The scallop is taken
-by a right-handed opener in the palm of the left hand, the hinge
-line farthest away from the body, the scallop in its natural resting
-position, the right or smooth valve down. The knife is inserted between
-the valves on the right-hand side. An upward turn with a cutting motion
-is given, severing the "eye" from the upper valve, while a flirt at the
-same moment throws back the upper shell. The second motion tears the
-soft rim and visceral mass of the scallop and casts it into the barrel,
-leaving the "eye" standing clear. A third movement separates the "eye"
-from the shell and casts it into a gallon measure. Frequently the last
-two movements are slightly different. The faster openers at the second
-motion merely tear off enough of the rim to allow the separation of the
-"eye" from the shell, and on the third movement cast the "eye" in the
-measure, while the shell with its adhering soft parts is thrown into
-the refuse barrel. These last two motions can hardly be separated, so
-quickly are they accomplished.
-
-(5) _"Soaking."_--The "eye" is then usually put through the following
-course of treatment before marketing; the treatment is what is
-familiarly known as "soaking." It has been noticed that whenever salt
-water products are allowed to soak in fresh water, an increase of bulk
-is found. This is due to a change, called osmosis, which causes the
-swelling of the tissues. The "eye" can be increased, by the process
-of osmosis, to a gain of more than one-third its natural size; that
-is, 4� gallons of scallop "eyes" can be increased to 7 gallons by
-judicious "feeding" with fresh water. Also, a change has taken place
-in the scallops after a few hours' soaking. No longer do we find the
-poor yellow-colored small "eye" of the freshly opened scallop, but a
-beautiful white, plump "eye," which at once tempts the purchaser. While
-these changes have added to the salable properties of the scallop by
-beautifying its appearance and increasing its size, the scallop has
-lost much of its sweet flavor and freshness.
-
-Practically every scallop sold in the markets or shipped from any
-scalloping center is soaked, as the "soaking," if not already done
-by the fishermen, is administered by the retail dealers. There
-are scallopers who are ready to ship the unsoaked scallops at a
-proportionate price the moment the market demands them; but the
-consumer, through ignorance, demands the large, nice-appearing "eyes,"
-and thus unwittingly favors the practice. However, as long as pure
-water is used and other sanitary precautions taken, no actual harm may
-arise from soaking scallops.
-
-Two methods of swelling scallops are in use. When the scallops are
-shipped in kegs, which usually contain 7 gallons, the following method
-is applied: 4� to 5 gallons of "eyes" are placed in each keg, and are
-allowed to stand over night in fresh water; in the morning before
-shipment more water is added and the keg closed, and by the time of
-arrival to the New York or Boston market the scallops have increased to
-the full amount of 7 gallons.
-
-The second method of "soaking" is slightly more elaborate. The eyes are
-spread evenly in shallow wooden sinks 5 by 3 feet, with just enough
-fresh water to cover them, and left over night. In the morning a milky
-fluid is drawn off, and the "soaked" scallops are packed for market in
-kegs or butter tubs.
-
-(6) _Shipment._--The kegs in which the scallops are shipped cost 30
-cents apiece, and contain about 7 gallons. A full keg is known as a
-"package." The butter tubs are less expensive, but hold only 4 to 5
-gallons. Indeed, anything which will hold scallops for shipment is used
-to send them to market.
-
-When the scallops get to the market they are strained and weighed, 9
-pounds being considered the weight of a gallon of meats. In this way
-about 6 gallons are realized from every 7-gallon keg. With the improved
-methods of modern times scallops can be shipped far west or be held
-for months in cold storage, for which purpose unsoaked scallops are
-required. Certain firms have tried this method of keeping the catch
-until prices were high, but it has not been especially successful.
-
-(7) _Market._--One of the greatest trials to the scallop fisherman is
-the uncertainty of market returns when shipping. He does not know the
-price he is to receive; and, as the price depends on the supply on the
-market, he may receive high wages or he may get scarcely anything. The
-wholesale market alone can regulate the price, and the fisherman is
-powerless. While this is hard on the scalloper, it does not appear that
-at the present time anything can be done to remedy the uncertainty of
-return. The scallop returns from the New York market are usually higher
-than from the Boston market. The result of this has been to give New
-York each year the greater part of the scallop trade, and practically
-all the Nantucket and Edgartown scallops are shipped to New York.
-
-Either from a feeling of loyalty, or because the market returns are
-sooner forwarded, or because the express charges are less, Cape Cod
-still ships to the Boston market, in spite of the better prices offered
-in New York. Why so many Cape scallopers should continue to ship to
-Boston, and resist the attractions of better prices, is impossible to
-determine, and appears to be only a question of custom.
-
-(8) _The Price._--The price of scallops varies with the supply. The
-demand is fairly constant, showing a slight but decided increase each
-year. On the other hand, the supply is irregular, some years scallops
-being plentiful, in other years scarce.
-
-_The Maine or Deep-sea Scallop._--In the Boston market the
-shallow-water scallop has a formidable rival in the giant scallop of
-the Maine coast, which is nearly twice as large. Nevertheless, the Cape
-scallop maintains its superiority and still leads its larger brother in
-popular favor, wholesaling at 50 to 70 cents more a gallon. There is no
-doubt that this competition has had a tendency to lower the price of
-the Cape scallop, possibly accounting for the higher market price in
-New York.
-
-_Outfit of a Scalloper._--While we have traced the scallop from its
-capture among the eel-grass to its final disposition, we have not
-considered the equipment of the scalloper. The average capital invested
-in the business can best be summed up under these two heads,--the boat
-fisherman and the dory fisherman.
-
-                   _Boat Fisherman._
-  Boat,                                       $500.00
-  Dory,                                         20.00
-  Six dredges,                                  25.00
-  Rope and gear,                                25.00
-  Culling board,                                 2.00
-  Incidentals,                                   3.00
-  Shanty,                                       50.00
-                                              -------
-     Total,                                   $625.00
-                   _Dory Fisherman._
-  Dory,                                        $20.00
-  Oars,                                          1.50
-  Pusher,                                        2.50
-  Shanty,                                       25.00
-                                              -------
-    Total,                                     $49.00
-
-
-III. _The Scallop Season._--There is considerable diversity of opinion
-among the scallopers as to when the scallop season should open. Some
-advocate November 1 as the opening date, instead of October 1, as the
-present law reads; and many arguments are put forth by both sides.
-
-The class of fishermen who desire November 1 are those who are engaged
-in other fishing during the month of October, and either have to give
-it up or lose the first month of scalloping. Naturally, they wish a
-change, putting forth the additional argument of better prices if the
-season begins later. The scalloper who is not engaged in other fishing
-of course desires the law to remain as it is at the present time,
-claiming that the better weather of October gives easier work, more
-working days, and allows no chance of loss if the winter is severe.
-
-Under the present law, the town can regulate the opening of its season
-to suit the demands of the market and the desire of the inhabitants.
-This does away with the necessity of any State law on this point,
-which, under the present system of town control, would be inadvisable.
-
-The general opinion of the fishermen is in favor of the present date,
-October 1. As nearly as could be determined, about 75 per cent. favor
-October 1 and 25 per cent. November 1. This sentiment is divided by
-localities, as more men were in favor of November 1 at Nantucket and
-Edgartown than on Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay, where very few favored a
-change.
-
-IV. _The Utilization of Waste._--While it seems an enormous waste that
-out of a bushel of scallops only 2� to 3 quarts of edible meats are
-obtained, it is not all absolute loss. Oyster growers buy the shells
-for cultch to catch the oyster seed, paying from 3 to 5 cents per
-bushel. Other uses are found, such as ornaments and in making shell
-roads. The refuse is used for fish bait, and often barrels of it are
-salted for this purpose. It is also used in some places for manure for
-agricultural purposes.
-
-In the last year a new use for scallop shells has developed. Similar to
-the souvenir postal card, scallop shells bound together with ribbon
-and containing miniature photographic views have been put on the
-market. Three firms near Boston make a business of this, and use only
-the lower or bright valve of the scallop. Certain scallopers furnish
-these scallop shells, cleaned of meat, at the rate of $6 per barrel;
-and, though it takes considerable time to separate the shells when
-opening, the excellent price makes this new industry pay. The question
-of the future is to find new and more important uses for our waste sea
-products. Some day what is now waste in the scallop industry may be
-utilized for the benefit of the public.
-
-V. _Food Value._--As a food the scallop stands ahead of all the other
-shellfish, containing much more nourishment than the oyster. The
-following figures are from the tables of Professor Atwater, rearranged
-by C. F. Langworthy:[11]--
-
-                  (All values expressed as per cent.)
-
-  ==============================+=========+======+=======+=========+=====
-                                | Refuse, | Salt | Water | Protein | Fat
-                                | Bone,   |      |       |         |
-                                | Skin,   |      |       |         |
-                                |  etc.   |      |       |         |
-  ------------------------------+---------+------+-------+---------+-----
-  Oysters, solids,              |      -- |   -- |  88.3 |     6.1 | 1.4
-  Oysters, in shell,            |    82.3 |   -- |  15.4 |     1.1 |  .2
-  Oysters, canned,              |      -- |   -- |  85.3 |     7.4 | 2.1
-  Scallops,                     |      -- |   -- |  80.3 |    14.7 |  .2
-  Soft clams, in shell,         |    43.6 |   -- |  48.4 |     4.8 |  .6
-  Soft clams, canned,           |      -- |   -- |  84.5 |     9.0 | 1.3
-  Quahaugs, removed from shell, |      -- |   -- |  80.8 |    10.6 | 1.1
-  Quahaugs, in shell,           |    68.3 |   -- |  27.3 |     2.1 |  .1
-  Quahaugs, canned,             |      -- |   -- |  83.0 |    10.4 |  .8
-  Mussels,                      |    49.3 |   -- |  42.7 |     4.4 |  .5
-  General average of mollusks   |    60.2 |   -- |  34.0 |     3.2 |  .4
-    (exclusive of canned).      |         |      |       |         |
-  ==============================+=========+======+=======+=========+=====
-
-                  (All values expressed as per cent.)
-
-  ==============================+=========+=========+===========+=======
-                                |Carbohy- | Mineral | Total     | Fuel
-                                | drates  | Matter  | Nutrients | Value
-                                |         |         |           | per
-                                |         |         |           | Pound
-  ------------------------------+---------+---------+-----------+-------
-  Oysters, solids,              |     3.3 |      .9 |      11.7 |  235
-  Oysters, in shell,            |      .6 |      .4 |       2.3 |   40
-  Oysters, canned,              |     3.9 |     1.3 |      14.7 |  300
-  Scallops,                     |     3.4 |     1.4 |      19.7 |  345
-  Soft clams, in shell,         |     1.1 |     1.5 |       8.0 |  135
-  Soft clams, canned,           |     2.9 |     2.3 |      15.5 |  275
-  Quahaugs, removed from shell, |     5.2 |     2.3 |      19.2 |  340
-  Quahaugs, in shell,           |     1.3 |      .9 |       4.4 |   65
-  Quahaugs, canned,             |     3.0 |     2.8 |      17.0 |  285
-  Mussels,                      |     2.1 |     1.0 |       8.0 |  140
-  General average of mollusks   |     1.3 |      .9 |       5.8 |  100
-    (exclusive of canned).      |         |         |           |
-  ==============================+=========+=========+===========+======
-
-
-_The Laws._
-
-The State laws regulating the fishery were made for the benefit of the
-industry and for the preservation of the "seed" scallop, which is the
-only requirement necessary for insuring the future supply.
-
-Each town has charge over its scallop fishery, under the general
-shellfish act of 1880, which entrusted all regulation of the
-shellfisheries to the selectmen of the towns. The town laws governing
-the scallop fishery are by far the most satisfactory of the shellfish
-laws of the towns. Although in many respects beneficial, they have
-certain disadvantages.
-
-The main disadvantage of the town laws is found in the jealousy of
-neighboring towns. One town may make a law to oppose another town, and
-will often injure its own interests thereby. In this connection the
-condition at Dennis, during the winter of 1904-05, was an instance. As
-scallops were remarkably abundant, the town made by-laws intended to
-exclude from its scallop fisheries the residents of other towns. At
-the close of the scalloping season, when the ice came, the scallops
-were still abundant. The inhabitants of the town thought they could
-get the rest next season. They did not know that the scallop does not
-live two years. The next year not a single scallop of that set was to
-be found; they had died. If other scallopers had been allowed to go
-there, thousands of dollars could have been saved, and many scallopers
-given employment. This one case illustrates the disadvantages of town
-jealousy; and Dennis is by no means to blame, as it merely protected
-itself against the similar restrictions of neighboring Cape Cod towns.
-
-The town laws which benefit the scallop industry are made each year
-according to the condition of the industry. Edgartown and Nantucket
-have perhaps the best-governed scallop industries. Laws requiring
-licenses, regulating the opening of the season and restricting at
-proper times the catch, so as to get the best market prices instead of
-overstocking the market when the prices are low, are to be recommended
-on account of their benefit to the scallopers.
-
-
-_History._
-
-In considering the rise of a fishing industry, it is often difficult
-to state exactly the year when the industry started, as there are
-differences of opinion as to how large a fishery should be before it
-could be justly considered an industry. The scallop fishery has existed
-for years, but did not become an established industry of the State
-before the year 1872. At that time there was hardly any demand for
-scallops, and the catch was with difficulty marketed. Since then the
-market demand for the scallop has steadily increased, until the supply
-can hardly meet the popular demand. It seems almost incredible that
-the scallop as an article of food should once have been scorned and
-practically unknown.
-
-During the years of 1876 and 1877 the industry took a sudden spurt. At
-this time the introduction of the dredge on Cape Cod revolutionized
-the industry, and made it possible to open up the deep-water fields.
-The industry on Cape Cod first started at Hyannis, where a number of
-men entered the new business; and for several years the production
-increased rapidly, with the opening of new territories and improved
-methods of capture. While the natural supply has remained the same or
-declined in certain localities, as has been shown in a previous part of
-this report, the value of the industry, in regard to the number of men
-engaged and capital invested, has steadily increased.
-
-               SCALLOP PRODUCTION FOR MASSACHUSETTS.[12]
-
-  =====================================================================
-         YEAR.       |  Bushels. |   Value. |  Gallons. |    Price
-                     |           |          |           |  per Gallon.
-  -------------------+-----------+----------+-----------+--------------
-  1879,              |    10,542 |   $3,514 |     7,028 |        $0.50
-  1887,              |    41,964 |   38,933 |    27,976 |         1.39
-  1888,              |    26,168 |   43,202 |    17,446 |         2.48
-  1898,              |   128,863 |   85,383 |    85,908 |         0.99
-  1902,              |    66,150 |   89,982 |    44,100 |         2.04
-  1905,              |    43,872 |   98,712 |    29,248 |         3.37�
-  =====================================================================
-
-These figures show that the price of scallops varies greatly, dependent
-largely upon the amount caught that season; also that there has been,
-in spite of the irregularity of the catch, a gradual rise in prices
-since 1879, due to a more extensive market.
-
-In considering the scallop industry the following points should be
-noted: (1) It has been necessary to record as scallop area any grounds
-where scallops have ever been found, in spite of the fact that only a
-portion of this total area is in any one year productive. (2) The boats
-engaged in the scallop fishery are but transitory capital, which is
-utilized, outside of the scallop season, in other fisheries. (3) The
-quahaug and scallop fisheries in many towns supplement each other, as
-the same men and boats are engaged in both industries. (4) The length
-of the season varies in the different localities. In New Bedford and
-Fairhaven the scallops are mostly caught in a few weeks, as many boats
-enter the business temporarily. This necessarily gives an excess of
-invested capital and a small production. In these two towns the number
-of scallop licenses are recorded as showing the number of men engaged
-in the fishery, while as a fact but a small part of these are steadily
-engaged in the industry.
-
-    Key: N= Number
-
-  ============+======+============+==========+=======+================+=======
-              |Number| Boats      |  Extra   | Value |   Production   |Area of
-              |  of  |            |  Dories  |  of   |    1907-08     |Scallop
-      TOWN    | Men  +---+--------+---+------+  Gear +-------+--------+Grounds
-              |      | N | Value  | N |Value |       |Gallons| Value  |(Acres)
-              +------+---+--------+---+------+-------+-------+--------+-------
-  Barnstable  | 39   | 23|  $8,000|  -|     -|   $575|  1,530|  $2,004|  2,800
-  Bourne      | 38   | 30|  15,000|  -|     -|  1,200| 12,000|  15,720|  3,000
-  Chatham     |107   | 35|  10,650| 61|$1,430|  1,185| 34,615|  45,345|  2,000
-  Dennis      | 30   |  9|   4,230|  9|   180|    368|  2,950|   3,865|  2,250
-  Edgartown   | 39   | 26|   8,000|  -|     -|    550| 17,000|  22,270|  2,000
-  Fairhaven   |73[13]| 50|  12,500|  -|     -|  1,500|  1,300|   1,703|  2,500
-  Harwich     | 12   |  7|   2,350|  -|     -|    280|  2,170|   2,843|  3,200
-  Marion      | 44   | 16|   5,300| 24|   250|    580|  7,000|   9,170|  1,500
-  Mattapoisett| 22   | 19|   6,900|  -|     -|    760|  5,000|   6,550|  1,200
-  Nantucket   | 99   | 47|  13,250| 20|   500|    700| 20,245|  26,539|  4,500
-  New Bedford |38[13]| 20|   5,000|  -|     -|    600|    700|     917|    400
-  Tisbury     | 20   |  8|   3,000|  6|    90|    300|  3,000|   3,930|    800
-  Wareham     | 45   | 36|  10,800|  -|     -|  1,300| 10,000|  13,100|  2,500
-  Yarmouth    | 41   | 15|   3,750| 10|   200|    475|  8,000|  10,480|  2,250
-  ------------+------+---+--------+---+------+-------+-------+--------+-------
-     Total    | 647  |341|$108,730|130|$2,650|$10,373|125,510|$164,436| 30,900
-  ============+======+===+========+===+======+=======+=======+========+=======
-
-
-_Barnstable._
-
-The principal scalloping grounds of the town of Barnstable are found in
-Hyannis bay and at Cotuit. Scallops are said to have once been abundant
-in Barnstable harbor, on the north side of Cape Cod. At the present day
-the scallop is unknown commercially in this locality, and few are found
-on the sand flats of the harbor. A. Howard Clark, in his report on the
-fisheries of Massachusetts, in 1880, makes the following statement
-concerning this industry in Barnstable harbor:--
-
-    Scallops are abundant along the shores of the harbor, and
-    in 1876 a party of men from Hyannis established themselves
-    here for the purpose of gathering them. In 1877 the price of
-    scallops declined very greatly, forcing these men to abandon
-    their enterprise. The fishery was continued, however, by two
-    men of Barnstable. In the winter of 1877-78 the latter shipped
-    40 half-barrels of "eyes," and during the winter of 1878-79
-    only 6 half-barrels. They were sent to Boston and New York.
-
-This furnishes a concrete example of the extinction of the productive
-scallop beds in certain localities. The chances are that a severe
-winter or other adverse physical conditions killed all the scallops
-in the harbor, and rendered impossible any future supply. Although
-Barnstable harbor, with its swift tides, is not suitable for scallops
-in all parts, yet there are certain localities where they should
-thrive. In no way is it visionary or impossible that by the proper
-transplanting of young scallops from the waters on the south side of
-the Cape, these "seeders" might furnish other generations of scallops,
-and revive an extinct industry. At any rate, the chances for success in
-this line look favorable, and should be carefully considered.
-
-_Hyannis._--Although the scallop industry on the north coast of the
-town is extinct, it still flourishes as of old on the south coast. The
-bulk of the business is carried on here, and nearly all the shipments
-are made from this town. The scallop territory comprises 2,700 acres,
-in the following localities: (1) Lewis Bay; (2) near Squaw's Island;
-(3) Hyannisport harbor; and (4) the shore waters. At Hyannisport small
-scallops are taken with "pushers" in the shallow water, while large
-scallops are taken by dredging in the other three localities. Scallops
-are found in different parts and in varying abundance each year.
-Practically all this territory as outlined on the map is suitable for
-scallops.
-
-Two methods of scalloping are in use at Hyannis: (1) the hand "pusher,"
-used in shallow water, especially in the harbor at Hyannisport; (2)
-dredging. These two methods cover different territories, and it is
-possible that one year scallops may be found only on the flats where
-it was impossible to dredge with a boat, and another year be all in
-the deep water where the "pusher" cannot be used. However, in most
-years both methods are in use. The dredge most commonly used is the
-"scraper," although the Chatham style is found here. Six to nine are
-carried by each boat.
-
-Hyannis claims the distinction of shipping the first Cape Cod scallops
-to market. This was in 1874, and was the start of a considerable
-industry which employed 80 men. There has been more or less scalloping
-ever since that time. Ernest Ingersoll, in his report on the scallop
-fishery of the United States, in 1880, says in reference to scallop
-fishing at Hyannis from 1876 to 1878:--
-
-    The most northerly locality at which such a fishery exists,
-    as far as I am informed, is at Hyannis, Mass., and during
-    the winter of 1877 many persons of all ages and conditions
-    were employed in it there. One firm fitted up a large house
-    expressly for the business, and employed a large number of
-    openers. Skiffs, cat-rigged yawl boats, dories and punts, 200
-    in number, and of every size, shape, form and color, were used;
-    most of them were flat bottomed, shaped like a flatiron, and
-    therefore very "tender" when afloat. Each boat carried two
-    dredges, locally termed "drags." In that year, according to Mr.
-    F. W. True, each of the 200 boats averaged 120 bushels, or 100
-    gallons, during the season, which would give a total of 24,000
-    bushels, or 20,000 gallons for the fleet. The scallops were
-    sent to New York and also to Boston, and an average price of
-    $5 per half-barrel was received. In 1876 the price was $7, and
-    in 1878 only $3.50. Further inquiries show that this spurt at
-    Hyannis had no precedent, and has completely died away, so that
-    at present there is no catch there, or at least no shipments.
-
-The 1904-05 fishery was very successful, while the season of 1905-06
-proved the reverse. The production for 1905-06 was 1,350 gallons,
-valued at $3,200; while the 1906-07 season furnished 1,000 gallons,
-worth $2,000. The following notes, made in November, 1905, give the
-situation of the industry for that year:--
-
-The scalloping areas this season have been at Squaw's Island and in
-Lewis Bay, the first locality furnishing the better fishing. By the
-middle of November both areas were practically exhausted and the
-season over. The production to November 12 was 900 gallons. After that
-time the shipments to the Boston and New York markets were small and
-irregular, in spite of the high price of $3 to $3.50 per gallon.
-
-_Cotuit._--In the report of Mr. Ingersoll we find no mention of
-scalloping at Cotuit. Either there was none in 1879, or it was too
-small to be of any importance. To-day the scalloping is of slight
-importance, and practically all is used for home trade. Undoubtedly
-there has been but little change in the past twenty-five years. Side
-by side with the pigmy scallop industry has grown the oyster industry,
-which has made Cotuit famous. Undoubtedly the latter has sapped the
-strength of the former by encroaching on its area; but it has always
-been for the best interests of the people, as the oyster industry here
-is far more valuable than the scallop fishery.
-
-The grounds of Cotuit are quite small, extending over an irregular
-strip of 100 acres. The bottom is mostly muddy, and covered with
-patches of eel grass. All the rest of the bay, where the bottom is
-more suited for oyster culture, is taken up by grants. This scalloping
-area, although small, is free to the scallopers of Osterville, Cotuit,
-Marston's Mills and Hyannis, and even where heavily set it is soon
-fished out.
-
-In the years previous to 1904-05 exceptionally fine scalloping had been
-reported by the fishermen. The season of 1904-05 was exceptionally
-poor, and in 1905-06 hardly any scallops were obtainable. In 1907
-scalloping began October 1, and by December 15 all the boats were
-hauled up, as the scallops became too scarce for profitable fishing.
-Dredging is the only important method employed in the Cotuit fishery,
-although a few scallops were picked up on the flats.
-
-A town law forbidding the capture of scallops for market before
-December 1 was passed in 1899. This, nevertheless, permitted any
-resident of Barnstable, between October 1 and December 1, to catch
-scallops for his family use, and for this reason could never be
-strictly enforced. In 1907 this law was repealed, as many believed that
-it was detrimental rather than helpful to the Cotuit interests, as it
-gave the Hyannis scallopers, after they had fished for two months in
-Hyannis Bay, the cream of the Cotuit fishery.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  ============+=======+=================+=======+======================
-              | Number|      BOATS.     | Value | PRODUCTION, 1907-08.
-     TOWN.    |   of  +--------+--------+  of   +----------+-----------
-              |  Men. | Value. | Number.| Gear. | Gallons. |  Value.
-  ------------+-------+--------+--------+-------+----------+-----------
-  Hyannis,    |   16  | $3,200 |    8   | $200  |    1,130 |  $1,480
-  Hyannisport,|   14  |  2,800 |    7   |  200  |      100 |     131
-  Cotuit,     |    9  |  2,000 |    8   |  175  |      300 |     393
-  ------------+-------+--------+--------+-------+----------+-----------
-      Total,  |   39  | $8,000 |   23   | $575  |    1,530 |  $2,004
-  ============+=======+========+========+=======+==========+===========
-
-
-_Bourne._
-
-The villages of Buzzards Bay, Monument Beach and Cataumet share the
-scallop fishery of the town of Bourne, and have had during 1907-08 a
-successful season for the first time in eight years.
-
-The available scallop territory of the town covers approximately 3,000
-acres, extending from Buttermilk Bay along the whole coast of the town
-to Cataumet.
-
-The fishing is mostly done by dredging with cat boats, carrying from
-six to ten dredges per boat, although a few scallopers dredge with
-power. The dredges are generally of the "scraper" type, with the chain
-bottom, similar to the dredges used at Edgartown. The scallopers both
-open their own catch and hire openers to assist them. Thirty boats, 8
-carrying 2 men, and 22 with 1 man, totalling 38 men, are employed in
-the scallop fishery.
-
-The industry lasted until Jan. 1, 1908, when the boats were hauled up
-for winter. The total estimate for the season is 20,000 bushels, or
-12,000 gallons (unsoaked), valued at $15,720. The largest daily catch
-recorded for one boat was 72 bushels.
-
-The principal market is New York, though part of the catch is sent
-to New Bedford. The price varied from $1.15 to $3 per gallon. The
-scallopers claim that they do not soak the scallops, as the "eye" is
-large enough to sell well without increasing its size. Undoubtedly
-soaking is done to some extent. The scallops are large, opening about
-3� quarts per bushel.
-
-Twelve hundred dollars are invested in gear and $15,000 in boats, which
-vary from $300 to $1,300 in value.
-
-Licenses costing $1 are required by the selectmen of every scalloper.
-
-Here again we find the old tale of the decline of a once prosperous
-industry, and new enthusiasm in the success of the 1907-08 season. The
-1906-07 season was an improvement over the previous one, when eight
-licenses were issued, allowing a maximum of 1,605 bushels to be taken.
-In previous years no licenses were given, as there were no scallops.
-
-
-_Brewster._
-
-Scalloping at Brewster can hardly be called an industry. Here the
-primitive method of picking up the scallops on the exposed flats at
-low tide is alone used. The scallops are washed by the heavy seas on
-the flats, and can be gathered by men, women and children when the
-tide goes down. Somewhere in the deeper water is a bed of scallops,
-but in 1905 no one had been able to locate it. In 1905 only one man
-made a business of gathering and shipping these scallops. He averaged 2
-bushels per tide, going down with a team and carting them to his house,
-where he opened them. All shipments were made to Boston, at an average
-price of $1.75 to $2. The people pick up many for home use.
-
-
-_Chatham._
-
-The town of Chatham, situated at the elbow of Cape Cod, possesses
-abundant facilities for all the shore fisheries. For the past
-twenty-five years the scallop fishery has held almost equal rank with
-the lobster and cod fisheries, for which Chatham is noted, and has in
-many years furnished employment when other fishing had failed.
-
-Scallops are found only in the southern waters of the town. Between
-Inward Point and Harding's Beach many acres of eel-grass flats,
-sheltered from the open ocean by Monomoy Island, furnish excellent
-grounds for scallops. The entire area of these grounds is approximately
-2,000 acres, although this whole territory is never completely stocked
-in any one year. During the season of 1907-08 the following places
-constituted the scalloping grounds:--
-
-(1) Island Flats in Stage Harbor, on the east side of the channel,
-opposite Harding's Beach, furnished a number of scallops, which were
-rapidly caught the first of the season, as these flats were near the
-town. Here the water is not more than 1� to 2 feet deep at low tide,
-and thick eel grass covers the greater part except near the channel.
-The first of the season a man could obtain 8 bushels per day, but later
-a catch of 2 bushels was considered good.
-
-(2) Directly south of Harding's Beach lies John Perry's flat, commonly
-known as "Jerry's," where there has been good scalloping for many years.
-
-(3) The western half of the Common Flats furnished the best scalloping
-in 1907-08, as the scallops, though small (6 pecks to a gallon), were
-plentiful. These flats run nearly dry on low course tides, and are
-covered with eel grass. Nearly every year there is a heavy set of
-scallop seed, which, because of the exposed nature of the flats, is
-wholly or partially destroyed. The entire set was destroyed in the
-winter of 1904-05, while 30 per cent. was lost in 1906-07.
-
-(4) On the flats just south of Inward Point was another bed of scallops.
-
-(5) In the bend north of Inward Point scallops were plentiful.
-
-(6) On the northwest edge of the Common Flats scallops can be dredged
-over an area of 160 acres at a depth of 5 fathoms. These are of good
-size, opening 3� quarts to the bushel.
-
-Two methods of obtaining scallops are employed: (1) by the use of the
-"pusher;" and (2) by dredging. As the "pusher" is used on the flats
-at low water where the boats cannot sail, the boat man possesses the
-advantage of "pushing" at low tide and dredging at high water. Sixty
-per cent. of the scallopers at Chatham go in dories and use "pushers,"
-as the Common Flats afford excellent opportunity for this sort of
-fishing; the remaining 40 per cent. scallop in boats, using "pushers"
-to a limited extent. Four to six box dredges are used for each boat,
-the smaller boats carrying four, the larger six.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                  107
-      Dory men ("pushers"), 62
-      Boat men (dredgers),                         45
-  Number of boats,                                 35
-      Single-manned,                               26
-      Double-manned,                                9
-  Value of boats,                             $10,650
-  Number of dories,                                61
-  Value of dories,                             $1,430
-  Value of scallop gear for dories,               135
-  Value of scallop gear for boats,              1,050
-  Total value of scallop gear,                  1,185
-
-Last season 34,615 gallons, valued at $45,345, were shipped to Boston
-and New York. Shipments are made in butter tubs, containing 4 to 6
-gallons each.
-
-The larger scallops in the deep water are from 2� to 2� inches in
-length, taking 5 pecks to open a gallon of "eyes." On the flats are
-smaller scallops, from 2 to 2� inches in length, of which 6� pecks
-are required to make a gallon. About 4,000 gallons were bought in
-Chatham by two dealers, paying $1.30 per gallon; the rest were shipped
-to Boston and New York by the individual scallopers, shipments being
-made semiweekly to New York. The scallops were shipped in butter tubs
-containing from 4 to 6 gallons, on which the express charges were: to
-New York, 65 cents; to Boston, 35 cents. The 1907-08 production was
-20,000 gallons, valued at $40,000.
-
-In 1905-06 practically all the catch were "seed" scallops of the set
-of 1905; only about 5 per cent. of the catch were scallops of the 1904
-set. Owing to the exceptional cod fishing, only 15 men made a business
-of scalloping, going mostly one man to a boat, and averaging 3� bushels
-per day after the scalloping "struck in," Dec. 1, 1905. The high prices
-alone made it profitable to catch these small scallops, which gave only
-3 pints of "eyes" to a bushel of shells,--just one-half the amount
-yielded by a bushel of large scallops. The fishermen were all from
-South and West Chatham. The entire catch was estimated at 2,800 gallons.
-
-
-_Dennis._
-
-The scallop grounds of Dennis and Yarmouth are common property for the
-inhabitants of both towns, while other towns are excluded from the
-fishery. The West Dennis scallopers fish mostly on the Yarmouth flats
-at the mouth of Parker River, and between Bass and Parker rivers on the
-shore flats. There is also scalloping along the shore on the Dennis
-grounds. These grounds are for the "pushers." Dredging is carried on at
-Dennisport, and the boats cover a wide territory at some distance from
-the shore. The town possesses a large area, which either has scattering
-scallops or is well stocked one year and barren the next. Nearly 2,250
-acres of available territory is included in the waters of the town. The
-flats, which are of sand with thick or scattering eel grass, according
-to the locality, afford a good bottom for scallops. Were it not for the
-eel grass, the scallops would perish by being washed on the shore by
-southerly winds.
-
-Thirty men make a business of scalloping in the town of Dennis, 22
-from Dennisport and 8 from West Dennis. At Dennisport scalloping is
-practically all done by dredging, while at West Dennis scallops are all
-taken by the use of "pushers." At Dennisport 9 boats, 3 sail and 6 cat
-boats, with power, carrying 18 men, are employed in the business. Here
-also are 4 dory scallopers. At West Dennis the scallopers go mostly in
-pairs, using only 5 dories.
-
-The dredges used at Dennisport are similar to the Chatham dredge. At
-Dennisport the scallopers open the scallops and also employ openers,
-while at West Dennis the scallopers do the entire work.
-
-In 1907-08 the production was 2,950 gallons, valued at $3,865.
-Scallops were shipped to the New York and Boston markets, although the
-greater part of the catch went to New York.
-
-The scallops taken at Dennisport are large, opening 3 quarts to the
-bushel. At West Dennis, where the fishing is done in the shallow water,
-the scallops are somewhat smaller, yielding only 2� quarts to the
-bushel.
-
-During the month of November large quantities of scallops were blown
-ashore at Dennisport, and it is said that as many as 72 bushels were
-gathered by one man in a day.
-
-                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
-
-  Value of boats:--
-      Sail,                                    $1,230
-      Power,                                    3,000
-      Dories,                                     180
-                                               ------
-          Total,                               $4,410
-
-  Value of gear:--
-      Boat,                                       350
-      Dory,                                        18
-                                               ------
-          Total,                                 $368
-
-Permits are required for scalloping, but are issued free of charge by
-the selectmen. Dennis and Yarmouth have common scallop fishery rights,
-the town scallop regulation reading as follows:--
-
-    All persons other than the inhabitants of the towns of Dennis
-    and Yarmouth are prohibited from taking scallops from the
-    shores and waters of the town of Yarmouth excepting for their
-    family use, and in no case without a permit.
-
-During the season of 1904-05 there existed off Dennisport one of the
-largest beds of scallops ever known in Massachusetts. Not only was it
-extensive, but the scallops were very numerous. An enormous yield was
-the result, affording great profit to a large number of scallopers,
-and bringing into the town thousands of dollars. It was stated by the
-scallopers that when the scalloping ceased because of the severe winter
-and ice the number of scallops appeared in no way diminished. During
-the season the catch averaged over 25 bushels per boat. Prospects
-looked good for the following season, as the fishermen expected the
-scallops to live until the next year. Unfortunately, the life of a
-scallop is less than two years, and before spring practically the whole
-of this large bed was dead,--a heavy loss to the fishing interests of
-the town and of the State.
-
-In cases like this the exclusion of scallopers from the neighboring
-towns, through the present system of town laws, has resulted in severe
-economic and financial loss to the State, as many more scallops
-could have been captured without injury to the future supply if more
-fishermen had been given an opportunity to enjoy this fishery.
-
-The following season, 1905-06, presented a marked contrast to that
-of 1904-05. Some adverse conditions had injured the set of 1905, and
-as a result there were scarcely any adult scallops. By January 1 the
-scallops of the 1906 set had become large enough in certain localities
-to permit capture. Owing to the high prices, these scallops, less than
-eight months old ("seed" scallops), were profitable to catch, and the
-season's catch at Dennisport after January 1 consisted of these young
-scallops. At that time the present "seed" scallop law was not in force,
-so the capture of these scallops was entirely legal.
-
-About 6 men were engaged during 1905-06 in scalloping at Dennisport.
-The scallops were obtained by dredging in the deeper water. The average
-catch was 3 to 4 bushels per day. The 1906-07 season was hardly above
-the average. At West Dennis 8 men were engaged in scalloping on the
-flats with "pushers." The scallops were small, averaging about 2 inches
-in width. It is only once every three or four years that West Dennis
-scallops are in the deep water where it is necessary to dredge them;
-usually the scallops are found on the shallow-water flats. The 1907-08
-season is the best season the town has had since 1904-05.
-
-
-_Dartmouth._
-
-A few scallops are occasionally found in Slocum's River and other
-places, but in no quantity to furnish any commercial fishery.
-
-
-_Eastham._
-
-The scalloping grounds are on the west side of the town, about half a
-mile out. During the season of 1906-07, 6 men, working at intervals
-during the winter, managed to take a total of 500 bushels from these
-flats.
-
-
-_Edgartown._
-
-Edgartown, situated at the eastern end of Martha's Vineyard, possesses
-extensive scallop grounds, and is one of the leading towns in the
-production of this shellfish. This fishery, even more important than
-the quahaug industry, furnishes steady winter employment for a large
-number of the inhabitants.
-
-The important grounds are in Cape Poge Pond and in Edgartown harbor,
-while occasionally beds of scallops, especially "seed," are found in
-Katama Bay. These grounds comprise an area of 2,000 acres, chiefly of
-grass bottom.
-
-At Edgartown scalloping is done both with sail and with power boats,
-which are generally auxiliary cat boats, though power dories are used
-to some extent. All but two of the power boats are doubly manned,
-while the sail boats carry but one man. Eleven sail and 15 power boats,
-employing 39 men, are engaged in the fishery.
-
-Two kinds of dredges are used, the "scraper" for scalloping in the
-eel grass and the "slider" for clean surface. The depth of water over
-the scallop beds is not more than 18 feet, necessitating 10� fathoms
-of rope. The price of a dredge, including rope, is about $3, which is
-cheaper than in the Buzzards Bay towns. Each power boat uses six to
-eight, which are held out by "spreaders," poles extending from the
-sides of the boat, in order that the dredges may cover more ground and
-not trail behind one another.
-
-The greater part of the scalloping is done by power, and, in spite of
-the extra cost of nearly 90 cents per day, the proportionate increase
-makes this method more profitable; it is claimed to increase the catch
-about one-third. Scalloping with power necessitates the services of two
-men, as one man has to cull while the other steers. At the end of the
-"drift" the boat is stopped, and both men cull. With sail, culling can
-be done when dredges are overboard. When two men scallop, the owner of
-the boat takes three-fifths while his partner shares two-fifths of the
-profit.
-
-Twenty-five to 30 openers prepare the scallop for market during the
-afternoons and evenings. These are paid at the rate of 25 cents per
-gallon, and average about $1.50 per day, a good opener cutting out a
-gallon of "eyes" in an hour. Small scallops open 700 "eyes" per gallon;
-the larger ones, 500.
-
-The 1907-08 season was successful, as the scallops were plentiful, the
-daily catch per boat running between 5 and 50 bushels. About 17,000
-gallons, valued at $22,270, were shipped between Oct. 1, 1907, and
-April 1, 1908.
-
-Shipments are made mostly to the New York market; a very few to Boston
-market. The freight charges on a keg, which weighs about 70 pounds, is
-55 cents. In warm weather scallops are sent by express, the charges
-being 80 cents. The scallops are packed in butter tubs of large size,
-averaging from 6 to 7 gallons, and costing 8 cents apiece. These are
-obtained second hand from the grocery stores at New Bedford. The tubs
-are packed full and closed tightly. By the time the scallops arrive at
-market they are reduced in quantity by the jarring, in warm weather
-from 7 to 6 gallons, and in cold from 7 to 6�. Returns from the market
-are made in about a week. Scallops can be held back for better prices
-three to four days in warm weather, and about seven in cold.
-
-                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
-
-  Value of power boats,                        $5,250
-  Value of sail boats,                          2,750
-  Value of gear,                                  550
-                                               ------
-      Total,                                   $8,550
-
-By vote of the town, the season for several years has been open one
-month later than the State season. Shellfish permits costing $2 are
-required of every scalloper. The daily catch for one man is restricted
-to 25 bushels.
-
-Edgartown was one of the pioneer towns in the State in the scallop
-fishery, and as early as 1875 scallops were shipped to the market. The
-industry has maintained a steady supply, and has not shown the great
-variation of the Cape and Buzzards Bay fisheries. This is due perchance
-to the natural conditions, which render favorable the maintenance of an
-extensive industry.
-
-The last four seasons have been very successful, as when scallops were
-scarce the increased price more than made up for the diminished supply.
-The 1904-05 season was favorable, but, owing to the severe winter,
-fishing ceased about January 1, although scallops were plentiful both
-in Cape Poge Pond and Edgartown harbor. In 1905-06 scallops were found
-only in Cape Poge Pond, as the previous severe winter had killed all
-the harbor "seed." This season was most successful, as Nantucket and
-Edgartown, owing to the scarcity of scallops in other localities,
-received very high market prices. Scallops were more abundant in
-1906-07, but the lower prices made the industry less prosperous than in
-the previous season.
-
-              COMPARISON OF 1879 WITH 1907-08 PRODUCTION.
-
-  =====================+=======+=========
-                       | 1879. | 1907-08.
-  ---------------------+-------+---------
-  Gallons,             |  500  |  17,000
-  Value,               | $250  | $22,270
-  =====================+=======+=========
-
-
-_Fairhaven._
-
-Fairhaven possesses, with New Bedford, the scalloping grounds of
-the Acushnet River, and in addition a much larger territory around
-Sconticut Neck and West Island. The scalloping territory comprises
-about 2,500 acres, most of which is unproductive or productive only at
-intervals.
-
-The town charges $1 for the license to each scalloper. Seventy-three
-licenses were issued in 1906-07. This is a larger number than has been
-issued in recent years. The highest number ever issued was 80.
-
-The capital invested is transitory, for the season, as in New Bedford,
-usually lasts only three weeks. Possibly $14,000 is invested in this
-way in boats and gear.
-
-In a good season as high as 2,000 gallons have been shipped in a week.
-The average season hardly produces this amount in the whole three
-weeks. In the season of 1907-08, 1,300 gallons were shipped. Some years
-ago the starfish was a source of damage to the fishery, but of late
-years it has attracted little notice.
-
-We find the following account of the scallop fishery of Fairhaven
-written by A. Howard Clark in 1879:--
-
-    Ten boats took 2,100 bushels of scallops in 1880. Fourteen men
-    with 10 boats dredge for scallops from the middle of October
-    to the middle of January. Great quantities are found in the
-    Acushnet River, as well as along the western shore of the bay.
-    A small dredge, holding about a bushel, is used. It is made
-    with an oval-shaped iron frame, 3� feet in length. Wire netting
-    is used in the front part and twine at the back. Small sail
-    boats, each with two men, fish with from one to twelve of these
-    dredges in tow, sailing with just enough sheet to allow a slow
-    headway. As soon as a dredge is filled, the men "luff up," haul
-    in, empty, and go on. These little boats take from 10 to 75
-    bushels a day. If the breeze be unfavorable, one man takes the
-    oars while the other tends the dredges.
-
-The amount of production at the present time is about the same, or
-even more, than the figures given for 1879. In all other respects the
-industry has changed. Five times as many men now work at the business,
-while more boats and capital are invested. This looks as if the
-industry had improved. The industry as regards the methods of capture
-has improved, but the actual production has remained the same. Now the
-season lasts barely three weeks, whereas twenty-five years ago with few
-men it lasted four months.
-
-
-_Fall River District._
-
-No scallop fishery exists in these waters at the present time. In 1879,
-800 gallons were taken from this region. This furnishes an excellent
-illustration of the total decline of the scallop fishery in certain
-localities.
-
-
-_Falmouth._
-
-The town of Falmouth cannot be said to support any scallop industry of
-importance. Each year in Squeteague Pond, Wild Harbor, North Falmouth
-and in West Falmouth harbor a few scallops can be found; but these are
-used only for limited local consumption, and usually are very scarce.
-Scallops are occasionally present in small quantities in Waquoit Bay.
-
-
-_Harwich._
-
-The scallop territory of Harwich covers an extensive area on the south
-side of the town, and in some places extends for a distance of from 2
-to 3 miles out from shore. Usually the scallops are found, as in the
-last season (1907-08), outside the bar, at a distance of 3 miles from
-shore, where they can be taken only by dredging from sail or power
-boats. The intervening body of water sometimes contains a few scallops
-in a quantity to make a commercial fishery. The total area of the
-scallop grounds is about 3,200 acres. The bottom is mostly sandy, with
-patches of eel grass.
-
-All the scallops are caught by dredging, as the water is too deep for
-any other method. Twelve men were engaged in the fishery during the
-1907-08 season. The boats, 7 in number, consisted of 3 power and 4
-sail; 5 were manned by 2 men, 2 were sailed singly. The dredges used
-here are the same style as the Chatham dredge.
-
-The 1907-08 production was 2,170 gallons, valued at $2,843. The
-scallops were shipped to the Boston and New York markets, the greater
-part being shipped to New York, at an average price of $1.30 per
-gallon. The scallops taken in 1907-08 were large, opening 3� quarts to
-the bushel.
-
-                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
-
-  Value of boats,                              $2,350
-  Value of gear,                                  280
-  Value of shore property,                        400
-                                               ------
-      Total,                                   $3,030
-
-For the last two years there has been practically no scallop fishery.
-The 1904-05 season was the last successful season, when the large bed
-of scallops was found off Dennis. The 1907-08 season, however, has
-been fairly good, and it is thought that the following year may be as
-successful.
-
-
-_Marion._
-
-Marion was included in the general revival of the scallop fishery which
-came to Buzzards Bay during the past season of 1907-08, and for the
-first time in eight years has had a successful scallop season.
-
-The scallop grounds of the town extend over an area of 1,500 acres,
-situated on both sides of Great Neck, and extending from the Wareham
-line to Aucoot Cove.
-
-All scalloping is done by dredging. The fishery can be divided into two
-classes: (1) the boat fishery; (2) the skiff fishery. Under the first
-class comes the cat boat and sloop, carrying six dredges; while the
-second class consists of the small sail skiffs, with one dredge. The
-skiff scalloper rows or sails, as the wind permits, and with his one
-dredge makes an average catch of 3 bushels per day. Forty-four men,
-using 16 sail and power boats and 24 skiffs are engaged in the fishery.
-The business likewise requires the services of nearly 24 openers.
-
-About two-thirds of the dredges are of the "scraper" type, with chain
-netting; the rest "sliders," with loose blades. A very few "roller" or
-"lead" dredges are used.
-
-The production for 1907-08 was 7,000 gallons, valued at $9,170. The
-scallops were mostly sent to the New Bedford market. The scallops
-are of two sizes: the smaller, which are taken in the shallow water,
-open only 2� quarts per bushel, while in the deeper water the larger
-scallops yield about 3� quarts. The rest of the body of the scallop,
-after the removal of the eye, is saved for bait at Marion, the
-scalloper receiving 30 cents per bucket.
-
-                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
-
-  Value of boats,                              $5,300
-  Value of skiffs,                                250
-  Value of gear,                                  580
-                                               ------
-      Total                                    $6,130
-
-The three towns of Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester have common
-fishery rights, as all three were included in the original town of
-Rochester. In 1852 Marion became an independent town, and in 1857
-Mattapoisett was likewise separated from Rochester. Until 1893 Marion
-and Mattapoisett had separate fishery rights, Rochester having mutual
-rights with both. Since then the fishery of these towns has been common
-to all three. Every scalloper is required to have a permit, the boatmen
-paying $2, the skiff scallopers $1, respectively.
-
-The scallop industry supplanted the waning oyster industry at Marion
-some twelve years ago, and for a time it flourished greatly. The
-abundance of scallops and extent of the grounds furnish excellent
-scalloping. After a few very successful years the industry suddenly
-died out and became practically extinct. The direct cause is claimed by
-the scallopers to have been the starfish, which came in the harbor in
-great abundance at the time of the decline of the industry. Up to this
-season but little scalloping had been done for several years, and not a
-single permit was issued for the season of 1906-07.
-
-
-_Mashpee._
-
-The scallop territory of Mashpee lies in the Popponesset River and Bay,
-comprising at most 200 acres. For the last six years there has been no
-scallop industry in the town. A few scallops are occasionally taken for
-home consumption.
-
-
-_Mattapoisett._
-
-The scallop territory of Mattapoisett, comprising an area of 1,200
-acres, much of which is open and exposed, is in general confined to the
-following localities: Nasketucket Bay, Brant Bay, Brant Island Cove,
-Mattapoisett harbor, Pine Neck Cove and Aucoot Cove. The location and
-extent of these grounds are indicated on Map 8.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   22
-  Number of boats:--
-      Sail,                                        13
-      Power,                                        6
-                                               ------
-          Total,                                   19
-
-  Boats, how manned:--
-      Single,                                      16
-      Double,                                       3
-
-Dredging is the only method of scalloping used in Mattapoisett.
-Small cat boats and a few power boats are employed in the fishery.
-The "roller" dredge is the most popular style with the Mattapoisett
-scallopers, who claim that on the uneven bottom this dredge is the most
-successful. This town is the only locality in the State where this kind
-of dredge is used. The cost of a dredge completely rigged with rope,
-which is often 15 fathoms long, is $4.50, and 8 to 10 dredges are used
-for each boat.
-
-During the 1907-08 season the production was 5,000 gallons, valued at
-$6,550. These were mostly marketed at New Bedford, where they were
-purchased unsoaked by the New Bedford Fish Company. At the first part
-of the season it was not uncommon for a boat to catch 25 bushels per
-day, but as the season progressed the size of the catch gradually
-diminished. The scallops were large, opening 3 quarts to the bushel.
-
-                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
-
-  Value of boats,                              $6,900
-  Value of gear,                                  760
-                                               ------
-      Total,                                   $7,660
-
-The scallop industry at Mattapoisett, though once important, was
-extinct for several years. The present season has shown a revival, and
-the industry has again assumed a commercial value.
-
-
-_Nantucket._
-
-Nantucket is one of the leading towns of the State in the scallop
-fishery. The grounds lie both in Nantucket harbor and in Maddequet
-harbor on the west end of the island. The former of these is the
-larger and more important, as the fishery is near the town. When the
-scallops become scarce in Nantucket harbor, the scallopers adjourn to
-the fresher beds of Maddequet. Nantucket harbor contains approximately
-3,000 acres of scallop territory; Maddequet and Muskeget, 1,500 acres.
-
-Practically all the scalloping is done by dredging from sail boats,
-employing about 99 men in the fishery. The dredges are of the "slider"
-and the "scraper" types, the iron frames of which cost $1.50 and the
-netting bags 30 cents. From 6 to 10 of these are used per boat, and are
-dragged by 7 fathoms of 15-thread rope. Five regular openers are hired,
-who receive from 20 to 25 cents per gallon, according to the size of
-the scallops. A few scallops are taken in the shallow water by the dory
-fishermen with "pushers," which are locally known as "scoops." These
-differ from the Cape Cod "pusher," being more rounded and smaller in
-size.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of boats:--
-      Power,                                       10
-      Sail,                                        37
-      Dories,                                      20
-
-  Boats, how manned:--
-      Single,                                      15
-      Double,                                      32
-      Single dories,                               20
-
-In 1906-07 the production was 9,820 gallons, valued at $12,875.
-
-  ==================+==========+===========+===========
-                    |          |   Price   |
-     1907-08.[14]   | Gallons. |per Gallon.|  Value.
-  ------------------+----------+-----------+-----------
-  October,          |    2,639 |     $1.25 |  $3,298.75
-  November,         |    4,160 |      1.00 |   4,160.00
-  December,         |    5,430 |      1.00 |   5,430.00
-  January,          |    5,910 |      1.50 |   8,865.00
-  February          |      960 |      2.00 |   1,920.00
-  March,            |    1,146 |      2.50 |   2,865.00
-                    +----------+-----------+-----------
-      Total,        |   20,245 |     $1.31 | $26,538.75
-  ==================+==========+===========+===========
-
-Shipments were made by express to New York and Boston, the charges to
-New York being 95 cents, to Boston 55 cents per keg. The greater part
-was shipped to New York market. The scallops were shipped mostly in
-7-gallon kegs, which cost 33 cents apiece. About 30 New York and 20
-Boston firms receive shipments from the Nantucket scallopers.
-
-Two kinds of scallops, the large "channel" and the small or "eel
-grass," are obtained. The small scallops are more numerous than the
-large, but are naturally less desirable.
-
-                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
-
-  Value of power boats,                        $4,000
-  Value of sail boats,                          9,250
-  Value of dories,                                500
-  Value of gear,                                  700
-                                               ------
-      Total,                                  $14,450
-
-Of late years the scallopers have taken an interest in protecting the
-scallop. Many scallopers when fishing in shallow water "cull out" the
-small "seed" scallops, and, instead of returning them to the shallow
-water, transplant them to the deep water of the channel, where they
-are not only protected in case of severe winter, but produce a larger
-scallop the following year. This is the only attempt at protecting
-the scallop ever made in Massachusetts, and shows how important the
-industry is to the town.
-
-For the two seasons previous to 1907-08 every scalloper was required to
-have a license. In 1905-06 the price was 50 cents, while the following
-year, 1906-07, 190 licenses, costing $1 each, were taken out. No
-licenses were required in 1907-08. Special by-laws, either limiting the
-catch or enforcing a close season to meet the demands of the fishery,
-are made by the town each year.
-
-Scallops have been always plentiful, but fifty-five years ago they
-were not caught, as they were considered poisonous. The present
-industry started in 1883, and since that time, in spite of its ups and
-downs, it has remained a constant source of revenue to the island.
-Notwithstanding a scarcity of scallops, the high prices of 1905-06
-enabled the fishermen to have a fairly successful season. Both the
-1906-07 and the 1907-08 seasons have been very prosperous, as scallops
-have been plentiful.
-
-
-_New Bedford._
-
-The scallop industry at New Bedford has been in existence since about
-1870, and has furnished a livelihood for an average of 15 men ever
-since. Of late years the industry has shown a marked decline.
-
-In 1879 A. Howard Clark says:--
-
-    Scallops are plentiful in the Acushnet River, and large
-    quantities are taken with dredges from October through the
-    winter. The business of late years has greatly increased.
-
-About the same time Ernest Ingersoll also writes:--
-
-    In the Acushnet River and all along the western shore of
-    Buzzards Bay these little mollusks abound, and their catching
-    has come to be of considerable importance in that locality.
-    Mr. W. A. Wilcox, who sends me notes on the subject, says that
-    it is only eighteen years ago that a fisherman of Fairhaven
-    (opposite New Bedford) was unable to sell 5 gallons that he had
-    caught. But the taste has been acquired, and a local market has
-    grown up to important proportions, so that in 1880 14 men and
-    10 small boats (dories) were dredging for scallops in Buzzards
-    Bay from the middle of October to the middle of January. Mr.
-    Wilcox says: "These small boats will take from 10 to 75 bushels
-    a day." These men are not willing to work every day, however,
-    since the tautog and other fishing calls their attention,
-    and there is danger of overstocking the market. It therefore
-    happens that the total catch reported for both New Bedford and
-    Fairhaven men will not exceed 6,400 gallons, valued at $3,864,
-    60 cents being a fair price in this and the Boston market. The
-    value of the investment devoted to this business at Fairhaven
-    is about $120.
-
-The scallop industry of 1907 cannot be compared with that of former
-years. The amount of scallops taken is not one-third of the former
-production. More men are engaged in the business than twenty-five years
-ago, but the beds are raked clean in a shorter time. The annual yield
-has sadly fallen off, in spite of improved methods of capture and
-increased number of fishermen. This decline cannot here be attributed
-to either of the natural enemies of the scallop, as neither the
-starfish nor oyster drill are abundant. Severe climatic conditions and
-overfishing by man are the direct causes of this decline.
-
-The scallop area of New Bedford comprises approximately 400 acres,
-principally in the Acushnet River and in Clark's Cove.
-
-In 1906-07, 38 licenses were issued by the city for scalloping. This is
-a marked decrease over former years. Probably not all these men fish
-regularly. In the last few years the season has been rather short,
-lasting between three and four weeks, as the scallops were practically
-all caught in that time.
-
-The capital required for the business, consisting of cat boats, skiffs,
-dredges, shanties, etc., amounts to about $5,600; but this is merely
-transient, and is only employed for three or four weeks, and then
-devoted to other fisheries.
-
-                           ANNUAL PRODUCTION.
-
-  ========================================
-   YEAR. | Bushels. | Gallons. | Value.
-  ---------+----------+----------+--------
-  1905-06, |  1,000   |  1,000   | $3,000
-  1906-07, |  1,200   |  1,200   |  3,000
-  1907-08, |    700   |    700   |    917
-  ========================================
-
-All scalloping is done by dredging from either cat boats or dories.
-Since 1879 improvements have been made, and cat boats instead of
-dories, each manned by one man with six dredges, now do the work once
-wholly performed, as Ingersoll says, by dories. All the scalloping
-takes place in deep water.
-
-When the law of 1905 made the Acushnet River and Clark's Cove forbidden
-shellfish territory, because of the sewage pollution of the harbor,
-the capture of scallops in season was still allowed. This was based on
-the principle that there is no danger in eating the clean "eye" of the
-scallop, although as a matter of fact there is actual danger of typhoid
-infection to those handling anything from sewage-polluted waters.
-
-The following notes were made Nov. 21, 1905, upon the fishery of that
-year:--
-
-At the opening of the season a bed of scallops was discovered just
-outside the harbor beyond the light. Twenty-five boats set to work
-immediately, but there was not a sufficient supply of scallops to keep
-them long employed, and one by one they dropped out, until by November
-21 only two or three boats were still engaged in the fishery.
-
-The scallops of this year were of large size, 2� to 2� inches, and
-turned out a gallon of "eyes" per bushel,--an excellent yield, as the
-average scallops only shuck out 2� to 3 quarts to a bushel of shells.
-If a man could obtain a gallon per day by November 21 he was lucky, and
-owing to the high retail price, he made a fair day's wages.
-
-
-_Orleans._
-
-On the flats about � to 1 mile from the west shore scallops are
-occasionally found. Six years ago there was a fairly good season, but
-since that time there have been very few scallops, and these are taken
-only for home consumption.
-
-
-_Provincetown._
-
-Scallops are obtained on the flats in the east bend of the harbor
-toward the Truro shore, where they are blown by a southwest wind.
-Evidently there must be a bed of scallops in the deep water from which
-the scallops are washed on the flats. In 1905-06 from 2 to 6 men were
-engaged in picking up these scallops and retailing them for home trade.
-About 1894 or 1895 scallops were numerous, and it was not uncommon for
-a man to pick up 5 bushels on the flats at one tide. Since 1900 but few
-scallops have been found.
-
-
-_Tisbury._
-
-The scalloping grounds of Tisbury are in the harbor at Vineyard Haven.
-Only Vineyard Haven fishermen make a business of scalloping here. The
-scallop grounds comprise an area of 800 acres.
-
-Most of the scallops are obtained by dredging from cat boats, which
-are nearly all equipped with power. With two exceptions the boats are
-singly manned. Fourteen men go in 8 boats, using from six to eight
-dredges per boat. Six men scallop in skiffs, using one dredge. The
-dredges are similar to those used at Edgartown.
-
-During the season of 1907-08, 3,000 gallons of scallops, valued at
-$3,930 were captured. The fishermen ship chiefly to the New York
-market. The scallops are of an exceptionally large size, opening, it is
-said, 4 quarts to the bushel. The proportionate size of the "eye" to
-the shell is much greater than with the ordinary scallop.
-
-                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
-
-  Value of boats,                              $3,000
-  Value of skiffs,                                 90
-  Value of gear,                                  300
-                                               ------
-      Total,                                   $3,390
-
-No licenses or permits are required for scalloping. The last season
-(1907-08) is the second season that scallops have been abundant in this
-locality.
-
-
-_Wareham._
-
-Situated at the head of Buzzards Bay, the town of Wareham possesses
-a considerable water area which is suitable for scallops. The
-entire territory, embracing approximately 2,500 acres, extends in a
-southwesterly direction from Peter's Neck, including Onset Bay, to
-Abiel's Buoy and from there to Weweantit River. Scallops are also found
-in the Wareham River. Scallops are mostly found in the deeper water,
-which makes dredging the only profitable method of scalloping in this
-locality.
-
-Scalloping is practically all done by dredging either from sail or
-power boats, only 3 power boats being in use during the 1907-08 season.
-Three men from the village of Wareham use "pushers," but the yield from
-this style of fishing is very small. The style of dredge in most common
-use is the "scraper." This year the price paid for the frame of the
-dredge is $3.50. These dredges have the blade set downward firmly, and
-have a chain bottom of iron rings. The usual number per boat is eight,
-but at Onset any number from four to fourteen are used, according to
-the size of the boat and the individual choice of the scalloper. Nearly
-all the boats are cat boats, averaging in value about $300.
-
-About 30 regular openers have been engaged off and on by the
-scallopers. When the catch was large at the first of the season more
-openers were engaged,--often as many as 3 to a scalloper. One-tenth of
-the number are women.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of scallopers,                            45
-  Number of boats:--
-      Power,                                        3
-      Sail,                                        33
-                                               ------
-      Total,                                       36
-
-The quantity of scallops taken during 1907-08 was approximately
-10,000 bushels, valued at $13,100. During October the catch was
-about 15 bushels per day for the average scalloper, but later became
-considerably less. The greater part of the scallops were sold to
-the New Bedford Fish Company, the representatives of which bought
-them unsoaked from the fishermen. Certain of the fishermen, however,
-preferred to ship their catch to the Boston and New York markets.
-
-                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
-
-  Value of boats,                             $10,800
-  Value of gear,                                1,300
-  Value of shore property,                      7,000
-                                               ------
-      Total,                                  $19,100
-
-No permits were issued in 1907-08. Previous to this year, permits were
-required from every scalloper. Wareham has a fish committee, the duty
-of which is to enforce the fish laws.
-
-The first scalloping started in Wareham in 1879, when several boats
-from New Bedford commenced dredging in Wareham waters. From that
-time the industry rapidly developed, until it assumed considerable
-importance as a winter occupation. Since 1899 the industry has been
-practically dead until the present season of 1907-08. The Wareham
-scallopers to a man attribute this decline to the inroads of the
-destructive starfish. While the scallops have been so exterminated
-that no profitable fishery has been conducted the last seven years,
-they have not been wholly extinct, as a few could be found each year.
-Lately the number has been increasing, until in 1907-08 the season was
-very profitable. In connection with this it is said that the starfish
-were less numerous than usual. The prospects of another good season in
-1908-09 are excellent, as "seed" scallops are said to be plentiful in
-many places, especially in the deep water, which furnishes protection
-in case of a severe winter.
-
-
-_Wellfleet._
-
-At the present time in Wellfleet Bay there is no commercial scallop
-fishery, although scattering scallops are found in various parts of the
-harbor.
-
-
-_Yarmouth._
-
-The scallop grounds of Yarmouth are on the south side of the town, on
-the flats which border the shore from Bass River to Lewis Bay. Part of
-the waters of Lewis Bay belong to the town of Yarmouth, and scallops
-are found over all this territory. The nature of the bottom is the
-same as at Dennis and Barnstable. The total area of scallop territory
-is estimated at 2,250 acres. The scallop grounds of Dennis are open to
-Yarmouth scallopers.
-
-Both dredges and "pushers" are employed in the scallop fishery of the
-town. The method depends upon the location of the scallops, whether
-in shallow or deep water, as well as the means of the individual
-scallopers. Both the Chatham dredge and the "scraper" are used.
-Forty-one men were engaged in the 1907-08 fishery, using 15 boats and
-ten dories.
-
-The production for 1907-08 was 8,000 gallons, valued at $10,480.
-Scallops were shipped to New York and Boston markets.
-
-                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
-
-  Value of boats,                              $3,750
-  Value of dories,                                200
-  Value of gear,                                  475
-                                               ------
-      Total,                                   $4,425
-
-The same laws as were quoted for Dennis, the two towns having common
-fishery rights.
-
-The 1904-05 season was prosperous, as Yarmouth scallopers had the
-privilege of scalloping in the large bed off Dennis. The two following
-years were very poor, and even the last season has not been up to the
-average.
-
-FOOTNOTES:
-
-[10] E. Ingersoll, "The Scallop Fishery," United States Fish Commission
-report, 1881.
-
-[11] United States Department of Agriculture, Farmers' Bulletin 85,
-1898.
-
-[12] Statistics taken from the United States Fish Commission reports.
-
-[13] Licenses.
-
-[14] Return of Special Agent William C. Dunham.
-
-
-
-
-OYSTER (_Ostrea Virginiana_).
-
-
-_Introduction._
-
-                     RESOLVES OF 1905, CHAPTER 73.
-
-    _Resolved_, That the commissioners on fisheries and game
-    are hereby authorized and directed to make a biological
-    investigation and report as to the best methods, conditions and
-    localities for the propagation of oysters under the conditions
-    found in Massachusetts waters. The commissioners may expend for
-    the purposes of this resolve a sum not exceeding five hundred
-    dollars a year for a period of three years.
-
-As authorized by the above act, the Commissioners on Fisheries and Game
-have conducted experiments of a biological nature upon the oyster. At
-the start of the investigations, for a proper understanding of the
-various conditions in the different localities, it was necessary to
-make a survey of the oyster industry of the State. Recently this survey
-has been supplemented by sending printed questions to the oystermen,
-and the whole put in the form of a report, which gives an account of
-the industry. This first report on the oyster is merely a broad survey
-of the whole industry of the State, and is preliminary to future
-reports of a more scientific character.
-
-_The Need of a Survey._--In 1879 Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, in his
-"Monograph on the Oyster,"[15] gave an excellent account of the oyster
-industry of Massachusetts. Since that time no complete account, either
-statistical or biological, has been written. Meanwhile, the oyster
-industry of the State, owing to its steady improvement, has changed in
-the past twenty-eight years, and what was true of 1879 is not true of
-1907. Not only have localities changed and new areas been opened up,
-but also the whole industry has expanded through the enterprise and
-business ability of the oystermen, and to-day Massachusetts possesses
-an oyster fishery which more than doubles the production of 1879. Thus
-a survey of this fishery, by comparison with that of 1879, shows the
-changes that have taken place, and gives some idea of the growth of the
-industry.
-
-It is hoped that this report will furnish sufficient data to give
-actual knowledge of the conditions of oyster culture in the State, show
-the success of this industry, and indicate what is essential for its
-future improvement. It is necessary, in view of the conflict between
-the quahaug and oyster fisheries, that the public understand the exact
-situation, and this is possible only through a published account of
-each industry.
-
-_Scope of the Report._--The object of the report is to furnish
-information which will be of value both to the oysterman and to the
-consumer. Primarily the report is for the oysterman, showing the extent
-of the industry in his own locality and in other parts of the coast,
-where perhaps he is unacquainted with the conditions. While exact facts
-are presented for the benefit of the oysterman, this report at the
-same time tries to give a general description of the industry for the
-consumer, who perhaps knows nothing of the oyster except as an article
-of food.
-
-The first part of the report has been arranged under the following
-headings: (1) the natural oyster beds; (2) results of the survey; (3)
-history of the industry; (4) the oyster laws; (5) the oyster industry;
-(6) general statistics. The second part considers separately the
-industry of each town or section.
-
-_Methods of Work._--The statistical figures for the oyster industry
-are reasonably complete as the oyster fishery is on a more systematic
-business basis than any of the other shellfisheries. Nevertheless,
-on certain points it was impossible to obtain absolutely correct
-information, as, for instance, the area of grants, since no survey is
-made of the grants when leased, and the oysterman himself does not
-know the exact area of his granted territory. Thus an estimate has
-to be made by each oysterman of his granted area, and, while this is
-approximately correct, it cannot be considered as absolutely true.
-
-The statistical returns were compiled by sending to each oysterman in
-the State a blank form, containing a series of questions, with the
-request that he would co-operate with the commission by answering.
-Many oystermen responded with complete answers, thus permitting the
-commission, through their aid, to publish an extended report on the
-oyster fishery. However, it was found impossible to obtain complete
-information from several towns, as a number of oystermen neglected
-to return these blanks. The return of each oysterman is filed at the
-office of the Commission on Fisheries and Game, and only the total
-for each town is published, thus treating as confidential the private
-business of individuals. The commission expresses a most cordial
-acknowledgment to the oystermen for their co-operation in this matter.
-
-The other parts of the report were obtained by personal inspection of
-the oyster beds as to their biological conditions, by means of town
-records, and interviews with the oystermen. Town records, which should
-have given the location, number and areas of the grants, proved nearly
-worthless in most cases, owing to incompleteness, loss and confusion.
-Owing to the frequent change in selectmen, little if any information
-could be obtained from this source, as the new selectmen were generally
-unacquainted with the work of their predecessors concerning the leasing
-of oyster grants. The grants were often incompletely described, bounds
-uncertain and the acreage unknown.
-
-The interviews with the individual oystermen furnished more and better
-information both in regard to the present condition of the industry and
-the general history for each town.
-
-Personal inspection of the oyster grounds was made, the biological
-conditions noted and the area of the grants plotted on the accompanying
-maps. Not all these grants are worked, and parts of the cultivated
-grants are unfit for oyster raising. The charted area includes all
-grants, cultivated or uncultivated.
-
-In reviewing the history of the industry, information was obtained
-from town records, oystermen who had been in the business for years,
-and various newspapers and periodicals. For a comparison of the oyster
-industry of 1879 and 1907 the excellent report of Mr. Ernest Ingersoll
-upon the "Oyster Industry," published in the tenth census of the United
-States, was used for comparison, and in many places directly quoted.
-Were it not for this work and the report of A. Howard Clark on the
-"Fisheries of Massachusetts," it would have been impossible to draw any
-reliable comparison with the oyster industry of twenty-eight years ago.
-
-_Massachusetts as an Oyster State._--Massachusetts is perhaps not so
-well adapted for oyster culture as it is for clam or quahaug farming,
-and does not equal other seacoast States in the extent of its oyster
-industry. Nevertheless, the oyster industry is on a much firmer footing
-than the other shellfisheries, and is an important adjunct to the
-wealth of the southern Massachusetts towns.
-
-All the oyster grants, except in the towns of Wellfleet, Eastham
-and Orleans, are found south of Cape Cod, as the southern shore of
-Massachusetts alone is adapted for the oyster industry. Along the south
-side of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay the numerous inlets and estuaries
-afford with their brackish water excellent ground for the cultivation
-of this bivalve, and many acres which otherwise would be barren have
-been made productive through the grant system; while the shores of
-Massachusetts which adjoin the waters of Narragansett Bay possess, in
-the Taunton, Cole and Lee's rivers, excellent waters for the growth of
-seed oysters. Thus Massachusetts possesses good facilities for oyster
-culture, which are capable of a far greater expansion than present
-conditions indicate.
-
-However well developed the oyster industry is at present, there is
-plenty of room for improvement. It is the consensus of opinion among
-the oystermen that the business is developing every year,--a fact that
-speaks well for its future. Improvements in the oyster industry can
-arise in three ways: (1) investment of more capital in the business,
-which will allow more extensive operations; (2) more intensive
-cultivation of the present grounds; (3) the opening of new areas for
-oyster culture and the utilization of waters at present useless.
-Everything indicates that the oyster industry will take advantage of
-opportunities as soon as they are given.
-
-_The Oyster Grant System._--Oyster culture in Massachusetts is the
-logical result of the failure of the natural oyster beds. When these
-beds became destitute of oysters through overfishing, it was necessary
-that means should be used to perpetuate the stock. Oyster planting had
-been successfully carried on in the States south of Massachusetts, and
-it was merely a question of experiment whether the oyster would respond
-to the same methods in Massachusetts. Thus oyster culture arose in this
-State at first as an experiment, later as an established industry.
-Grants were given, as through this way only could oyster planting
-become a success, and the "free fishery" people were forced to bow to
-public opinion, which decreed that grants should be leased. Thus oyster
-grants arose from necessity, as in no other way could Massachusetts
-preserve her oyster supply.
-
-The system of oyster grants and oyster culture, in spite of its many
-failings, has shown what can be done to preserve and increase a natural
-shellfish industry if the proper methods are used. Planted beds have
-furnished enough spawn to maintain the natural beds, which would have
-long ago been depleted through the inroads of overfishing. They have
-preserved a fishery which would have disappeared almost completely, and
-established a better and more extensive industry, not only benefiting
-the oystermen, but also those indirectly associated with the business,
-such as teamsters, transportation companies, etc.
-
-In the following report various abuses of the present system of oyster
-culture will be enumerated, and it is only necessary to state that
-many evils must be eliminated before the oyster industry can obtain
-its maximum expansion. Such evils as town politics, disputes with
-quahaugers, etc., will have to be remedied. The greatest obstacle
-which now checks the oyster industry is the _lack of protection_.
-Until complete protection is given to the oysterman, the industry will
-never attain to its full development. The removal of the abuses by the
-organization of the oyster industry of the State under a unified system
-is the best way to secure proper regulation and improvement of the
-oyster industry.
-
-
-_The Natural Oyster Beds._
-
-While there has been much discussion whether oysters were ever native
-in Massachusetts Bay, or merely the result of southern "plants,"
-the consensus of opinion is that there were natural oyster beds in
-existence when the first settlers came to this coast. Not only do
-historical records show this, but the remains of the natural beds at
-the present time indicate that oysters have existed for centuries.
-Thus there seems to be no reasonable doubt that the northern coast
-of Massachusetts, as well as the southern, once possessed extensive
-natural oyster beds.
-
-I. _Location of the Natural Oyster Beds._--(1) _Parker River._--A
-natural bed of oysters once existed in the Parker River at Newbury, and
-even fifty years ago it is said that oysters could still be obtained
-from this natural bed. About 1882 the experiment of fattening oysters
-for market was made, and many bushels were bedded on the flats during
-the summer by an oyster firm at Newbury. These oysters not only grew
-well, but threw considerable spawn, furnishing a good set in the river.
-Oyster raising was then tried, but the result was a failure, as the
-oysters which were planted in too shallow water were killed during the
-winter.
-
-(2) _Mystic and Charles Rivers._--Mr. Ernest Ingersoll states that: "In
-1634 William Wood, in his 'New England's Prospect,' speaks of 'a great
-oyster bank' in Charles River, and another in the 'Mysticke,' each of
-which obstructed the navigation of its river." He locates the Charles
-River beds as either off Cambridgeport or near the site of the Boston
-Museum of Natural History.
-
-Dr. G. W. Field, chairman of this department, in his report in 1902
-as biologist to the Charles River Dam Commission, makes the following
-statement about the Charles River oyster:--
-
-    The oyster (_Ostrea_), formerly abundant, is no longer living,
-    and, from what indications I have been able to gather, probably
-    became extinct within twenty-five years. Their dead shells are
-    brought up by dredging operations. Their peculiar elongated
-    shape is the result of growth being concentrated at the upper
-    end, as a result of their closely crowded position in the bed,
-    or of an attempt to keep the opening above the accumulating
-    mud, and thus avoid being smothered. The fact that there are
-    few signs of small "seed oysters" tends to prove that the
-    bottom was so muddy that they found few places to "set." From
-    the elongated shape of the shells may be inferred that the
-    amount of sedimentation going on in that particular region
-    was rapid during the life of the group of oysters whose
-    shells are to be found in quantities in the material dredged
-    between Harvard and Brookline bridges. This sediment need not
-    necessarily have been sand or clay, or any material which is
-    persistent, but it might have been flocculent organic d�bris,
-    which remained but a short time and left little or no evidence,
-    beyond its effect upon the shape of the oyster shells.
-
-In the above account Dr. Field not only locates the original oyster
-beds of Charles River, but also furnishes evidence which indicates the
-cause of their extinction, _i.e._, the d�bris and sewage, or waste
-poisonous, polluting materials, of a large city emptying into the
-river. This is not only true of the Charles, but also of the Mystic and
-Taunton river beds, which have been destroyed in like manner.
-
-(3) Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, in his report on the "Oyster Industry of the
-United States," in 1880 mentions that natural oyster beds were once
-at Weymouth, Ipswich, Barnstable and Rowley. Nothing further can be
-learned concerning these places.
-
-(4) _Wellfleet._--An extensive oyster bed was found at Wellfleet Bay,
-which not only furnished a sufficient supply for the first settlers,
-but enabled the inhabitants of Wellfleet to carry on a considerable
-trade by shipping them to Boston and other ports, until it was finally
-destroyed in 1775. Its destruction was due to overfishing and the
-utilization of the shells for lime, which soon destroyed the natural
-bar.
-
-(5) _Chatham._--A natural oyster bed once existed in the Oyster Pond,
-but no trace of it now remains.
-
-(6) _Harwich._--Herring River in the town of Harwich still possesses
-the remnants of a natural oyster bed, as occasionally a few oysters
-can be gathered along its banks. This bed once comprised a stretch of
-three-quarters of a mile along the river.
-
-(7) _Yarmouth._--The town of Yarmouth once possessed a natural oyster
-bed in Mill Creek, but this was fished out by 1895 and then granted for
-oyster culture.
-
-(8) _Barnstable._--There is a natural oyster bed at Centerville.
-
-(9) _Martha's Vineyard._--Native oysters are said to have existed in
-the brackish ponds on the south side of the island; a few are found
-there at the present time.
-
-(10) _Falmouth._--A few native oysters are to be found in the salt
-ponds on the south coast of the town. In Squeteague Pond and Wild
-Harbor oysters were once native.
-
-Buzzards Bay comprises the best natural oyster territory in the State.
-At the present time the natural oyster industry has been supplanted
-by oyster culture, which gradually took the place of the declining
-natural oyster fishery. While natural beds still exist to some extent,
-they are, to all practical purposes, extinct. Where once there were
-extensive areas, now there are only scattering oysters. In many cases
-the beds have been so completely destroyed that the ground has been
-granted for oyster culture. That Buzzards Bay is a "natural set area"
-can be readily seen by the amount of "seed oysters" that are caught by
-the oystermen who plant shells for the purpose.
-
-(11) _Bourne._--(_a_) _Red Brook Harbor._--In 1879 Ernest Ingersoll
-says:--
-
-    On the southern shore of this harbor, about a mile from its
-    head, exists a living bed of natural oysters some 7 acres in
-    extent, under the protection of the town for public benefit.
-    The oysters growing on it are reported to be large, but not of
-    extraordinary size, scalloped and roundish, differing in no
-    respect from aged oysters grown after transplanting to another
-    part of the bay.
-
-In 1907 this natural bed had been reduced to 3 acres, and the
-unproductive part granted.
-
-(_b_) _Barlow River._--In 1873 an act was passed to protect the oyster
-fishery in Barlow River, by ordering a closed season of one and
-one-half years. The passage of this act shows that a natural bed of
-importance existed in this river, and that even in 1873 the effects of
-overfishing were apparent. At the present time there are but few native
-oysters in Barlow River, or, as it is sometimes called, Pocasset River.
-
-(_c_) _Monument River._--A natural bed also existed in Monument River,
-which became so depleted that about 1875 the river was surveyed and
-divided into small grants.
-
-(12) _Wareham._--(_a_) _Wareham River._--Natural oysters are found in
-the Wareham or Agawam River, which has been one of the most productive
-natural beds in the State, and still furnishes a scant living for two
-or three men. In view of the overfishing, it is surprising that any
-of the natural oysters have survived, except on reserved areas of the
-town, which are opened every three or seven years for the capture of
-"seed."
-
-(_b_) _Weweantit River._--The Weweantit River, which lies between the
-towns of Wareham and Marion, has a larger and better natural oyster bed
-than the Wareham River, but this has also been depleted by overfishing,
-except on the reserved areas of the town of Wareham.
-
-(13) _Dartmouth._--A few oysters are found in Slocum's River.
-
-(14) _Westport._--Westport River has also a few oysters.
-
-(15) _Taunton River, Coles River and Lee's River._--These rivers once
-had extensive beds of natural oysters, but now are wholly devoted to
-growing oysters. Old records and laws show how important these natural
-beds were, and also furnish an excellent illustration of the effects of
-overfishing combined with water pollution from manufacturing sources.
-
-II. _Decline of the Natural Oyster Beds._--The above-mentioned examples
-furnish abundant proof that the natural oyster beds of the State, which
-once were sufficient to supply the wants of our forefathers, have
-declined to such an extent that at the present time but few natural
-oysters are tonged for the market. Where there were formerly many acres
-of excellent native oysters, to-day there is scarcely an acre that can
-be called good oyster fishing, except in a few cases where the towns
-maintain a nearly perpetual closed season. No proof of the decline is
-necessary; it is an established fact.
-
-There have been two principal causes which have ruined the natural
-oyster beds; besides these two,--(1) water pollution and (2)
-overfishing,--certain geographical changes have doubtless occurred,
-which have accelerated the decline.
-
-(1) _Water Pollution._--The effect of water pollution through the
-sediment deposited by sewage and manufacturing waste on the natural
-oyster beds is well illustrated by the destruction of the Charles River
-beds. This is also shown in a less degree in the Taunton River.
-
-(2) _Overfishing._--The primary cause of the decline of the natural
-oyster beds was overfishing. This is particularly true of the beds
-south of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay, which were of large extent, and
-unpolluted by manufacturing wastes or sewage. This overfishing has
-not been the result of the last few years, since records show that as
-early as 1824 Harwich passed an act to preserve the oyster fishery
-of the town; and that Sandwich, in the part which is now the town of
-Bourne, in 1832 passed regulations protecting the natural oyster
-fishery in Monument River; while at Wellfleet the natural oyster bed
-was completely exterminated by the year 1775. Overfishing has affected
-the natural beds in several ways, all of which have worked toward the
-general decline of the native oyster.
-
-(_a_) The first settlers took the large oysters from the natural beds,
-which under normal conditions had all they could do to keep up the
-supply. In this way the beds were deprived of the spawning oysters,
-with the result that in spite of the closed seasons, which gave little
-if any benefit, a gradual decline set in.
-
-(_b_) At the same time that the oysters were being taken from the beds,
-the early oystermen through ignorance were making an economic blunder
-by not returning the shells to the waters. The oyster shells furnish
-naturally the best surfaces for the collection of "seed," as spat will
-set only on clean surfaces. By taking the large oysters and with them
-the shells and other d�bris from the bed, the natural oyster bars were
-destroyed and less space given for the spat to catch. So both the
-taking of the large oysters in excessive amounts and the destruction of
-the natural spat collectors, either for lime, as was done at Wellfleet,
-or for other purposes, were sufficient in the early days to cause the
-decline of the natural oyster beds.
-
-(_c_) In more recent times the destruction of the natural beds has been
-hastened by the taking of the small oysters. This practice was due to
-two reasons: (1) the supply of large oysters was exhausted; (2) oyster
-culture became important, and the natural beds were raked clean for
-"seed" which the oystermen obtained for planting on their grants. Thus
-the oyster grant system has been the chief cause of the destruction of
-the natural beds in the last forty years. It was only when the natural
-beds failed that grants were given, and so oyster culture cannot be
-considered the primary cause of the destruction of the natural beds,
-but only a later agency in their total extermination. The natural beds
-in Buzzards Bay all bear testimony to these three means of overfishing,
-and in recent years particularly to the last.
-
-It has been a most fortunate thing for Massachusetts that the oyster
-grant system was inaugurated as soon as the decline of the natural
-fishery became manifest, else at the present time there would be no
-oysters in the State, for it is recognized that the present natural
-beds are perpetuated by the spawn which comes from the various oyster
-grants. Foresight has indeed provided an excellent oyster industry,
-which is rapidly improving. It is only necessary to apply similar
-methods of culture to the other shellfish industries of the State to
-insure their future also; otherwise the decline, which is following the
-same steps as the destruction of the natural oyster beds, will lead to
-the commercial extinction of these valuable fisheries.
-
-
-_Results of the Survey._
-
-The survey of the oyster industry has shown several interesting
-facts which should be brought to the attention of the fishermen
-and consumers. In the first place, it has shown that the oyster
-fishery is a larger and more important industry than it has been
-commonly considered, and that the welfare of the shore fisheries of
-southern Massachusetts depends upon its maintenance. Secondly, the
-oyster industry is to-day in a position where it cannot reach its
-full development for the reason merely that the present laws do not
-encourage the expansion of the industry. Thirdly, the oyster industry
-is trammeled by certain abuses, chiefly of a legal nature, which
-hinder its development, and upon the abolition of which depends its
-future success. Fourthly, the oyster industry under present conditions
-encroaches to some extent upon the other shellfish rights, especially
-in relation to the quahaug fishery, and has caused much jealous
-feeling; but if properly regulated there should be room for both
-industries.
-
-In order to obtain the opinion of the oystermen concerning the present
-abuses of the oyster industry, and how these could be best remedied,
-the following question was asked of the individual planters: "What
-measures or laws would, in your opinion, be best adapted for the
-improvement of the oyster industry?" Although many neglected to answer
-this question, forty-three opinions were offered, dealing with the
-problems which the oystermen consider as needing attention and upon
-which the welfare of the industry depends. These answers have been
-arranged in tabular form, showing the number of oystermen who advocate
-certain measures.
-
-                          MEASURES SUGGESTED.
-
-  Present laws satisfactory,                                      11
-  Direct State control of oyster industry,                        11
-  Town control, with right of appeal to the department of
-    fisheries and game,                                            1
-  Longer length of lease,                                          4
-  More certainty of re-leasing grants if improved,                 7
-  More protection for industry,                                    4
-  Right to grow all kinds of shellfish,                            1
-  More ground for cultivation,                                     1
-  State to forbid marketing of oysters from contaminated waters,   1
-  Provision for destruction of starfish,                           2
-                                                              ------
-      Total,                                                      43
-
-While these answers show a diversity of ideas, about 75 per cent.
-urge that something be done to improve the present system, and, while
-many are in favor of placing the industry under State control, the
-majority is definitely of the opinion that the present system of town
-control is proving a serious drawback to the oyster industry. The best
-interests of the oysterman and the consumer demand a better method of
-regulation of this industry. As long as town politics, partiality and
-carelessness enter into the leasing of oyster grants, and thus deprive
-certain people of their rights, it is safe to say that the oyster
-industry can never get beyond its present state of development. One
-solution of the difficulty might be full State control of leasing the
-grounds for the oyster industry. This is possibly too radical a step
-at present, and the system can perhaps be so adjusted as to remedy its
-defects without taking the control of the fishery entirely away from
-the hands of the town. Another solution is to continue the system of
-town control, but to have a State commission which would act as a board
-of appeal for all who felt aggrieved at the judgment of the selectmen.
-
-The advisability of ten-year grants has caused much comment among the
-oystermen. Practically all grants are now given for this period of
-time. As a system it is deservedly unpopular, since it does not help
-the quahaug interest, and it checks the development of the oyster
-industry. The oyster business, unlike the other branches of shellfish
-culture, requires a considerable capital. This system of ten-year
-grants operates directly to discourage the outlay of capital. If the
-oysterman were sure of reaping the benefits of his labor and capital,
-it would be to his selfish interest to develop his own grant to its
-maximum capacity. But what far-sighted business man will invest money
-in a business which stands a good chance of being completely "wiped
-out" in a few years? Again, this system makes three years out of the
-ten practically worthless. The oysterman usually "seeds" his grant
-about three years before he expects to reap his harvest; but when his
-grant has run for seven years, it is evident that he will plant no more
-oysters because of the uncertainty of obtaining a second lease, and
-naturally does not desire to invest his labor and money for the benefit
-of an unknown successor.
-
-The remedy for this is not difficult. If a grant were rented annually
-as long as the planter desired to hold it, to be forfeited if not
-improved to a certain standard (to be decided upon), or for non-payment
-of rent, the difficulties above enumerated would disappear. Much of
-the territory now held unimproved would either be brought up to a
-standard of excellence or given over to the quahaugers, and in either
-case direct benefits would result. If legislation were so arranged
-that any man might take, by the payment of a nominal rent, a small
-piece of ground, which he could hold as long as he improved it, the
-oyster industry could be put on a firmer footing; a man confident of
-enjoying the fruits of his labors could thus improve his grant, and, as
-he acquired skill and knowledge, could add other land and ultimately
-expect to build up a successful business.
-
-A third important suggestion relates to the marketing of oysters in
-a sanitary condition. The oyster industry of the State has suffered
-severely because of the scare resulting from the marketing of oysters
-from contaminated waters. The Cape and Buzzards Bay oysters are
-in general free from all sewage contamination, and should not be
-considered on the same basis as the impure varieties from outside
-the State. Naturally, the Massachusetts oystermen desire that there
-be some guarantee for the purity of the oysters marketed, as their
-interests suffer because this impure stock is often sold under the name
-of the Cape oyster. If laws were passed requiring the inspection and
-certification of marketed oysters in regard to healthful conditions
-under which they have been produced, both the oyster planter and the
-consumer would be benefited.
-
-There is but little doubt that the oyster industry can be still
-further developed by opening waste territory which at this time does
-not appear available, since under existing conditions proper capital
-cannot be induced to enter the business. The oyster industry demands
-more attention than it has hitherto received, and must be considered an
-important asset of the Commonwealth.
-
-
-_History of the Industry._
-
-Although the oyster laws are the mile-stones which mark the progress
-of the oyster industry, and any consideration of the development of
-these laws naturally gives many historical features, it is nevertheless
-necessary, at the risk of repetition, to give a separate account of the
-history of the oyster fishery. The Massachusetts oyster fishery can be
-divided historically into three distinct periods: (1) the free fishing
-period; (2) the period of bedding southern oysters; (3) the period of
-oyster grants.
-
-(1) _The Free Native Fishery (1620-1840)._--In the early colonial
-days the oyster fishery was considered in the same way as the other
-shellfisheries are now looked upon, _i.e._, held to be the common
-property of the inhabitants of the Commonwealth. The natural supply
-was abundant enough to meet the needs of all the inhabitants, and for
-many years no signs of decline were manifest. In 1775 the natural beds
-of Wellfleet gave out, furnishing the first record of unmistakable
-decline. From that time there arose an extensive series of protective
-laws, with the one object of preserving the natural supply by limiting
-the demand. This policy of protective laws, though perhaps temporarily
-beneficial, was based on an erroneous principle. It was preventive, but
-not constructive, and did not build up the demolished fishery.
-
-(2) _Oyster Bedding (1840-70)._--With the decline of the natural beds,
-the practice of bedding southern "plants" became an important part of
-the oyster trade. The southern oysters were bedded on the flats in the
-spring and taken up for market in the fall. Salem, Wellfleet and Boston
-were the leading places in this new phase of the oyster industry, and
-many thousand bushels were annually planted.
-
-(3) _Oyster Grants (1870-1908)._--So successful was this summer
-bedding of southern oysters that experiments were soon made in rearing
-oysters. This proved successful from the start, and within a few years
-the extensive grant system which is now in vogue was inaugurated on
-Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay.
-
-These three methods, although separated by definite periods in which
-each have been the leaders, remain to a greater or less extent at
-the present day. The natural beds are still in existence, and, as at
-Wareham, are opened once in three or seven years, according to the
-discretion of the selectmen, for catching "seed." The summer bedding of
-oysters still continues, as certain planters find it more profitable to
-fatten than to grow oysters, and the oyster grant system is now in full
-operation.
-
-A comparison of the industry of 1907 with that of 1879 shows several
-changes. These changes are for the most part improvements which have
-arisen with the development of the industry. In some cases the changes
-have been detrimental, and a few localities have shown a decline. New
-fields have opened to the oysterman both in new localities and through
-the extension of the present beds. On the whole, there has been a great
-increase in the grant system of oyster culture, while the "bedding"
-of southern "plants," which in 1879 employed many men, boats and
-extensive capital, has practically disappeared. The annual production
-has increased gradually, and for 1906-07 is approximately five times
-as large as in 1879. The following figures, except for 1907, are taken
-from the United States Fish Commission's reports, and show the gradual
-increase in production:--
-
-  =========+==========+========
-    YEAR.  | Bushels. |  Value.
-  ---------+----------+--------
-  1879,    |  36,000  | $41,800
-  1887,    |  43,183  |  64,115
-  1888,    |  45,631  |  66,453
-  1898,    |  101,225 |$156,235
-  1902,    |  103,386 | 133,682
-  1907,[16]|  161,182 | 176,142
-  =========+==========+========
-
-
-_The Oyster Laws._
-
-In submitting a complete report upon the oyster industry, the oyster
-laws, which have played an important part in the development of the
-fishery, cannot be totally neglected. However, so important a subject
-demands separate investigation, and offers excellent opportunities for
-legal research. Therefore it is not the purpose of this report to give
-more than a brief account of the present oyster laws and their history.
-
-The shellfish laws of Massachusetts constitute the foundation of the
-oyster industry, as they have taken a practically extinct native
-fishery and have built up the present extensive business. So closely
-are they connected with its welfare that the future of this growing
-industry depends upon the proper expansion of these laws to meet the
-new conditions.
-
-A survey of these oyster laws, with an analysis of their merits and
-defects, is needed. Their defects have brought about the present
-unsatisfactory situation in certain localities, and should be remedied.
-Their merits should be strengthened and amplified, as the basis of
-future expansion. They have come into being from time to time, in
-response to the immediate need of the hour; consequently they have no
-unity, and are, indeed, but imperfectly understood. An insight into
-their perplexing details should bring out many inconsistencies. Again,
-no comprehensive knowledge of the history of the industry is possible
-without a study of the laws. The errors once committed need not be
-repeated to further embarrass the industry, and the lessons learned by
-experience would be well applied to its future development.
-
-_Protective and Constructive Laws._--The oyster laws can be divided
-into two classes: (1) protective; and (2) constructive. The early laws,
-which were passed to save the natural supply, were of the first class;
-while the laws establishing the present system of oyster culture come
-under the second heading. The beginnings of all legislative enactment
-arose in the treatment of the natural oyster beds. These beds were fast
-becoming exhausted, when laws were passed to protect their important
-natural resources. This measure was only partially successful. It did
-succeed in preserving the remnant of those old beds from destruction,
-but it was powerless to build up an industry of any extent. When it
-became clearly evident that no possible fostering of native resources
-could supply the growing demands of the market, legislation quite
-logically directed itself toward the artificial propagation of oysters.
-From this step arose a series of problems which long proved baffling,
-and still engross a great deal of public attention. The artificial
-propagation of oysters necessitated the leasing of grants in tidal
-waters. This giving up of public property to private individuals
-aroused the opposition of rival shellfish industries, who saw in this
-measure a curtailment of their resources. Numerous other difficulties
-of minor significance arose from time to time, all demanding attention
-at the hands of the Legislature.
-
-Apart from the general supervision of the oyster industry, there
-have been two other sources of legislative enactment. First, special
-laws have been called for to regulate the fishery in certain waters
-under the oversight of the State Board of Health. Secondly, during
-the past few years the attention of the Legislature has been directed
-towards the development of the oyster fishery as an important asset
-of the Commonwealth, and laws authorizing various experiments, both
-scientific and practical, have been passed in order to devise methods
-of increasing and developing the industry.
-
-I. _Protective Laws._--The history of the oyster laws of Massachusetts
-is a history of the industry itself. The rise and decline of the
-fishery are distinctly traceable in the development of the legal
-machinery which regulates it. From the time of the Pilgrims the oyster
-beds of the coast had been regarded as inexhaustible mines. The fallacy
-of this view gradually became apparent, as these beds began to be
-depleted through overfishing. As early as 1796 a general law, entitled
-"An act to prevent the destruction of oysters and other shellfish," was
-passed by the Legislature. Prior to 1869 the town of Harwich adopted
-this old law. Shortly after, Swansea followed suit, and restricted the
-exploitation of her native oyster beds in the Lee and Cole rivers. In
-1870 Wellfleet inaugurated an innovation, in the nature of a permit
-to take oysters, which was required of all citizens of the town. The
-idea of this permit was to regulate the fishery, centralize control
-in the hands of the selectmen and add to the income of the town. In
-1873 Sandwich passed a law enforcing a close season on all her native
-beds, to last for a period of one year. In 1875 Brewster followed the
-lead of Wellfleet, in demanding permits of all outsiders and also from
-all citizens taking more than 3 bushels at any one time, although an
-unlimited amount might be taken for food.
-
-The aim of all this legislation was not to develop the industry
-directly, but indirectly by preserving and fostering the native beds.
-This theory, while excellent in motive, did not work out well, as the
-native beds could not by any possible protection be brought to produce
-an annual yield at all adequate to the growing demands of the market.
-
-The utilization of purely natural resources proving unequal to the
-demands of the occasion, the creation of other resources became
-necessary, and an entirely new epoch in the history of the oyster
-fishery was inaugurated. This epoch marked the beginning of the
-production of oysters by artificial means, and the establishment of
-this new industry and the perplexing complications which grew out of it
-have been the source of legislative strife for many years.
-
-II. _Constructive Laws._--The first legislation authorizing the present
-system of oyster culture was instituted at Swansea, in 1869. This was
-the beginning and the foundation of a broad movement of oyster culture
-which spread rapidly along the southern coast of the State. This
-curious law allowed the selectmen to sell, by public or private sale,
-the oyster privilege of Swansea outright to any person or persons who
-were citizens of the town. The measure, although apparently designed
-to restrict the exhaustion of the native resources, did not tend to
-develop the industry. It possessed one element of value, i.e., it
-increased the revenue of the town. Apart from its interest as the
-forerunner of artificial propagation of oysters, this old law is
-noteworthy, as it forms the basis of the system which to-day regulates
-the industry in that section of the country. The custom of selling an
-extensive oyster privilege, as apart from the system of leasing grants,
-first clearly outlined in the law of 1869, still holds throughout this
-section. It remains the usual custom to sell either the whole of a
-township's available oyster territory, or else an extensive part of it,
-to one man for a lump sum per year.
-
-In 1874 an important step occurred in the evolution of the oyster
-industry. Swansea and Somerset were given the privilege of granting
-any of their bays, shores, banks and creeks for the propagation of
-oysters. This act was far more sweeping and advanced than any of its
-predecessors, but it was in one respect too sweeping. It interfered
-with the rights of the property owners along the shore, and was
-therefore contrary to the general underlying principle of the State
-law, which allows the cultivation of oysters only in so far as such
-cultivation does not interfere with the vested rights of all citizens
-alike. The measure proved untenable, and was promptly repealed.
-Its repeal was on general principles a thing to be desired, but
-nevertheless a blow to the industry. The tidal waters along the coast
-have always been the most valuable part of the oyster territory, as
-they have proved to be the best adapted for obtaining "oyster set."
-This measure was therefore designed to aid the oyster growers, and give
-them valuable privileges which belonged originally to the adjoining
-property owners. Even to the present day the dividing line between
-the rights of property owners and oystermen has remained an unsettled
-question.
-
-It was about this time that the close season proved a failure in
-Buzzards Bay, and the towns of Wareham, Bourne and Marion turned their
-attention toward the establishment of an oyster industry. This attempt
-became a settled policy of these towns about 1875.
-
-In 1878 a peculiar act was passed, making it unlawful for any person
-to remove oysters from any grant, even his own, between the hours
-of sunset and sunrise. This act was necessary for the protection of
-the oyster planters, by preventing the stealing of oysters from the
-grant at night. Various efforts had been made to protect grants from
-such attacks, but the extreme difficulty of detection was always an
-insuperable obstacle to proper enforcement, and it was deemed expedient
-to prohibit all fishing at night. That this problem had become an
-important one is shown by the title of the law, which was styled
-"An act for the better protection of the oyster fisheries in this
-commonwealth."
-
-In 1884 an important act was passed, enlarging the limits of that
-territory which might lawfully be used for the cultivation of oysters.
-Practically all communal waters outside the jurisdiction of adjacent
-land owners was thrown open for oyster grants.
-
-In 1885 the institution of a public hearing was inaugurated. This was a
-concession to the hostile quahaug element, and allowed the public the
-opportunity of protesting against the granting of territory for oyster
-culture; nevertheless, the final power really remained in the hands of
-the selectmen. A further concession to this element was the law which
-called for the revoking of grants within two years if unimproved. The
-interests of the oystermen were also kept in sight, and legislation
-passed which was designed to protect grants still more from the
-depredations of outsiders. Provision was likewise made for the proper
-enforcement of these laws, and the penalties attached were increased.
-
-In 1886 an act was passed which was designed to do away with all
-possible outside monopoly. The danger of organized capital acquiring
-control of a large tract and excluding small individual planters had
-become apparent, and this means was taken to guard against it. The act
-prohibited the transfer of grants in any township to any person not a
-citizen of that township; thus, if any monopoly did exist it would be
-restricted to only one township. The limits during which fishing on
-grants might be carried on was lengthened two hours, so that it read
-from "one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset."
-
-In 1892 the town of Yarmouth obtained a law requiring a permit for
-citizens to take oysters from native beds, not exceeding 2 bushels per
-week, from September 1 to June 1. This is now the only town in the
-Commonwealth to require such a permit from citizens.
-
-In 1895 legislation was passed relative to the proper definition of
-the boundaries of grants. This was rendered necessary because of
-the haphazard methods hitherto pursued in giving grants with very
-indefinite boundaries. Mean low-water mark was fixed as the shoreward
-boundary of grants, while mean high-water mark was defined as the limit
-to which shells might be placed to catch the set. This, however, was
-dependent upon the owners of the adjacent property, and their consent
-was held necessary before this territory between high and low water
-could thus be utilized.
-
-In 1901 special legislation was passed, restricting the catching of
-oysters in contaminated waters except for bait.
-
-In 1904 authority was granted to proper officials to develop the oyster
-industry by planting shellfish, or by close season.
-
-In 1905 the Fish and Game Commission was authorized to expend a sum
-not exceeding $500 per annum for the investigation of the oyster, by
-experiment or otherwise, with a view to developing the industry.
-
-The development of the oyster laws has been by a process of evolution.
-They have kept pace with the growth of the industry, and have been in
-fact the logical outcome of that expansion. The various acts which go
-to make up the bulk of this legislation have been passed from time to
-time to fill the immediate demands of the hour, and consequently lack
-that unity and consistency which might otherwise characterize them.
-Changing conditions have called for alterations in the legal machinery,
-as the industry has expanded, to meet new requirements. These additions
-have frequently been dictated by short-sighted policy, and the
-Commonwealth as a whole has often been lost sight of in the welfare of
-the community.
-
-Of all the shellfisheries, the oyster industry is most hampered by
-unwise legislation. It is the most difficult to handle, because it
-presents many perplexing phases from which the others are free. Clams,
-quahaugs and scallops flourish in their respective territories, and
-legislation merely tends to regulate their exploitation or marketing.
-With the oyster, however, other problems have arisen. The areas in the
-State where oysters grow naturally are few in number and relatively
-of small importance. The clam, quahaug and scallop grounds are to be
-compared with wild pastures and meadows, which yield their harvests
-without cultivation; while the oyster grants are gardens, which must be
-planted and carefully tended.
-
-With this distinction arises another question, of far-reaching
-significance,--the question of private ownership. The quahaug, clam
-and scallop fisheries demand that the tidal flats and waters be held
-in common as communal interests, and freely open to all citizens of
-the town; the oyster fishery requires that certain portions of these
-flats and waters be set aside for private ownership. With the economic
-questions involved in this discussion it is not the purpose of this
-report to deal. There is one fact, in any case, which cannot be argued
-away. The oyster industry is dependent solely upon private ownership
-of grants. If, therefore, the oyster industry is to be encouraged at
-all,--and it certainly has very great possibilities,--this fact of
-private ownership must be accepted at once. If, as some assert, it is
-an evil, it is a necessary evil, and it has come to stay. The questions
-remaining for legislation on this subject are the proper regulation of
-this private ownership, so as to give the maximum of encouragement to
-the oyster fishery, and the minimum of danger to the rival shellfish
-industries.
-
-The oyster and quahaug industries openly clash. This is an unfortunate
-occurrence, but it cannot be avoided, since the ground suitable for
-the culture of oysters is almost always the natural home of the
-quahaug. Therefore, when portions of this ground are given out to
-private individuals for the production of oysters, the available
-quahaug territory is necessarily reduced. Over this question endless
-disputes have arisen. The problem is undoubtedly one requiring delicate
-adjustment; but there is no reason why these two industries should not
-flourish side by side, as there would be plenty of room for both if all
-the available territory were properly utilized.
-
-There is one important feature of this problem, however, which the
-present laws have wholly failed to recognize. Wherever practicable,
-the best of the quahaug territory should not be granted; and as far as
-possible, the oystermen should utilize only those tracts of territory
-which are not naturally very productive of quahaugs.
-
-
-_The Oyster Industry._
-
-For the benefit of those who perhaps are not familiar with the methods
-employed in the oyster industry, the following brief account is given:--
-
-I. _Selecting the Grant._--The oysterman, in selecting a grant, has to
-consider first the nature of the soil; and secondly, the location as
-influencing the growth of the oyster. Not less important is the quality
-of the oyster, which means not only a good price, but also readiness
-of sale, as the oysters produced in certain localities are especially
-desirable in appearance and flavor.
-
-As the oyster will not grow on all kinds of bottom, but demands a firm
-soil, free from soft mud and shifting sand, the oyster area of the
-State is naturally limited. Usually but part of an oysterman's grant is
-suitable for the cultivation of oysters, and he is forced to let the
-rest of the territory lie idle, unless he can, with shells or gravel,
-artificially change this waste area into suitable ground. Shifting sand
-perhaps can never be made suitable for oysters; but many acres of soft
-mud can be made productive, if the oysterman only has a reasonable
-guarantee that he would receive the results of his labor.
-
-While the oyster culture is limited by the nature of the bottom, it is
-also restricted by other conditions. The salinity of the water has much
-to do with the rapidity of growth, and the oysters seem to thrive in
-localities where a slight amount of fresh water enters. The amount of
-food in the water is the principal factor in the rate of growth, and
-to this is due the fact that the rate of growth varies considerably
-in different localities. As a rule, the beds with good circulation of
-water (_i.e._, currents) show the more rapid growth.
-
-II. _Collecting the "Seed."_--The term "seed" is applied to one, two,
-three and even four year old oysters which the oystermen plant on their
-grants. These grants are in reality salt-water gardens, requiring
-constant supervision; and the obtaining of the "seed" for planting is a
-most important consideration. The gathering of the oyster "seed" is a
-simple process, but one which requires much research.
-
-Early in the summer, usually during the months of June and July in
-these waters, the Massachusetts oyster spawns. Both sperm from the
-adult male and the eggs from the adult female oysters are extruded
-in considerable quantities into the water, and there the eggs are
-fertilized. As fertilization is somewhat a matter of accident,
-undoubtedly the great majority of eggs never develop. The fertilized
-eggs pass rapidly through various changes in the course of a few hours,
-and emerge as microscopic embryos, with thin, transparent coverings.
-At this period these forms are free swimming, and are found in great
-numbers in the water. They are extremely delicate, and great quantities
-are destroyed by natural agencies, such as cold storms, sudden changes
-in temperature, etc. They likewise are subject to the depredations of
-all sorts of marine creatures, and comparatively few in proportion
-survive. The survivors, after leading this free-swimming existence for
-several days, settle to the bottom, where they attach themselves by
-a calcareous fixative to stones, shells, pieces of wood, etc. Here,
-unless buried by silt and soft mud or killed by exposure, poisonous
-pollution, etc., the young oyster rapidly becomes of a size suitable
-for planting.
-
-The economic utilization of this scientific knowledge is as follows:
-shells offer a very good surface for the attachment of the young
-oyster, and many thousand bushels are annually strewn over the bottom
-previous to the spawning season. Considerable judgment is needed in
-choosing the right time to plant these shells, which after a few
-weeks in the water become so coated with slime that fixation of the
-"spat" becomes impossible. In Massachusetts the area between high and
-low water mark has been found by experiment to be the most valuable
-territory for this purpose, as shells planted here collect the heaviest
-set and can be handled with the least expense. A projecting sand bar or
-point with a current is also well adapted for catching oyster spat.
-
-The scallop shell is the most serviceable in spat collecting, because
-it is more brittle, and the clusters of oysters when attached are
-readily broken apart. After the oysterman has obtained a successful
-set, he allows the young oysters to obtain a suitable growth before he
-makes a final planting, either in the spring or fall.
-
-III. _Size of the "Seed" used for Planting._--While many oysters are
-raised from native spat in the Buzzards Bay district, the greater
-part of the seed is purchased in Connecticut and Long Island, and is
-carried in schooners or steamers to Massachusetts waters. The usual
-price ranges from 35 cents to $1 per bushel, according to size and
-quality. The oystermen cannot always choose the size of "seed" they
-desire for planting, as the set of any one year is very uncertain,
-and several seasons may pass before a large quantity of "seed" can be
-obtained. Thus the oyster planters are forced to take whatever size
-they can obtain, whether it be two, three or four year old "seed." As
-a rule, the small "seed" is most in demand, as it means relatively
-faster growth and less money invested. Often, when the ground is most
-favorable for fattening, large oysters are preferred for planting,
-and certain oystermen make this line of work a specialty. Certain
-localities where there is plenty of lime in the water are well adapted
-for growth, and yet produce poor-"meated" oysters, while in other
-grounds the reverse is true. The oystermen occasionally by a double
-transfer utilize both grounds, planting oyster "seed" for the first few
-years in the rapid-growing localities, and then transplanting the large
-oysters to the "fattening" ground six months before marketing.
-
-IV. _Preparing the Grant._--The first step in preparing the grant is to
-remove all d�bris. In the deep water, this is usually done by dredging;
-in the shallow water, by whatever means is the easiest. If the bottom
-is of firm soil, the grant is then ready for planting; however, if the
-soil is soft mud, it is necessary to shell the bottom in order to give
-it greater firmness. The oysterman continually has to keep a sharp
-lookout in order to protect his grant from enemies such as the starfish
-and the oyster drill, and to keep it clear of seaweed and other matter
-which would interfere with the growth of the oyster.
-
-V. _Sowing the "Seed."_--The "seed" oysters are planted on the prepared
-bed by scattering them with shovels or scoops from the boats and scows.
-The oysterman, knowing the maximum amount of "seed" the bed will grow
-to the best advantage, plants the required number, taking care that
-the oysters are properly scattered, as for the best growth oysters
-should lie separate and not in crowded masses. The amount of "seed"
-that can be planted on a given area depends upon the natural conditions
-of the locality.
-
-VI. _Enemies._--The oyster, having passed through the countless dangers
-of his embryonic career, is still harassed by several enemies. Of
-these, the most destructive is the starfish. This animal, commonly
-known as the "five-finger," occurs along the entire Massachusetts
-coast, and is especially abundant in Buzzards Bay. Occasionally whole
-oyster beds are wiped out by this pest, which sweeps over the ground
-in vast armies. The method of attack of the starfish is unique. By
-exerting with its tube feet a steady pull in opposite directions
-on both valves of the shell of the victim, the starfish tires the
-contracted muscle of the oyster, and the shells open. The starfish then
-extrudes its stomach so as to enwrap the prey, and in this curious
-manner devours the oyster.
-
-A close second to the starfish in amount of damage is the oyster
-"drill" or "borer" (_Urosalpinx cinerea_). This little mollusk with its
-rasping tongue drills a small hole through the shell of the oyster, and
-then sucks out the contents.
-
-A third enemy, according to the oyster planters, is the "winkle"
-(_Fulgur carica_ and _F. caniculatus_). The method of attack is
-somewhat obscure.
-
-Besides this dangerous trio of living enemies, the oyster is subject to
-constant peril from inanimate agencies. Probably the greatest of these
-is shifting bottom. Where oysters are grown on sandy soil, the violent
-waves of winter storms frequently tear up the bottom, or else the force
-of currents is such as to kill the oysters by completely burying them
-in the sand. Again, if the oysters are growing in very muddy bottom
-they are constantly liable to be smothered in the slimy ooze. Ice in
-winter frequently tears oysters from their beds and bears them to some
-unfavorable environment, where they soon die.
-
-VII. _Harvesting the Oysters._--The oysterman completes his planting
-about June 1. During the summer months, the growing period of the
-oyster, the grants remain idle except for the care and supervision of
-the oystermen. As the oyster takes from three to five years to attain
-its growth, the oysterman practically harvests but one-fourth to
-one-third of his entire stock each year, beginning about September 1
-and continuing through the winter as the weather permits.
-
-In winter the oysterman, to keep up the market supply, beds "culled"
-oysters near the shore, where he can tong them through the ice whenever
-it is impossible to obtain oysters from his grant.
-
-The implements used in gathering the oyster harvest are of three
-kinds: tongs, dredges and rakes. Tongs are employed principally by the
-smaller oyster growers, and on ground where the water is comparatively
-shallow. A pair of tongs is really a pair of long-handled rakes,
-fastened together like a pair of shears. The pole, corresponding to
-the blade of the shears, varies from 8 to 16 feet in length. The
-rakes, some 2 to 2� feet broad, are so fitted to the end of the poles
-that when extended by spreading the handles they rest upon the bottom
-parallel to each other. These tongs are usually worked from skiffs or
-flat-bottomed boats, the oystermen first separating the tips of the
-handles and then bringing them together, thus causing a corresponding
-movement of the two rakes, which with their 2-inch iron teeth gather in
-all the intervening oysters. The tongs with their burden of oysters are
-then lifted into the boat, emptied, and the process repeated.
-
-Dredging is a much faster and less laborious method of oystering
-than tonging, and can be carried on over a much larger territory.
-The oyster dredge consists of a bag of woven iron rings attached
-to an iron framework. From each corner of the framework iron rods
-extend, converging at a point some feet away. At this point the rope
-is attached, by which the dredge is dragged from either a sail or
-power boat. The blade, resting horizontally on the surface, is armed
-with teeth which rake the oysters into the bag. When this bag, which
-holds from 3 to 8 bushels, is full, the dredge is raised, usually by a
-windlass worked by steam, gasolene or hand power, as the case may be,
-its contents dumped out and the dredge lowered for another haul.
-
-Rakes, the third implement in general use, are not employed as
-extensively as tongs or dredges, but are used in still water, where the
-bottom is suitable.
-
-VIII. _Marketing._--The "catch" as soon as it is dredged or tonged
-is brought in boats to the oyster houses, where men with hatchets or
-similar implements break apart the clustered oysters and cast aside
-the empty shells, bits of rock, etc. Three different varieties of
-marketable oysters are usually sorted out, according to size: (1)
-large, (2) medium and (3) small. The respective sizes vary somewhat
-with the locality, demands of the market and the season; but the large
-oysters commonly count about 900 to the barrel, the medium 1,000 or
-more, while the small run 1,200 or over.
-
-The different sizes as they are sorted out are packed in barrels and
-are then ready for shipment. The principal markets are of course New
-York and Boston, though the demand farther inland is increasing, and
-shipments to Chicago or places even farther west are frequently made.
-
-
-_General Statistics._
-
-The following facts concerning the oyster industry have been compiled
-from the written statements of the different oystermen. Complete
-returns have not been received from Wareham, Barnstable, and Falmouth,
-while possibly a few oystermen in the other towns have been overlooked.
-Falmouth raises but few oysters for the market and these returns have
-been recorded, the remaining oystermen merely planting for their own
-use. In the towns of Barnstable and Wareham about four-fifths of the
-oystermen have made returns. The facts given in the following tables
-are based only on the returns at hand, and therefore do not give a
-complete report for these two towns.
-
-                          STATISTICAL SUMMARY.
-
-  ====================+==============+============================+=======
-                      |   NUMBER OF  |   AREA OF WORKED GRANTS    |
-        TOWN.         |    GRANTS.   |        (ACRES).            |Number
-  --------------------+------+-------+------+---------+-----------+of Men.
-                      |Total.|Worked.|Total.|Suitable.|Unsuitable.|
-  --------------------+------+-------+------+---------+-----------+-------
-  Wellfleet,          |    35|     23|   967|      810|        157|    14
-  Chatham,            |    21|     21|    65|       55|         10|    20
-  Dennis-Yarmouth,    |     4|      2|    10|       10|          -|     3
-  Barnstable,         |    29|     29|   188|      121|         67|    33
-  Falmouth,           |    22|      6|    44|       23|         21|     5
-  Bourne,             |   135|     42|   100|       83|         17|    21
-  Wareham,            |   125|     70|   196|      159|         37|    26
-  Fall River district,|    14|     14|   810|      510|        300|    36
-  Nantucket,          |     2|      1|    20|        3|         17|     1
-                      +------+-------+------+---------+-----------+-------
-     Total,           |   387|    208| 2,400|    1,774|        626|   159
-  ====================+======+=======+======+=========+===========+=======
-
-                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
-
-  ================+========+===========+===========+==========+==========
-        TOWN.     | Boats. |Implements.|  Shore    |   Bedded |   Total.
-                  |        |           | Property. |  Oysters.|
-  ----------------+--------+-----------+-----------+----------+----------
-  Wellfleet,      | $10,115|      $575 |    $1,200 |  $19,500 |  $31,390
-  Chatham,        |   1,695|       313 |     1,225 |   23,300 |   26,533
-  Dennis-Yarmouth,|      25|        50 |       100 |    5,000 |    5,175
-  Barnstable,     |   5,269|     1,139 |     4,300 |   28,850 |   39,558
-  Falmouth,       |   1,525|       105 |     1,000 |      450 |    3,080
-  Bourne,         |   5,515|       483 |       150 |   18,300 |   24,448
-  Wareham,        |   9,355|     1,120 |     2,420 |   27,725 |   40,620
-  Fall River      |        |           |           |          |
-     district,    |  19,840|     2,000 |     6,200 |   68,500 |   96,540
-  Nantucket,      |     518|        15 |        25 |      800 |    1,358
-                  +--------+-----------+-----------+----------+----------
-     Total,       | $53,857|    $5,800 |   $16,620 | $192,425 | $268,702
-  ================+========+===========+===========+==========+==========
-
-                         PRODUCTION OF 1906-07.
-
-  ================+====================+==================+===========
-                  | MARKETABLE OYSTERS.|   SEED OYSTERS.  |   Total
-      TOWN.       +---------+----------+--------+---------+   Value.
-                  | Bushels.|  Value.  |Bushels.|  Value. |
-  ----------------+---------+----------+--------+---------+-----------
-  Wellfleet,      |  22,500 |  $24,850 |  1,000 |  $1,000 |  $25,850
-  Chatham,        |  14,550 |   23,987 |      - |       - |   23,987
-  Dennis-Yarmouth,|   1,000 |    1,500 |      - |       - |    1,500
-  Barnstable,     |  25,850 |   48,050 |    100 |     100 |   48,150
-  Falmouth,       |   3,012 |    6,025 |      - |       - |    6,025
-  Bourne,         |   2,100 |    4,100 | 23,000 |  15,000 |   19,100
-  Wareham,        |   7,770 |   12,790 | 22,100 |  12,090 |   24,880
-  Fall River      |         |          |        |         |
-     district,    |  38,000 |   26,250 |      - |       - |   26,250
-  Nantucket,      |     200 |      400 |      - |       - |      400
-                  +---------+----------+--------+---------+-----------
-     Total,       | 114,982 | $147,952 | 46,200 | $28,190 | $176,142
-  ================+=========+==========+========+=========+===========
-
-                    SECTIONAL ARRANGEMENT OF TOWNS.
-
-  _A._ North side of Cape Cod:--
-          1. Wellfleet.
-          2. Eastham.
-          3. Orleans.
-  _B._ South side of Cape Cod:--
-          1. Chatham.
-          2. Harwich.
-          3. Dennis and Yarmouth.
-          4. Barnstable.
-          5. Mashpee.
-          6. Falmouth.
-  _C._ Buzzards Bay:--
-          1. Bourne.
-          2. Wareham.
-          3. Marion.
-  _D._ Fall River district.
-  _E._ Nantucket.
-
-
-_Wellfleet._
-
-For the past thirty years there has been an extensive oyster industry
-at Wellfleet, and many grants have been taken out in the waters of
-Wellfleet Bay, which possesses some of the best oyster ground in the
-State. In spite of the success of the past years, the industry is
-declining, indicating, possibly, that after 1910 no more grants will be
-leased.
-
-Four parts of the bay are taken up by oyster grants in the vicinity of:
-(1) Mayo's Beach; (2) Great Island; (3) Indian Neck; (4) Lieutenant's
-Island.
-
-(1) Nine grants, covering an area of 176 acres of both flats and
-deeper water, extend out from Mayo's Beach a distance of 1,500
-feet. These grants extend along shore from Commercial Wharf to Egg
-Island, a distance of 3,500 feet. Seven of these grants have each a
-shore extension of 200 feet, the other 2 having 600 and 1,500 feet
-respectively. The principal planting on these grants is done by D.
-Atwood & Co.
-
-(2) On the west side of the bay, along the shores of Great Island and
-Beach Hill, there are 7 grants which are now worked. Originally there
-were 12 grants in this locality, but 5 of them expired some time ago.
-The area included in these 5 grants is 500 acres, while the entire
-granted area covers 708 acres. Wright & Willis, R. R. Higgins and L. D.
-Baker have done most of the planting on these grants in the past few
-years.
-
-(3) On the east side of the bay, near Indian Neck, are 5 grants,
-comprising 224 acres. J. A. Stubbs does all the planting here. A single
-grant of 11 acres of flats is held in Duck Creek Cove by J. C. Wiles.
-These grants extend along the shore for 2,000 yards and run out into
-the bay for 1,000 yards.
-
-(4) Off Lieutenant's Island are 8 grants, comprising a total area of
-1,062 acres. Only 3 of these, comprising 559 acres, are now worked.
-Joseph Crosby of Osterville is the principal planter on these grants.
-
-From the statistical returns of the oyster planters it is found that
-23 grants are now held for oyster planting, comprising an area of 967
-acres; 810 acres, or 83 per cent. of this area, is suitable for oyster
-culture. There is very little soft mud bottom, only 82 acres, while the
-shifting sand area is 75 acres.
-
-The total area of grants ever leased at Wellfleet comprises 2,182
-acres, of which 1,473 are now held. The average depth of water over
-these grants at mean low tide is 4 feet, the extremes running from 1 to
-12 feet.
-
-  Capital invested,                           $31,390
-  Power boats,                                      4
-  Value of power boats,                        $9,250
-  Sail boats,                                       4
-  Value of sail boats,                           $750
-  Dories and skiffs,                                8
-  Value of dories and skiffs,                    $115
-  Implements:--
-      Dredges,                                     14
-      Tongs,                                       12
-  Value of implements,                           $575
-  Value of shore property,                     $1,200
-  Value of oysters on grant,                  $19,500
-
-Most of the oystering is done by dredging, two large gasolene oyster
-boats, the "Cultivator" and the "Marion," being employed for this
-purpose. Tongs are also used extensively. Fourteen men are engaged from
-six to twelve months each year in the oyster business.
-
-The production for 1906-07 was 22,500 bushels of marketable oysters,
-valued at $24,850; and 1,000 bushels of "seed," worth approximately
-$1,000. Most of the planted "seed" is obtained from Long Island and
-Connecticut.
-
-The damage from the natural enemies of the oyster is reported as very
-slight.
-
-The Wellfleet oyster has a peculiar salty flavor not possessed by other
-oysters. For some trade this is preferred, while for others it is not
-so desirable. Before marketing the extreme saltiness is sometimes
-removed by floating the oysters in Duck Creek, where the water is less
-salt, using large, scow-like floats, 30 by 15 feet.
-
-Several Boston firms are engaged in oyster culture at Wellfleet,
-including D. Atwood & Co., J. A. Stubbs and R. R. Higgins.
-
-For years there has been a conflict between the quahaugers and the
-oystermen at Wellfleet. This is very natural, owing to the rivalry
-between the two industries and the rapid rise of the quahaug fishery in
-the last fifteen years. Owing to their greater number, the quahaugers
-have obtained the upper hand in town affairs, with the result that
-in 1910, when all the oyster leases run out, it is said that no more
-will be granted, and the oyster business of Wellfleet will come to an
-end. This is especially unfortunate for the town, as there is room
-for both industries, and the destruction of either one would be a
-great financial loss. It is hoped that some means can be devised to
-straighten out the difficulties between the opposing factions before
-either industry is ruined.
-
-But little oyster spat has ever been caught in Wellfleet Bay. That
-oysters will set there is evidenced by the young "seed" caught on the
-piles of the wharves and on stones and rocks around the harbor. It is
-noteworthy that at Wellfleet the spat sets only between the tide lines,
-and does not catch where water is constantly over the ground. This is
-directly contrary to the conditions in Long Island Sound, where the set
-is caught in deep water. E. P. Cook and J. A. Stubbs have tried spat
-collecting in Herring River for several years, with the results of one
-or two good sets, the best being caught by Mr. Cook in 1906. The other
-years have proved failures in this line. There is no question but that
-oyster spat can be profitably caught if sufficient interest is taken in
-the matter.
-
-The early laws were as follows:--
-
-    In 1772 a law having been enacted by the General Court,
-    regulating the taking of oysters in Billingsgate Bay, an
-    amendment to that act was now asked by the town, namely, that
-    during the summer months oysters shall not be taken to market,
-    nor fished by the inhabitants of the town for their own use
-    during the months of July and August.
-
-In 1773:--
-
-    That, inasmuch as the oyster fishery, which is of great
-    value to the town and of great advantage to the Province,
-    has received detriment from persons taking young oysters,
-    the enactment of more stringent regulations are necessary to
-    prevent their destruction.
-
-These early laws show that the natural oyster beds were highly prized
-by the Inhabitants in colonial days, and that measures, even then,
-were necessary to prevent their extinction. At the present time
-Wellfleet has no other regulations than the general oyster laws of the
-Commonwealth.
-
-The history of the oyster industry of Wellfleet can be divided into
-three periods: (1) the natural oyster fishery; (2) the "bedding" of
-southern oysters; (3) oyster planting.
-
-(1) _The Natural Oyster Beds of Wellfleet._--The first settlers found
-a natural oyster bed near Hitchin's Creek, or Silver Spring, in 1644,
-and it is said that oysters were very abundant at that time. Old shells
-are occasionally dredged or raked up at the present day from these
-beds. The Rev. Enoch Pratt, in his "History of Eastham, Wellfleet and
-Orleans," gives the following account of this early oyster industry:--
-
-    Oysters were found in great abundance on the flats at the first
-    settlement [1644], but at this time [1770] the inhabitants had
-    so increased and such quantities were taken for consumption and
-    for the Boston market, that it became necessary, to prevent
-    their entire destruction, for the district to take measures to
-    preserve and propagate them.... Shops and stands were opened
-    in Boston, Salem, Portland and other places, where the oysters
-    were sold in quantities to suit the purchaser.
-
-    In 1775 all the oysters in the bay died. What caused their
-    destruction is not certainly known, but it is supposed that
-    as, at this time, a large number of blackfish died and came on
-    shore, where their carcasses remained, producing a very filthy
-    condition of the water, it caused this mortality.
-
-A more probable explanation is given by Mr. E. P. Cook of Wellfleet.
-The early inhabitants, not knowing the value of the natural shell beds
-for catching the spat, greedily took every shell and burned them into
-lime as a fertilizer for their farms and plaster for their houses.
-There was once a fine strip of woods near this original oyster rock,
-but this was cut down, and the sand gradually washed over the beds,
-killing the young oysters. To these two causes can be attributed the
-final destruction of the natural beds in 1775.
-
-(2) _The Bedding of Southern Oysters._--After the destruction of the
-natural beds, an important industry arose in the "bedding" of southern
-oysters for northern trade. Privileges for bedding oysters on the flats
-were granted to a number of oyster firms. These men hired schooners
-in the latter part of the winter or the early spring, which went to
-the southern oyster grounds and brought back loads of oysters. These
-oysters were spread or bedded over the leased flats of the harbor,
-where they remained until the following fall, when they were taken up
-for market. In this way the oysters gained in size by the summer's
-growth, and were fattened for market. Considerable trade sprang up in
-the carrying of oysters, and many vessels were engaged in this traffic.
-In 1841 Mr. Gould, the conchologist, states that 120 men, with 30
-vessels of about 40 tons each, were employed for three months of the
-year, and brought to the town an annual revenue of $8,000.
-
-In 1841 Capt. William Dill is credited with bringing into Wellfleet the
-first cargo from Virginia, which started a large trade in Chesapeake
-oysters. Mr. Ernest Ingersoll makes the following statement concerning
-the Virginia trade:--
-
-    Nevertheless, it was not until about 1845 or 1850 that the
-    business began to confine itself to Virginia oysters, and a
-    large business to be done. At its height, about 1850, it is
-    probable that more than 100,000 bushels a year were laid down
-    in the harbor; some say 150,000.... The favorite ground was at
-    the mouth of Herring River.
-
-The Rev. Enoch Pratt writes, in 1844:--
-
-    The inhabitants of the town tried the experiment of bringing
-    oysters from the south and laying them down on the flats, which
-    succeeded well. In the course of a year they doubled their
-    size and their quality was much improved. This soon became a
-    large business, and a number of vessels have been employed in
-    the spring of every year in bringing them here. The number of
-    bushels which are now [1844] annually brought is about 60,000.
-    Nearly all the oyster shops and stands in Boston, and other
-    cities and towns in this State, are supplied from this place,
-    and are kept by persons belonging to the town. This business
-    affords a living for many families.
-
-Mr. Ernest Ingersoll thus describes the decline of the oyster trade in
-1870:--
-
-    The war of the rebellion, however, interfered somewhat with the
-    oyster trade, and it began to decline so far as Wellfleet was
-    concerned. Then the various dealers in northern ports, having
-    learned something, began to bed near home in their own harbors,
-    and so saved freightage. Finally, the steamers from Norfolk
-    and the railways entered into so serious a competition that
-    fully ten years ago [1870] Wellfleet Bay was wholly deserted
-    by the oystermen as a bedding ground, though her vessels still
-    continue to carry cargoes in winter from Virginia to Boston,
-    Portland, Salem, Portsmouth and the Providence River, to supply
-    the active trade and fill the new beds, which the dealers at
-    these various ports had learned could be established at home.
-    The reader thus discovers how important a part Wellfleet has
-    played in the history of the oyster trade of New England. A
-    hundred thousand bushels of the bivalves once grew fat along
-    her water front, and thousands of dollars were dispensed
-    to the citizens in the industry they created. Now [1880] a
-    little experimental propagation, to the value of a few hundred
-    dollars, and about 6,000 bushels of bedded oysters from
-    Virginia, worth perhaps $5,000 when sold, form the total active
-    business. The oyster fleet, however, remains, though greatly
-    diminished, and carrying its cargoes to Boston, Portland and
-    elsewhere, instead of bringing them to be laid down in the home
-    harbor. It will be long before Wellfleet, and its neighbor,
-    Provincetown, lose the prestige of old custom as oyster
-    carriers.
-
-(3) _Oyster Raising._--In 1876 the first attempt to raise oysters from
-"seed" at Wellfleet, is said to have been made by E. P. Cook, who
-obtained a grant from the town of about 30 acres, on which were planted
-500 bushels of "seed" from Somerset, Mass. The "Oysterman" of Dec. 20,
-1906, gives the following account of oyster planting at Wellfleet:--
-
-    In 1876 our informant, Mr. E. P. Cook, conceived the idea that
-    these waters could grow "seed" oysters as well as fatten big
-    stock. He went to Somerset, Mass., and got a carload of 500
-    bushels and planted them. A few had previously been planted
-    but with ill success. The people laughed at him for dumping
-    his good money overboard. He was the first man to lease a
-    piece of oyster ground from the State, and of course had his
-    pick, which was 600 feet on the shore next to the Silver
-    Spring, the original spot of the natural rocks. Mr. Cook here
-    showed his acumen as a culturist. The next spring they had
-    made a remarkable growth, and all had lived. Then there was
-    a stampede of the fellows who laughed, to get some ground,
-    too. Soon every inch of available ground had been taken up.
-    We mention the following who took up plats: Solomon Higgins,
-    I. C. Young, Benjamin Oliver, Daniel Oliver, Edward Oliver,
-    Cornelius Rogers, William Smith, S. B. Rich, Theodore Brown,
-    Stephen Young. These men did not all plant. The next year Mr.
-    Cook bought 500 bushels more, and now he had 1,000 bushels on
-    his grounds. These were two-year-old plants, and when they
-    had laid there three years he sold these primitive beauties
-    for $5 per barrel. Some time after this he bought Mr. Rich's
-    plot. Subsequently Mr. Cook sold 400 of his 600 feet to R. R.
-    Higgins, the founder of the famous oyster-packing house by that
-    name. This same man bought the 200 feet of Solomon Higgins. Now
-    this house had 600 feet of shore ground. R. R. Higgins was the
-    first wholesaler with capital invested in the culture of the
-    Cape Cod oysters. Finally, this house absorbed all the ground
-    Cook had. Eight years after this the Wright & Willis firm came
-    on the scene; that period had elapsed since the first cargo
-    of "seed" had been freighted here. They bought the remainder
-    of the Solomon Higgins grant. Then Mr. Cook took out another
-    grant below Smalley's Bar. Capt. Albert Harding and Capt. D.
-    A. Newcomb took out leases. In 1892 Mr. Cook sold his lease to
-    the D. Atwood Company. Then Mr. Cook bought the Capt. Albert
-    Harding lease and sold the right to plant on it, the law then
-    not allowing the lessee to turn over the grant in toto. Then
-    H. & R. Atwood became interested here. About this time some
-    friction between the planters and clammers existed, but it
-    should be remembered that the planters occupied only about
-    200 of the 2,400 acres involved in this dispute. Then it was
-    that J. A. Stubbs came on the stage of activity, and Mr. Cook
-    secured a lease for this wholesale concern.
-
-
-_Eastham._
-
-The oyster industry of Eastham is closely associated with the Wellfleet
-industry, and practically all the business is carried on by Wellfleet
-firms.
-
-The grants extend along the western shore from the Eastham-Wellfleet
-line south, running out into the bay a distance of 1 mile. The average
-width of these grants is 900 feet. Twenty-four grants have been given
-out by the selectmen, but only 12 of these are in existence at the
-present time, the others having lapsed for non-payment of dues. (The
-town charges $3 for the original grant, and $1 each year thereafter).
-The area of the grants is 800 acres, of which only 125 acres are under
-cultivation. As all the business, which is but small, is done by
-Wellfleet firms, the statistics of the industry are included in the
-Wellfleet report. All the grants, as at Wellfleet, expire in 1910.
-
-
-_Orleans._
-
-There are 5 grants on the west coast of the town, but practically
-nothing is done in the oyster business. The oyster industry of Orleans
-is a dead issue, and quahaugers dig at will over all the granted
-territory.
-
-The grants are all eight to nine years old, and will not be renewed,
-as they are said to be unconstitutional, since the waters of Eastham
-and Orleans are common, and the consent of Eastham was not obtained
-when they were granted. The real reason for not renewing them will be
-because they are not profitable. The sand shifts on a good deal of the
-territory, and where the water is too deep for shifting, oyster culture
-does not seem to pay.
-
-Four years ago 15,000 bushels of two-year-old "seed" was sent here from
-Connecticut. The greater part of this "seed" died in transportation,
-and much of the remainder was killed by the shifting sand. Two years
-ago (1905) 3,000 bushels of marketable oysters were shipped from
-Orleans; but little has been done since then. No set has ever been
-caught here, although spat catches readily on the rocks which lie
-between the tide lines.
-
-
-_Chatham._
-
-The oyster furnishes an important industry for the town of Chatham,
-which ranks next to Wellfleet and Cotuit in the production of "Cape"
-oysters.
-
-The oyster grants are all situated in Oyster Pond and Oyster Pond
-River, covering an area of 65 acres of excellent bottom. Of this, 55
-acres is hard bottom; 6 acres, soft mud; and 4 acres of coarse shifting
-sand. The whole of Oyster Pond River and the most of the shore waters
-of Oyster Pond are taken up by grants. The central part of Oyster Pond
-possesses a soft bottom, and is therefore unsuited for oyster culture.
-The depth of water over the grants varies from dry to 6 feet at low
-tide.
-
-Records show that a natural oyster bed once existed in Oyster Pond, as
-in 1802 "excellent oysters, but scarce," were reported. Even now old
-shell heaps are found, which contain extremely large oyster shells,
-and indicate that the Indians used these oysters for food. Indeed,
-the name, Oyster Pond, was given long before grants were issued, and
-doubtless received this name because of these natural oysters.
-
-No natural oysters remained in 1877, when the first grants were issued
-to George S. Atwood, John Vanhise, Jonathan Small, Stephen Gould and
-Frank Lanpier. The last three named held together one grant in Oyster
-Pond River; Atwood's grant was in Oyster Pond; while Vanhise's grant
-was partly in Oyster Pond and partly in Stage harbor, where oyster
-culture was a failure. The planting was not very successful at first,
-owing to a lack of proper methods.
-
-These grants were issued in 1874 for a term of twenty years. The next
-series of grants were issued for ten years, and in 1893 the first
-grants were renewed for the same length of time. Since the period of
-the twenty-year grants there have been two ten-year leases, and the
-present leases will expire in 1911.
-
-A town regulation restricts the oyster grants to the southern waters of
-the town, and allows no grants to be given in the waters of Pleasant
-Bay, where there is considerable territory which might be suitable
-for oyster raising. As all the available territory is now taken up in
-Oyster Pond, no more grants can be issued.
-
-The method of obtaining a grant by a resident of the town is to choose
-the locality, stake out the grant and report the same to the selectmen,
-who will grant a license if the bounds are satisfactorily described,
-and no part of another grant is included. The price of the license,
-which runs for a period of ten years, is $2, and 50 cents is charged
-for recording it. No regular survey of the grant is made. Taxes are
-paid yearly on stock and working capital.
-
-  Capital invested,                           $26,533
-  Power boats,                                      1
-  Value of power boats,                          $300
-  Sail boats,                                       2
-  Value of sail boats,                           $500
-  Dories and skiffs,                                8
-  Value of dories and skiffs,                    $105
-  Scows,                                           12
-  Value of scows,                                $790
-  Implements:--
-      Dredges,                                     10
-      Tongs,                                       34
-  Value of implements,                           $313
-  Value of shore property,                     $1,225
-  Value of oysters on grant,                  $23,300
-
-Owing to the shallow water, most of the work is done by tonging. Flat
-scows, 25 by 10 feet, are generally used for this work, as they afford
-excellent footing for the oysterman in tonging and plenty of room for
-the oysters. These scows, which have a capacity of 100 bushels, can be
-anchored by stakes or iron piping, and definite areas covered by the
-tonger. In the fall the oystermen make their "culls" on these scows.
-Chatham is the only town in Massachusetts where scows are in general
-use. Dredging is done only to a limited extent by 3 oystermen, the
-others all using tongs. Twenty men are engaged from four to six months
-of the year in the oyster business at Chatham.
-
-The production for 1906-07 was 14,550 bushels, valued at $23,987. The
-oyster industry has been increasing every year, the production for
-1906-07 being one-third more than the 1905-06 output. The oystermen are
-unanimous in saying that the oyster business of Chatham is steadily
-improving.
-
-No "seed" oysters are raised in Chatham, as no large set has ever been
-caught, and all attempts in this line have proved unsuccessful. All
-the "seed" oysters are brought from Greenport, L. I. These run from
-two to four years old, the larger oysters being preferred. As a rule,
-oystermen are forced to take what they can get when they buy seed.
-
-The only natural enemy which infests the Chatham oyster is the oyster
-drill (_Urosalpinx cinerea_). The damage done by this pest is slight,
-amounting to nearly $800 annually.
-
-
-_Harwich._
-
-No oyster industry is now carried on in the town of Harwich. A
-natural oyster bed once existed in Herring River, and occasionally
-a few oysters can be picked up at the present time; but the bed
-is practically fished out. This bed once extended a distance of
-three-quarters of a mile in the lower part of the river.
-
-In 1824 an act was passed to prevent "the wilful destruction of oysters
-and other shellfish in the town of Harwich," which shows that even as
-early as 1824 the natural bed in Herring River was on the verge of
-depletion.
-
-
-_Dennis and Yarmouth._
-
-The oyster industries of Dennis and Yarmouth are so connected that they
-will have to be considered as belonging to one town.
-
-Four grants have been leased in the two towns, but only 2 of these are
-worked. Three grants are situated in Bass River, while the fourth,
-which is not operated, owing to the shifting sand, lies outside Dog
-Fish Bar. The 2 grants which are worked are situated in Bass River, and
-comprise an area of 10 acres of hard bottom, all of which is suitable
-for oyster culture. The Bass River grants, which are taxed at the
-valuation of $1,000 apiece, expire in 1914.
-
-Mill Creek, in West Yarmouth, one of the most valuable shellfish areas
-in the town, originally contained a natural oyster bed which extended
-from the mouth of the creek up for 1,000 feet, comprising an area of
-2-1/3 acres. Nevertheless, this was granted in 1895 for a period of ten
-years. Two years ago the lease expired, and it is said that the oysters
-have come in again in abundance.
-
-All along the south shore of the two towns "seed" oysters, which have
-been washed out of Mill Creek, can be picked up. A small amount of
-"seed" is raised on the grants, but this is not enough to furnish the
-requisite amount required for planting purposes, so about 2,500 bushels
-is annually brought into the town from Oyster Bay, L. I.
-
-No damage is done in these waters by the natural enemies of the oyster,
-as both the starfish and oyster drill are very scarce.
-
-One thousand bushels of marketable oysters, valued at $1,500, were
-shipped in the season of 1906-07.
-
-Three men are engaged for a period of seven and one-half months in the
-oyster industry.
-
-  Capital invested,                            $5,175
-  Dories,                                           2
-  Value of dories,                                $25
-  Tongs,                                            5
-  Value of implements,                            $50
-  Value of shore property,                       $100
-  Value of bedded oysters,                     $5,000
-
-The oysters are taken by tonging from dories, as the water is
-comparatively shallow. No dredging is done.
-
-Yarmouth is the only town in the State which requires a license for
-taking oysters from a natural bed.
-
-
-_Barnstable._
-
-Barnstable is the great oyster town of the Commonwealth, as it has
-the twofold distinction of possessing the most extensive industry
-and producing the finest quality of oysters. The causes which have
-brought the cultivation of oysters in this town to so flourishing a
-condition have been fourfold: first, Barnstable has a long coast line,
-much cut up by bays and rivers, which give it a very large available
-area; secondly, this area is remarkably suited for the cultivation
-of oysters, as it is for the most part hard, clean bottom, in
-comparatively shallow water and well sheltered from storms; thirdly,
-there is little damage from the enemies of the oyster,--the starfish,
-winkle and drill, fourthly, the waters of the township are notably
-pure, free from contamination, and well adapted for the production of a
-rapid-growing oyster of excellent quality.
-
-Barnstable township contains several villages, three of which, Cotuit,
-Marston's Mills and Osterville, are prosperous centers of the oyster
-fishery. Hyannis, a fourth village, once maintained a business of this
-nature, which proved unprofitable and has now practically disappeared.
-Oyster grants are scattered along the shores of Popponesset River and
-Bay, in Cotuit harbor, Bluff Channel, South Bay, Osterville Narrows
-and at Marston's Mills. In addition, a large but indefinite territory
-along the southern shore, as indicated on the map, is maintained as
-experimental grants.
-
-Cotuit is by far the most important center of the industry. Here the
-fishery is conducted on an extensive scale. The white, clean sandy
-bottom and the remarkably pure waters of the bay produce an oyster
-with a bright, clear shell, which distinguishes it from oysters
-grown elsewhere. This Cotuit oyster is much sought for by hotels and
-fancy dealers, and is universally considered par excellence among
-Massachusetts oysters.
-
-Barnstable, though supporting an immense industry, has by no means
-exhausted her latent resources. Extensive experiments to increase the
-productive area of the town have been carried on for the past few
-years. A strip of territory along the southern coast, some 4 miles
-long and 3 miles wide, has been granted. This territory is of doubtful
-utility, as the bottom is largely shifting sand exposed to the full
-force of southerly gales. These grants have hardly been in force long
-enough to demonstrate their possibilities, but it is probable that a
-large territory may be thoroughly suitable for the future expansion of
-the oyster industry.
-
-Unfortunately, several oystermen did not make statistical returns,
-thus rendering a complete record for the Barnstable oyster industry
-impossible. The majority of the oystermen willingly responded, and the
-present report comprises only those returns which have been sent in.
-
-The total area comprised by the grants, 29 in number, is 188 acres, of
-which 121 acres are of hard bottom, suitable for oyster culture. There
-is very little shifting bottom. The usual Cotuit bottom is a clear
-sand, which is especially favorable for the production of fine oysters.
-
-Thirty-three men are employed from six to eight months each year in
-the industry, which gave in 1906-07 a production of 25,850 bushels
-of marketable oysters, valued at $48,050. Except for a small natural
-oyster bed at Centerville, no "seed" is caught in Barnstable, and is
-all brought from Long Island and Connecticut. Several firms plant
-only large oysters, bedding them in the spring and taking them up the
-following fall, when they have acquired the Cotuit flavor.
-
-  Capital invested,                           $39,558
-  Power boats,                                      4
-  Value of power boats,                        $3,900
-  Sail boats,                                       3
-  Value of sail boats,                           $800
-  Dories,                                          22
-  Value of dories,                               $413
-  Scows,                                            7
-  Value of scows,                                $156
-  Implements:--
-      Dredges,                                     23
-      Tongs,                                       45
-  Value of implements,                         $1,139
-  Value of shore property,                     $4,300
-  Value of oysters on grant,                  $28,850
-
-
-_Mashpee._
-
-The oyster industry of Mashpee is rather limited. Five grants exist in
-the west channel of Popponesset River, covering practically all the
-territory. Only about 5 to 10 acres of this territory is suitable for
-oyster culture. The ground granted for oysters is used indiscriminately
-for quahauging and scalloping, and seems to be almost public property.
-
-But one man is engaged in the oyster business, and he rarely ships
-any, but peddles them around the community. No "seed" is caught.
-Starfish and oyster drills are very scarce. A cat boat, dory and tongs
-constitute the capital invested, which is valued at $200. The annual
-production is valued at $100.
-
-
-_Falmouth._
-
-The oyster industry of Falmouth is conducted on the south side of
-the town, in the waters of Waquoit Bay. There are no oysters on the
-Buzzards Bay side of the town.
-
-According to the town records, there are 22 grants in existence. These
-grants are mostly small, not averaging more than 2 to 10 acres, and are
-but little cultivated. Returns from 6 of these grants, which comprise
-all the territory worked for market, are alone used for the statistical
-figures.
-
-The best oyster territory is in Waquoit Bay and Child's River. In
-Waquoit Bay 6 acres are granted, 4� acres of which is hard bottom,
-suitable for oyster culture. In Child's River the grants comprise 20
-acres, two-thirds of which, or 13 acres, is hard bottom. Altogether,
-some 44 acres are granted, and, although a good deal of the surface is
-muddy, there are 23 acres of very fair oyster ground.
-
-No business is made of raising "seed," but from two to three year old
-"seed" is shipped from Greenport, L. I., and replanted.
-
-In 1906-07, 3,012 bushels of marketable oysters, valued at $6,025, were
-shipped. Many of the grants are leased to men who raise oysters for
-their own use only, while but few make a business of shipping oysters.
-
-The only enemy is the oyster drill, which does but slight damage here.
-
-Three men are engaged for nine months each year in the oyster industry
-at Falmouth; while 5 or more run grants for their own use.
-
-  Capital invested,                            $3,080
-  Power boats,                                      1
-  Value of power boats,                          $800
-  Sail boats,                                       1
-  Value of sail boats,                           $250
-  Dories,                                           4
-  Value of dories,                                $75
-  Scows,                                            1
-  Value of scows,                                $400
-  Implements:--
-      Dredges,                                      2
-      Tongs,                                        6
-  Value of implements,                           $105
-  Value of shore property,                     $1,000
-  Value of bedded oysters,                       $450
-
-
-_Buzzards Bay District._
-
-The Buzzards Bay oyster industry is in a state verging on chaos. In
-some specially favored localities it is in a flourishing condition;
-in others hardly less favorable it is almost completely stagnant.
-Great natural advantages exist, which if properly utilized would
-create a business of immense proportions. These resources are for
-the most part but poorly improved, and in many cases are neglected
-altogether. A spirit of uncertainty, which discourages confidence and
-checks initiative, seems to pervade the business atmosphere. Amid this
-uncertainty and conflicting forces, one fact, at once the starting
-point of the whole difficulty and at the same time the sole solution
-of the problem, stands out vividly clear. This is the need of proper
-_legislation_.
-
-The troubles which beset the Buzzards Bay oyster industry are directly
-traceable to defects in the present legislative system. These defects
-are both active and passive. In some cases unwise and illogical laws
-are in operation, which hamper business activity; in other cases laws
-for which there is a crying need are laid aside or neglected. A reform
-in certain aspects of town supervision is the demand of the hour. Until
-the present system receives an overhauling, it is doubtful if the
-industry will ever experience full prosperity.
-
-In order to gain a clear insight into the difficulties which darken the
-immediate outlook in this region, it will be necessary to take a brief
-survey of the history and present status of the industry.
-
-The beginnings of the oyster fishery in Buzzards Bay arose from the
-exploitation and subsequent depletion of the natural beds. These beds,
-of which there are several scattered along the coast from Bourne to
-Mattapoisett, furnished for a long time a large annual output of
-oysters. In the early '70's the supply began to decrease rapidly, and
-the fear of total extermination caused the selectmen of Marion, Wareham
-and Sandwich (Bourne) to attempt a strict supervision of the fishery.
-These attempts were in all cases unsatisfactory, and about 1875 the
-artificial culture of oysters began almost simultaneously in the three
-towns by the issue of licenses or grants to private individuals. The
-measure was popular from the first. Almost all the available land
-was speedily appropriated, and a flourishing but exotic industry,
-stimulated by a considerable outlay of capital, burst into life.
-
-At Marion the new business lasted precisely fifteen years. The industry
-was largely a losing venture. The oysters did not grow well, and were
-of inferior quality. In time, doubtless, when the causes which produced
-these effects had been studied, a stable and well-ordered industry
-would have resulted. It is but natural to assume that where oysters
-grew in a "wild" state, cultivated ones could likewise be grown. Such
-an outcome, however, was not destined to follow. The grants had been so
-given that they all expired at the same time. When this date arrived,
-the majority of the inhabitants of Marion were of the opinion that
-the oyster grants would yield far better returns if utilized merely
-for the quahaugs which grew naturally on them, and the whole harbor
-was consequently thrown open as common ground. From that date the
-quahaug fishery has waned almost to the point of extinction, but no
-efforts have been made to resurrect the old oyster industry, which has
-practically disappeared.
-
-At Bourne the industry began with bright prospects. The present
-business, though somewhat impoverished, still possesses those inherent
-resources which are capable of developing a more extensive industry.
-
-At Wareham the business was of slower growth and more logical
-development, and it has continued to increase, until at present the
-town possesses an important industry. It has struggled with many
-problems which have retarded its growth, and which still embarrass it.
-These are primarily problems of legislation, as the industry stands in
-need of better regulations before it can attain its maximum development.
-
-In all these difficulties, which have been briefly outlined and hinted
-at, the main source of annoyance has been the strife between two rival
-factions,--the oyster and quahaug interests. These interests have ever
-been at war, and the result has been almost fatally destructive to
-both. The questions at stake in this controversy have been broad in
-their general interest. The quahaug industry is essentially democratic,
-representing roughly labor as against capital, and demands that tidal
-flats and waters be kept as common property for general use. The oyster
-industry, on the other hand, is essentially exclusive, representing
-organized capital, and maintains that oyster grants are as much the
-subject of private ownership as farms and city lots. The whole aim of
-legislation has been to reconcile these wholly opposite theories. The
-problem has been complex and many-sided, and it is not strange that the
-selectmen of the towns in question have been unable to harmonize the
-two factions or pass regulations suitable to both parties. Certain it
-is that in trying to benefit both they have benefited neither, and the
-present confusion has resulted.
-
-The matter is one certainly of sufficient importance to merit attention
-from the State. It is not merely local. The whole Commonwealth is
-interested vitally in the development of its industries, and it is
-unwise to allow so important an industry as the oyster fishery to
-remain solely in the hands of local authority, especially when local
-authority has shown itself unable to cope with the problem.
-
-The present system in vogue in the Buzzards Bay district is perhaps
-unfair to both parties in its policy. The selectmen may lease an
-unlimited number of grants, of an unlimited area, to any citizen or
-number of citizens of the town in question. Theoretically at least
-they may grant all the available area in sight to one man. There must
-of course be the formality of a hearing, and sufficient pressure may
-be and is frequently brought to bear upon the selectmen to retard them
-from exercising the full extent of their authority; but nevertheless
-the system is unjust to the majority, and it is small wonder that the
-quahaug fishermen feel aggrieved that some of their former privileges
-are thus curtailed. Furthermore, the clause which demands that these
-grants should be used for the cultivation of oysters is oftentimes
-openly evaded, and a good portion of the granted area, though not used
-for oysters, is closed to the quahaugers.
-
-On the other hand, the oystermen, while apparently enjoying great
-privileges, in reality are severely handicapped. An oysterman obtains
-a grant perhaps with great difficulty, owing to opposition from
-the quahaug men. He can carry on no extensive business without the
-expenditure of considerable capital. If he "seeds" his grant, the first
-two or three years are spent in the maturing of the first harvest.
-The grant is given only for ten years; consequently, when it has run
-for seven or eight years the owner is in doubt whether to plant any
-more "seed," as he does not know that his license will be renewed and
-naturally does not wish to plant a bed for his unknown successor.
-Again, if he is fairly successful and wishes to expand his business,
-he cannot without great risk invest in the costly equipment necessary
-for such an enterprise, as he has no certainty of getting a sufficient
-amount of territory or of keeping it any length of time. Furthermore,
-additional complications arise from the disputes with owners of
-adjoining shore property. This is particularly unfortunate, as this
-tidal area along the shore is most valuable for the collection of
-oyster set or "seed."
-
-From the foregoing statements it appears that the oyster and quahaug
-factions are in the position of two combatants who continue to fight,
-while the object of the strife is lost to both. It is impossible to
-handle so grave a problem by merely theorizing, but a few ideas might
-be suggested as bearing favorably on the subject. It would seem wise
-to refrain as far as possible from granting the best portions of
-quahaug territory, for there is sufficient room for both industries to
-flourish. Then, too, grants might be rented at so much per acre as long
-as the owner desired within certain time limits, assuming that he paid
-his annual rental and improved his grant. These and other suggestions
-might be made which would seem an improvement over the present
-circumstances; but it is doubtful if conditions can be much bettered
-until some motive force and centralized authority is supplied by proper
-legislation.
-
-
-_Bourne._
-
-Bourne has long supported a promising oyster industry. In some respects
-it has greater advantages for the extension of this business than
-Wareham, but the invested capital, the annual product and the resulting
-revenue are all overshadowed by those of its neighboring rival. The
-great natural resources which Bourne possesses, its extensive available
-area, its multiplicity of bays, inlets, islands and rivers,--these and
-a variety of other causes combine to make it a most favorable locality
-for the growth of oysters; and it is indeed an unfortunate circumstance
-both for the shellfish interests of the community and the broader
-interests of the State that so great a source of economic wealth should
-be so little improved. The vexing questions which harass the oyster
-planters of Wareham and hamper their efforts are present here in even
-greater force. In many places where a flourishing business was once
-carried on the industry is at a standstill, while nowhere does it
-evince that life and activity which its decided advantages warrant.
-
-The town books contain records of 135 grants in force to-day. No
-accurate system of charting is in vogue except in the Monument River,
-and no absolutely reliable data concerning the total area is available,
-but the combined territory comprised in these grants aggregates nearly
-600 acres. Of this territory, however, only a portion, and a relatively
-small portion, is really improved; the remainder is either allowed to
-lie dormant or is worked merely for the quahaugs which it produces. The
-oyster territory of Bourne is divided into five distinct sections: the
-Monument River section, the region about Mashnee Island, Toby Island
-and vicinity, Basset's Island and the neighborhood of Wing's Neck, and
-Pocasset and the Red Brook harbor or Cataumet district. Of these five
-regions, the Monument River ranks first, both in the total area and
-also in importance, and it is here that most of the business is carried
-on.
-
-The statistical returns of the Bourne oystermen show that only 42
-grants comprising 100 acres are worked. Of this 83 acres is hard bottom
-suitable for oyster raising while the remaining 17 acres is mostly soft
-mud.
-
-  Capital invested,                           $24,448
-  Power boats,                                      3
-  Value of power boats,                        $3,000
-  Sail boats,                                       8
-  Value of sail boats,                         $1,900
-  Dories and skiffs,                               29
-  Value of dories and skiffs,                    $615
-  Implements:--
-      Dredges,                                     99
-      Tongs,                                       38
-  Value of implements,                           $483
-  Value of shore property,                       $150
-  Value of bedded oysters,                    $18,300
-
-Twenty-one men make a living from the industry. The production for
-the year ending Aug. 1, 1907, amounted to 2,100 bushels of marketable
-oysters, valued at $4,100, and 23,000 bushels of "seed," worth $15,000.
-The methods employed in oyster culture here are similar to those in use
-at Wareham. Thousands of bushels of shells, preferably those of the
-scallop, are strewn over the bottom to collect the set, which is then
-taken up and transferred to the proper grant or shipped for sale. The
-two great enemies of the oyster, the borer or drill, and the starfish,
-flourish here. The borer seems more destructive in those sections which
-are comparatively sheltered, the starfish in more exposed localities.
-
-The history of the industry is one of picturesque variety. The
-beginnings of the industry were bright with promise; the sudden growth
-which followed was spectacular but erratic; and the difficulties
-which soon arose plunged it into complications from which it emerged
-much shattered and greatly declined. Originally there were three good
-natural beds,--in Monument River, Barlow's River and Red Brook harbor,
-respectively. These beds long supplied all the oysters produced,
-and when in 1834 they began to be depleted, legislation was enacted
-regulating them until 1863, when the town surveyed a number of grants
-in the Monument River, each with an average area of 1� to 10 acres,
-and allowed one of these grants to every citizen desiring it, on the
-payment of $2.50. These old beds still linger as rather uncertain
-assets of the communal wealth. The Monument River grounds still supply
-a fairly large harvest, the Barlow River has declined much more, while
-the Cataumet beds are nearly extinct.
-
-The shellfish laws of this region are of vital importance, as it is
-their province to inaugurate order from chaos, put a stop to wasteful
-methods, and take such steps as appear necessary for the proper
-development of the industry. How greatly these laws fail in their
-mission is abundantly shown by the present conditions of the fishery.
-The whole situation is on the threshold of a change. What this change
-will be, whether for better or worse, depends upon the legislation of
-the future.
-
-
-_Wareham._
-
-Wareham is the second town in the State in the production of oysters,
-being excelled in this respect by Barnstable alone. Its commanding
-position at the head of Buzzards Bay, the numerous indentations of
-its coast line, and the three rivers which lie partially within its
-borders, give it a wide expanse of available territory exceptionally
-favorable for the development of this shellfish industry.
-
-The substantial success which has attended the oyster business at
-Wareham has been attained by slow but steady growth. Many problems have
-been encountered,--problems of local prejudice, opposition from rival
-industries and the like; but these problems have simply hampered the
-industry,--they have not sufficed to check its growth. At present the
-business seems firmly established, and can enter on its future career
-of prosperity as soon as the barriers which block its progress shall
-have been removed.
-
-The town records show a total of 125 grants in operation to-day. These
-grants are poorly described and for the most part unsurveyed, but their
-total area approximates 1,000 acres. According to the statistical
-returns of the oystermen, 70 grants, comprising 196 acres, are under
-cultivation. Of this, 159 acres are of hard bottom, suitable for oyster
-planting, while the waste area is equally soft mud and shifting sand.
-
-  Capital invested,                           $40,620
-  Power boats,                                      4
-  Value of power boats,                        $3,800
-  Sail boats,                                      17
-  Value of sail boats,                         $4,485
-  Dories and skiffs,                               50
-  Value of dories and skiffs,                    $820
-  Scows,                                            2
-  Value of scows,                                $250
-  Implements:--
-      Dredges,                                    120
-      Tongs,                                       84
-  Value of implements,                         $1,120
-  Value of shore property,                     $2,420
-  Value of bedded oysters,                    $27,725
-
-The catching of oyster "seed" at Wareham is more important than the
-raising of marketable oysters; 22,100 bushels of seed, valued at
-$12,090, were exported last year (1906-07). Thousands of bushels
-of shells, chiefly those of the scallop, are planted yearly in
-shallow water, to catch the set. The territory where these shells
-may be planted to the best advantage is on the fringe of tidal flats
-which skirt the coast. This area, however, which is consequently of
-considerable value, is of doubtful ownership, being claimed both by
-the oystermen and also by the owners of the adjacent shore property.
-The dispute arising over this question has been most harmful to the
-industry.
-
-The marketable oysters raised at Wareham are of very good quality.
-There were 7,770 bushels of these oysters, valued at $12,790, produced
-in 1906-07, and shipped mostly to New York and Boston. Altogether,
-there are 26 men depending on this industry for a living.
-
-Besides the grants, there are two native beds, one each in the Wareham
-and the Weweantit rivers. These beds comprise nearly 80 acres, and,
-though now greatly reduced, they still yield a considerable amount of
-seed oysters.
-
-The laws governing the industry here are similar to those at Bourne.
-The ten-year grant prevails, with all its attendant evils to the
-oysterman; while the quahaugers have abundant cause to complain, from
-the fact that practically all the available territory has been granted
-to the oystermen. While it is true that scarcely a third of this land
-is utilized for the cultivation of oysters, it is likewise true that
-the rights of the oystermen are by no means strictly observed by
-the quahauger. There can be but one result of this policy,--endless
-wrangling and confusion, and, in the end, loss to both parties.
-The unfortunate thing about the whole matter is that most of this
-wastefulness is entirely needless; but this is a problem for future
-legislation.
-
-
-_Marion._
-
-The oyster industry at Marion is practically dead. The last grants
-expired some ten or twelve years ago, and were never renewed. Of the
-two original natural beds, that in Blankinship's Cove is now almost
-entirely depleted, while the larger and more important bed in the
-Weweantit River has greatly declined in importance. This bed, however,
-still supplies all the marketable oysters produced within the town,
-though the annual production is insignificant. From twenty-five to
-thirty years ago the oyster industry had its beginning, and for a time
-flourished. Almost all the available territory, both in the harbor and
-in the Weweantit River, was granted. The older grants were leased for
-fifteen years, and those of later date were arranged to run out at the
-same time; so it followed that all the leases expired simultaneously,
-and the industry came to an abrupt end. These old grants were not
-renewed, for two reasons: first, they had not paid very well; and,
-secondly, the growing quahaug industry promised more lucrative returns.
-The scallops, too, began to be abundant, and the old oyster business
-gave way before its newer and more prosperous competitors.
-
-
-_Fall River District._
-
-The Fall River district, comprising the six towns of Fall River,
-Freetown, Berkley, Dighton, Somerset and Swansea, may best be treated
-as a geographical unit. The oyster industries of the individual
-communities overlap to a considerable extent, and make distinct
-separation difficult, while, as the same methods of culture everywhere
-obtain and the same problems and difficulties are encountered, a brief
-survey of this whole region may be comprehensively discussed in one
-article.
-
-The beautiful shores of Mount Hope Bay and its tributary streams, the
-Cole, Lee and Taunton rivers, furnish an extensive territory for a
-large oyster industry. The best of this area is now included within the
-confines of the bay itself, though the Cole and Lee rivers furnish a
-small but valuable addition. The Taunton River, however, which thirty
-years ago produced the finest oysters in the State, and was the main
-source of supply for this district, has become utterly worthless
-for the growth of marketable oysters. In fact, this river, with its
-curious history, and the difficulties which it now presents to the
-carrying on of an important and profitable industry, furnishes the
-most interesting problem of this whole region. This river embraces the
-entire oyster territory of Freetown, Berkley and Dighton and portions
-of Somerset and Fall River,--certainly half of all the available
-territory of the whole section; and yet it is an indisputable fact that
-this large and formerly profitable area is now altogether unsuitable
-for the production of edible shellfish.
-
-The causes for this transformation of a river which once supplied a
-large annual revenue to the prosperous communities which lined its
-banks, into a stream unwholesome and unfit for the proper maturing of
-its shellfish, have been much discussed. The prevailing opinion seems
-to lay the blame to the impurities discharged into the river by the
-Taunton factories. Other theories, ingenious but far less worthy of
-weight, have been urged; but the burden of evidence strongly points to
-the sewage of the city of Taunton as the probable main factor in the
-decline of the industry.
-
-While greatly impaired as a favorable territory for the propagation
-of oysters, the river, however, is still largely utilized. Extensive
-grants are sold by the towns of Dighton, Berkley and Freetown to
-oystermen, who bed them with "seed," which is allowed to remain until
-it is from two to three years old, when it is taken up and replanted in
-some other locality where the waters are uncontaminated, and here left
-for a certain time until it becomes "purified" and ready for shipment
-to market. By this method the old grants are still worked, though
-greatly declined in value, as oysters can no longer be sold to market
-direct, and the process of transplanting entails considerable expense.
-
-In the other towns of this region the industry is carried on much the
-same as in Buzzards Bay or Barnstable. A great deal of attention is
-paid to the enemies of the oyster, particularly the starfish. This
-animal is combated chiefly with "mops" of cotton waste which are
-dragged over the bottom, and the starfish, becoming entangled in the
-strands, are removed and destroyed. As this fairly effectual warfare is
-being constantly waged, the numbers of this pest are kept well reduced,
-and the grounds maintained in very good condition.
-
-By a peculiar local custom, which would be decidedly unpopular in some
-coast communities, the towns of this section usually sell their entire
-oyster privilege to some individual or company, ordinarily the highest
-bidder. In this manner, aided by the fact that some persons purchasing
-such rights re-sell them to others, the oyster industry of this entire
-region is owned and controlled by a very few men. This arrangement,
-however, does not seem to be unpopular, the only difficulty arising
-from those clammers who are accustomed to dig clams under water, and
-sometimes find a bed located on an oysterman's grant. In such cases
-the owners usually waive their rights, and allow the clammers to dig
-undisturbed.
-
-As has been said, the oyster industry in this district, while it has
-by no means attained its maximum development, has indeed reached very
-considerable proportions. The entire amount of area granted aggregates
-810 acres. Of this total, some 510 acres are suitable for oyster
-culture, the remainder being soft mud, shifting sand, or otherwise
-unfit for utilization. The entire output for 1907 exceeded 38,000
-bushels, valued at $26,250. Thirty-six men depend partially upon the
-business for a livelihood.
-
-  Capital invested,                           $96,540
-  Power boats,                                      9
-  Value of power boats,                       $19,500
-  Dories and skiffs,                               17
-  Value of dories and skiffs,                    $340
-  Implements:--
-      Dredges,                                     12
-      Tongs,                                       18
-  Value of implements,                         $2,000
-  Value of shore property,                     $6,200
-  Value of oysters on grant,                  $68,500
-
-
-_Nantucket._
-
-The oyster industry of Nantucket is of recent origin, and the oysters
-are as yet raised only for home consumption.
-
-Two grants have been leased by the selectmen, but only one of these is
-now planted. These grants are situated in the east and west bends of
-Polpis harbor. The cultivated grant in the west bend comprises some
-20 acres, only 3 of which are of hard bottom and suitable for oyster
-culture, the remaining 17 having a soft mud bottom.
-
-The "seed" planted on the grant is obtained at New Haven. In the last
-few years the oysters on this grant have thrown a large quantity of
-spawn, which has caught on piles and stones at various places around
-Nantucket harbor.
-
-The only enemy to the Nantucket oyster is the oyster drill.
-
-The production of marketable oysters for 1906-07 was 200 bushels,
-valued at $400. These were sold for home trade on the island.
-
-One man is engaged in the oyster business for a period of three months
-each year.
-
-The oysters are taken both by dredging and with tongs.
-
-  Capital invested,                            $1,358
-  Power boats,                                      1
-  Value of power boats,                          $500
-  Dories,                                           1
-  Value of dories,                                $18
-  Implements:--
-      Dredges,                                      2
-      Tongs,                                        1
-  Value of implements,                            $15
-  Value of shore property,                        $25
-  Value of oysters on grant,                     $800
-
-FOOTNOTES:
-
-[15] The Oyster Industry in the United States. Tenth Census of the
-United States.
-
-[16] Returns of the Massachusetts department on fisheries and game.
-
-
-
-
-CLAM (_Mya arenaria_).
-
-
-_Mya arenaria_, commonly known as the "soft" or "long-neck" clam, is
-found along the entire Massachusetts coast, wherever there is afforded
-a sufficient shelter from the open ocean. Exposed beaches with open
-surf are never inhabited by this mollusk, which is usually found on the
-tide flats of bays, inlets and rivers, and on the sheltered beaches
-between high and low tide lines. The clam occurs in various kinds of
-soil, from rocky gravel to soft mud, but grows best in a tenacious soil
-of mud and sand, where it lies buried at a depth of from 6 to 12 inches.
-
-As Cape Cod marks the dividing line between a northern and a southern
-fauna, it also divides the clam flats of Massachusetts into two
-distinct areas. The same clam is found both north and south of Cape
-Cod, but the natural conditions under which it lives are quite
-different. In comparing these two areas, several points of difference
-are noted.
-
-(1) The clam areas of the north coast are mostly large flats, while
-those of the south shore are confined to a narrow shore strip, as
-Buzzards Bay and the south side of Cape Cod for certain geological
-reasons do not possess flats, but merely beaches.
-
-(2) The rise and fall of the tide is much higher on the north shore,
-thus giving an extent of available flats nearly six times the clam area
-south of Cape Cod.
-
-(3) Clam growth as a rule is much faster on the north shore. This is
-due to the great amount of tide flow over the river flats of the north
-shore. Current is the main essential for rapid clam growth, as it
-transports the food. The average south shore flats possess merely the
-rise and fall of the tide, and as a rule have not the currents of the
-north shore rivers.
-
-(4) The temperature of the northern waters is several degrees colder
-than the waters south of Cape Cod. This affords, as has been shown
-experimentally, a longer season of growth for the southern clam. The
-north shore clam in the Essex region only increases the size of its
-shell through the six summer months, while the south shore clam grows
-slightly during the winter.
-
-The present advantages lie wholly with the north shore district, as
-through overdigging the less extensive areas of southern Massachusetts
-have become in most parts commercially barren. Overdigging has not
-occurred to the same extent on the north shore, owing to the vast
-extent of the flats. Nevertheless, many acres of these, as at Plymouth,
-Kingston, Duxbury, and even Gloucester and Essex, have become wholly or
-partially unproductive. The only important clamming in Massachusetts
-to-day is found in the towns bordering Ipswich Bay. The south shore and
-a good part of the north shore furnish but few clams for the market.
-
-In view of restocking the barren areas through cultural methods, the
-north shore possesses two advantages over the south shore: it has a
-larger natural supply at present, which will make restocking easier; it
-has larger areas of flats, which can be made to produce twenty times
-the normal yield of the south shore flats. Although, compared with the
-north shore, the clam area of the south shore seems poor, it is above
-the average when compared with the clam areas of the other States
-south of Massachusetts, and when properly restocked the clam flats of
-southern Massachusetts should furnish a large annual production.
-
-If the clam industry is not properly cared for, it will be totally
-ruined before many years. The clammers do not realize this, because of
-a mistaken impression that nature will forever furnish them with good
-clamming, and they have little thought for the future; while, on the
-other hand, the consumer is indifferent from lack of knowledge.
-
-_Scope of the Report._--The object of this report is to present in
-brief form the condition of the clam fishery in Massachusetts. For this
-purpose facts showing the present extent of the industry have been
-compiled, with the view of furnishing both the clammer and consumer
-with certain desirable information.
-
-The report will consider: (1) general conditions of the industry of
-1907; (2) a survey of the clam-producing area, illustrated by maps;
-(3) a plan of clam culture which will make productive many acres of
-barren flats; (4) the history of the clam industry, a comparison being
-made between the industries of 1879 and 1907; (5) a description of the
-industry.
-
-_Methods of Work._--The same methods as used with the other shellfish
-were pursued in obtaining the statistical data for the clam industry.
-The clam-producing areas were examined and the observations recorded.
-Town records, which were of some assistance with the other shellfish,
-furnished practically no clam data, compelling the Commission to
-rely upon the estimates of the clammers and clam dealers. While this
-method made it difficult to secure accurate detailed information, the
-statistics for each town were checked up in a variety of ways, thus
-furnishing as nearly correct figures as can be obtained.
-
-In making an historical comparison of 1879 and 1907, the report
-of Ernest Ingersoll on the clam fishery of the United States, and
-the report of A. Howard Clark on the fisheries of Massachusetts,
-as published in the United States Fish Commission Report, Section
-V, volume 2, and Section II., respectively, were of great use, as
-practically all of the statistics for 1879 were obtained from these two
-reports.
-
-In making the survey of the clam areas, records were made of: (1)
-soil; (2) food (_a_) in water, (_b_) on surface of soil; (3) rate of
-currents; (4) abundance of clams and localities of set; (5) barren
-flats that can be made productive. In the present report only the kind
-of soil, abundance of clams and area of barren flats will be given, the
-food problem being reserved for later publication.
-
-_Summary._--In the following summary the seacoast towns are arranged
-in geographical order from north to south. The number of men includes
-both regular and intermittent clammers who dig for the market; all
-others are excluded. In determining the production of any town it
-is impossible to obtain exactly correct figures, as the amount dug
-for home consumption is an unestimable quantity, and the clams are
-marketed in a number of ways, rendering it almost impossible to get
-complete statistics. The production statistics have been obtained in
-a variety of ways, and the final estimates have resulted from careful
-consideration of all facts. The invested capital includes the clammer's
-outfit and boat, but does not include personal apparel, such as boots
-and oil skins.
-
-The clam flats are divided into two main divisions: (1) productive; and
-(2) barren. The barren areas are those where at present no clams grow
-at all, not even scattering; and areas yielding even a few clams are
-still considered productive flats, though to all practical purposes
-barren. It was necessary to make the division thus, as otherwise no
-decisive line could be drawn. The barren flats are divided into those
-sections that can be made productive and those that can never be made
-to grow clams. The productive flats, on the other hand, are divided
-into areas of good clamming and areas of scattering clams which do not
-support a commercial fishery. The normal production of the clam flats
-has been carefully estimated, in view of the previous experiments of
-the Fish and Game Commission, and the different classes of flats have
-each been given a certain valuation in computing the total for each
-town. The areas given of the clam flats are based upon calculations, as
-no engineering survey was made.
-
-The price of clams varies in different localities, and chiefly depends
-upon the quality of clams and the method of marketing. In certain towns
-clams are "shucked" (removed from the shell),--a process which greatly
-increases their market value; while in other places they are sold only
-in the shell. These two facts account for the apparent variation in the
-value of the production in different localities, as each town is given
-its own market price.
-
-The following production table does not include an important
-factor,--the amount of clams dug by the summer people. An unestimable
-quantity is annually taken from the flats in this way, and is not
-included in the production statistics. Indeed, summer people have
-affected the clamming interests of several towns, as the selectmen
-have refused to place closed seasons, etc., on certain depleted flats
-in order to cater to the summer residents, who desire free clamming
-near their cottages. The total number of licenses issued by the boards
-of health of Boston and New Bedford for taking shellfish in their
-respective harbors are given as representing the number of clammers. In
-reality, however, only a few of these licensees make a regular business
-of clamming.
-
-                     SUMMARY OF THE CLAM INDUSTRY.
-
-  =============+======+=========+=================+===========================+
-               |      |         |1907 PRODUCTION. |        TOTAL AREA.        |
-               |      |         +--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
-               |Number|         |        |        |     |     |       |Mussels|
-      TOWN.    |  of  | Capital |        |        |     |     |       |and Eel|
-               | Men. |invested.|Bushels.| Value. |Sand.| Mud.|Gravel.| Grass.|
-  -------------+------+---------+--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
-  Salisbury,   |66[17]|    $625 |  15,000| $16,500|   34|  216|     - |     - |
-  Newburyport, |175   |   2,700 |  55,500|  61,000|  150|  930|     - |     - |
-  Newbury,     |  6   |      75 |     300|     250|  110|  250|     - |     - |
-  Rowley,      | 15   |     800 |   2,000|   1,500|  250|  150|     - |     - |
-  Ipswich,     |136[17]   7,500 |  25,000|  18,750|  390|  500|    55 |    25 |
-  Essex,       | 50   |   1,200 |  15,000|  12,750|  500|  125|     - |    25 |
-  Gloucester,  | 31   |     600 |   6,000|   8,000|  250|  200|     - |   100 |
-  Manchester,  |  -   |       - |     100|     100|   10|   10|     - |     - |
-  Beverly,     |  -   |       - |     100|     100|   30|   20|     - |     - |
-  Salem,       |  7   |      75 |     200|     200|   75|   25|     - |     - |
-  Lynn,        |  7   |     100 |   1,000|   1,000|   90|  300|     5 |     5 |
-  Saugus,      | 10   |     100 |   1,000|   1,000|  100|  150|     - |     - |
-  Nahant,      |  -   |       - |     300|     300|   50|  100|   100 |     - |
-  Boston,      |350[18]   2,250 |   7,500|   6,000|  525|3,325| 1,380 | 1,095 |
-  Cohasset,    |  -   |       - |     200|     200|   50|   50|     - |     - |
-  Scituate,    |  -   |       - |     200|     200|   50|   45|     5 |     - |
-  Marshfield,  |  -   |       - |     200|     200|   40|   50|    10 |     - |
-
-  =============+======+===================+===========+======+============
-               |      |  PRODUCTIVE AREA. |           |      |
-               |      +--------+----------+           |      |
-               |      |        |          |Barren Area| Waste| Possible
-      TOWN.    |Total |  Good  |Scattering|possibly   |Barren|   Normal
-               | Area |Clamming|  Clams   |Productive | Area |Production.
-  -------------+------+--------+----------+-----------+------+------------
-  Salisbury,   |   250|   150  |     100  |       -   |     -|    $70,000
-  Newburyport, | 1,080|   800  |     280  |       -   |     -|    250,000
-  Newbury,     |   360|     -  |     100  |     260   |     -|     40,000
-  Rowley,      |   400|    20  |      80  |     300   |     -|     60,000
-  Ipswich,     |   970|   400  |     420  |     125   |    25|    200,000
-  Essex,       |   650|   150  |     150  |     325   |    25|    120,000
-  Gloucester,  |   550|    75  |     100  |     275   |   100|     70,000
-  Manchester,  |    20|     -  |       5  |      10   |     5|      2,000
-  Beverly,     |    50|     -  |      10  |      30   |    10|      5,000
-  Salem        |   100|     5  |      10  |      70   |    15|     11,000
-  Lynn,        |   400|    10  |      30  |     160   |   200|     26,000
-  Saugus,      |   250|    10  |      40  |     100   |   100|     22,000
-  Nahant,      |   250|     -  |      50  |     150   |    50|     25,000
-  Boston,      | 6,325|   100  |   1,180  |   1,000   | 4,045|    376,000
-  Cohasset,    |   100|     -  |      10  |      40   |    50|      6,000
-  Scituate,    |   100|     -  |      20  |      40   |    40|      8,000
-  Marshfield,  |   100|     -  |      30  |      30   |    40|      9,000
-
-  =============+======+=========+=================+===========================+
-               |      |         |1907 PRODUCTION. |        TOTAL AREA.        |
-               |      |         +--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
-               |Number|         |        |        |     |     |       |Mussels|
-      TOWN.    |  of  | Capital |        |        |     |     |       |and Eel|
-               | Men. |invested.|Bushels.| Value. |Sand.| Mud.|Gravel.| Grass.|
-  -------------+------+---------+--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
-  Duxbury,     |    5 |      60 |     700|     600|  800|    -|     - | 2,700 |
-  Kingston,    |    4 |      50 |     500|     450|  150|    -|     - |   450 |
-  Plymouth,    |    6 |      60 |   3,000|   2,500|  400|  100|     - | 1,100 |
-  Barnstable,  |   25 |     200 |     700|     550|  200|  150|     - |    50 |
-  Yarmouth,    |    5 |      40 |     600|     500|   25|   15|    10 |     - |
-  Orleans,     |   30 |     200 |   3,000|   3,000|  125|   50|    20 |     5 |
-  Eastham,     |   36 |     250 |   4,000|   4,000|  100|   50|    30 |    20 |
-  Wellfleet,   |   11 |     300 |     800|     640|  450|    5|   150 |     - |
-  Truro,       |    1 |       2 |      50|      60|   50|    -|     - |     - |
-  Provincetown,|    5 |      15 |     400|     320|  400|    -|     - |     - |
-  Chatham,     |   10 |     400 |   1,500|   1,200|  330|   10|    20 |     - |
-  Harwich,     |    - |       - |     100|      80|   10|   10|    10 |     - |
-  Dennis,      |    - |       - |      50|      45|   25|   15|    10 |     - |
-  Mashpee,     |    2 |      20 |      50|      45|   20|    5|    20 |     5 |
-  Falmouth,    |    - |       - |     200|     175|   40|    5|     5 |     - |
-  Bourne,      |    - |       - |     100|     100|    5|    5|    30 |     - |
-  Wareham,     |    6 |     100 |     800|     800|   15|   10|    75 |     - |
-  Marion,      |    1 |      15 |     100|     100|    -|    -|    10 |     - |
-  Mattapoisett,|    1 |      15 |     100|     100|    -|    5|     5 |     - |
-  Fairhaven,   |    - |       - |     100|     100|    -|   25|    25 |     - |
-  New Bedford, |320[18]       - |     300|     225|    5|    5|    15 |     - |
-  Dartmouth,   |    4 |      50 |     200|     160|   15|   10|     5 |     - |
-
-  =============+======+===================+===========+======+============
-               |      |  PRODUCTIVE AREA. |           |      |
-               |      +--------+----------+           |      |
-               |      |        |          |Barren Area| Waste| Possible
-      TOWN.    |Total |  Good  |Scattering|possibly   |Barren|   Normal
-               | Area |Clamming|  Clams   |Productive | Area |Production.
-  -------------+------+--------+----------+-----------+------+------------
-  Duxbury,     | 3,500|     5  |      10  |     800   | 2,685|    83,000
-  Kingston,    |   600|     5  |       5  |     150   |   440|    18,000
-  Plymouth,    | 1,600|    10  |      50  |     440   | 1,100|    58,000
-  Barnstable,  |   400|    10  |      10  |     330   |    50|    39,000
-  Yarmouth,    |    50|     5  |      10  |      25   |    10|     6,000
-  Orleans,     |   200|    25  |      50  |      75   |    50|    27,000
-  Eastham,     |   200|    25  |      50  |     100   |    25|    30,000
-  Wellfleet,   |   605|     3  |      12  |     250   |   340|    28,000
-  Truro,       |    50|     1  |       2  |      47   |     -|     5,000
-  Provincetown,|   400|     3  |       3  |     200   |   194|    21,000
-  Chatham,     |   360|    10  |      50  |     300   |     -|    44,000
-  Harwich,     |    30|     1  |       5  |      10   |    14|     2,400
-  Dennis,      |    50|     1  |       4  |      30   |    15|     4,200
-  Mashpee,     |    50|     2  |       8  |      30   |    10|     5,400
-  Falmouth,    |    50|     2  |       8  |      40   |     -|     6,400
-  Bourne,      |    40|     -  |      30  |       -   |    10|     6,000
-  Wareham,     |   100|     -  |      50  |       -   |    50|    10,000
-  Marion,      |    10|     -  |      10  |       -   |     -|     2,000
-  Mattapoisett,|    10|     -  |      10  |       -   |     -|     2,000
-  Fairhaven,   |    50|     -  |      25  |      25   |     -|     7,500
-  New Bedford, |    25|     -  |      15  |       -   |    10|     3,000
-  Dartmouth,   |    30|     5  |      15  |       -   |    10|     5,000
-
-  =============+======+=========+=================+===========================+
-               |      |         |1907 PRODUCTION. |       TOTAL AREA.         |
-               |      |         +--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
-               |Number|         |        |        |     |     |       |Mussels|
-      TOWN.    |  of  | Capital |        |        |     |     |       |and Eel|
-               | Men. |invested.|Bushels.| Value. |Sand.| Mud.|Gravel.| Grass.|
-  -------------+------+---------+--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
-  Swansea,     |   25 |     250 |   5,000|   5,000|  100|  100|     - |     - |
-  Somerset,    |    - |       - |      50|      50|    -|   25|    25 |     - |
-  Dighton,     |    - |       - |      40|      40|    -|    5|     5 |     - |
-  Berkley,     |    - |       - |      25|      25|    -|    5|     5 |     - |
-  Freetown,    |    - |       - |     100|     100|    -|   10|    15 |     - |
-  Fall River,  |    - |       - |     100|      75|    -|   20|     5 |     - |
-  Nantucket,   |    4 |      40 |     400|     350|  150|   25|    25 |     - |
-  Edgartown,   |    7 |      50 |   1,200|   1,000|  150|    -|    50 |     - |
-               +------+---------+--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
-      Total,   |1,361 | $18,142 | 153,865|$150,440|6,269|7,111| 2,125 | 5,580 |
-  =============+======+=========+========+========+=====+=====+=======+=======+
-
-  =============+======+===================+===========+======+============
-               |      |  PRODUCTIVE AREA. |           |      |
-               |      +--------+----------+           |      |
-               |      |        |          |Barren Area| Waste| Possible
-      TOWN.    |Total |  Good  |Scattering|possibly   |Barren|   Normal
-               | Area |Clamming|  Clams   |Productive | Area |Production.
-  -------------+------+--------+----------+-----------+------+------------
-  Swansea,     |   200|    20  |      30  |     100   |    50|    24,000
-  Somerset,    |    50|     -  |      10  |      20   |    20|     4,000
-  Dighton,     |    10|     -  |       2  |       8   |     -|     1,200
-  Berkley,     |    10|     -  |       4  |       6   |     -|     1,400
-  Freetown,    |    25|     -  |      15  |       -   |    10|     3,000
-  Fall River,  |    25|     -  |      10  |      15   |     -|     3,500
-  Nantucket,   |   200|     5  |      15  |     130   |    50|    18,000
-  Edgartown,   |   200|    20  |     100  |      50   |    30|    33,000
-               +------+--------+----------+-----------+------+------------
-      Total,   |21,085| 1,878  |   3,233  |   6,096   | 9,878|$1,801,000
-  =============+======+========+==========+===========+======+============
-
-_Decline of the Natural Clam Supply._--The decline of the clam supply
-is a matter of general knowledge. People who live along the seashore
-realize that they can no longer gather the amount of clams they once
-could dig with ease from the same flats. On the southern shore of the
-State especially it is oftentimes difficult to obtain even enough for
-family use. The consumer also realizes the loss of the clam, as he is
-forced to pay higher prices.
-
-If specific cases of this decline are demanded, the following instances
-should show the exact depletion in the various localities. Even in the
-best clam-producing town of the State, Newburyport, where the clam
-production, according to statistics, has apparently increased during
-the last twenty-five years (as a result of more men entering the
-fishery), the supply has shown signs of failing. Essex now possesses
-many acres of flats formerly productive which now lie in a practically
-barren condition. Gloucester can no longer boast of her former clam
-industry, as the flats in Annisquam River are in poor condition. Hardly
-30 men now make a business of clamming in that town, whereas 92 men
-were engaged in the fishery in 1879. Passing south of Gloucester, we
-find great evidence of decline in the Boston harbor flats. Even before
-the edict closing the harbor from clammers was in force, the production
-did not by any means equal that of 1879. Plymouth harbor, including the
-three towns of Duxbury, Kingston and Plymouth, furnishes an excellent
-illustration of this decline. Here an area of flats as extensive as
-all the other flats of the State combined now lies practically barren,
-whereas in former times great quantities of clams were taken. These
-flats had already become depleted to a marked extent by 1879, and
-to-day practically no clams are shipped to market from the Duxbury
-flats, although you can still read "Duxbury clams" on the menus of
-the hotels and restaurants, showing how important a clam industry
-this town once possessed. Buzzards Bay district lies at present
-unproductive except for supplying home consumption and the demands of
-the summer people. The shores of Cape Cod no longer yield their former
-supply of clams, and the most striking example of the extinction of a
-flourishing fishery is found in the town of Chatham, which now does not
-produce one-tenth part of its production in 1879. The Fall River or
-Narragansett Bay district does not come up to its past productiveness,
-and now chiefly yields clams which in former times would have been
-considered as too small to use.
-
-As can be seen by the following table, which gives a comparison between
-the industry in 1879 and 1907, the localities south of Gloucester all
-show a decline in their production, and there is no town on the coast
-which has not shown some depletion in the natural clam supply. The
-localities of the north shore, while indicating by their statistics a
-gain in production, nevertheless have not their former abundance, and
-the actual diminution of the supply is concealed by the fact that more
-men have entered the industry.
-
-  =====================+=========================+===========================
-                       |          1879.          |         1907.
-      LOCALITY.        +-------+--------+--------+--------+--------+---------
-                       |  Men. |Bushels.| Value. |  Men.  |Bushels.| Value.
-  ---------------------+-------+--------+--------+--------+--------+---------
-  Ipswich,             |   75  | 11,500 | $4,600 |  136   | 25,000 | $18,750
-  Salisbury and        |       |        |        |        |        |
-      Newburyport,     |   60  | 28,800 | 11,520 |  241   | 70,500 |  77,500
-  Essex,               |   75  | 11,500 |  4,500 |   50   | 15,000 |  12,750
-  Gloucester,          |   92  | 13,978 |  5,200 |   31   |  6,000 |   8,000
-  Boston harbor,       |   90  | 40,000 | 20,000 | 350[19]|  7,500 |   6,000
-  Duxbury,             |  -[20]|  5,000 |  2,500 |    5   |    700 |     600
-  Plymouth             |  -[20]|  5,000 |  2,500 |    6   |  3,000 |   2,500
-  Harwich,             |   15  |  1,125 |    400 |    -   |    100 |      80
-  Chatham,             |  150  | 35,000 | 12,250 |   10   |  1,500 |   1,200
-  Nantucket,           |  -[19]|  2,253 |    872 |    4   |    400 |     350
-  Edgartown,           |  -[20]|  4,000 |  1,570 |    7   |  1,200 |   1,000
-  New Bedford district,|  -[20]|  5,800 |  2,900 | 332[19]|  1,600 |   1,685
-  Fall River district, |  -[20]|  3,375 |  3,121 |   25   |  5,315 |   5,290
-  =====================+=======+========+========+========+========+==========
-
-_Causes of the Decline._--The same cause which has been stated in the
-general report has contributed to the decline of the clam supply,
-_i.e._, the increasing demand which has led to overfishing. Thus the
-decline can be directly attributed to the exploiting of natural clam
-resources by man, although it must be admitted that natural agencies,
-such as geographical changes, destroy the clam flats of certain
-localities and build up others.
-
-This decline has become possible through the indifference of the towns
-to the welfare of their clam fishery, and by not restricting, through
-town laws, the extermination of the clams in time to allow nature to
-replenish the flats. Some towns, such as Ipswich, have regulated this
-matter by placing closed seasons on portions of the flats, which has
-been the partial means of preserving their natural supply. Thus the
-town laws have proved inadequate, as most towns have no laws at all, or
-have such unwise ones that they often defeat their own object.
-
-It is again necessary to emphasize the need of reform in the clam
-industry. This Commonwealth once possessed an extensive supply of
-clams, and still possesses part of its former abundance; but the
-present supply is diminishing at such a rate that it will not be
-a quarter of a century before the natural clam fishery will be
-commercially extinct. On the south shore clams are now commercially
-extinct, and it is only a question of time, if the present methods are
-allowed to remain, before the north shore clams will also disappear.
-The experiments of the Massachusetts department of fisheries and game
-and the work of men who have planted this shellfish all show that
-thousands of dollars can be brought into the State by utilizing the
-waste clam areas, and that the production can be so increased as to
-even exceed that of former years. Immediate action is necessary, if
-this important industry is to be saved.
-
-_The Remedy._--The remedy is comparatively simple, and abundant proof
-of its success is at hand. By restocking the barren and unproductive
-areas of the Commonwealth the present production can be increased many
-times. Experiments have shown that clams can be readily, successfully
-and economically transplanted, and that it is a completely practical
-undertaking. Not only can the barren areas be restocked, but the yield
-of the productive areas can be much increased. Clam farming is the only
-practical method of restocking these areas, and only through such means
-can the clam flats be made to yield their normal harvest.
-
-
-_Clam Farming._
-
-The subject of clam farming has received a good deal of attention the
-past few years, and much has been said concerning the enormous profits
-which would result from the cultivation of this shellfish. While the
-newspaper statements have been for the most part correct, there has
-been considerable exaggeration and many details have been inaccurate.
-To remove any misapprehensions, the following account of clam farming
-is given.
-
-The value of clam farming has been perhaps overestimated. While no
-fabulous returns are ever to be expected, the yield is large in
-proportion to the labor, and steady returns are sure. The methods
-used are simple, the capital required is small, the area suitable for
-raising clams is extensive, and clam farming gives promise of becoming
-one of the most prominent and remunerative shore industries. The
-profits derived from such a system should furnish steady employment for
-hundreds of men on the Massachusetts coast.
-
-Massachusetts possesses thousands of acres of tidal flats which are
-capable of producing clams. Most of these flats are practically barren,
-_i.e._, produce no clams in paying quantities, and yet if planted with
-small clams will yield in from one to two years large quantities of
-marketable bivalves. This large area of barren flats should be divided
-into small farms, which should be leased to individuals for the purpose
-of planting and raising clams.
-
-_The Necessity of Clam Farming._--It is a well-known fact that the
-natural supply of clams is becoming rapidly exhausted, and that this
-important fishery will become commercially extinct unless steps are
-taken to check its decline. The only practical means known at the
-present time is _clam farming_. In the past, methods such as close
-seasons and restricting the catch have been used, but with poor
-results, as these have been economically wrong. The correct method
-in such cases is not to restrict the demand, but to increase the
-supply. Clam farming offers the only means of increasing the natural
-production, and not only checking the decline, but establishing a large
-industry.
-
-_Is Clam Farming Practical?_--Clam farming is not a theory but an
-_established fact_. Clams will grow if planted in suitable places, and
-will yield large returns. For three years the Commission of Fisheries
-and Game have made numerous experiments in clam farming in many
-seacoast towns. They have not only proved its complete practicability,
-but have also shown that large profits result from successful planting.
-Records are on file at the State House showing the exact results of
-these experimental farms, which indicate the future success of clam
-farming.
-
-Besides the experiments of the Commission on Fisheries and Game,
-_successful clam farming_ is now being carried on in several towns of
-the State. The leading town in this line is Essex, where at least 15
-grants are held by the clammers. The only protection given is based
-upon public sentiment, which, however, is sufficient to insure the
-success of the enterprise. All these grants were staked out on flats
-which were producing no clams when granted, although part of this
-area was once very productive. So far these grants have proved most
-successful, thus proving by actual experience that clam farming is a
-worthy rival of agriculture.
-
-_Historical Attempts at Clam Farming._--Clam farming has been in
-existence for years. The first record of any legislation upon this
-subject is found in an act to regulate the clam fishery in and around
-the shores of Plymouth, Kingston and Duxbury in 1870, whereby a license
-was granted for a term not exceeding five years to any inhabitant
-of these towns to plant, cultivate and dig clams. This license cost
-$2.50, and gave the exclusive use of the flats and creeks described
-to the licensee and his heirs during the time specified, and also the
-right in an action of tort to recover treble damages from any person
-who, without his consent, dug or took clams from said grant. Evidently
-nothing was done to follow out this law, which was soon forgotten.
-
-In 1874 an act was passed to regulate the shellfisheries (including
-clams) in the waters of Mount Hope Bay and its tributaries. The terms
-of this act were practically the same as the Plymouth act, the only
-difference being the substitution of the word _shellfish_ for _clam_.
-
-In 1888 an act was passed by the town of Winthrop, authorizing the
-planting of clams on the shores of that town. The grant was to consist
-of not over 2 acres of _barren_ flats, situated more than 500 feet from
-high-water mark. The other provisions of this act were the same as
-those of the Plymouth act of 1870.
-
-The most important clam culture law was passed in 1888. This authorized
-the planting of clams on the shores of Essex. Here the provisions of
-the law were followed out, and the first energetic attempt at clam
-farming started. The law, the provisions of which were nearly the same
-as the previous laws, reads as follows:--
-
-
-ACTS OF 1888, CHAPTER 198.
-
-      AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE PLANTING OF CLAMS, IN AND AROUND THE
-                           SHORES OF ESSEX.
-
-    _Be it enacted, etc., as follows:_
-
-    SECTION 1. The selectmen of the town of Essex may by writing
-    under their hands grant a license for such a term of years, not
-    exceeding five, as they in their discretion may deem necessary
-    and the public good requires, to any inhabitant of said town,
-    to plant, cultivate and dig clams upon and in any flats and
-    creeks in said town now unproductive thereof, not exceeding two
-    acres to any one person, and not impairing the private rights
-    of any person.
-
-    SECTION 2. Such license shall describe by metes and bounds
-    the flats and creeks so appropriated and shall be recorded by
-    the town clerk before it shall have any force, and the person
-    licensed shall pay to the selectmen for the use of said town
-    two dollars and to the clerk fifty cents.
-
-    SECTION 3. The person so licensed and his heirs and assigns
-    shall for the purposes aforesaid have the exclusive use of
-    the flats and creeks described in the license during the term
-    specified therein, and may in an action of tort recover treble
-    damages of any person, who, without his or their consent digs
-    or takes clams from such flats or creeks during the continuance
-    of the license.
-
-    SECTION 4. Said town of Essex at any legal meeting called for
-    the purpose may make such by-laws, not repugnant to the laws of
-    the commonwealth, as they may from time to time deem expedient
-    to protect and preserve the shellfisheries within said town.
-
-    SECTION 5. Whoever takes any shellfish from within the waters
-    of said town of Essex in violation of the by-laws established
-    by it or of the provisions of this act shall for every offence
-    pay a fine of not less than five or more than ten dollars
-    and costs of prosecution, and one dollar for every bushel of
-    shellfish so taken.
-
-    SECTION 6. This act shall take effect upon its passage.
-    [_Approved April 9, 1888._]
-
-In the report of the United States Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries
-for 1894 Mr. Ansley Hall gives the following account of clam culture
-under this act:--
-
-    During the first two years (1889-90) the people were slow to
-    avail themselves of the privilege of planting, for fear that
-    after they had spent their time and labor they would not be
-    able to secure protection from trespassers; but in 1891 and
-    1892 lots were obtained and planted. In 1892 there were 25
-    acres that were quite productive, about one-third of the entire
-    catch of the section being obtained from them. The catch from
-    these lots is not definitely known, but is estimated at about
-    2,500 barrels.
-
-    Cultivated clams possess some advantage over the natural
-    growth, from the fact that they are more uniform in size, and
-    are as large as the best natural clam. They bring $1.75 per
-    barrel, while the natural clams sell for $1.50 per barrel. This
-    is the price received by the diggers. One acre of these clams
-    is considered to be worth $1,000, if well seeded and favorably
-    located so as not to be in danger of being submerged with sand.
-    This valuation would be too high for an average, since all the
-    acres are not equally well seeded and located. The clammers
-    are generally impressed that the industry can be extensively
-    and profitably developed, and their only fear is that they
-    will not be able to secure lots permanently. The greater part
-    of the land available for this purpose is covered by the deeds
-    of people owning farms along the river, and the consent of the
-    land owners has to be obtained before lots can be taken up.
-    It seems probable, however, that the business will continue
-    to progress unless checked by complications that may arise
-    relative to the occupancy of the grounds.
-
-The result of this first practical attempt at clam culture was a
-complete failure, and after a few years' trial the clam farms were all
-given up. The main reason for this failure was lack of protection both
-from outsiders and from one another. Nevertheless, this attempt proved
-that with proper protection a most successful industry could be made of
-clam farming. The following statement by Prof. James L. Kellogg, in the
-United States Fish Commission Bulletin for 1899, describes the failure
-of clam culture at Essex:--
-
-    It is not difficult to determine the reasons for the failure
-    of the culture experiment at Essex. The areas upon which clams
-    were planted were those which were at the time unproductive.
-    The beds still containing clams--the "town flats"--were free
-    to any native of Essex. The one thing which was absolutely
-    necessary to the success of any planter was that the clams on
-    his leased ground should not be disturbed by other diggers.
-    This protection was apparently not given in any case by the
-    town authorities, and, as no person lived within sight of the
-    majority of the beds, it was quite impossible for any man to
-    guard his property much of the time.
-
-    As to what followed it is not easy to obtain definite testimony
-    from the clammers themselves. Other citizens of the town,
-    however, and some few clammers, intimate that most of the men
-    began to take clams from any property but their own, and that
-    in this way the full result of no man's labor in planting was
-    ever realized. Others who did not make clam digging a regular
-    business, but only dug occasionally, are said to have had no
-    respect for the rights of those who had leased property. It was
-    said that at times when vessel builders and the shoe factory
-    released employees, many of them, for lack of other occupation,
-    turned their attention to clam digging, with the result that
-    too many clams were at the time taken from the flats.
-
-    Another reason for the failure of the Essex experiment is that
-    a number of short-sighted clammers began to fear, after the
-    clams had been planted, that the production might suddenly
-    become so great as to glut their market, and, as a consequence,
-    force prices down. Some few individuals, inspired by this fear,
-    are reported to have said and to have done everything in their
-    power to prevent the success of the experiment. In all cases,
-    it is said, the selectmen of the town, who issued the leases,
-    refused their aid in the prosecution of trespassers.
-
-    In spite of the fact, which had been demonstrated in the
-    experiment, that when properly planted the clams grew much more
-    rapidly and became much larger than on the natural beds, no
-    applications for a renewal of the leases were made when the
-    first ones expired. No change in the condition at Essex may be
-    hoped for until there is some evidence that a law protecting
-    the planter will be strictly enforced. With proper protection,
-    a great industry might, and probably would, be quickly
-    established, not only in Essex, but in any region where clam
-    flats are now unproductive because of excessive digging.
-
-_Protection Necessary._--The same lack of protection which ruined the
-Essex clam experiments has been the cause of similar failures in other
-shore towns. As long as no protection is given, clam farming can never
-become possible, as the whole success of the enterprise depends wholly
-upon the planter's having complete control of his land. The present
-law gives absolutely no protection, as according to the old free beach
-law a person has a right to dig a mess of clams anywhere between the
-tide lines, no matter whether natural or planted. This practically
-discourages clam farming, however profitable, as no clammer is going to
-the labor and expense of planting clams, if the next person who comes
-along has a legal right to dig as many as he pleases. Until a law is
-passed which gives to the clam planter absolute protection from this
-sort of trespassing, and does away with the antiquated free fishing
-law, clam culture can never become a successful industry.
-
-_Present Clam Culture._--In 1906 grants of barren flats were again
-issued for the purpose of clam culture in Essex, and this time the
-attempt seemed successful. Two things encouraged this: the excellent
-results of the experiments in Essex River by the Commission on
-Fisheries and Game, and the possible results indicated by the
-experiments of 1888. The only protection for these clam grants is by
-public sentiment, and the mutual agreement of all the clammers to
-respect the rights of the individual. So far there has been no trouble
-from trespassing and the lack of protection, which caused the failure
-of first attempts. It is hoped that these clam farms will become
-permanently successful, despite the lack of protection, as they will
-greatly increase the production of the Essex clam flats.
-
-_Clam Farming and Agriculture._--The comparison between clam farming
-and agriculture is very close, and both possess many common features,
-though there are several points of difference. The clam obtains its
-sustenance entirely from the water, while agricultural products obtain
-their nourishment chiefly from the soil. The nitrogenous waste products
-of the land washed into the streams furnish the nourishment to the
-little marine plants (diatoms) on which the clams feed.
-
-_Rate of Growth of the Clam._--The report of the Commission on
-Fisheries and Game for the year 1906 contains the following
-statements:--
-
-_What is the natural growth of the clam per year?_
-
-There is great diversity in the growth of the clam, owing to the
-location in respect to three essential conditions,--current, length
-of time submerged, and soil. The following figures give briefly the
-general trend of results from numerous experimental beds under great
-variety of conditions. For simplicity, a 1-inch clam is taken as the
-standard.
-
-A 1-inch clam will grow in one year to a size between 2 and 3 inches.
-Under fairly favorable conditions, with a moderate current, a 1-inch
-clam will increase to 2� inches, or a gain of 900 per cent, in volume.
-For every quart planted, the yield in one year will be 9 quarts. For
-beds without current, 1-inch clams average about 2 inches, or a gain
-of 500 per cent.; _i.e._, five quarts for every quart planted. Beds
-under exceptionally fine conditions have shown the amazing return of
-15 quarts for every quart of 1-inch clams planted. Clams increased in
-these beds from 1 to 3 inches in length. Therefore, by planting clams 1
-inch or over, under _favorable_ conditions a _marketable_ clam can be
-produced in _one year_.
-
-_What is the maximum production per square foot?_
-
-The number of clams per square foot that can be raised to the best
-advantage depends upon the location of the flat in respect to natural
-conditions. Clams thickly planted (15 to 20 per square foot) in
-favorable locations may show a greater growth than when thinly planted
-(5 per square foot) in less favorable locations; therefore, no definite
-statement can be made which will apply in all cases. The only rule
-that can be given is that a flat with a current will produce a greater
-number of clams per square foot than one without a current. On good
-flats clams can be planted conveniently and economically from 10 to 15
-per square foot, or even a larger number.
-
-_What results can be obtained by planting on barren flats?_
-
-There are two groups of flats which come under the term barren:
-(1) flats which once produced clams in great numbers, but now are
-practically barren, except for an occasional clam here and there;
-(2) flats which never have produced clams, and on which for physical
-reasons clams can never grow. The first group of flats is alone
-considered in this answer.
-
-Experimental beds were planted on certain flats in the Essex River
-which come within the first group of barren flats. These once
-productive flats had been cleaned out in the past, and for some reason
-had not seeded naturally. Forty beds were laid out under all kinds of
-conditions, with the object of finding a way to make these once more
-productive. Results have been all that could be hoped for. Only 4 poor
-beds were found, out of the 40 laid out; 36 beds were in thriving
-condition. It should be noted that no attempt was made to choose the
-best places, but all conditions were tried. Over two-thirds of the
-clams were re-dug, the increase averaging, in terms of 1-inch clams,
-over 1,000 per cent., or 10 quarts for every quart planted the year
-before.
-
-If many acres of Massachusetts flat, idle at present, are capable of
-such a yield, should such economic waste be allowed? Why should not
-the towns, by the expenditure of a little money, restock flats such as
-these for the benefit of their inhabitants? I do not say that all flats
-can be made productive in this way, as I know of many cases where the
-mere sowing of seed clams will not restock a flat; but I do say that
-Massachusetts possesses enough flats of the former nature, which should
-be made a profit to her clammers. Clam set occurs, as Mr. Stevenson
-shows in his report, in large quantities; the transportation of seed
-clams is easy; planting requires little labor, the practical way being
-to sow the clams, which burrow readily; while the yield in proportion
-to the labor is enormous.
-
-_What sized clams are best for planting?_
-
-The size best adapted must be determined for each flat. Shore flats
-with little current will allow the planting of any size, from � inch
-up; flats with a swift current necessitate a larger clam (1 to 1�
-inches), as the smaller will be washed out of its burrow; soft mud also
-demands a larger clam, as the smaller will be stifled by the oozy silt.
-
-_What are the physical conditions that influence the growth of clams?_
-
-There appear at least three essential conditions for rapid growth of
-clams: (1) a good current; (2) low and level flat; and (3) a tenacious
-soil, relatively free from decaying matter.
-
-A low flat gives the clams longer feeding periods, as the water remains
-over them longer, therefore there is a greater growth. This has been
-experimentally shown by Dr. A. D. Mead.
-
-According to Prof. J. L. Kellogg, clams cannot do well in a soil
-which contains much decaying organic matter, as the acids eat away
-the shells. Soils of this description also facilitate the spread of
-infection from one clam to another.
-
-Current is the chief essential for successful clam culture. The term
-"current" does not imply a rapid flow of water, but rather a good
-circulation of water over the flat. In the Essex and Ipswich rivers the
-clam flats have a continuous current. On such flats the growth is more
-rapid than on flats which have no circulation of water, in addition to
-the mere rise and fall of the tide. The current performs the work of
-(1) keeping the flats clean and carrying away all contamination, but
-its most important work is as (2) _food carrier_.
-
-_Value of a Clam Farm._--The value of an acre of clam flats, if
-properly cultivated, is about $450 per year for the average clam flat.
-Many of the more productive flats will yield a far greater amount,
-while others will not yield as much. It has been often erroneously
-stated that an acre of clam flats would produce $1,000 per year. This
-is a decided overestimation, as it would be hardly possible for the
-most productive flat to yield that amount. It is possible, however,
-for a good flat to yield about $750 per year, but this is only under
-the most favorable conditions. Such yields as these are large for the
-clammer, whose average yearly income is only $400 (a few of the more
-expert clammers make possibly $700 to $750), and a man possessing a
-clam farm of 1� to 2 acres would make a good living.
-
-_Method of operating a Clam Farm: choosing the Ground._--In choosing
-a grant, the planter should have in mind three things: (1) the
-accessibility of the grant, for his own convenience, and nearness to
-the market, as much of the success of clam farming depends upon the
-expense of marketing the product, and the ease with which it can be
-disposed of; (2) the length of time allowed for labor by the exposure
-of the flat (flats vary greatly in the amount of time exposed each
-tide, the low flats being submerged nearly all the time, and the high
-flats having a much longer exposure),--a high flat possesses the
-advantage of allowing a longer working period for the clammer; (3)
-the natural facilities of the flat itself as regards the growth of
-clams. Moreover, the flat should be chosen in regard to (1) soil; (2)
-current; (3) tide. A good flat should have a soil which is tenacious
-and compact, affording at the same time easy digging. Probably the best
-soil is a mixture of fine sand and mud in a ratio of one-third mud
-to two-thirds sand, as this amount of mud gives the right degree of
-tenacity.
-
-The growth of a clam depends upon the circulation of water over the
-flat, as the current carries the food, and, therefore, the more current
-the more food for the clams. Current also keeps the bed clean, and
-prevents contamination and disease from spreading among the clams.
-Then, again, the growth of a clam depends upon the amount of water over
-the bed; _i.e._, length of time covered. The clam can only feed when
-the tide is over the bed, and thus the feeding time is limited for
-the higher flats. While experiments have shown that clams grow faster
-when continually under water than when exposed part of the time, the
-question of tide is not so great a factor as that of current in regard
-to clam growth, and can be almost disregarded.
-
-The best flat for clam planting is a _fairly high flat_ with a _good
-current_ over it, as it gives nearly as rapid growth and a much longer
-period to dig than a flat which is exposed only a short period. This
-flat must have the right kind of soil, which must not be shifting sand
-or too soft mud, but a compact, tenacious mixture.
-
-_The Seed Clams._--Nature has provided the means of stocking these
-farms. The set of clams is usually restricted to certain localities,
-which, however, vary from time to time, and heavy sets are found in
-limited areas. These sets run as thick as 2,000 per square foot of
-surface, occasionally covering an area of 3 acres. From these natural
-set areas the natural clam flats are partially restocked by the washing
-out of the small clams. More often these whole sets are wasted, as
-the clams, instead of washing on the good flats, are carried to
-unproductive places and consequently perish. Thus there are areas of
-heavy set which are of no use to any one, as practically all the clams
-perish before they become adults. These areas of heavy set occur in
-nearly every harbor of the coast to a greater or less extent, and are
-available for nearly every town.
-
-The problem now is to make use of these large sets, and not allow them
-to go to waste. It has been shown that these clams when transplanted
-will grow much faster, and will not perish; therefore, clam farming
-offers both the possibility of saving these natural sets and utilizing
-barren ground.
-
-Methods of spat collecting have been constantly referred to in
-connection with clam farming, especially by the Rhode Island Fish
-Commission, and the impression has been given that clam farming can
-never become a success until some practical method of spat collecting
-has been found. With the soft clam there is no need of any method
-of spat collecting, as the natural set is more than sufficient for
-restocking the barren flats. All that is necessary is to utilize
-the enormous natural sets. If this is done, the barren flats of
-Massachusetts can be made productive.
-
-The main difficulty is in devising some method of obtaining the small
-clams with sufficient rapidity. As the nature of the soil and the
-size of the clams vary, no one method can apply to every case, and it
-depends upon the ingenuity of the clammer. The methods used at present
-are: (1) digging with an ordinary clam hoe, which is slow work; (2)
-digging in shallow water, so that the clams may be washed out; (3)
-digging a series of trenches across the heavy set area, and scooping
-out the clams washed in these trenches; (4) carrying both sand and
-clams by the dory load; (5) by using a sieve, in the form of a cradle,
-which washes the clams out in the water. This last method is the most
-successful for small clams, and has been used by the commission in
-obtaining seed clams for their experimental beds. By using a cradle 3
-by 2 feet, covered with sand wire netting, clams which ran 3,000 per
-quart, were obtained by 3 men at the rate of 2 bushels an hour,--an
-amount sufficient to plant from 1/25 to 1/10 of an acre.
-
-Another problem of importance is the transportation of seed clams, as
-in many instances the clams will have to be carried some distance.
-The best method of shipping seed clams is to pack them dry in damp
-sea weed, putting them in small packages, so they will not be crushed
-by their own weight. The best though most expensive method is to pack
-the clams in crates, such as are used for strawberries. It has been
-found that clams kept in water are not in such good condition as those
-shipped dry, and it is of the utmost importance that the clams be in
-good condition when planted.
-
-The length of time a clam will live out of its natural element depends
-upon the temperature; in cold weather it will keep for several days,
-and even weeks; while in warm weather the seed clam will be in poor
-condition after one day's exposure.
-
-_Preparing the Grant._--Usually the ground needs no preparation, and
-the clams can be planted at once. It is a good plan to remove any
-mussels and any of the enemies of the clam from the grant.
-
-_Planting the Clams._--The planting of the seed clams is perhaps the
-easiest work of the clam culturist, as it necessitates merely the
-sowing of the seed on the surface of the flat. The small clams when
-left this way burrow into the ground as soon as the water is over them,
-and require no planting on the part of the culturist.
-
-_Working the Farm._--This style of farming requires no cultivation for
-the growth of the clams. Once planted, the farmer has no further work
-until the time when he is ready to dig them. The clams grow better
-when undisturbed than when the soil is upturned by frequent digging.
-Protection from man and the natural enemies of the clam demand the
-attention of the owner at all times.
-
-_Harvesting the Clams._--The time of digging will vary as to the size
-of clam desired and the rate of growth on the grant. The clam farmer
-can cater to a particular trade by regulating the size of the clams
-marketed. He may find it more profitable to market a small clam after a
-short period of growth, or _vice versa_, on the same principle that a
-farmer raises hogs for the market.
-
-North of Boston, in localities favorable for fast growth, such as the
-Essex and Ipswich rivers, by planting large seed of at least l� inches
-in the spring, marketable clams of 2� to 3 inches can be obtained in
-the fall after six months' growth. Here the clams grow only during the
-summer months, and nothing would be gained by leaving them over winter.
-In this way a crop each year can be raised on these farms. In other
-localities of slower growth it will take from eighteen to twenty-four
-months to raise a crop. The clam farmer will have to regulate the size
-of the seed and length of growth to best suit the needs of his farm.
-
-_Advantages of Clam Farming._--Clam culture possesses several
-advantages over the old free-for-all digging: (1) steadier returns; (2)
-easier work; (3) better pay; (4) more clams per man. If the clammers
-of the Commonwealth only realized these facts they would make a united
-effort toward clam culture.
-
-
-_History._
-
-I. _Early History._--The history of the Massachusetts clam industry
-began in obscurity. Even before the time of the earliest settlers the
-native Indians depended largely upon this abundant mollusk for their
-food supply, as is clearly indicated by the scattered shell heaps which
-mark their ancient camp fires. Upon the arrival of the Pilgrims, clam
-digging was incorporated among the most time-honored industries of the
-Commonwealth, and in times of want the early colonists depended largely
-upon this natural food supply. With the arrival of the colonists really
-began the first epoch of the clam fishery as an economic factor in
-this Commonwealth, a period which lasted nearly two hundred years.
-This period marked the exploitation of clam grounds merely for home
-consumption. Money was scarce, inland markets were practically unknown,
-and the importance of this shellfish was confined merely to local
-quarters.
-
-II. _Rise of the Bait Industry._--Early in the last century a growing
-demand for clams as bait for the sea fisheries became apparent.
-Clams had always been utilized for this purpose more or less, but an
-increased demand called for the development of an important industry in
-this line. Various centers of activity were established, particularly
-at Newburyport, Essex, Ipswich, Boston harbor and Chatham. The clams
-were mainly shucked, that is, removed from the shell, and shipped
-either fresh or salted in barrels to the fishermen at Gloucester,
-Boston and Provincetown. This industry opened up new fields of
-employment for many men and boys, and brought considerable ready money
-into various coast communities.
-
-III. _The Development of Inland Markets._--The consumption of clams
-for food in the coast towns continued throughout the rise and gradual
-decline of the bait industry, but the creation of inland markets did
-not begin to be an important factor until 1875. It was about this time
-that the clam came to be generally looked upon throughout the State
-as an article of food, and consequently an important industry was
-gradually evolved to meet this growing demand. This step marked the
-beginning of the extensive fishery of the present day.
-
-The mistaken policy of the average shellfish community, which
-regarded clam grounds as natural gardens of inexhaustible fertility,
-still persisted even after the fallacy of this policy had long
-proved apparent through the depletion of extensive tracts. The same
-ill-advised methods were pursued to the ultimate ruination of much
-valuable territory. All wise regard for the future was overshadowed
-by the immediate needs of the present; local legislation fostered the
-evil; State legislation was conspicuous by its absence; and, left to
-the mercy of unsystematic overdigging, these natural resources rapidly
-wasted away.
-
-The disastrous tendencies which have lurked in the ruling policy of
-the clam fishery have been shown in the rise and fall of the industry
-in certain localities. Forty years ago Duxbury and Plymouth ranked
-as the greatest clam towns of the coast. Their supply has long since
-become insignificant. Newburyport and Ipswich have become the chief
-producers of the State clam harvest; but Essex and Gloucester, in the
-same fertile regions, have greatly declined, and the industry at Rowley
-has become nearly extinct. In the Fall River district the digging of
-small seed clams for food has brought the fishery to the verge of ruin.
-The few resources of Buzzards Bay have become nearly exhausted, while
-on Cape Cod the industry has shown here and there a temporary increase,
-overshadowed by a far more extensive decline, such as at Chatham.
-Furthermore, the sewage contamination of coast waters in the harbors of
-Boston and several other large cities have closed extensive regions for
-the production of food.
-
-IV. _Attempts to develop the Industry._--Various efforts have been
-made to restrain overdigging the clam flats, by local regulations,
-particularly by "close" seasons. These attempts have been productive
-of little good. Other efforts, designed to develop extensive tracts
-made barren by wasteful methods of fishing, have been put in operation.
-These efforts have been along two independent lines: the first, an
-effort on the part of the community to seed in common flats by the
-appropriation of money for that purpose, as in the case of Wellfleet;
-the second, an attempt to arrive at the same end by leasing private
-grants to individuals, as at Essex and Plymouth. These efforts, while
-tending in the right direction, have not as yet yielded the results
-that might be wished for. Within the past three years the State has
-taken hold of the problem, and by an extensive series of experiments is
-endeavoring to devise practical means of developing the great inherent
-possibilities in this extensive industry.
-
- CLAM PRODUCTION TABLE FOR MASSACHUSETTS, OBTAINED FROM THE REPORTS OF
-                  THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION.
-
-  =======+==========+=========+===================
-         |          |         |
-   YEAR. | Bushels. |  Value. | Price per Bushel
-         |          |         |     (Cents).
-  -------+----------+---------+-------------------
-   1880, | 158,626  | $76,195 |      41.73
-   1887, | 230,659  | 121,202 |      52.54
-   1888, | 243,777  | 127,838 |      52.44
-   1889, | 240,831  | 137,711 |      57.14
-   1892, | 191,923  | 133,529 |      69.57
-   1898, | 147,095  | 102,594 |      69.74
-   1902, | 227,941  | 157,247 |      68.98
-   1905, | 217,519  | 209,545 |      96.19
-  =======+==========+=========+===================
-
-
-_The Clam Industry._
-
-_Methods of Digging._--The ordinary method of taking clams is so simple
-as hardly to need explanation. Although simple, clam digging requires
-considerable skill, and it takes years of experience to become a good
-clammer.
-
-There are two methods of clam digging used in Massachusetts,--the
-"wet" and the "dry" digging. Wet digging is carried on when water is
-over the clam beds; dry digging, which is the common method, takes
-place when the flats are left exposed by the tides. The only places in
-Massachusetts where wet digging is carried on regularly are Eastham,
-Chatham, Swansea, and in Katama Bay, Edgartown. In the lower end of
-Katama Bay is found a submerged bed of clams which is one of the most
-productive beds of this class in Massachusetts. These submerged clams
-are taken with what is known locally as a "sea horse," which is an
-enlarged clam hoe, with prongs 12 to 14 inches long, and a strong
-wooden handle four feet in length. This handle has a belt attachment
-which is buckled around the clammer. Two men are required for this
-work. The sea horse is worked deep into the loose sand and is dragged
-along by one man, who wades in the shallow water over these submerged
-flats, while his partner follows, gathering the clams which the sea
-horse roots out. Another method of wet digging is called "churning,"
-and is based on the same principle as the above method, only the clams
-are turned out under water by long forks or hoes. This method is not
-used in Massachusetts to any extent. Excellent results are usually
-obtained from wet digging.
-
-The methods used in dry digging depend upon the nature of the soil.
-The difference lies only in the kind of digger. The clam hoe of the
-south shore, where the soil is either coarse sand or gravel, has broad
-prongs, some even being 1� inches across. The usual number of prongs
-is four, but occasionally three broad prongs suffice. The clam hoe of
-the north shore, often called "hooker," has four thin, sharp prongs
-and a short handle. The set of this handle is a matter of choice with
-the individual clammers, some preferring a sharp, acute angle, and
-others a right angle. This style of clam hoe is best suited for the
-hard, tenacious clam flats of the north shore. At Essex spading forks
-are used for clamming, but not as extensively as the hooker. For sand
-digging the forks are said to be better, while for mud digging the
-hooker is preferred.
-
-_Outfit of a Clammer._--The outfit of a clammer does not require much
-outlay of capital. A skiff or dory, one or two clam hoes and three or
-four clam baskets complete the list. Occasionally, as at Ipswich, where
-the clam grounds are widely scattered, power dories are used, and this
-necessitates the investment of considerable capital; but the investment
-of the average clammer does not exceed $26. Personal apparel, such as
-oilskins and boots, are not considered under this head.
-
-                            CLAMMING OUTFIT.
-
-  Skiff dory,                                  $22.00
-  Two clam diggers,                              1.50
-  Four clam baskets,                             2.00
-                                               ------
-      Total,                                   $25.50
-
-The boats most often used by the north shore clammers are called "skiff
-dories," and in construction are between a dory and a skiff. These
-boats are especially adapted for use in rivers.
-
-_Marketing._--Clams are shipped to market either in the shell or
-"shucked out." Two rules are followed by the clammers in making this
-distinction: (1) small clams, or "steamers," are shipped in the
-shell, especially during the summer months, while the large clams are
-"shucked;" (2) the fine-appearing sand clam is usually sold in the
-shell, while the unprepossessing mud clam is shucked, _i.e._, the
-shell and the external covering of the siphon or neck are removed.
-This causes on the north shore a division by locality. The Ipswich and
-Essex clams, except for a few individual orders, are mostly shipped to
-market in the shell, while the Annisquam River and Newburyport clams
-are usually shucked in the winter. Little if any shucking is done by
-the south shore clammers.
-
-Shucking almost doubles the value, as a bushel of clams, worth in the
-shell 75 cents, will furnish, when soaked, about 10 quarts of shucked
-clams, which bring about 50 cents per gallon, or a total of $1.25 when
-marketed. The shucked clams are put through a process of soaking in the
-same way the scallop "eyes" are treated before marketing. They absorb
-a sufficient quantity of fresh water, after soaking six hours, to
-increase their bulk about one-third and give a plump appearance to the
-clams.
-
-While many clammers do not soak their clams, it seems to be a universal
-tendency, wherever clams are shucked, to gain by this method. Soaking
-of any sort impairs the flavor of the clam, and for this reason such a
-practice is to be deplored, but as long as the consumer is satisfied
-to take second-rate goods, this practice will continue, and it can be
-stopped only by the united demand of the shellfish dealers.
-
-_Shipment._--Second-hand flour and sugar barrels are used for the
-shipment of clams in the shell, while kegs and butter tubs hold the
-shucked clams. In winter clams can be shipped inland without perishing;
-but in hot weather they will spoil in a few days, unless iced.
-
-_Maine Clams._--Massachusetts annually consumes many thousand barrels
-of Maine clams. If the demand of the Boston market were not partially
-met by the influx of Maine clams, the clam flats of Massachusetts would
-be subject to a greater drain.
-
-_Market._--The principal market for the clam industry of Massachusetts
-is Boston. Gloucester, Newburyport, Salem and Lynn draw part of
-the clam trade of the north shore, but the greater portion goes to
-Boston, whence it is distributed throughout the State. In recent years
-shipments have been made from the Ipswich Bay region direct to New
-York, Baltimore and Philadelphia.
-
-_Price._--The price of clams is fairly constant, varying but little
-in summer and winter. Naturally, this seems curious, when winter and
-summer clamming are compared. The production in winter is much smaller
-than in summer, which is due to (1) fewer clammers, because of the
-severe work in cold weather; (2) less working days, as the clammer
-is often unable to dig for weeks, and even months, and also cannot
-work early or late tides, as in summer. In spite of this diminution
-of supply, the winter price is practically no higher. This is due to
-a smaller demand in winter, as well as to the influx of the Maine
-clams at this season. In summer there is an increased demand for
-clams, caused by the arrival of the summer people at the seashore; and
-large quantities of this shellfish are used by hotels, cottages, etc.
-This increase in demand is enough to offset the increase in supply,
-resulting in a stationary price.
-
-The price varies as to the quality of the clams, whether soaked or
-unsoaked, small or large, good or poor looking shells, and fresh or
-stale. The average price as received by the clammer for clams in the
-shell is 75 cents per bushel; shucked clams, when soaked, 45-50 cents
-per gallon.
-
-
-_Arrangement of Towns._
-
-Owing to the peculiarities of the different localities, it has been
-impossible to satisfactorily arrange the towns alphabetically.
-Therefore, in order to present local comparisons, they have been
-arranged in geographical order, starting at the northern boundary of
-the State.
-
-
-_Salisbury._
-
-Salisbury, the most northerly town in the State, has a good clam
-territory, very similar to that of Newburyport, though much smaller in
-area.
-
-Almost all the clam ground, and practically all the very good digging,
-is comprised in a single flat, which extends along the northerly bank
-of the Merrimac for nearly 2 miles. This flat is about 900 feet wide,
-on an average, and has a total area of 216 acres. On the eastern end,
-and skirting the channel, it is sandy; but for the most part it is mud
-throughout, varying from a hard, smooth surface in the middle portion
-to a soft, scummy soil on the west.
-
-About 100 acres in the central section of this flat are covered with
-a thick set of clams, especially from 1 to 2 inches. This territory
-furnishes the bulk of the good digging, and is being constantly turned
-over and the larger clams sorted out. Roughly speaking, the main east
-half of the flat is sandy, or hard mud, with very good clamming, the
-western half softer mud, with fair or scattering clams. This is an
-exceptionally fine natural clam flat, and if properly cultivated its
-production would be immensely increased. At the eastern extremity of
-the flat a long, narrow cove extends in a general northerly direction
-into the main land. This cove, including the outer fringing bars,
-contains some 34 acres of flats, for the most part sandy and rather
-poorly productive, though no considerable area is anywhere strictly
-barren. The combined clam flat territory of the town aggregates
-250 acres, comprising 150 acres of good clamming and 100 acres of
-scattering clams; of these, 216 acres are of mud and 34 acres of sand.
-
-While the town records show 66 licensed clammers, only about 50 make
-clamming their chief occupation. The industry is carried on in much
-the same manner as at Newburyport; $625 is invested in boats and
-implements, and some 15,000 bushels of clams, aggregating $16,500, are
-annually produced.
-
-The clam industry at Salisbury is largely stationary as regards
-available territory, while the production varies considerably from year
-to year. There is little or no town legislation affecting the industry,
-except the issuing of permits by the selectmen. These permits cost 25
-cents, and are required from every clammer.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   66
-  Capital invested,                              $625
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                 15,000
-      Value,                                  $16,500
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand                                         34
-      Mud,                                        216
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      250
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                              150
-      Scattering clams,                           100
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                 $70,000
-
-
-_Newburyport._
-
-Newburyport is pre-eminently the clam town of Massachusetts. It
-produces the most clams, gives employment to the most men, and has on
-the whole the finest flats.
-
-The total clam-growing area of this town comprises about 1,080 acres;
-of this, some 800 acres are more or less productive, while the balance,
-280 acres, is practically nonproductive. Scattering clams exist
-everywhere, so there are, properly speaking, no truly barren flats.
-
-The flats of Newburyport, broad, level and continuous, are peculiarly
-adapted to clam culture. The general type of soil is mud, varying from
-a soft, sticky variety on the west coast, and also along the shores
-of Plum Island, to a firm, hard surface in the great middle section
-north of Woodbridge's Island, where clams flourish most abundantly and
-furnish the best digging within the city limits. Here nearly 100 acres
-are covered with a heavy set of 1 to 2 inch clams. Altogether there are
-some 930 acres of this mud. Much of this, especially to the west and
-south, is apparently unfavorable to clams, being soft and unwholesome,
-but even here at certain seasons clams are dug extensively.
-
-The sand flats include the shifting Hump sands that fringe the Merrimac
-channel and the Cove on Plum Island. These and other minor sections
-comprise about 150 acres. The Hump sands are quite productive. The
-other sand flats are not entirely barren, but practically unutilized.
-
-The clam industry at Newburyport furnishes employment for about 175
-men, although over 200 depend upon it for some portion of their income.
-The season lasts the year round, though on account of storms and ice
-the winter's work is rather uncertain. A good fisherman will, under
-favorable circumstances, dig several bushels of clams at a tide, though
-the ordinary man will probably not average more than a bushel and a
-half, taking the whole year into account.
-
-The outlay of capital invested is comparatively small. A flat-bottom
-boat or dory, a clam hoe or two, and three or four wire-bottom baskets,
-constitute a clammer's outfit, costing altogether perhaps $15 or $20.
-As two or more men frequently go in one boat, even this expenditure
-may be reduced. The shore property in use, consisting of from 8 to
-10 shanties, is also inconsiderable. Several power boats are used,
-however, and their added cost brings the aggregate money invested up to
-about $2,700.
-
-The flats of Newburyport are a large factor in its economic wealth.
-During 1907 they produced nearly 55,500 bushels of clams, exceeding
-$61,000 in value. Nearly two-thirds of these clams were shucked, that
-is, removed from the shell and sold by the gallon. In this form,
-usually soaked to increase their volume, they retail for about 45
-cents per gallon. As clams in the shell, sold for "steamers," etc.,
-will hardly bring more than 65 cents per bushel, the process of
-shucking nearly doubles the value to the fisherman, as a bushel of
-clams in the shell will produce from 2 to 3 gallons of soaked clams.
-The income of the average clammer will hardly exceed $350 per year, but
-a really energetic and industrious fisherman may in the same time make
-from $500 to $700, or even more. Many of the men have individual orders
-from dealers in Lynn, Haverhill and the neighboring cities, while the
-local dealers ship largely to Boston.
-
-The regulation of the industry by city ordinance is of very little
-note. Practically the only legislation pertaining to it is the law
-which requires every clammer to have a permit, but even this regulation
-is but indifferently enforced. The Newbury flats are likewise free to
-the Newburyport clammers, and part of the Newburyport production comes
-from these outside flats.
-
-The history of the clam industry at Newburyport is one of constant
-change. Twenty years ago large areas on southwest Joppa were
-practically barren; now they are quite productive. The reverse is true
-of Ball's flat on Plum Island, which, though once of great importance,
-is now almost waste. Though no serious inroads have as yet been made, a
-slow but steady decline in the industry is distinctly noticeable.
-
-       COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879 (SALISBURY AND NEWBURYPORT).
-
-  =======+============+=========+======+==========+==========
-         |            |         |      |          |
-   YEAR. | Production |  Value. | Men. | Capital. |  Price
-         | (Bushels). |         |      |          |   per
-         |            |         |      |          | Bushel.
-  =======+============+=========+======+==========+==========
-         |            |         |      |          |
-   1879, |   28,800   | $11,520 |   60 |   $750   |  $0.40
-         |            |         |      |          |
-   1907, |   70,500   |  77,500 |  241 |  3,325   |  1.10
-  =======+============+=========+======+==========+==========
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                  175
-  Capital invested,                            $2,700
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                 55,500
-      Value,                                  $61,000
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       150
-      Mud,                                        930
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                    1,080
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                              800
-      Scattering clams,                           280
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                $250,000
-
-
-_Newbury._
-
-The town of Newbury has in itself no shellfish industry, although
-there is an extensive area of suitable flats which are worked with
-equal rights by the Newburyport clammers. These flats comprise some
-360 acres, and extend along both sides of Plum Island Sound and
-Parker River. Over 100 acres of scattering clams occur, though not
-in sufficient quantities for the most part to make very profitable
-digging. The remainder, some 260 acres, though almost all suitable for
-the production of large quantities of clams, is practically barren.
-
-The principal type of soil is mud, and the mud flats comprise about
-250 acres. The flats of Parker River and those in its immediate
-neighborhood, however, are largely sand, and altogether they aggregate
-about 110 acres. Of these, "the thoroughfare" is practically the only
-one which furnishes clams in any quantity. Sections of the broad
-flats which border on Plum Island Sound produce scattering clams of
-large size. There is, however, no very good digging in town, and no
-consistent effort seems ever to have been made to utilize the great
-wealth which lies dormant in the clam flat territory. Six Newbury
-men dig intermittently in the summer, and furnish some 300 bushels,
-worth about $250, for town trade. However, this does not take into
-consideration the amount taken from these flats by the Newburyport
-clammers.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    6
-  Capital invested,                               $75
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    300
-      Value,                                     $250
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       110
-      Mud,                                        250
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      360
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                           100
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        260
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                 $40,000
-
-
-_Rowley._
-
-Rowley presents a more striking example of the decline in the shellfish
-industry than any other town in this region.
-
-Four hundred acres of good flats border Plum Island and Rowley River
-within the town limits, but of these only 20 at most are economically
-productive. Eighty acres more are not entirely barren, though
-practically worthless, while the remaining 300, though almost all well
-adapted for clam culture, are barren.
-
-The main type of soil is sand, and the sand flats, for the most part
-in Plum Island Sound, comprise some 250 acres. The remainder, 150
-acres, is mostly mud in scattered sections along the Rowley River and
-in patches on the main flats. The only really productive flats are
-the little coves and creeks of Rowley River and the Knob Reefs in
-Plum Island Sound. The Knob Reef clam grounds produce very large and
-fine clams, which lie on the lower edge of the flat and are exposed
-only a short time every tide. Knob Reefs also has the distinction of
-possessing probably the finest clam set of its size in the State, which
-would furnish abundant opportunity for restocking all the barren Rowley
-River flats, if the town authorities had taken proper measures to
-transplant this seed. As it is, this extensive set, too thick for good
-growth, is rapidly wasting away.
-
-The history of the industry is one of steady decline. Reliable evidence
-exists to show that almost all the flats of Rowley once produced clams,
-and that large areas now waste were formerly productive. That these
-immense barren areas, possessing such an enormous latent wealth, should
-be allowed to remain thus unimproved, is a most conclusive argument for
-the need of radical action. No settled attempt, however, except for a
-single closed season in 1906, has ever been made by the clammers or
-town authorities to better the conditions, or to check the decline in
-the productive territory that remains.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   15
-  Capital invested,                              $800
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                  2,000
-      Value,                                   $1,500
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       250
-      Mud,                                        150
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      400
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                               20
-      Scattering clams,                            80
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        300
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                 $60,000
-
-
-_Ipswich._
-
-Ipswich is second only to Newburyport in the production of clams,
-and has perhaps even greater possibilities of development. The
-clam territory of the two towns, while nearly equal in extent, is,
-however, markedly different in general characteristics. The flats
-of Newburyport, while few in number, are broad, continuous, and have
-a great degree of similarity throughout. The flats of Ipswich, on
-the other hand, are divided into a great number of relatively small
-sections, widely diversified in character, and scattered along an
-extensive coast line. As these flats are in many respects the most
-interesting and important of any town in the State, it seems well to
-examine them in detail.
-
-Four distinct divisions can be distinguished in the clam territory of
-this town: Ipswich River, Plum Island, Green's Creek and Roger Island,
-and Essex River flats.
-
-Taken in the order named, the Ipswich River has in itself a great
-variety of clam ground. Both sides of the river for nearly 3 miles are
-fringed with bars, mainly of mud though sandy near the mouth. Some of
-the mud flats are so soft that they are practically barren, or given up
-largely to mussel beds; while much of the sand, as, _e.g._, the main
-portion of the High Sands, is too shifting to be valuable. The larger
-part of these river flats are, however, productive.
-
-The Plum Island division comprises Lufkins, Point Peter, Appletons,
-Foresides and several other minor flats. Of these, Lufkins is very
-important. It occupies a semicircular depression on the coast of Plum
-Island, and, owing to its peculiar location, the swift current which
-flows past its outer edge makes a double eddy at both ebb and flood
-tide. These eddies sweep gently over its broad surface, and deposit a
-fine silt which has made the characteristic soil a hard, bluish clay.
-This is the only important clay flat of this region. The total area of
-Lufkins is 46 acres. The outer border to the north is mud, becoming
-soft; to the south, sandy. The portion near shore is, as has been
-stated, a clayey soil, and it is here that clams are found abundantly.
-An exceptionally good set of 1 to 2 inch clams occupies from 3 to
-4 acres of this portion. Though clams are numerous, the exceeding
-hardness of the soil makes digging rather difficult.
-
-Point Peter, or "P'int" Peter, is also an important flat, comprising
-altogether 28 acres, though about 7 acres of the outer portion extend
-far into the current, and are of so shifting and sandy a nature as to
-be practically worthless. Most of the remainder is mud, varying from
-sand and hard mud on the outside to soft mud in the creeks that lead
-into the main land. The central portion of the flat is peculiarly
-adapted to the culture of clams, however, and is very productive.
-
-Appleton's flat comprises about 6 acres of hard sand, verging into mud,
-thickly strewn with old clam shells. It lies at the mouth of Perkins
-and Pine Creeks, which run for about a mile into the main land of Plum
-Island, and contain nearly 25 acres each of fairly productive mud
-flats. Appleton's is a valuable flat, and the clams dug here are large.
-
-The Foresides is a thatch island a little over a mile in length, lying
-in the mid channel of Plum Island Sound. The flats which surround it
-on all sides are practically all sand, and comprise about 80 acres.
-The whole western side is more or less productive, though the outer
-edge, where the strong cross currents of the channel sweep over, is too
-much rippled to be suitable for clam growth. The strip of sand along
-the northern and northeastern sides, though rather narrow and limited
-in area, is productive, while most of the southeastern portion, which
-projects far into the channel, is barren and totally unadapted for soft
-clams, though bedded with sea clams. The productive sections of this
-flat are much dug, and altogether it is one of the most important of
-the Ipswich clam grounds.
-
-The west coast of Plum Island Sound, comprising the Green's Creek
-and Roger Island territories, extends from the Ipswich to the Rowley
-rivers. This division contains the bulk of the waste and barren flats
-of the town, although there is exceptionally good clamming in Stacy's
-Creek, Third Creek and the "Nutfield."
-
-The Essex River region is rather remote for most of the clammers,
-and hard to reach, but furnishes on the whole some of the very best
-digging. The three main flats of this division are the Essex beach,
-Wheeler's, and the Spit. Essex beach has a very good set, evenly
-sprinkled over the ridgy, shifting bars that skirt the channel.
-
-Wheeler's is an irregular sand bar, occupying about 77 acres. Fully
-one-half of this is very productive, and in the main portion occurs
-another thick set very similar to that on Essex beach.
-
-The Spit, mainly sand or sandy mud, lies in the three towns of Ipswich,
-Essex and Gloucester. The whole area is some 300 acres, about a third
-lying within the town of Ipswich. This whole bar is so liable to
-change that any calculations based on its precise area or location are
-decidedly unreliable. Very good digging occurs, however, in limited
-areas on the north and west sides of the Ipswich territory.
-
-These four divisions comprise the clamming territory of Ipswich, and
-aggregate 970 acres, of which 390 acres is sand and 500 mud. This also
-includes 15 acres of mussels scattered along Ipswich River, Plum Island
-and Green's Creek region, and about 10 acres of eel grass in various
-localities. Over 800 acres is more or less productive, about half being
-good clamming.
-
-About 50 regular clammers depend upon these flats for a living,
-though 136 permits were issued in 1907. Here, owing to the greater
-distances to be traversed, many power boats are used. Nearly $7,500 is
-invested in the industry, and 25,000 bushels of clams, at a valuation
-of $18,750, are annually produced. The relative decrease in price as
-compared with Newburyport is due to the fact that shucking is not so
-extensively practised here.
-
-The town laws merely require a permit from every clammer, for which
-no charge is made. Such permit is issued at the discretion of the
-selectmen, and requires of the recipient six months' residence in the
-town and two years in the State. In past years the town has made
-several by-laws for the protection of shellfish, chiefly in the nature
-of partial closed seasons; but unfortunately considerable difficulty
-has been found in enforcing these excellent laws, and the results have
-been far from satisfactory.
-
-Ipswich has jealously guarded the rights of its clam flats, and has
-protected them in every way from the invasion of outsiders, which in
-part accounts for the excellent condition of these flats, which were
-originally deeded to the Commoners by the Crown, and from them to the
-town. Ipswich is the only town in the Commonwealth which has thus
-directly received its clam flats as its own property, and naturally has
-done more to improve its natural clam resources than any other town in
-the State.
-
-The history of the industry shows little change; some few flats once
-considered worthless have been opened and utilized; others once
-productive have been dug out and allowed to become waste. On the whole,
-the industry is following the trend of the shellfisheries everywhere,
-and slowly but steadily declining.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                  136
-  Capital invested,                            $7,500
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                 25,000
-      Value,                                  $18,750
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       390
-      Mud,                                        500
-      Gravel,                                      55
-      Mussels and eel grass,                       25
-      Total,                                      970
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                              400
-      Scattering clams,                           420
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        125
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       25
-  Possible normal production,                $200,000
-
-
-_Essex._
-
-Essex, while still ranking as an important clam-producing town, has
-a very imperfect development of her shellfish resources. The total
-clam flat area comprises some 650 acres, and, though scarcely more
-than 25 acres can be considered as unfit for the growth of clams, and
-consequently barren, only a little more than half the remainder is
-at all productive, and of this probably less than 150 acres yields
-any financial return. In other words, 325 acres of good clam flat is
-allowed to remain practically barren.
-
-The main type of soil is sand, and nearly 500 acres may be properly
-classed under this head. The remaining 150 acres are mud, and are
-located in the creeks along the river and in the coves north of Hog
-Island. The productive sections are scattered for the most part along
-both sides of the Essex River, and well-developed areas are also
-found at its mouth and on the Spit. There are several good locations
-of seed clams. One section of about 25 acres occurs on the west side
-of the Spit. This is composed of 1 to 2 inch clams, running 10 to 40
-per square foot. At the mouth of the river on the north side occurs
-another set of �-inch clams, covering about 10 acres. On the flats west
-of Cross Island is found a third set of � to 2 inch clams, comprising
-about 30 acres. Other smaller patches of set are scattered along the
-river almost up to its source.
-
-About 50 men derive an income from these flats. Some $1,200 is
-invested, and the annual product exceeds 15,000 bushels, valued at
-$12,750.
-
-The town of Essex has realized the importance of the clam problem, and
-has attempted through legislation to deal with it. The selectmen are
-empowered to grant to citizens of the town an area consisting of an
-acre or less on flats already barren, for the purpose of raising clams,
-and in this manner partially restock the flats. A rental of $2 is
-charged, covering a period of five years, and an additional fee of 50
-cents is required for recording. In spite of inadequate protection, the
-experiment has been conducted long enough to prove that these flats can
-be made profitable to the clammers.
-
-The history of the clam industry at Essex is one of extensive decline.
-There is every reason to believe that the greater part at least of the
-waste area was once very productive. Prof. James L. Kellogg in the
-United States Fish Commission Bulletin for 1899, says:--
-
-    We have much evidence that the clam industry in Essex has,
-    in the past, been extensive.... Much more testimony of a
-    similar character may be had to show that the flats once very
-    productive have almost entirely failed.
-
-                     COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
-
-  ======================+========+========
-                        |        |
-                        | 1879.  |  1907.
-  ----------------------+--------+--------
-  Production (bushels), |    500 |  15,000
-  Value,                | $4,500 | $12,750
-  Men,                  |     75 |      50
-  Capital,              |      - |  $1,200
-  Price (cents),        |     40 |      85
-  ======================+========+=========
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   50
-  Capital invested,                            $1,200
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                 15,000
-      Value,                                  $12,750
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       500
-      Mud,                                        125
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                       25
-      Total,                                      650
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                              150
-      Scattering clams,                           150
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        325
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       25
-  Possible normal production,                $120,000
-
-
-_Gloucester._
-
-The far-celebrated deep sea fisheries of Gloucester overshadow her
-humble shellfish industry; but within her tidal flats lie undeveloped
-resources, which if properly brought out would form no inconsiderable
-factor in her annual revenue. Even now her clam fishery attains
-considerable proportions, though by no means what it once was, or what
-it might be were suitable cultural methods employed.
-
-The main areas of clam-producing territory lie in the Annisquam River
-and in the Essex River in West Gloucester. The grounds in the Annisquam
-are the more productive. This river is some 4 miles long, and is
-bordered for the greater part of this distance with tidal flats. Of
-these the sand flats predominate, though there are large areas of mud
-and extensive beds of mussels. On the extreme head of the river, known
-as the Dumfudgeon region, dredging operations for the Gloucester canal
-have somewhat impaired the flats, but as a whole the river seems in
-every way suitable for the production of an abundant harvest of clams.
-
-The flats of West Gloucester, including a portion of the Essex Spit,
-are largely unproductive. The Spit is the only flat of any extent in
-this region which is at present of real economic value; the remaining
-flats, scattered along the south shore of the Essex River and its
-tributary creeks, are for the most part practically barren.
-
-The total area of clam flats in Gloucester approximates 550 acres. Of
-this, some 250 acres are sand, 200 mud, while there are about 100 acres
-of mussels and eel grass, which cannot be considered at all adapted for
-clam culture. Only a fraction of the whole, 75 acres, more or less, is
-good clamming; a scant 100 acres produces scattering clams; 275 acres
-are barren, though capable of producing clams; while 100 acres may
-never be made productive.
-
-Eight men dig regularly on these flats the year round, and 23 others
-work intermittently. The capital invested amounts to over $600, and
-the annual output exceeds 6,000 bushels, valued at $8,000. Most of the
-clams produced at Gloucester are shucked either for market or bait.
-
-Local legislation has no bearing on the shellfish question, and no
-effort is being made either to better conditions in the clam industry
-or to check its steady decline.
-
-The industry has fallen off greatly in the past few years. In 1875
-there were 90 regular clammers, and a man could dig 6 bushels to
-a tide, where now 8 regular and 23 intermittent clammers find it
-difficult to get from 1� bushels to 3 bushels per tide.
-
-  COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
-  ======+============+========+======+===========+========
-  YEAR. | Production | Value. | Men. | Capital   | Price.
-        | (Bushels). |        |      | Invested. |
-  ------+------------+--------+------+-----------+--------
-  1879, |   13,978   | $5,200 |  92  |  $2,000   | $0.40
-  1907, |    6,000   |  8,000 |  31  |     600   |  1.33
-  ======+============+========+======+===========+========
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   31
-  Capital invested,                              $600
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                  6,000
-      Value,                                   $8,000
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       250
-      Mud,                                        200
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                      100
-      Total,                                      550
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                               75
-      Scattering clams,                           100
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        275
-  Waste barren area (acres),                      100
-  Possible normal production,                 $70,000
-
-
-_Manchester._
-
-Manchester has a coast line so much exposed, and consequently so small
-a territory of tidal flats, that it is not surprising to find its clam
-industry of very insignificant proportions. Affairs are in much the
-same state of apathy as at Beverly, though Manchester does not possess
-the resources of the former town, and could not, in the nature of the
-case, carry on any extensive clam business. Its facilities, however,
-poor as they are, are very imperfectly utilized; hence the present
-state of depletion, verging on absolute exhaustion.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    100
-      Value,                                     $100
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        10
-      Mud,                                         10
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       20
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                             5
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         10
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        5
-  Possible normal production,                  $2,000
-
-
-_Beverly._
-
-Beverly has practically no clam industry. The area of tidal flats,
-comprising nearly 50 acres, is at present unprofitable and nearly
-worthless. As at Swampscott, some clams still continue to be dug
-for bait and for local clam bakes, but any evidence of a systematic
-business has long ceased to exist. Thirty years ago clams were far
-more abundant, though there was never an extensive industry. The town
-authorities require no licenses and make no efforts to revive the
-industry.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    100
-      Value,                                     $100
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        30
-      Mud,                                         20
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       50
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            10
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         30
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
-  Possible normal production,                  $5,000
-
-
-_Salem._
-
-Salem has far better natural advantages for clam culture than the
-other towns in its immediate vicinity, and leads in clam production,
-though the industry is of very inferior proportions. Seven men are at
-present employed in digging the harbor flats, where the clams have
-very recently seeded in. Many of these clams, though rather small, are
-shucked, and the remainder are sold in the local markets. The entire
-value of the annual production does not exceed $200, and the capital
-invested amounts to but $75. This is rather poor showing for 100 acres
-of flats for the most part comparatively good, and capable of yielding
-$11,000 annually. The Salem clammers dig also in the Danvers River in
-the town of Danvers.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    7
-  Capital invested,                               $75
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    200
-      Value,                                     $200
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        75
-      Mud,                                         25
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      100
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                5
-      Scattering clams,                            10
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         70
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       15
-  Possible normal production,                 $11,000
-
-
-_Lynn._
-
-The city of Lynn has within its tidal flats the latent resources of
-an important industry. Its clam grounds could, if properly utilized,
-yield a great increase over their present inconsiderable return.
-No legislation on the part of the city authorities has intervened
-to improve the shellfish production or to prevent the depletion of
-valuable territory which has been allowed to gradually lapse into an
-unsanitary desert. While at low tide about 400 acres of flats spread
-over the broad harbor or border the banks of the Saugus River, but 40
-acres of this wide expanse yield any appreciable revenue. The principal
-part of the digging is done on the mud flats of the Saugus River. Here
-7 fishermen work intermittently to supply the local market during the
-summer months. There is some good territory at the mouth of the river
-toward the north, and scattering clams occur along the eastern shores,
-but the main flats of the harbor are for the most part barren.
-
-The deposit of sewage from the city drainage has undoubtedly had a
-prejudicial effect on much of this area, as the unpleasing scum which
-covers the soft, sticky mud and eel grass bears abundant witness.
-Whether measures undertaken to reclaim this lost area would in the long
-run yield profitable returns is an undecided question, but much might
-be done, by the employment of judicious cultural methods, to increase
-the yield of those flats which are properly productive. No exact
-returns of the annual clam harvest for this region are obtainable, as
-most of the output is disposed of at retail, but it cannot exceed 1,000
-bushels, and probably falls far short of that figure; $1,000, then, or
-thereabouts, represents the total monetary income from this fishery.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    7
-  Capital invested,                              $100
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                  1,000
-      Value,                                   $1,000
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        90
-      Mud,                                        300
-      Gravel,                                       5
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        5
-      Total,                                      400
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                               10
-      Scattering clams,                            30
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        160
-  Waste barren area (acres),                      200
-  Possible normal production,                 $26,000
-
-
-_Saugus._
-
-At Saugus conditions in many respects parallel those at Lynn. The clam
-grounds, while they by no means equal those of the neighboring city in
-area, are on the whole better, as they are freer from contaminating
-sewage. Of the 250 acres which comprise the normal tide flat area, only
-100 acres, or 40 per cent., can be said to be strictly barren. The
-remaining 150 acres is an undeveloped asset, as its value lies far more
-in its prospects than in its present productivity. While scattering
-clams occur throughout, no more than 25 acres can be accounted paying
-property. This remunerative territory lies chiefly in the Saugus River
-and in the vicinity of the Point of Pines. Here 10 men dig quite
-regularly, particularly in the summer, though none of them depend
-wholly upon this source of revenue for a livelihood. The annual output
-equals that of Lynn, both in amount and valuation. To these flats, with
-their undeveloped resources, local legislation gives practically no
-attention.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   10
-  Capital invested,                              $100
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                  1,000
-      Value,                                   $1,000
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       100
-      Mud,                                        150
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      250
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                               10
-      Scattering clams,                            40
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        100
-  Waste barren area (acres),                      100
-  Possible normal production,                 $22,000
-
-
-_Nahant._
-
-Although Nahant has a large area of tidal flats, it is not on the
-whole favorably located, and much that would otherwise be available is
-necessarily waste. The territory which borders the western coast is not
-barren, but most of it is not productive enough to be profitable.
-
-A few scattered sections repay the clammer for his labor, and from
-these sections perhaps 300 bushels a year are dug for home consumption.
-Four or five men are employed at intervals in the summer months, but no
-one of them depends upon this source of income for more than transient
-employment, as the entire value of the yearly harvest does not exceed
-$300. As there are nearly 250 acres of flats in Nahant, this would be a
-revenue of $1.60 per acre, on an average. However, this is not a fair
-comparison, for much of the territory apparently available is, as has
-been stated, properly waste. Nevertheless, an industry of far greater
-proportions than at present could be attained if wise legislation were
-directed to that end.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    300
-      Value,                                     $300
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        50
-      Mud,                                        100
-      Gravel,                                     100
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      250
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            50
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        150
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
-  Possible normal production,                 $25,000
-
-
-_Boston Harbor._
-
-Owing to the danger arising from sewage contamination the State Board
-of Health, on Dec. 6, 1906, requested the Department of Fisheries and
-Game to prohibit the digging of clams for market in Boston harbor.
-The region closed by this law lies to the west of an imaginary line
-running from Point Shirley through Deer Island to the northeastern end
-of Peddocks Island; thence in a southwesterly direction to the extreme
-point of Hough's Neck. This territory includes Winthrop, Chelsea,
-Charlestown, Everett, Somerville, Cambridge, Boston, East Boston,
-South Boston, Dorchester, Neponset and Quincy. For convenience all the
-prescribed territory is treated under the head of "Boston harbor."
-
-The action of the State Board of Health in closing Boston harbor was
-necessitated by a due regard for the public health, as it seemed
-inexpedient to allow clams dug from this territory and subject to
-sewage contamination to be marketed for food. Necessary as this act
-may have been, the closing of 5,000 acres of flats for the production
-of edible shellfish made valueless an important source of revenue, and
-threw a large number of clammers out of employment. Some alleviation
-of these conditions has resulted through the granting of permits to
-take shellfish for bait from the prescribed waters, thus furnishing a
-number of men with transient employment. The value of the law, however,
-is almost completely nullified, for the danger to the public health is
-actual, and not imaginary. Under present conditions it is well-nigh
-impossible to make the necessary surveillance so complete as would be
-necessary to prove that clams "dug for bait" are not used as food.
-Further, even in the digging and handling of shellfish in polluted
-waters there is positive danger of transmitting the germs by hands of
-the digger to his own mouth or to other persons.
-
-The nature of the flats permit the division of Boston harbor into three
-sections: (1) the north shore, (2) the south shore, (3) and the islands.
-
-(1) The northern coast of the harbor has extensive mud and sand flats,
-covered for the most part with eel grass or scattered mussel beds. Much
-of the surface is a variety of pebbly gravel, while but little of it
-appears to be good clam ground. The mud flats are mostly covered with a
-sewage scum which renders them unsuitable for clams. Scattering clams
-are found throughout the entire region.
-
-The immediate vicinity of Snake Island in Winthrop and the cove on
-Point Shirley furnish fairly good clamming, while clams are found in a
-greater or less degree upon the extensive flats of Winthrop harbor.
-The flats of the Mystic River, which are of a tenacious mud rather
-unwholesome in appearance, in so far as they have not been encroached
-upon for building purposes, possess scattered patches of very good
-digging, and furnish transient employment to 20 or more men. The flats
-in the Charles and Chelsea rivers likewise furnish fair clamming.
-
-(2) The south shore of the harbor is much like the north, except that
-the mud type of soil predominates. The large flats, mainly mud, are not
-entirely barren though most of the clams are found in a narrow strip
-of beach along the shore. At South Boston as well as in Dorchester Bay
-clams are found in considerable numbers, though nowhere are there any
-large areas of good clamming.
-
-(3) The islands in the harbor are fringed with pebbly beach, where
-scattering clams are usually found. Apple Island and Governor's Island
-are surrounded with quite extensive flats, which are, however, but
-sparsely productive. Much digging for bait is carried on constantly on
-these pebbly beaches.
-
-_History._--Boston harbor has been in the past a good clamming region,
-as the magnitude of its available flats has rendered possible an
-extensive production. Naturally, the closing of the harbor by the State
-Board of Health has limited the annual production of clams from this
-vicinity, as now the only legal digging is for bait. Owing to this
-partial closed season the clams are said to have been on the increase
-during the last two years. Nevertheless, before the passage of this
-act the fishery had already greatly declined. The decline of the clam
-industry has been going on for years, as even in 1879 Mr. Ernest
-Ingersoll mentions:--
-
-    In Boston harbor clams are much depleted, owing to the fact
-    that they are remorselessly dug the year through, chiefly by
-    a class of ignorant foreigners who go down the harbor for the
-    purpose. July and August are the most productive months, there
-    being a large demand for the "clam bakes" which picnic parties
-    from the cities indulge in on the various beaches. All the
-    clams got in Boston harbor are very small, because they are
-    allowed little chance to grow; in March and April they are
-    hardly worth eating.
-
-                         COMPARISON WITH 1879.
-
-                                1897.     1907.
-  Number of men,                   90       350
-  Annual production:--
-      Bushels,                 40,000     7,500
-      Value,                  $20,000    $6,000
-  Number of dories,                50         -
-  Capital invested,            $1,350    $2,250
-
-In 1879 A. Howard Clark states:--
-
-    The towns around Boston usually charge a license fee of $2 a
-    year for the privilege of taking clams. The clams are in some
-    cases bought up by small operators, who team them into the
-    city, though the diggers sometimes bring them to the city and
-    sell them to the dealers direct from their boats at the wharves.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of licenses,                             350
-  Capital invested,                            $2,250
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                  7,000
-      Value,                                   $5,500
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       500
-      Mud,                                      2,500
-      Gravel,                                   1,000
-      Mussels and eel grass,                    1,000
-      Total,                                    5,000
-  Productive area (acres):--
-  Good clamming,                                  100
-  Scattering clams,                             1,000
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        900
-  Waste barren area (acres),                    3,000
-  Possible normal production,                $330,000
-
-
-_Weymouth._
-
-Weymouth, with its two rivers, possesses an area of flats aggregating
-250 acres. The shores of Fore River are stony, but in spite of the
-hard digging clams are found in fair numbers. The shores of Back River
-are similar, except for the mud flats on the channel, which are either
-barren or but sparsely productive. A few clams are dug for bait and
-home consumption.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men                                     -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    150
-      Value,                                     $150
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                         -
-      Mud,                                        150
-      Gravel,                                      80
-      Mussels and eel grass,                       20
-      Total,                                      250
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            30
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         50
-  Waste barren area (acres),                      170
-  Possible normal production,                 $11,000
-
-
-_Hingham._
-
-Hingham has an area of tidal flats comprising nearly 650 acres. The
-characteristic soil is of two kinds: a marginal strip of pebbly beach
-extending the full length of the shore, and the broad flats of Hingham
-harbor and Weir River, with their extensive areas of mud, eel grass and
-mussels. The clamming territory is confined for the most part to this
-narrow strip fringing the shore, though scattering clams are found in
-diminished numbers on the mud flats.
-
-The shellfish industry of the town consists mostly in procuring clams,
-mussels and cockles for bait. Clams are dug to some extent for home
-consumption and for the hotels at Nantasket; but the fishery is carried
-on in a desultory manner by a few men who dig when other work fails,
-and who do not wholly depend on clamming for a livelihood.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,.                                   250
-      Value,                                     $250
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        25
-      Mud,                                        450
-      Gravel,                                     100
-      Mussels and eel grass,                       75
-  Total,                                          650
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                           100
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
-  Waste barren area (acres),                      550
-  Possible normal production,                 $20,000
-
-
-_Hull._
-
-The stony shores of Hull offer but little suitable clam area, though
-fair digging is found in the vicinity of Hog Island and in Weir River.
-The usual type of flat is a pebbly or gravel beach, while near White
-Head and Weir River there are large mud areas. Clams are dug only for
-home consumption or for bait.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    100
-      Value,                                     $100
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand                                          -
-      Mud,                                        225
-      Gravel,                                     200
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      425
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            50
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres)          50
-  Waste barren area (acres)                       325
-  Possible normal production,                 $15,000
-
-
-_Cohasset._
-
-Cohasset, though possessing sufficient suitable area to support a
-clam fishery, has no industry of any importance. The greater part
-of the tidal flats are barren, while the remainder are far from
-fertile. The region immediately about White Head and the territory
-opposite extending along Barson's beach are the most productive, while
-scattering clams are found in Little Harbor.
-
-The total acreage of available flat exceeds 100 acres. Of this, 90
-acres are wholly unproductive, and the remainder, 10 acres, is not very
-valuable. The main type of soil is sand, though areas of mud are found
-in the coves. There are no regular clammers, though many clams are dug
-by the citizens of the town for their own use. There has never been a
-clam industry worthy of the name at Cohasset, and the present state of
-apathy appears to be normal. No local regulations of any kind govern
-the fishery.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    200
-      Value,                                     $200
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        50
-      Mud,                                         50
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      100
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            10
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         40
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
-  Possible normal production,                  $6,000
-
-
-_Scituate._
-
-There is no clam industry at Scituate. The selectmen of the town have
-forbidden all exportation of clams for market, and consequently the few
-clams dug are utilized for home consumption.
-
-The possibilities of a future clam industry at this town, while not
-alluring, give indications of some promise. Occasional clams are found
-on the shores of Scituate harbor, as well as its tributary creeks. The
-main undeveloped resource lies, however, along the broad flats of the
-North River. These flats undoubtedly constitute a considerable asset in
-the communal wealth, and the action of the selectmen in maintaining a
-close season will tend to the restocking and consequent utilization of
-this territory.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    200
-      Value,                                     $200
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        50
-      Mud,                                         45
-      Gravel,                                       5
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      100
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            20
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         40
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       40
-  Possible normal production,                  $8,000
-
-
-_Marshfield._
-
-Affairs at Marshfield are in practically the same state of inactivity
-as at Scituate. The town has considerable natural advantages, since
-the North River, which formerly made a wide sweep to the south before
-emptying into the ocean, has opened a new channel within the last ten
-years, forming many acres of excellent clam ground. A close season is
-maintained, although there has been considerable discontent on the part
-of certain individuals relative to this policy of the selectmen. A
-considerable quantity of clams, probably not exceeding 200 bushels per
-annum, are dug for home consumption. There are no shipments for market.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    200
-      Value,                                     $200
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        40
-      Mud,                                         50
-      Gravel,                                      10
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      100
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            30
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         30
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       40
-  Possible normal production,                  $9,000
-
-
-_Duxbury._
-
-The clam industry at Duxbury has a peculiar interest, owing to the
-many perplexing problems which it presents. A vast extent of tidal
-flats, far exceeding in area those of any other town in the State, and
-in a measure suitable for the production of clams, lie almost wholly
-barren. The enormous territory comprised in these flats exceeds 3,500
-acres, or, roughly, 5� square miles. This is greater than the combined
-clam area of Salisbury, Newburyport, Ipswich, Essex and Gloucester,
-which is the finest territory in the State, and produces most of the
-Massachusetts clams. Duxbury, with a greater area than all these towns,
-dug in 1907 about 700 bushels of clams,--an amount which could well
-have been produced from 2 acres of ground. An investigation into the
-history of the town shows us that this state of barrenness has not
-always existed. There was a time when Duxbury was justly celebrated for
-her shellfish, as is still shown by the allusions to Duxbury clams on
-the menus of many hotels and restaurants. The dealers at Taunton, Fall
-River and other Massachusetts cities formerly sent to Duxbury large
-orders for clams, which were always forthcoming. Now, as far as can be
-ascertained, not a single barrel is shipped out of the town from year
-to year.
-
-This transition from a state of prosperity to one of almost total
-barrenness is replete with interest, and is difficult of solution.
-Doubtless several causes may have contributed to this general decline.
-In the first place, it is evident that the Duxbury flats were never in
-so flourishing a state of production as those of the Cape Ann district.
-This assumption is amply supported by historical records, and it is
-also supplemented, at least, by the fact that a great per cent. of the
-present territory is largely unfit for the production of clams in any
-quantity. As these flats have changed scarcely at all for many years,
-is it unreasonable to suppose that they ever have been very suitable
-since the first settlement of the country?
-
-As for the historical records referred to, the weight of evidence
-everywhere tends to prove that many years ago there was a fairly large
-output of clams yearly from Duxbury. But while this output was large
-in itself, it was, in proportion to the possible area, exceedingly
-small. Mr. Ernest Ingersoll states that in 1879 there were yearly
-exported from Duxbury 5,000 bushels of clams. At that time, he says,
-the industry had declined. Clamming was then prosecuted with no such
-vigor as at the present time, for the price was low, and the demand,
-except for bait, by no means excessive. Clams had not yet come to be
-looked on as such important articles of food as at present, and the
-business of digging them as carried on then could have made little
-inroad on well-stocked flats. The great probability is that only a
-small percentage of the whole territory was ever very productive. An
-observer at the present time, viewing from an eminence the flats of
-Duxbury at low tide, could not help being struck with the singular
-appearance which they present. He would see spread out before him a
-broad expanse apparently of green meadows, with long, narrow streams of
-water winding in and out among them. These seeming meadows, stretching
-on mile after mile, broken here and there by a patch of clear sand, are
-the tidal flats of Duxbury, more than 2,700 acres of which are covered
-with a thick growth of eel grass.
-
-How many years this eel grass has covered the flats no one knows. It
-shifts somewhat, as the ice in winter sometimes plows up an immense
-surface, stripping it of its green covering. For the most part it seems
-to grow steadily year after year, until the roots, decaying stalks and
-the fine sediment which they have collected build up a spongy crust
-over the true bed of the flat. It is this spongy, clayey soil which is
-the predominant type in the eel-grass region, though a large area is
-soft mud with little patches of hard sand. It does not seem surprising
-that clams are not abundant in this soggy medium, covered with its
-thick matting of grass. Clams do exist, however, for occasionally when
-the ice in the winter storms has scraped bare a section of these flats,
-scattering large clams can be found.
-
-Whether anything can be done with these eel-grass flats on a
-sufficiently large scale to render the undertaking profitable, and
-whether they would prove good ground for clam culture if the eel grass
-were removed, is a problem. However, the sand flats free from eel grass
-comprise nearly 800 acres,--an area sufficient in itself to furnish a
-very large industry for the town. Smooth, hard and unshifting, they
-have the appearance of being in every way suitable for the production
-of an enormous amount of shellfish. Yet, barring cockles, mussels and
-razor clams, shellfish are rare on most of these flats, which, in spite
-of their inviting appearance, are practically barren.
-
-The only places where clams are dug in any quantity is along the shore.
-Here little scattered patches, remnants perhaps of the former large
-supply, repay the clammer's toil with a scant return. Little or no
-effort is made to dig them on the main flats, and few are so dug unless
-they happen to be unearthed by accident when the men are searching
-for razor clams for bait. The supply is hardly adequate for home
-consumption and the demands for bait by local fishermen.
-
-Whether all the great tidal territory of Duxbury can ever be
-reconstructed into profitable clam ground is a difficult question.
-There exist, however, no known reasons why a fishery at least as
-flourishing as that of twenty years ago could not be re-established
-and indefinitely developed. A great industry was once in evidence
-here. Outside the boggy eel-grass marshes (doubtful territory at best)
-are wide expanses of clean sand flats, suitable in every way for the
-cultivation of clams. That the ingenuity of man properly administered
-can build up an enormous industry on these sand flats alone, no
-thoughtful person can doubt, and then utilization of these great barren
-Duxbury wastes will partially, at least, be accomplished.
-
-                     COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
-
-  ======+============+=========
-  YEAR. | Production | Value.
-        | (Bushels). |
-  ------+------------+---------
-  1879, |   5,000    | $2,500
-  1907, |     700    |    600
-  ======+============+=========
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    5
-  Capital invested,                               $60
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    700
-      Value,                                     $600
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       800
-      Mud,                                          -
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                    2,700
-      Total,                                    3,500
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                5
-      Scattering clams,                            10
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        800
-  Waste barren area (acres),                    2,685
-  Possible normal production,                 $83,000
-
-
-_Kingston._
-
-The condition of the clam industry at Kingston is in many respects
-parallel to that at Duxbury. The clam flat area (some 600 acres) is
-very much smaller, but the character of the soil is essentially the
-same, consisting for the most part of clay, soft mud and eel-grass
-marshes, with a relatively small proportion of really suitable ground.
-
-The two main flats of the town are Egobert's and Gray's. Egobert's,
-the larger of the two, has an area of about 275 acres. Most of this
-is practically waste, owing to a thick growth of eel grass; but a
-triangular piece on the mid-southern section is bare. This portion of
-smooth, unshifting sand comprises about 80 acres. A few patches of
-clams are scattered along the outer edge, near the channel, but hardly
-any of these patches produce clams enough to make it profitable to dig
-them. The great bulk of this territory is entirely barren.
-
-Gray's flat is of an entirely different type. It is a long flat, with
-a fairly uniform width of about 100 yards. It runs through its entire
-length parallel to the shore, while on the other side it is separated
-from Egobert's by a 300-foot channel. Like Egobert's, it is covered
-for the most part by eel grass, but it is essentially different in
-the nature of its soil, which is mud throughout. Although the total
-area of the flat is about 115 acres, an irregular section of bare mud
-on the southeastern side, comprising 30 acres, is the only available
-clam territory. This section is composed of soft mud on the north and
-south, rather poorly suited for clam culture; but the mid section
-contains several acres of hard mud, which seems well adapted, and here
-clams are found in sufficient quantities to keep several men digging
-intermittently through the summer months.
-
-Along the shore a few clam grants have been given to individuals by
-the local authorities. These are managed with fair success, though no
-business other than that of supplying the local demand is carried on.
-The possibilities of forming a clam industry here of importance is
-evident, though through lack of available territory it could never give
-promise of such a development as might be looked for from Duxbury or
-Plymouth.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    4
-  Capital invested,                               $50
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    500
-      Value,                                     $450
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       150
-      Mud,                                          -
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                      450
-      Total,                                      600
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                5
-      Scattering clams,                             5
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        150
-  Waste barren area (acres),                      440
-  Possible normal production,                 $18,000
-
-
-_Plymouth._
-
-The clam industry at Plymouth is at a low ebb. The same problems which
-baffle progress at Duxbury and Kingston are present here with all
-their complications. The combined available territory, exceeding 1,600
-acres, save for a few unimportant sections, is wholly barren. While it
-is true that fully two-thirds of this great area is eel-grass waste,
-and in its present state of little value for the production of clams,
-there remains over 500 acres of good flats, for the most part sand
-well adapted for shellfish culture. It is certain that a flourishing
-industry has existed here in former times. From the earliest history
-of the colony, records tell of the excellent clam flats at Plymouth;
-and we learn that the Pilgrims during the darkest hours of the early
-settlement depended in large measure upon these flats for support. As
-late as 1879 Ernest Ingersoll reports an annual output of 5,000 bushels
-of clams, and states that the industry had then greatly declined. It
-appears to have gone down steadily ever since, until now it merely
-furnishes transient employment to 4 or 5 men, who dig at rather
-uncertain intervals for local markets.
-
-The best clamming, probably because the most inaccessible, is around
-Clark's Island. Scattering clams occur on Wind flat, the Oyster grant,
-and in patches along the shore. But no considerable extent of good
-clamming occurs anywhere, and the bulk of the territory is wholly
-barren.
-
-The town of Plymouth has endeavored in several ways to develop the
-industry. It has appropriated money to restock the flats, a close
-season has been tried, and an attempt made to solve the problem by the
-giving of private grants. While these grants have not always been run
-in as energetic a manner as could be desired, the experiment has proved
-conclusively that there are great possibilities in such a system. In
-short, there can be little doubt that in the proper administration
-of private grants lies the key to the solution of the problem which
-confronts this whole region. As clams were once abundant in Plymouth
-harbor, and as no apparent causes other than excessive digging appear
-to have brought about the decline, there seems to be no logical reason
-why this amount of territory (500 acres) should not yield its proper
-harvest. As for the vast extent of eel-grass flats, with all their
-undetermined possibilities, they can well afford to wait until the more
-immediate and pressing problems of the flats already available for clam
-culture have been solved.
-
-                     COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
-
-  ======+============+=========
-  YEAR. | Production | Value.
-        | (Bushels). |
-  ------+------------+---------
-  1879, |   5,000    | $2,500
-  1907, |   3,000    |  2,500
-  ======+============+=========
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    6
-  Capital invested,                               $60
-  Value of shore property,                          -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                  3,000
-      Value,                                   $2,500
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       400
-      Mud,                                        100
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                    1,100
-      Total,                                    1,600
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                               10
-      Scattering clams,                            50
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        440
-  Waste barren area (acres),                    1,100
-  Possible normal production,                 $58,000
-
-
-_Barnstable._
-
-The clam industry at Barnstable, while not so extensive as at Ipswich
-or Essex, is nevertheless of special interest. The immensely long
-coast line, stretching for many miles on both the north and south
-shores of Cape Cod, gives the town a shellfish area both in Cape Cod
-Bay and Vineyard Sound which renders it unrivalled throughout the
-State for variety of marine life and diversity of natural environment.
-These conditions, as they affect clam culture, are best suited on the
-northern or bay side of the town, where the clam industry flourishes
-more extensively, as the southern shore is almost wholly given up to
-the rival quahaug, oyster and scallop fisheries.
-
-On the northern shore a large harbor, nearly 5 miles long and about
-2 miles broad at its widest part, extends in a general westerly
-direction, ending in a vast waste of salt marshes interwoven with a
-network of creeks. Up this harbor the tides rush with great velocity,
-and when they sweep out to sea leave a broad expanse of flats, sandy
-on the north and central portions and muddy on the south. These flats
-cover an aggregate area of 400 acres, comprising 200 acres of hard sand
-and 150 acres of soft mud. Large stretches of these mud flats on the
-south are waste, and covered for the most part with eel grass. Other
-sections elsewhere are likewise waste for various causes, and are to
-be excluded as unprofitable or barren; yet the total available area
-remaining after making these deductions exceeds 350 acres. This is the
-theoretical condition,--the real condition is far otherwise: 20 acres
-at the most yield clams, and of these only 10 acres produce them in
-marketable quantities.
-
-The explanation of these conditions is interesting. In the winter
-the ice and the force of storms tear out great pieces of the tough
-marsh surf, and the tides sweep them down the harbor. Some of these
-huge masses are torn to pieces and washed away, others find lodgment
-on the broad surface of some tidal flat; these, becoming stationary,
-accumulate sediment; the grass grows upon them through the summer, and
-gradually a little island is formed. Surrounding these islands and
-oftentimes growing over their entire surface, bedded in among the roots
-of the marsh grass, we find a very thick set of clams. In short, all
-the digging of any kind is in the immediate vicinity of these islands.
-
-The deductions to be made from these facts are apparently simple. In
-the spawning season, when the microscopic clam larv� are in their
-floating stage, they are carried here and there by the currents. Later,
-when they tend normally to settle in some fertile tract of flat, they
-are prevented from so doing by reason of the remarkable swiftness of
-the tides, which sweep strongly over the broad, smooth flats, and give
-the little clams no opportunity of lodgment. Only in the firm thatch of
-low-lying islands can they find anything to cling to, and here, with
-their slender byssus threads attached to unyielding grass or roots,
-they are able to withstand the wash of the current. Thus the clams are
-gathered in great numbers in these natural collectors, later are washed
-on the neighboring flat, and finally a little colony grows up about
-every island of this sort.
-
-That this is actually what happens is largely borne out both by
-observation and facts. It makes little difference where these islands
-are located; clams grow nearby, while all about may stretch smooth,
-hard flats, perfectly adapted for clams, yet altogether barren. In view
-of the somewhat incomplete investigations made in this region, it is
-perhaps too sweeping to point out any single factor as the sole cause
-for these waste areas; but undoubtedly the swift tides and smooth, hard
-flats, which offer no resting place for the young larv�, constitute the
-main causes.
-
-Another odd circumstance in connection with the Barnstable clam
-industry is the local regulations which control the industry. Almost
-all digging is carried on in the winter, as a local by-law forbids the
-digging of clams in summer in any quantity exceeding 6 bushels per week
-for family use. This somewhat curious by-law is designed wholly for the
-benefit of the majority of the clammers, and to give them employment in
-that season of the year when work is most difficult to obtain. While
-interfering somewhat with summer clam bakes, the law appears to meet
-the approval of the townspeople.
-
-The south shore of Barnstable possesses many of the features of
-Buzzards Bay, and produces clams only in numbers sufficient for home
-consumption.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   25
-  Capital invested,                              $200
-  Value of shore property,                          -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    700
-      Value,                                     $550
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       200
-      Mud,                                        150
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                       50
-      Total,                                      400
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                               10
-      Scattering clams,                            10
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        330
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
-  Possible normal production,                 $39,000
-
-
-_Yarmouth._
-
-The clam industry at Yarmouth, never extensive, has steadily declined,
-until now it barely supplies the demands of home consumption.
-Barnstable bar on the northern coast twenty years ago produced clams in
-considerable quantities, but the soil was never well adapted for this
-shellfish. Scattering clams are now found there, but the grounds are
-very much exposed, and cannot properly rank as clam-producing area.
-Sea clams abound there at certain seasons, and furnish a transient
-business; also razor clams, which are used extensively for bait.
-
-The best clam territory is in Mill Creek, on the south shore of the
-town. Scattered patches of clams also occur along the shore of Bass
-River, but the whole area really available does not exceed 50 acres,
-and this is not at all well improved. There are no regular clammers,
-but intermittent digging produces about 600 bushels of clams annually,
-which are used either for home consumption or for bait.
-
-No effort has been made on the part of the town authorities to better
-conditions, although the advisability of giving clam grants, at least
-on the northern or bay side, has been discussed. No permits are
-required, and local legislation does not in any way concern itself with
-the clam industry.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    5
-  Capital invested,                               $40
-  Value of shore property,                          -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    600
-      Value,                                     $500
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        25
-      Mud,                                         15
-      Gravel,                                      10
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       50
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                5
-      Scattering clams,                            10
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         25
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
-  Possible normal production,                  $6,000
-
-
-_Orleans._
-
-Orleans is one of the few towns in the State which shows an advance in
-the clam industry. This is largely due to an increased production on
-the rich flats of Nauset harbor, as the remaining available territory
-in the town is declining in value. The output of 1907 is an increase of
-nearly 40 per cent. over the yield of the previous year, which shows an
-encouraging development.
-
-The clam flat area of the town is divided into four rather distinct
-divisions, three on the east or Atlantic side and one on the Bay or
-western side. The grounds which have been dug for the longest time and
-yielded uniformly the best results lie in the waters of Town Cove. Here
-a strip of gravelly sand and mud about 30 feet wide extends along the
-shores of this cove for 2 or 3 miles. Clams are scattered throughout
-this strip, and are dug constantly.
-
-The second division includes the bars of Nauset harbor, which at
-present furnish the best digging in town. The increased value of the
-town's industry is largely due to the recent development of these
-flats. Clams have seeded in abundantly during the past two or three
-years, and now furnish very good digging.
-
-The third section comprises that portion of the clam flat area
-bordering the coast of Pleasant Bay which crosses the town boundaries
-on the southeast. Here clams are rather scarce, though dug
-occasionally. This section is economically the least important of the
-four.
-
-The fourth section extends along the western coast, on a belt of sand
-bars well out in Cape Cod Bay. Clams are found on a strip about a
-quarter of a mile in width, and lying over half a mile from shore. This
-is a very exposed location. Billingsgate Point, projecting out from
-the Wellfleet coast, offers some protection from northwest winds, and
-the hills of the Cape break the force of the easterly gales; but the
-full force of storms from the west and southwest sweeps these bars, and
-would seem to render them unsuitable for the growth of clams. Clams are
-here, however, in considerable numbers, though not so numerous as three
-or four years ago, and are dug to some extent.
-
-The greater part of the digging is done by intermittent clammers, who
-obtain perhaps 2� bushels per day. No permits are required, as there
-are no town by-laws regulating the industry.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   30
-  Capital invested,                              $200
-  Value of shore property,                          -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                  3,000
-      Value,                                   $3,000
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       125
-      Mud,                                         50
-      Gravel,                                      20
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        5
-      Total,                                      200
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                               25
-      Scattering clams,                            50
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         75
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
-  Possible normal production,                 $27,000
-
-
-_Eastham._
-
-The town of Eastham is a sparsely settled community, and the clam
-fishery, while not large, plays a rather important part in its business
-activity. Six men depend quite largely upon it for a livelihood, while
-some 30 others dig intermittently through the summer. The same peculiar
-condition as at Orleans exists on the western coast. Here far from
-shore clams are found in considerable numbers on the shifting bars. The
-main source of supply, however, comes from the productive sand flats of
-Nauset harbor.
-
-These flats have seeded in only in the past two or three years, but
-they have already shown latent possibilities of a future increase. In
-the so-called "Salt Pond" 2 men are employed nearly the year round in
-digging clams under water by a method of "churning," locally known as
-"rootling."
-
-The total available area in Eastham is about 200 acres. More than half
-of this is sand, which includes almost all the good digging, while the
-mud flats are interspersed with stretches of gravel and scattering
-patches of eel grass.
-
-The same abuses which have nearly ruined the Swansea fishery have begun
-here. Small seed clams are exported in considerable quantities to
-supply the summer demand of the New Bedford and Fall River districts.
-While this system has not yet made its ravages apparent, a glance
-at the Swansea report will serve to convince the most casual reader
-that unless some steps are taken to check this evil, the practical
-annihilation of the Eastham clam industry must follow. As it is, local
-legislation seems powerless to cope with the problem, and no laws of
-any kind relating to the clam fishery are in force.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   36
-  Capital invested,                              $250
-  Value of shore property,                         --
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                  4,000
-      Value,                                   $4,000
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       100
-      Mud,                                         50
-      Gravel,                                      30
-      Mussels and eel grass,                       20
-      Total,                                      200
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                               25
-      Scattering clams,                            50
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        100
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       25
-  Possible normal production,                 $30,000
-
-
-_Wellfleet._
-
-Although possessing extensive flats, Wellfleet produces at present a
-relatively small amount of clams. The inhabitants realize that these
-flats are capable of producing a large harvest of clams if properly
-planted, and that in this way an extensive industry can be developed,
-and have undertaken to restock the flats, appropriating in 1906 for
-this purpose the sum of $1,000.
-
-At Billingsgate Island there are fair clam flats, but they are not
-easily accessible, as they lie at a distance of 5 miles from town.
-Clams can also be obtained in more or less abundance in the thatch
-which borders the flats of Blackfish Creek, Herring River and Duck
-Creek. A few clams are scattered over the flats of Blackfish Creek,
-particularly toward the head of the creek. Two patches of clams
-covering perhaps an acre are on the flats in front of the town: one
-in the stone and gravel east of Commercial wharf; the other, a more
-extensive area, just west of Mercantile wharf.
-
-Wellfleet possesses many acres of flats which, though now barren, are
-capable of excellent production if properly planted. Wellfleet flats
-extend from Duck Creek to Herring River and from Herring River along
-the shores of Great Island for a distance of 4� miles, and cover an
-area of 400 acres. The Great Island flats are not especially adapted
-for clams, and only parts of these can ever be successfully cultivated,
-while possibly all the area between Duck Creek and Herring River can be
-reclaimed. South Wellfleet flats, which comprise an area of 200 acres,
-are much poorer flats, consisting for the most part of mud and shifting
-sand. Only the firmer portions, about 50 acres, can be made productive
-by planting with clams.
-
-At Wellfleet the soft clam fishery can hardly be styled an industry.
-In the winter a few men go clamming when there is nothing else to do.
-The majority prefer razor clamming, which is a considerable winter
-industry, owing to the demand for this bait at Provincetown. Three
-men clam during the summer, doing practically all their digging at
-Billingsgate, while 8 others are in this work during the winter.
-
-The flats of Wellfleet were never very productive, but formerly were
-capable of furnishing a far greater production than at present. This
-decline is only accounted for by overdigging, which has brought about
-the present scarcity.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   11
-  Capital invested,                              $300
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    800
-      Value,                                     $640
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       450
-      Mud,                                          5
-      Gravel,                                     150
-      Mussels and eel grass,                       --
-      Total,                                      605
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                3
-      Scattering clams,                            12
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        250
-  Waste barren area (acres),                      340
-  Possible normal production,                 $28,000
-
-
-_Truro._
-
-The clam flats at Truro are confined principally to the Pamet River. At
-the mouth of this river near the head of the harbor bar is a sand flat
-comprising several acres, where the bulk of the clams are produced. In
-South Truro, Stony Bar and other similar patches of rocky beach are
-fairly well bedded with clams. Scattering clams are found over the
-shifting bars which skirt the main land on the bay side, but nowhere
-are clams sufficiently abundant to warrant any serious attempt at
-exportation. Fifteen to twenty years ago clams were everywhere much
-more abundant in this region than now, and in those days some market
-digging was carried on. At present the needs of the home market are
-with difficulty supplied from the local production, and 100 bushels per
-year would cover all clams dug both for food and bait. No effort has at
-any time been made by the town authorities to increase the industry,
-though the clam fishery, at least in the sheltered coves of Pamet
-River, is not without possibilities of development.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    1
-  Capital invested,                                $2
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                     50
-      Value,                                      $60
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        50
-      Mud,                                         --
-      Gravel,                                      --
-      Mussels and eel grass,                       --
-      Total,                                       50
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                1
-      Scattering clams,                             2
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         47
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       --
-  Possible normal production,                  $5,000
-
-
-_Provincetown._
-
-For the last five years the flats of Provincetown have produced only a
-small amount of clams. Wherever clams have set in abundance they have
-been quickly dug by fishermen for bait, thus checking their natural
-propagation.
-
-Clams are found in the drains among the thatch beds on the southwest
-side of the harbor and in Race Run, while a considerable set is
-scattered between the wharves of the town. All the extensive flats at
-the southwest end of the harbor are entirely barren of clams, owing
-chiefly to the shifting nature of the sand, although on certain parts
-of these, especially near the thatch, clams would grow if planted. As
-it is, the shifting sand makes it impossible for the young clams to set
-on this area.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    5
-  Capital invested,                               $15
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    400
-      Value,                                     $320
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       400
-      Mud,                                          -
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      400
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                3
-      Scattering clams,                             3
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        200
-  Waste barren area (acres),                      194
-  Possible normal production,                 $21,000
-
-
-_Chatham._
-
-Chatham can no longer be considered as the best clam-producing town of
-southern Massachusetts. In 1879 Chatham produced a greater quantity
-of soft clams than all the rest of the Cape; to-day all has changed,
-and the annual output is far less than several other towns of the Cape
-district.
-
-The town of Chatham is situated in the southeastern portion of Cape
-Cod, and includes that part which is commonly called the "elbow" of the
-Cape. It is surrounded on the north, east and south sides by the ocean,
-while on the south the peninsula known as Monomoy Island extends for 9
-miles.
-
-The clamming territory of Chatham is situated in Stage harbor, Pleasant
-Bay and at Monomoy Point.
-
-In Stage harbor clams are found along the sides of the Mill Pond,
-comprising possibly an acre, and in the eastern end of the harbor
-toward the dike, where about 3 acres of flats are thickly set.
-
-An extended area of sand flats are found in Pleasant Bay. But small
-parts of this area furnish good clamming, and the Common Flats on the
-inside of Monomoy Island, where once there were acres of good clams,
-now lie entirely barren except for a small patch of set just north of
-Brant Island, comprising about 1/5 of an acre. Here are about 100 acres
-of barren flats which only need planting to be made productive.
-
-The commercial clam fishery, of the town is carried on at Monomoy
-Point, where 5 acres of the best clamming in Massachusetts is found.
-The Powder Hole flats, formed of coarse, clean sand, are thickly set
-with clams of all sizes, and furnish excellent digging. A good clammer
-can obtain from 5 to 6 bushels per tide from these flats.
-
-Clams are dug at Chatham during the fishing season chiefly for bait.
-Such digging lasts through the fall and winter. In the summer, clams
-are dug only for food, as no cod fishing is conducted in the warm
-months. From 10 to 15 men were engaged in clamming during the summer
-of 1907, travelling from Chatham to Monomoy Point in power or sail
-dories. Practically all the clams dug came from the Powder Hole flats
-at Monomoy Point. These were purchased at Chatham wharf by fish firms
-at the price of $2 per barrel.
-
-The winter clam fishery of Chatham was once an important industry,
-which started in 1875 when clams were in great demand as fish bait. The
-following table shows how this industry has declined:--
-
-  =============================+=========+=========
-                               |  1879.  |   1907.
-  -----------------------------+---------+---------
-  Number of men,               |     150 |     10
-  Annual production (bushels), |  35,000 |  1,500
-  Value of production,         | $12,250 | $1,200
-  Price per bushel (cents),    |      35 |     80
-  Capital invested,            |  $2,000 |   $400
-  =============================+=========+=========
-
-Owing to the large amount of clams dug by fishing vessels, the
-following restrictions were incorporated in 1881 as a State law, which
-reads as follows:--
-
-    No fisherman or any other person shall take from the towns of
-    Chatham and Nantucket any shellfish, for bait or other use,
-    except clams and a shellfish commonly known by the name of
-    horse feet, and no quantity exceeding seven bushels of clams,
-    including shells or one hundred of said horse feet shall be
-    taken in one week for each vessel or craft, nor in any case
-    without a permit being first obtained from the selectmen of the
-    town.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   10
-  Capital invested,                              $400
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                  1,500
-      Value,                                   $1,200
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       330
-      Mud,                                         10
-      Gravel,                                      20
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      360
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                               10
-      Scattering clams,                            50
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        300
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                 $44,000
-
-
-_Harwich._
-
-The town of Harwich possesses but little clam area. A few clams are
-obtainable on the shores of Pleasant Bay and Mud Creek in limited
-localities, while in the southern waters of the town there is some
-digging in Wychmere harbor and in Herring River. The total area of clam
-flats is not more than 1� acres.
-
-There are no regular clammers engaged in the business, all the clams
-dug being used only for home consumption.
-
-In 1905 there was a town law restricting the digging in Wychmere
-harbor, except for bait, to one day in the week.
-
-COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
-
-  ========+============+==========+======
-   YEAR.  | Production |   Value. | Men.
-          | (Bushels). |          |
-  --------+------------+----------+------
-   1879,  |   1,125    |   $400   |  15
-   1907,  |     100    |    100   |   -
-  ========+============+==========+======
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    100
-      Value,                                      $80
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        10
-      Mud,                                         10
-      Gravel,                                      10
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       30
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                1
-      Scattering clams,                             5
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         10
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       14
-  Possible normal production,                  $2,400
-
-
-_Dennis._
-
-As the town of Dennis has mutual fishery rights with the town of
-Yarmouth, the clam flats of Bass River, which lie between the towns,
-are free to any inhabitant of Dennis. A few clams are also dug in Swan
-Pond River.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                     50
-      Value,                                      $45
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        25
-      Mud,                                         15
-      Gravel,                                      10
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       50
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                1
-      Scattering clams,                             4
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         30
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       15
-  Possible normal production,                  $4,200
-
-
-_Mashpee._
-
-The clam fishery at Mashpee is of hardly sufficient proportions to
-rank as an industry. The shores of the Popponesset River furnish
-perhaps favorable conditions for the growth of this shellfish, but
-the available territory is small, not exceeding 50 acres, and of this
-only a small percentage, comprising scattered patches of gravel-mud,
-produces clams in any abundance.
-
-No effort is made at exportation for market, and under the present
-circumstances it is doubtful if a greater yield than that required to
-supply home consumption could be expected. No effort is made on the
-part of local legislation to control the industry or foster it in any
-way.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    2
-  Capital invested,                               $20
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                     50
-      Value,                                      $45
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        20
-      Mud,                                          5
-      Gravel,                                      20
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        5
-      Total,                                       50
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                2
-      Scattering clams,                             8
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         30
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
-  Possible normal production,                  $5,400
-
-
-_Buzzards Bay._
-
-The section of Massachusetts bordering the shores of Buzzards Bay
-supports a flourishing quahaug, oyster and scallop fishery, capable of
-great development. The clam industry, however, never very extensive,
-is of very slight significance at present, and can never attain the
-same degree of importance as the other shellfisheries, owing to the
-limited area available for clams. To those familiar with the harbors
-of Newburyport and Duxbury and their vast tidal flats with their
-latent possibilities, the shores of Buzzards Bay present indeed a
-notable contrast. Bluff and hilly for the most part, and frequently
-rocky, nowhere do they show extensive flats suitable for clam culture.
-That clams grow wherever opportunity permits is evident, for they
-are found on gravelly stretches or among rocks all along the coast,
-except in those localities openly exposed to the full force of the
-sea. But allowing for all possible favorable features, the lack of any
-considerable territory is a disadvantage that will forever act as a
-barrier to any expansion. Falmouth and Dartmouth on the east and west
-sides of Buzzards Bay respectively differ materially from the remaining
-towns of the district, in the fact that the characteristic soil of
-their clam grounds is sand; while the other towns have little in the
-shape of available territory except gravel stretches along the shores
-of coves, small areas of mud, and the rocky beaches of points and
-headlands. The yearly output hardly anywhere suffices for the needs of
-home consumption. Nowhere is any attempt at exportation possible. The
-business, such as it is, is carried on in a very intermittent fashion,
-chiefly in the summer, with but a small investment of capital.
-
-Special local regulation seems to remain aloof from the problem of
-insuring a future clam supply. That the combined area of all the towns
-of Buzzards Bay does not equal that of a single town in the Cape Ann
-district is an undeniable truth; but the fact nevertheless remains
-that an industry far more considerable than exists at present could be
-supported, and it is truly to the interest of the towns of this region
-to make the best possible use of their limited advantages.
-
-
-_Falmouth._
-
-Falmouth has a long coast line not only on Buzzards Bay but also on
-Vineyard Sound. The flats at North and West Falmouth on the bay side
-are similar to those of Wareham and Bourne, though there are several
-small patches of quite good digging. On the southern shore there
-are clams scattered along the coasts of the various indentations,
-particularly at Waquoit Bay.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    200
-      Value,                                     $175
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        40
-      Mud,                                          5
-      Gravel,                                       5
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       50
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                2
-      Scattering clams,                             8
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         40
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                  $6,400
-
-
-_Bourne._
-
-The clam industry at Bourne is practically extinct. Scarcely any
-clamming is carried on by the inhabitants of the town, even for their
-own use, as clams have become so scattering that it hardly pays to dig
-them. The territory is much the same in extent and general character as
-that of Wareham, but it has been over-dug to a greater degree, and has
-become nearly barren.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    100
-      Value,                                     $100
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                         5
-      Mud,                                          5
-      Gravel,                                      30
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       40
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            30
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
-  Possible normal production,                  $6,000
-
-
-_Wareham._
-
-Wareham leads the towns of Buzzards Bay in the production of clams,
-although its annual output is only 600 bushels. This clearly shows the
-low ebb to which the industry has fallen in this region.
-
-There are no true tide flats in Wareham, but the total area of the
-mud-gravel and rocky bottom between high and low water mark where
-scattering clams are found is nearly 100 acres. There are no regular
-fishermen, but some half dozen quahaugers dig clams from time to time,
-chiefly during the summer, to supply the home market.
-
-The industry, such as it is, appears to be about stationary at present,
-though in production it has declined notably during the last twenty
-years. The town officials have attempted no measures to revive the
-failing fishery, and no town laws affect it in any way.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    6
-  Capital invested,                              $100
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    800
-      Value,                                     $800
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        15
-      Mud,                                         10
-      Gravel,                                      75
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      100
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            50
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
-  Possible normal production,                 $10,000
-
-
-_Marion._
-
-The wealthy summer residents at Marion create a demand for clams at
-a very substantial price. In spite of the increased price, there is
-little inducement to engage in this industry as a livelihood, and only
-1 man digs steadily through the summer months, though intermittent
-digging is done by others to supply the local market.
-
-The best clamming is on the east coast of Great Neck and in Wing's
-Cove. These grounds are difficult of access, and consequently have not
-been so much overworked as the nearer shores of Ram's Island, Allan's
-Point and Blankinship's Cove. The total area does not exceed 10 acres,
-and this for the most part is very poor territory; while the clams
-coming from these rock and gravel beaches are not of very good quality,
-the shells being usually gnarled and crooked.
-
-There is no town legislation relating to this industry, and though it
-is becoming of less consequence every year, nothing is done to revive
-it.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    1
-  Capital invested,                               $15
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    100
-      Value,                                     $100
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                         -
-      Mud,                                          -
-      Gravel,                                      10
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       10
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            10
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                  $2,000
-
-
-_Mattapoisett._
-
-The coast of Mattapoisett, more open and exposed than that of
-Fairhaven, does not offer equal advantages to the cultivation of
-clams. A similar strip of gravel-mud or sand occurs along the more
-sheltered portions of the coast, and wherever an indentation in the
-mainland offers shelter clams may be found, though never in sufficient
-quantities to make digging profitable. There is really no industry at
-all; the few clams that are dug go for home trade or are used as bait,
-and the prospects of any decided improvement appear to be slight.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    1
-  Capital invested,                               $15
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    100
-      Value,                                     $100
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                         -
-      Mud,                                          5
-      Gravel,                                       5
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       10
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            10
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                  $2,000
-
-
-_Fairhaven._
-
-The clam industry at Fairhaven suffers from the unsanitary condition
-of the flats, though in a lesser degree than at New Bedford. The
-finest clam grounds of this town lie in the proscribed district of the
-Acushnet River, and handling or eating shellfish from this area is a
-positive menace to the public health.
-
-A strip of gravel-mud about 100 feet in average width fringes the
-shores of Priest's Cove, and this strip furnishes at present the best
-digging. Scattered patches of clams occur along the indentations of
-Sconticut Neck, around West Island and along the coast of Little
-Bay. No men are regularly employed in digging clams, though a rather
-inefficient attempt is made at times to supply the local demand.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    100
-      Value,                                     $100
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                         -
-      Mud,                                         25
-      Gravel,                                      25
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       50
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            25
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         25
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                  $7,500
-
-
-_New Bedford._
-
-The clam industry at New Bedford was never of any great importance,
-but the unwise methods of sewage disposal of the city, whereby the
-effluent enters the harbor in close proximity to the clam flats,
-renders the taking of shellfish a positive menace to the public health.
-The action of the State Board of Health in closing the Acushnet River
-and Clark's Cove to the clam digger virtually annihilated the remnant
-of the industry. Now practically all the available territory of the
-city is proscribed, and no clams are allowed to be taken from this
-area except for use as bait. Licenses are also required to take clams
-even for bait from this proscribed territory. Three hundred and twenty
-of these licenses have been issued since the passage of the act in
-1904. The annual yield of clams for this purpose cannot be accurately
-ascertained, but probably does not exceed 250 bushels. No important
-clam industry would ever have been possible at New Bedford, under any
-circumstances, but the slight possibilities which once existed have
-been swept away and can never return under the present conditions,
-though shellfish grown in this region could, if suitable legislation
-were enacted, be transplanted to a sanitary environment, where in a
-month all danger of spreading typhoid germs would be avoided.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Licenses for bait,                              320
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels (for bait),                         300
-      Value,                                     $225
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                         5
-      Mud,                                          5
-      Gravel,                                      15
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       25
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            15
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
-  Possible normal production,                  $3,000
-
-
-_Dartmouth._
-
-The town of Dartmouth possesses a wide expanse of territory, but the
-actual amount of available clam ground is not as large as it would
-appear at first sight. Clams are found in more or less abundance at the
-following places: (1) Rickerson's Point (2/3 acre); (2) Apponagansett
-River (6 acres); (3) Apponagansett harbor (1 acre); (4) Nonquit (1/10
-acre); (5) Round Hill Point (1/5 acre); (6) Salter's Point (3/4 acre);
-(7) Smith's Neck (3/5 acre); (8) Little River (7-1/2 acres); (9)
-Slocum's River (6 acres); comprising a total of 23 acres. The best
-clamming is obtained on the flats of Little and Slocum's rivers. In
-Apponagansett River clams are dug in the summer for the Padanaram clam
-bakes.
-
-A town by-law placing a closed season on Slocum's River was in
-force during the years 1904 and 1905. In 1906 Dartmouth, by a State
-law, required permits for clamming. These permits are issued by the
-selectmen free of charge.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    4
-  Capital invested,                               $50
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    200
-      Value,                                     $160
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                        15
-      Mud,                                         10
-      Gravel,                                       5
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       30
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                5
-      Scattering clams,                            15
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
-  Possible normal production,                  $5,000
-
-
-_The Fall River District (Narragansett Bay)._
-
-The section of country bordering on Narragansett Bay and the Rhode
-Island line comprises a territory remote from the other clam-producing
-districts of the State, and possessing many characteristics not found
-in any other locality. Six towns of this region enjoy the privileges
-of a clam industry, situated as they are on the shores of Mt. Hope
-Bay and its tributary streams, the Cole, Lee and Taunton rivers.
-Beginning with the most westerly and taking them in order, these towns
-comprise Swansea, Somerset, Dighton, Berkley, Freetown and Fall River.
-These towns differ only in extent of resources or development of the
-industry, while the general nature of the clam flats and the methods
-employed in carrying on the business are essentially alike for all.
-The area in this region suitable for clam culture possesses some of
-the distinguishing features of the typical north shore flats, some
-of the Buzzards Bay variety and some peculiar to itself. There are
-scarcely any sand flats, and the prevailing type of soil is mud, as at
-Newburyport, or gravel, as in Buzzards Bay; while the greater part of
-the clam supply comes from a large and rather indefinite area, which is
-not properly tide flat at all, but lies continuously submerged.
-
-The methods employed in carrying on this industry include both wet and
-dry digging. On the tide flats the clams are dug as elsewhere on the
-south shore, with hoes or the common digger. Where, however, clams
-are dug in 2 or 3 feet of water, as is most frequently the case, an
-ordinary long-handled shovel and wire basket are employed. The soil
-containing the clams is shoveled into the baskets, and then the clams
-are sifted out under water. Several years ago an attempt was made
-to dig clams by machinery. An enterprising oysterman spent several
-hundred dollars in constructing a machine which was designed to farm
-the under-water districts more quickly and successfully than could be
-done by hand. The device had some of the principles of a suction pump,
-and theoretically the clams on the submerged flats could be washed out
-from the soil and collected in a receptacle. The machine worked well
-enough in extracting the clams from the mud, but failed completely
-when it came to collecting them. In short, after a thorough trial it
-was pronounced a failure and had to be abandoned.
-
-The main peculiarity of this region, and a far more important one
-than the type of soil or the methods of digging, is the nature of the
-clams which are produced. The inadequate territory and the constantly
-increasing demands of the Fall River markets have led to abuses which
-have had a most disastrous effect on the clam industry, and unless
-checked, and soon, these abuses will certainly cause its complete
-annihilation. The abuses in question are the universal custom of
-digging small seed clams for food. So importunate have the markets of
-Fall River and the vicinity become, that when the supply of suitable
-clams proves inadequate they demand and will gladly take "anything with
-a shell on," as the dealers say, so that it is no uncommon sight to see
-exposed for sale in the city markets clams of only 1 inch in length.
-This deplorable condition is fostered by the custom of digging under
-water, for the fine mesh of the woven-wire baskets retains even the
-smallest clams, which are saved for market.
-
-No quicker or surer way of destroying the industry completely could
-have been devised than this method of digging seed clams for food. One
-barrel of these clams would produce 10 to 15 barrels of marketable
-clams if left for one year under favorable circumstances. Thus, when
-a clammer digs 1 barrel of these clams he is in reality destroying 10
-or more barrels. This is truly reaping the "seed" before it has had
-any time to mature the proper harvest. Also, these "seed" clams are so
-immature that in many cases they have not spawned, and thus the clammer
-by destroying the clams in this manner damages irrevocably all chances
-of restocking the flats.
-
-From the inherent difficulties of the problem, however, local
-regulation seems powerless to cope with the evil. The short-sighted
-clammers, while they know that these methods, if pursued very far,
-will ultimately destroy the industry, seem willing, nevertheless,
-to sacrifice the future for the present. The other clammers are
-inevitably brought into line on this mistaken policy, as they cannot
-but argue that if a few will persist in exploiting a natural resource
-it is the right of every man to have an equal chance, and take his
-share of the proceeds as long as they last. Another potent factor in
-this wastefulness is the irresponsible foreign element of the mill
-districts, who dig clams for their own use, large or small, with entire
-indifference. It might perhaps prove unjust and difficult to enforce
-laws preventing individuals digging "seed" clams for their own use; but
-legislation could possibly be enacted preventing the sale of such seed
-in the public market. This would strike a blow at the abuse sufficient
-to rob it of its worst features. The most casual glance at the facts
-in the case prove that there is a pressing need for some legislative
-action. The history of the clam industry in this region is one of
-steady and rapid decline. Any clammer of the vicinity is willing to
-acknowledge that conditions at present are in a very unsatisfactory
-state. The output of clams has greatly diminished, both in the
-consensus of opinion of those interested in the business, and also
-according to statistical figures. Furthermore, the end of the industry,
-as far as any economic importance is concerned, is plainly in sight,
-and at the present rate of destruction cannot long be delayed. It would
-seem that here was a striking example of the need of prompt and wise
-legislation for the protection and development of an industry which has
-made large profits for the community, and might yield still greater
-returns if properly regulated.
-
-The towns of this region can never compete with the towns of the
-Newburyport district in the production of clams, for the reason that
-they have by no means an equal acreage of suitable flats. The Taunton
-River is also a considerable factor, as its contaminated waters impair
-the quality of clams grown along its shores. There remains, however,
-a considerable extent of suitable territory which might yield a large
-product if rightly controlled, and this territory, with its inherent
-possibilities depleted to the verge of exhaustion by unwise and
-wasteful methods, it is for the interest of the Commonwealth to protect
-and improve.
-
-
-_Swansea._
-
-Swansea, the most western town of this district, is by far the
-most favorably located, and has the greatest possibilities of clam
-production. Situated on the northern shore of Mt. Hope Bay, and
-containing the majority of the flats in the Cole and Lee rivers, it
-possesses a greater available territory free from the contaminating
-influences of the Taunton River than any other town in this region.
-
-Altogether, 200 acres comprise the possibly available clam area of this
-town. The best of this area is located in Cole's River, and includes
-Long Beach flat, the best flat of the district. Situated on the east
-shore of the river just below the railroad bridge, this flat stretches
-south in a broad triangle comprising some 20 acres of smooth, semihard
-mud. Over the main flat is sprinkled a very thick set of � inch to 1
-inch clams, interspersed with some of larger growth. While this is
-the best flat, other flats extend along both shores far up the river
-until the clams become too "fresh" to be very good. Flats also occur
-in the Lee River, and there is a large and rather indeterminate amount
-of under-water territory. The total area suitable for culture is not
-far from 150 acres; of this, about 20 acres are gravel and the rest
-practically all mud.
-
-No permits are necessary to dig clams on tidal flats, but permits are
-required to "churn" clams under water. Twenty of these permits were
-issued last year. Usually in digging under water two men work together,
-one shovelling the mud into the wire baskets and the other sifting out
-the clams. About 75 per cent. of the clams produced come from these
-under-water areas, as the tide flats are for the most part nearly
-exhausted.
-
-The season lasts all the year round, though most of the clams are dug
-in the summer time. Of late years it has become increasingly hard for a
-man to earn a living by clamming, as only 1 to 1� bushels now comprise
-an average day's work under the most favorable circumstances. Many of
-the clammers are leaving the business and seeking a livelihood in other
-employments.
-
-The history of the industry is one of marked decline. The most
-conservative clammer estimates that at the present rate the passing of
-five years will witness the complete annihilation of the industry.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                   25
-  Capital invested,                              $250
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                  5,000
-      Value,                                   $5,000
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       100
-      Mud,                                        100
-      Gravel,                                       -
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      200
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                               20
-      Scattering clams,                            30
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        100
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
-  Possible normal production,                 $24,000
-
-
-_Somerset._
-
-Somerset, the next town in order, joins Swansea on the east and
-extends several miles up the left bank of the Taunton River. Its flats
-on the south and west, particularly in the Lee River, produce some
-clams, though the industry is practically run out. The total clam area
-comprises about 75 acres. This is mostly mud, though gravel stretches
-along the shore aggregate perhaps 10 acres. The development of latent
-possibilities in this territory is largely curtailed by the disastrous
-effects of the Taunton River upon the clams. This water, contaminated
-by the manufacturing plants of Taunton, makes the clams grown in the
-northern part of the town of inferior taste and quality.
-
-Six licenses, costing $1 apiece, were issued last year for "churning"
-clams. No permits other than these are required.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                     50
-      Value,                                      $50
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                         -
-      Mud,                                         25
-      Gravel,                                      25
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       50
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            10
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         20
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       20
-  Possible normal production,                  $4,000
-
-
-_Dighton._
-
-Dighton has a very limited area of clam flat, comprising only about 10
-acres. Clams extend but little beyond the southern boundary of the town
-on the Taunton River and about � mile up the Segregansett River on the
-west. Practically no business is made of clamming by the citizens of
-the town except for local consumption. About 40 bushels were "churned"
-last year by outsiders. No permits are issued.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                     40
-      Value,                                      $40
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                         -
-      Mud,                                          5
-      Gravel,                                       5
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       10
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                             2
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          8
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                  $1,200
-
-
-_Berkley._
-
-Berkley, on the right bank of the Taunton River, opposite Dighton, has
-a very similar clam territory both in extent and characteristics. But
-little use is made of the clam except for bait, as the river water
-renders them very unsatisfactory as food.
-
-There is practically no industry, and there never could be any of
-importance, owing to the very limited area and the contamination of the
-waters.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                     25
-      Value,                                      $25
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                         -
-      Mud,                                          5
-      Gravel,                                       5
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       10
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                             4
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          6
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                  $1,400
-
-
-_Freetown._
-
-Freetown, joining Berkley on the south near the Fall River line,
-possesses a number of clam flats, aggregating 25 acres. Very little
-business is carried on, although conditions are better than in Berkley
-or Dighton. The clams, too, are of better quality, being freer from
-the disagreeable flavor of clams grown farther up the river. The
-possibilities for clam culture in this town are not attractive, but the
-present conditions can be vastly improved.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    100
-      Value,                                     $100
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                         -
-      Mud,                                         10
-      Gravel,                                      15
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       25
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            15
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
-  Possible normal production,                  $3,000
-
-
-_Fall River._
-
-Fall River has no clam territory on the south, owing to the wharves
-and other obstructions. On the more open waters of the north towards
-Freetown there is an extent of clam ground occupying about 25 acres.
-The foreign element in the city dig here for food, and some clams are
-likewise dug for bait, but the industry on the whole is of little
-consequence.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    -
-  Capital invested,                                 -
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    100
-      Value,                                      $75
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                         -
-      Mud,                                         20
-      Gravel,                                       5
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                       25
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                -
-      Scattering clams,                            10
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         15
-  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
-  Possible normal production,                  $3,500
-
-
-_Nantucket._
-
-At present Nantucket does not possess a clam industry of any
-importance. Years ago it is claimed that clams were abundant, and that
-quantities were dug for food or for bait. Now the reverse is true, and
-the fisherman often finds it difficult to procure clams even for bait.
-Indeed, Nantucket furnishes an excellent illustration of the decline of
-the clam industry.
-
-Practically all the flats of Nantucket are shore flats _i.e._, narrow
-flats along the shores of the harbor and on the sides of the creeks.
-Thus the area, though extending for many miles, is not great, and
-the clam industry of the island, though capable of development,
-nevertheless can never assume the importance of the quahaug and the
-scallop fisheries. In Nantucket harbor clams are found in the creeks,
-and particularly in Polpis harbor, although scattering clams are found
-all along the south shore of the harbor. A few clams are found on the
-north side in Coatou Creek and in First and Second Bend. The flats in
-Nantucket harbor are all coarse sand or a fine gravel, except in the
-creeks, where they become muddy. On the eastern and southern sides
-clams are found in scattering quantities in Maddequet harbor, on the
-north side of Tuckernuck and in the cove on the south side of Muskeget.
-
-COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
-
-  =============================+=================+=================
-            PRODUCTION.        |     1879.       |       1907.
-  -----------------------------+-----------------+-----------------
-  Bushels,                     |     2,253       |        400
-  Value,                       |      $872       |       $350
-  =============================+=================+=================
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    4
-  Capital invested,                               $40
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                    400
-      Value,                                     $350
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       150
-      Mud,                                         25
-      Gravel,                                      25
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      200
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                                5
-      Scattering clams,                            15
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        130
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
-  Possible normal production,                 $18,000
-
-
-_Edgartown._
-
-Although Edgartown possesses 200 acres of clam flats, it is not in a
-true sense a clam-producing town. The reason for this small production
-is due to the nature of the flats, which are mostly under water at
-low tide, making clamming difficult. Naturally Edgartown devotes its
-energies to the more profitable quahaug and scallop fisheries.
-
-The clam flats of the town are situated along the shores of Cape Poge
-Pond and in the lower part of Katama Bay, where many acres of flats are
-continually submerged. The shore flats are of small area, owing to the
-light rise and fall of the tide, less than 3 feet at this part of the
-coast.
-
-(1) _Cape Poge Pond._--Scattering clams are found all along the shore
-flats, except for a �-mile strip on the west side. The soil is of a
-coarse sand or gravel.
-
-(2) _Katama Bay._--The best clam flats of the town are situated in
-Katama Bay, and extend over a considerable territory. These flats,
-consisting of a coarse, sandy soil, lie continually submerged. Here the
-clams are dug by means of a "sea horse." This "animal" is nothing more
-than an elongated clam hoe with a belt attachment, whereby the clammer
-can "churn" out the clams at a depth of 2 to 3 feet.
-
-The clam industry of Edgartown has fallen off considerably since 1879.
-However, the clammers say that it has improved during the last fifteen
-years. The following comparison is made between the production of 1879
-and 1907:--
-
-                     COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
-
-  =========+============+============+============+=============
-    YEAR.  | Production | Production | Production | Value of
-           |  for Food  |  for Bait  | (Bushels). | Production.
-           | (Bushels). | (Bushels). |            |
-  ---------+------------+------------+------------+-------------
-  1879,    |   1,000    |   3,000    |   4,000    |   $1,570
-  1907,    |     625    |     575    |   1,200    |    1,000
-  =========+============+============+============+=============
-
-The general shellfish regulations which govern the other shellfisheries
-of the town apply to the clam fishery; but the industry has never been
-considered important enough to need special legislation, and but slight
-attention has been given to it.
-
-                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
-
-  Number of men,                                    7
-  Capital invested,                               $50
-  Production, 1907:--
-      Bushels,                                  1,200
-      Value,                                   $1,000
-  Total area (acres):--
-      Sand,                                       150
-      Mud,                                          -
-      Gravel,                                      50
-      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
-      Total,                                      200
-  Productive area (acres):--
-      Good clamming,                               20
-      Scattering clams,                           100
-  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         50
-  Waste barren area (acres),                       30
-  Possible normal production,                 $33,000
-
-In the opinion of many, doubtless, this report may appear unduly
-lengthy, and to include many seemingly trivial facts and unnecessary
-repetitions. To the trained observer, however, it seems of the greatest
-importance in dealing with such a practical and important problem to
-place on record all facts and opinions which may become of value, and
-to emphasize by frequent repetitions certain fundamental facts.
-
-                        Respectfully submitted,
-
-                                                          D. L. BELDING.
-
-The preceding report is intended to be a reliable statement of
-facts, and suggestions for consideration. On such a basis of facts
-the future policy of developing the shellfisheries must be based. It
-is the purpose of the Commissioners on Fisheries and Game to hold
-a series of public hearings in the different sections of the State
-for the purpose of giving personal expositions of the shellfish
-conditions and possibilities, and of giving a better opportunity for
-exchanging, discussing and weighing opinions. Meantime, in considering
-the conditions of the shellfisheries of Massachusetts, and the laws
-necessary to improve these conditions, the following points are of
-importance.
-
-The present shellfish laws are based upon the principle of "public"
-fisheries, and were made at times and at places where there was such
-a superabundance that the natural increase was sufficient to meet
-the market demands. Artificial cultivation was unnecessary. The
-fundamental laws were made in the colonial days. Since then the demand
-for shellfish as food has enormously increased, and for many years the
-annual natural increase has been entirely inadequate to meet these
-demands. We have outgrown the conditions which the original conception
-of that law covered. Under parallel conditions it has been found
-necessary to sell or lease the public lands, in order that the yield of
-food may be increased by cultivation under the immediate direction and
-responsibility of individual citizens, and under protection of State
-and national laws. When it was learned that the yield of a cultivated
-oyster bed far exceeded the natural product both in quantity and
-quality, the oyster laws were so modified that an important industry
-was built up, until to-day practically the entire oyster yield of
-Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut is from cultivated beds,
-and the total product is many times the total catch from the natural
-beds in their palmiest days. To-day not only is it necessary to so
-modify the oyster laws as to increase the opportunities for better
-utilizing our bays and estuaries for oyster growing on a more extensive
-scale than is done at present, but also for developing similar methods
-of growing clams and quahaugs, and perhaps also scallops. The tidal
-flats must, as well as the deeper waters, be made to produce food and
-money by securing a larger yield per acre, and by the utilization of
-thousands of acres which are now practically idle, but which either are
-now adapted for growing shellfish or can readily be made so.
-
-Our present shellfish laws are a heterogeneous, conflicting patchwork,
-devised to meet temporary and local conditions, utterly inadequate
-to-day to permit the fishermen to secure a just return for their labor,
-and completely sacrificing the public interests. In many cases the
-responsible tax-paying citizen cannot find a place to dig a family
-supply of clams or quahaugs, neither can the industrious native
-fisherman get a fair day's pay for his labor.
-
-An entirely new code of shellfish laws is necessary, based upon the
-general principles (1) that in selling the shores the State reserved
-the right of fishing as "far as the tide doth ebb and flow," and (2)
-that the State may now lease these fishing rights under such conditions
-and restrictions as to secure to every citizen so desiring and so
-deserving an opportunity to cultivate such a definite area as may meet
-his needs and powers. Experience has proved conclusively that it is
-a correct economic principle for the State to give a secure title to
-certain carefully defined lands to a capable man, and to say: "This
-land is yours. You may raise potatoes, corn, hay or anything you
-choose. Every plant, fruit or tree growing on this property is yours.
-You have become responsible for its right and proper use. You have full
-and complete rights in this property, and can develop it by investing
-your labor and your money according to your own judgment, and the State
-will protect you in these rights as long as you do not interfere with
-the rights of other persons." Equally so it is an indubitable economic
-fact that the landowner finds it more profitable to plant or transplant
-corn, potatoes, grass, strawberries, etc., rather than to depend upon
-the natural methods and yield. Similarly, it is equally logical for the
-State to give to the fisherman equal opportunities with the farmer. The
-State should guarantee the tenure of the fisherman in his definitely
-bounded shellfish garden, and should protect his interests and the
-property on that garden as securely as if it were potatoes or corn,
-and should, so far as possible, guard him from local jealousy or the
-effects of petty politics so long as he continues wisely to improve
-his grant in conformity to the spirit and letter of laws which are
-found by experience to give the greatest good to the greatest number.
-
-Further, the State should protect the fishermen and the consumers of
-shellfish by defining the areas which from a sanitary point of view
-are (1) totally unsuitable for shellfish cultivation; (2) those where
-shellfish may be grown but not eaten; and, finally, (3) definite areas
-from which alone shellfish may be sold for food. Provide suitable
-penalties for sale of shellfish which have not been kept for the
-required time (at least thirty days) in sanitary surroundings before
-going to market. The entire question of pollution of streams and
-estuaries must be carefully considered in view of the public rights
-and of the commercial interests of the fishermen. Further, the laws
-must be so carefully drawn that the respective rights and interests of
-individual fishermen, shore owners, summer cottagers and the transient
-public at the seashore are completely safeguarded against the dangers
-of predatory wealth monopolizing the opportunities for cultivating
-shellfish in the waters and the tidal flats.
-
-The situation is extremely complicated on account of the diverse
-conditions and the numerous conflicting interests, oystermen,
-quahaugers, clammers and scallopers, native and alien fishermen, owners
-of shore property, town and State rights, local interests and petty
-politics, and careful judicial consideration is necessary not alone
-as to the substance of the necessary laws, but upon the methods of
-administering these laws.
-
-                        Respectfully submitted,
-
-                                                         G. W. FIELD.
-                                                         J. W. DELANO.
-                                                         G. H. GARFIELD.
-
-FOOTNOTES:
-
-[17] Licenses.
-
-[18] Licences for bait.
-
-[19] Licenses.
-
-[20] Statistics of the number of men engaged were unobtainable.
-
-
-
-
-INDEX.
-
-INDEX.
-
-  Barnstable:--
-    Clam industry, 207-209
-    Oyster industry, 147-149
-    Quahaug industry, 52, 53
-    Scallop industry, 96-98
-
-  Berkley:--
-    Clam industry, 229, 230
-    Oyster industry, 156-158
-
-  Beverly, clam industry, 192
-
-  Boston harbor, clam industry, 196-198
-
-  Bourne:--
-    Clam industry, 220
-    Oyster industry, 153, 154
-    Quahaug industry, 53, 54
-    Scallop industry, 98, 99
-
-  Brewster, scallop industry, 99
-
-  Buzzard's Bay district:--
-    Clam industry, 219
-    Oyster industry, 150-152
-
-
-  Capital, 36
-
-  Chatham:--
-    Clam industry, 215, 216
-    Oyster industry, 144-146
-    Quahaug industry, 55, 56
-    Scallop industry, 99-101
-
-  Clam:--
-    Decline, 165, 166
-    Distribution, 159
-    Farming, 167-176
-    Growth, 171-173
-    History in Massachusetts, 176-178
-    Industry in Massachusetts, 178-180
-    Production for Massachusetts since 1880, 178
-    Remedy for decline, 167
-    Seed, 174
-    Statistics of industry in Massachusetts, 161-164
-
-  Cohasset, clam industry, 200
-
-
-  Dartmouth:--
-    Clam industry, 224, 225
-    Quahaug industry, 56
-    Scallop industry, 103
-
-  Dennis:--
-    Clam industry, 217, 218
-    Oyster industry, 146, 147
-    Quahaug industry, 56
-    Scallop industry, 101-103
-
-  Dighton:--
-    Clam industry, 229
-    Oyster industry, 156-158
-    Duxbury, clam industry, 202-204
-
-  Eastham:--
-    Clam industry, 211, 212
-    Oyster industry, 144
-    Quahaug industry, 56,57
-    Scallop industry, 103
-
-  Edgartown:--
-    Clam industry, 232, 233
-    Quahaug industry, 58-60
-    Scallop industry, 103-105
-
-  Essex, clam industry, 188-190
-
-
-  Fairhaven:--
-    Clam industry, 223
-    Quahaug industry, 60, 61
-    Scallop industry, 105, 106
-
-  Fall River, clam industry, 231
-
-  Fall River district:--
-    Clam industry, 225-227
-    Oyster industry, 156-158
-    Scallop industry, 106
-
-  Falmouth:--
-    Clam industry, 219, 220
-    Oyster industry, 149, 150
-    Quahaug industry, 61, 62
-    Scallop industry, 106
-
-  Fishing rights of the public, 26
-
-  Food value of shellfish, 92
-
-  Freetown:--
-    Clam industry, 230
-    Oyster industry, 156-158
-
-
-  Gloucester, clam industry, 190, 191
-
-
-  Harwich:--
-    Clam industry, 217
-    Oyster industry, 146
-    Quahaug industry, 62, 63
-    Scallop industry, 106, 107
-
-  Hingham, clam industry, 199
-
-  Hull, clam industry, 199, 200
-
-
-  Ipswich, clam industry, 185-188
-
-
-  Kingston, clam industry, 205, 206
-
-
-  Laws:--
-    Oyster, 127-132
-    Quahaug, 50, 51
-    Scallop, 92, 93
-    Shellfish, 25-30
-
-  Lynn, clam industry, 193, 194
-
-
-  Manchester, clam industry, 191, 192
-
-  Marion:--
-    Clam industry, 221, 222
-    Oyster industry, 156
-    Quahaug industry, 63, 64
-    Scallop industry, 107, 108
-
-  Marshfield, clam industry, 201, 202
-
-  Mashpee:--
-    Clam industry, 218
-    Oyster industry, 149
-    Quahaug industry, 64, 65
-    Scallop industry, 108
-
-  Mattapoisett:--
-    Clam industry, 222
-    Quahaug industry, 65, 66
-    Scallop industry, 108, 109
-
-  Methods of work, 16
-    Clam, 160, 161
-    Oyster, 117, 118
-    Quahaug, 38
-    Scallop, 81
-
-  Monopoly, 36
-
-
-  Nahant, clam industry, 195, 196
-
-  Nantucket:--
-    Clam industry, 231, 232
-    Oyster industry, 158, 159
-    Quahaug industry, 66-69
-    Scallop industry, 109-111
-
-  Narragansett Bay:--
-    Clam industry, 225-227
-    Oyster industry, 156-158
-
-  New Bedford:--
-    Clam industry, 223, 224
-    Quahaug industry, 69, 70
-    Scallop industry, 111-113
-
-  Newbury, clam industry, 184, 185
-
-  Newburyport, clam industry, 182, 183
-
-
-  Orleans:--
-    Clam industry, 210, 211
-    Oyster industry, 144
-    Quahaug industry, 70-72
-    Scallop industry, 113
-
-  Overfishing, 23
-
-  Oyster:--
-    Enemies, 155
-    Grants, 119
-    Natural beds, 119-123
-    Statistics, 136-138
-    Spat collecting, 133, 134
-
-  Oystermen v. quahaugers, 152
-
-
-  Plymouth, clam industry, 206, 207
-
-  Pollution, water, 23-25, 236
-
-  Protection, 26, 27
-
-  Provincetown:--
-    Clam industry, 214, 215
-    Quahaug industry, 72
-    Scallop industry, 113
-
-
-  Quahaug:--
-    Decline, 38-40
-    Distribution, 36, 37
-    Farming, 40-43
-    Growth, 42
-    History in Massachusetts, 49, 50
-    Industry, 43-49
-    Rakes, 44, 45
-    Spat collecting, 43
-    Statistics, 51
-
-  Quahaugers v. oystermen, 152
-
-
-  Resources, unimproved, 19
-
-  Salem, clam industry, 193
-
-  Salisbury, clam industry, 180-182
-
-  Sanitary conditions, 236
-
-  Saugus, clam industry, 194, 195
-
-  Scallop:--
-    Decline, 82-84
-    Distribution, 80
-    Dredges, 86-88
-    "Eye," 88
-    History in Massachusetts, 93, 94
-    Improvements, 84
-    Industry, 85-91
-    Maine, 90
-    Market, 90
-    Openers, 88
-    Outfit, 90, 91
-    "Pusher," 85
-    Season, 91
-    Shanties, 88
-    Soaking, 89, 90
-    Statistics, 95
-
-  Scituate, clam industry, 201
-
-  Sectional jealousy, 31
-
-  Shellfisheries:--
-    Abuses, 25-33
-    Decline, 20-25
-    Development, 19
-    Production since 1879, 20
-    Remedy, 33-35
-    Statistics, 19
-
-  Somerset:--
-    Clam industry, 228, 229
-    Oyster industry, 156-158
-
-  Statistical summaries:--
-    Clam industry, 161-164
-    Oyster industry, 136-138
-    Quahaug industry, 51
-    Scallop industry, 95
-    Shellfish industry, 19
-
-  Swansea:--
-    Clam industry, 227, 228
-    Oyster industry, 156-158
-    Quahaug industry, 72
-
-
-  Tisbury, scallop industry, 113
-
-  Town jealousy, 31
-
-  Truro:--
-    Clam industry, 213, 214
-    Quahaug industry, 72
-
-
-  Wareham:--
-    Clam industry, 221
-    Oyster industry, 154-156
-    Quahaug industry, 72-74
-    Scallop industry, 114, 115
-
-  Waste of competition, 31
-
-  Wastefulness, historical, 17-19
-
-  Wellfleet:--
-    Clam industry, 212, 213
-    Oyster industry, 138-143
-    Quahaug industry, 74-79
-    Scallop industry, 115
-
-  Weymouth, clam industry, 198
-
-
-  Yarmouth:--
-    Clam industry, 209, 210
-    Oyster industry, 146, 147
-    Quahaug industry, 79, 80
-    Scallop industry, 115, 116
-
-[Illustration: The above map of the coast line of Massachusetts, with
-its numbered sections, furnishes an index to the following series of
-shellfish areas.]
-
-[Illustration: The above characters, as used on the following maps,
-indicate the position and relative quantities of the various shellfish
-in their respective localities. No attempt is made to give the relative
-abundance of scallops and oysters, while the present productive value
-of the different clam and quahaug areas is indicated by different
-standards of marking.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 1.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 2.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 3.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 4.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 5.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 6.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 7.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 8.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 9.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 10.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 11.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 12.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 13.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 14.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 15.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 16.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 17.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 18.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 19.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 20.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 21.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 22.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 23.]
-
-[Illustration: Map 24.]
-
-[Illustration: =The Scallop Pusher.=--This implement consists of a
-wooden pole, from 8 to 9 feet long, attached to a rectangular iron
-framework, 3 by 1� feet, fitted with a netting bag, 3 feet in depth.
-The scalloper, wading in the shallow water, gathers the scallops from
-the flats by shoving the pusher among the eel grass. The photograph
-shows the correct position of the pusher in operation. Only a small
-part of the pole is shown.]
-
-[Illustration: =The Box Scallop Dredge.=--This dredge consists of a
-rectangular framework, 27 by 12 inches, with an oval-shaped iron bar
-extending backward as a support for the netting bag, which is attached
-to the rectangular frame. To the sides of this frame is joined a heavy
-iron chain about 4 feet long, to which the drag rope is fastened. This
-style of dredge is used only at Chatham and the neighboring towns of
-Cape Cod.]
-
-[Illustration: =Scallop Dredge=,--"=The Scraper.="--This implement
-has the form of a triangular iron framework, with a curve of nearly
-90� at the base, to form the bowl of the dredge. On the upper side a
-raised cross bar connects the two arms, while at the bottom a strip
-of iron 2 inches wide extends across the dredge. This narrow strip
-acts as a scraping blade, and is set at an angle so as to dig into the
-soil. The top of the net is fastened to the cross bar and the lower
-part to the blade. The usual dimensions of the dredge are: arms, 2�
-feet; upper cross bar, 2 feet; blade, 2� feet. The net varies in size,
-usually running from 2 to 3 feet in length and holding between 1 and
-2 bushels. Additional weights can be put on the cross bar when the
-scalloper desires the dredge to "scrape" deeper. A wooden bar 2 feet
-long buoys the net. The scraper used at Nantucket has the entire net
-made of twine, whereas in other localities the lower part consists of
-interwoven iron rings.]
-
-[Illustration: =The Oyster Dredge.=--This is the type of oyster dredge
-used on the large gasolene boats. The photograph was taken on board the
-oyster boat of Mr. James Monahan of Wareham. The dredge consists of a
-net of woven iron rings attached to an iron framework. From each corner
-of the framework rods extend, converging at a point some feet away,
-where the drag rope is attached. The blade, resting horizontally on the
-surface, is armed with large teeth which rake the oysters into the bag.
-When this bag, which holds from 8 to 15 bushels, is full, the dredge is
-raised by a gasolene hoist.]
-
-[Illustration: =The Basket Quahaug Rake.=--This style of basket rake
-is used at Edgartown and Nantucket. The whole rake is made of iron,
-no netting being required, as thin iron wires 1/3 of an inch apart
-encircle lengthwise the entire basket, preventing the escape of any
-marketable quahaugs, while at the same time allowing mud and sand to
-wash out. This rake has 16 steel teeth, 1� inches long, fitted at
-intervals of 1 inch on the scraping bar. The depth of the basket is
-about 8 inches. Short poles not exceeding 30 feet in length are used,
-as the raking is carried on in water which does not exceed 25 feet in
-depth. Only the iron framework of the rake is shown.]
-
-[Illustration: =The Claw Quahaug Rake.=--This rake varies greatly in
-size and length. Its use is chiefly confined to Nantucket. The general
-style has a handle 6 feet long, while the iron part, in the form of a
-claw or talon, with prongs 1 inch apart, is 10 inches wide. A heavier
-rake, as here shown, is sometimes used in the deeper water.]
-
-[Illustration: =The Scallop Rake.=--The use of this rake is confined
-almost exclusively to the town of Chatham. Both scallops and quahaugs
-can be taken with it. The bowl is formed by a curve of the prongs,
-which are held together by two long cross bars at the top and bottom
-of the basket, while the ends are enclosed by short strips of iron.
-Handles from 15 to 20 feet long are generally used with this rake.]
-
-[Illustration: =Rowley Reef Clam Set.=--This photograph shows the
-surface of Rowley Reef, one of the flats of Plum Island Sound. In the
-summer of 1906 a heavy set of clams was found on this flat, averaging
-1,500 to the square foot of surface. These rapidly diminished, and one
-year later, Aug. 27, 1907, when this photograph was taken, the clams
-numbered about 400 to the square foot. This area furnished an excellent
-illustration of the great destruction of natural clam set. Only 5 per
-cent. of these clams reached maturity, and the remaining 95 per cent.,
-destroyed by natural agencies, could have been saved if proper measures
-had been taken. At least 100 acres of the barren flats of Rowley could
-have been planted with the "seed" from this flat, and after two years
-the crop would have been worth $30,000. The present shellfish laws of
-the Commonwealth are alone to blame for this waste. The clam hoe shown
-in the foreground is the typical digger or "hooker" of the North Shore
-clammer.]
-
-[Illustration: =Rowley Reef.=--This photograph, taken on the same date
-as the preceding, shows another section of the reef, where the clam set
-has been torn up and destroyed by horse-shoe crabs and cockles.]
-
-[Illustration: =Rowley Reef.=--A photograph, natural size, of a thickly
-set part of the same flat. The broken shells on top show clams which
-have been crowded out of the sand and destroyed. In this way nature
-regulates the number of clams in a given area.]
-
-[Illustration: =Castle Neck Flat= (=Essex River=).--A scene at low
-tide, Aug. 28, 1907, showing the area turned over by two clammers in
-one hour. At this date there was a heavy set of small clams on this
-flat.]
-
-[Illustration: =Plymouth Harbor.=--This photograph was taken at low
-tide, from the boat house of Mr. Frank Cole. In the foreground are a
-few of the experimental clam beds of the Massachusetts department of
-fisheries and game. Note the large tracts of eel grass covering the
-flats.]
-
-[Illustration: =Cole's Clam Grant.=--This photograph shows a portion
-of the grant leased to Mr. Frank Cole by the town of Kingston for
-the propagation of clams. Several of the experimental beds of the
-Massachusetts department of fisheries and game were situated on this
-grant.]
-
-[Illustration: =Clam Spat Box.=--This box was suspended from a raft
-during the summer of 1907. The small clams which were caught in it are
-heaped before the box. These clams vary in size from � to 2 inches in
-length, showing that the spawning season is at least of two months'
-duration. The spat box was put down May 15 and taken up October 15.
-Note the barnacles, silver shells (_Anomia_), etc., on the box and
-rope.]
-
-[Illustration: =A Clam Shanty.=--The shanty of Samuel Kilbourn, an
-experienced Ipswich clammer. The large heap of shells is the result of
-six weeks of steady digging. Numerous shanties of this sort are used
-for "shucking out" clams when marketed by the gallon. This photograph
-also shows the clam sifter which was used in obtaining the small "seed"
-clams from Rowley Reef for the experimental beds.]
-
-[Illustration: =Taking up One of the Clam Gardens of the Massachusetts
-Department of Fisheries and Game.=--The bed was planted Nov. 15, 1905,
-in Essex River, on a sand flat locally known as "Newfoundland." When
-the bed was planted the flat was considered barren, as it produced
-practically no clams. The photograph was obtained Nov. 15, 1907, when
-the bed was taken up, and shows the clammers at work. Note the heaps of
-marketable clams which were taken from the bed.]
-
-[Illustration: =Yield in Two Years of the Garden shown in the Preceding
-Photograph.=--Note the amount of clams planted, compared with the
-marketable clams taken out. The size of the bed was 1/100 of an acre.
-The clams had increased in size so that 8 quarts were obtained for
-every quart planted. This shows what could be done with many barren
-flats if individuals had the privilege of cultivating clam farms.]
-
-[Illustration: =The Winkle or Cockle= (=Lunatia heros and
-duplicata=).--An enemy of the clam, which it destroys by boring a hole
-through the shell and sucking out the contents.]
-
-[Illustration: =Clam Growth.=--This photograph gives a comparison
-between the growth of small and large clams from a single bed under the
-same natural conditions. The large clam shows a much slower growth than
-the small. Both clams were notched when planted on the "Spit" in Essex
-River, April 18, 1907. They were dug Aug. 28, 1907.]
-
-[Illustration: =Soft-shelled Clam= (=Mya arenaria=).--This large
-clam shell, measuring 5� inches in length, was found on Grey's Flat,
-Kingston. Where the flat has been worn away by erosion the ground is
-white with thousands of these shells in an upright position in the
-soil, showing that sudden destruction had overtaken them at some time
-in the past.]
-
-[Illustration: =Quahaugs from an Experimental Bed at Monomoy Point,
-showing Two Years' Growth.=--The two notches or file marks on the
-shells indicate the growth per year. The photograph is two-thirds life
-size. These quahaugs have shown rapid growth, having gained nearly 1
-inch a year in length, which is the best growth thus far found in any
-of the experimental beds.]
-
-[Illustration: =Gathering "Seed" Oysters in the Weweantit River,
-Wareham, May 6, 1908.=--The natural beds of the town of Wareham had
-been closed for seven years, and on this date were opened for the
-period of one week for the inhabitants of the town to gather "seed"
-oysters, the photograph was taken on the opening day, and shows the
-oystermen at work tonging the "seed" oysters. In the foreground is a
-loaded skiff, ready to have its contents estimated by the inspector,
-who declares the number of bushels. The tongers pay the town 10 cents
-per bushel for the privilege of gathering the oysters, and sell them
-for 35 cents per bushel to the planters, thus realizing a profit of 25
-cents.]
-
-[Illustration: =Typical Steam Dredger.=--The oyster boat of Mr. James
-Monahan of Wareham, showing oyster dredge and hoist. The large cans
-aboard the boat contain young flatfish from the Woods Hole Hatchery of
-the United States Fish Commission. Mr. Monahan is distributing these in
-Wareham river.]
-
-[Illustration: =Typical Oyster Schooner.=--Oyster schooner loaded with
-1,935 bushels of Wareham "seed" for L. Dodge, Providence River. This
-"seed" was taken in May, 1908, from the natural oyster bed in the
-Agawam River, which had been closed for the past three years.]
-
-
-
-
-
-    Transcriber's Notes:
-
-
-    Simple spelling, grammar, and typographical errors were
-    silently corrected.
-
-    Anachronistic and non-standard spellings retained as printed.
-
-    P. 92 added "(All values expressed as per cent.)" in lieu of
-    repeating per-cent. comment in every column header.
-
-    Italics markup is enclosed in _underscores_.
-
-    Bold markup is enclosed in =equals=.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of A Report upon the Mollusk Fisheries of
-Massachusetts, by Commissioners on Fisheries and Game
-
-*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK REPORT--MOLLUSK FISHERIES MASSACHUSETTS ***
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+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 48195 ***
+
+                  The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
+
+                               A REPORT
+                                 UPON
+                         THE MOLLUSK FISHERIES
+                                  OF
+                            MASSACHUSETTS.
+
+
+                            [Illustration]
+
+                                BOSTON:
+             WRIGHT & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,
+                        18 POST OFFICE SQUARE.
+                                 1909.
+
+                              APPROVED BY
+                    THE STATE BOARD OF PUBLICATION.
+
+
+
+
+The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
+
+
+                                    COMMISSIONERS ON FISHERIES AND GAME,
+                                     STATE HOUSE, BOSTON, Jan. 15, 1909.
+
+  _To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives._
+
+We herewith transmit a special report upon the mollusk fisheries of
+Massachusetts, as ordered by chapter 49, Resolves of 1905, relative to
+scallops; chapter 73, Resolves of 1905, relative to oysters; chapter
+78, Resolves of 1905, relative to quahaugs; and chapter 93, Resolves of
+1905, relative to clams.
+
+                        Respectfully submitted,
+
+                                                            G. W. FIELD,
+                                                             _Chairman_.
+
+
+
+
+REPORT ON THE MOLLUSK FISHERIES OF MASSACHUSETTS.
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION.
+
+
+The general plan of the work was outlined by the chairman of the
+Commission on Fisheries and Game, who has given attention to such
+details as checking up scientific data, editing, revising, and
+confirming results, reports, etc. The work has been under the direct
+charge and personal supervision of the biologist to the commission, Mr.
+D. L. Belding. The able services of Prof. J. L. Kellogg of Williams
+College were early enlisted, and many valuable results which we are
+able to offer are the direct outcome of the practical application of
+the minute details discovered by Professor Kellogg in his careful study
+and original investigations of the anatomy and life histories of the
+lamellibranch mollusks.
+
+Of the other workers who, under the direction of Mr. Belding, have
+contributed directly, special mention should be made of Mr. J. R.
+Stevenson of Williams College, W. G. Vinal of Harvard University, F. C.
+Lane of Boston University, A. A. Perkins of Ipswich and C. L. Savery of
+Marion. Those who have for a briefer time been identified with the work
+are R. L. Buffum, W. H. Gates and K. B. Coulter of Williams College,
+and Anson Handy of Harvard University.
+
+In addition to the results here given, much valuable knowledge has been
+acquired, particularly upon the life histories of the scallop and of
+the quahaug, and the practical application of this knowledge to the
+pursuit of sea farming. It is hoped that the commission will later be
+enabled to publish these results.
+
+The present report is limited to a statement of the condition of
+the shellfish in each section of our coast, and to consideration of
+practical methods for securing increased opportunities for food and
+livelihood by better utilization of naturally productive lands under
+water. Since the chief purpose of legislative action under which this
+work was undertaken was to ascertain how the best economic results
+could be secured, we have thought it wise to embody the results of our
+investigation in a plan which is suggested as a basis for appropriate
+legislation for making possible a suitable system of shellfish
+cultivation similar to that which already exists in Rhode Island,
+Connecticut and many other coast States, and which has been carried on
+for more than two thousand years on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.
+
+The following tentative outlines are offered, and it is intended to
+subject each topic to an unprejudiced examination and discussion:--
+
+
+A PROPOSED SYSTEM OF CULTURE FOR THE TIDAL FLATS AND WATERS OF
+MASSACHUSETTS.
+
+_The Purpose._--The proposed system of shellfish culture aims to
+develop the latent wealth of the tidal waters, to increase the output
+of tidal flats already productive, and to make possible the reclamation
+of large portions of the waste shore areas of our Commonwealth. It
+is further designed to foster dependent and allied industries; to
+extend the shellfish market, both wholesale and retail; to multiply
+opportunities for the transient visitors and shore cottagers to fish
+for clams and quahaugs for family use, and to ensure fishermen a
+reliable source of bait supply; to increase the earnings of the shore
+fishermen, and to furnish work to thousands of unemployed; to increase
+the value of shore property; to add to the taxable property of the
+shore towns and cities of the State; to secure to all the citizens of
+the State a proper return from an unutilized State asset; to furnish
+the consuming public with a greater quantity of sea food of guaranteed
+purity; and in every way, both in the utilization of present and in the
+creation of new resources to build up and develop the fast-declining
+shellfish industries of the Commonwealth.
+
+_Private v. Public Ownership of Tidal Flats._--The first difficulty
+confronting this proposed system is the too frequently accepted fallacy
+that all lands between the tide marks now are and should be held in
+common by the inhabitants of the shore communities, to the exclusion
+of citizens from other sections of the State,--an assumption which is
+directly contrary to the more ancient law, supported by decisions of
+the highest courts, that the right of taking shellfish is a public
+right, freely open to any inhabitant of the State. Such unwarranted
+assumption of exclusive rights in the shellfisheries by individuals,
+corporations or towns sacrifices the rights of the majority. The
+disastrous effect of this policy is plainly demonstrated in the history
+of the rise and decline of the shellfisheries of Massachusetts.
+
+Secondly, this fallacious assumption is contrary to the fundamental
+principles of all economic doctrines. It may be safely affirmed that
+the individual ownership of property has proved not only a success but
+even is a necessary condition of progress, and has in fact at length
+become the foundation of all society. It inevitably follows that if
+the system is justifiable in the case of farm lands it is equally
+justifiable in the case of the tidal flats, for the same principle
+is involved in each. It is therefore fair to assume that if private
+ownership of farm land has proved to be for the best interests of
+human progress, so private ownership of the tidal flats will also be a
+benefit to the public.
+
+It is not our purpose to discuss the underlying principle involved
+in private ownership of property,--it is simply our purpose to call
+attention to two facts: (1) if individual control of real estate is
+just, private ownership of tidal flats and waters is likewise just; (2)
+that individual control of such areas is the only practical system yet
+devised capable of checking the alarming decline in the shellfisheries
+and of developing them to a normal state of productiveness, and
+rendering unnecessary an annually increasing mass of restrictive
+legislation.
+
+_The Present System._--The present system of controlling the
+shellfisheries is based on the communal ownership of the tidal flats.
+Ownership by the Commonwealth has degenerated into a system of town
+control, whereby every coast community has entire jurisdiction over its
+shellfisheries, to the practical exclusion of citizens of all other
+towns. Thus at the present time the mollusk fisheries of Massachusetts
+are divided into a number of separate and disorganized units, which are
+incapable of working together for the best interests of the towns or
+of the public. This communistic system is distinctly unsound, and is in
+direct opposition to the principles of social and economic development.
+The man who advocates keeping farm lands untilled and in common, for
+the sake of the few wild blackberries they might produce, would be
+considered mentally unbalanced; but it is precisely this system which
+holds sway over our relatively richer sea gardens. With no thought of
+seed time, but only of harvest, the fertile tidal flats are yearly
+divested of their fast-decreasing output by reckless and ruthless
+exploitation, and valuable territories when once exhausted are allowed
+to become barren. All hopes for the morrow are sacrificed to the
+clamorous demands of the present. The more the supply decreases, the
+more insistent becomes the demand; and the greater the demand, the more
+relentless grows the campaign of spoliation. The entire shore front
+of the Commonwealth is scoured and combed by irresponsible aliens and
+by exemplars of the "submerged tenth" who are now but despoilers, but
+who if opportunity were present might become cultivators of the flats
+rather than devastators. The thoughtful fisherman, who would control
+the industry in a measure, is under present conditions overruled by
+his selfish or short-sighted fellow workers, and is of necessity
+forced to join their ranks by the clinching argument that if the
+shellfisheries are to be ruined anyway, he might as well have his share
+as long as they last. The theory of public ownership of shellfisheries
+has been weighed in the balance and found wanting. The necessity for
+some radical change in the present system is becoming more and more
+apparent, and a system of private control, with certain modifications,
+is the logical result.
+
+_Need of Reform._--The shellfish supply of Massachusetts is steadily
+declining. So extensive is this decline that it is unnecessary to
+mention the abundant proofs of almost complete exhaustion in certain
+localities and of failing output in others. While the apparent cause
+of this decrease is overfishing and unsystematic digging, the real
+cause can be readily traced to the present defective system of town
+control, which has made possible, through inefficiency and neglect, the
+deplorable condition of this important industry. Unless the decline is
+at once checked, within a very few years our valuable shellfisheries
+will be exhausted to the point of commercial extinction. The
+legislation of former years, essentially restrictive and prohibitory
+in character, has unfortunately been constructed on a false economic
+basis. Its aim has been to protect these industries by restricting
+the demand rather than by increasing the supply. What the future
+requires is not merely protective or restrictive legislation, but
+rather constructive laws for developing the shellfisheries. The system
+of shellfish culture here presented appears to be the only practical
+method for improving the condition of these industries in such a way as
+to protect all vested interests of both private and public rights, and
+at the same time to make possible adequate utilization of the natural
+productive capacity.
+
+In brief, the proposed system of shellfish culture is based upon a
+system of leases to individuals. These leases should be divided into
+two classes: (1) those covering the territory between the tide lines,
+and consisting of small areas, from 1 to 2 acres; (2) the territory
+below low-water mark, comprised of two classes of grants, which differ
+only in size and distance from the shore,--the smaller (_a_), from 1 to
+5 acres, to include the shore waters, small bays and inlets, and the
+larger (_b_), of unrestricted size, to be given in the deeper and more
+exposed waters. The owners of all grants shall be permitted to plant
+and grow all species of shellfish, and shall have exclusive control of
+the fisheries area covered by such lease. The large and more exposed
+grants, which cannot be economically worked without considerable
+capital, should be available for companies; while the smaller holdings,
+for which but small capital is required, are restricted to the use of
+the individual shore fishermen. For the tidal flats and shore waters
+but one-half of the whole territory in any one township shall be
+leased, the other half still remaining public property.
+
+_Success of this System._--The system of private control by leased
+grants is by no means a new and untried theory. In actual operation for
+many years in this and other States, in spite of lack of protection
+and other drawbacks which would be eliminated from a perfected system,
+it has proved an unqualified success. The rapid depletion and even
+extermination of the native oyster beds necessitated legislative
+consideration, and for years the oyster industry above and below
+low-water mark in this and other States has been dealt with by a
+similar system. The plan here suggested would be but a direct extension
+of a well-tested principle towards the cultivation of other species of
+mollusks. The financial value to the fishermen of such a step has been
+proved beyond all question in this State during the past three years
+by the demonstrations of the Massachusetts department of fisheries and
+game. These experiments have proved that tidal flats, with small outlay
+of capital and labor, will yield, acre for acre, a far more valuable
+harvest than any upland garden.
+
+This system has the further element of success by being based on
+individual effort, in contrast to the present communal regulation
+of shellfisheries. In all business individual initiative and effort
+furnish the keynote of success, and the future wellfare of the
+shellfisheries depends upon the application of this principle.
+
+Nature cannot without the aid and co-operation of man repair the
+ill-advised, untimely and exhaustive inroads made in her resources.
+This is shown in the thousands of acres of good farm lands made
+unproductive by unwise treatment, and by the wasteful destruction
+of our forests. It is as strikingly shown in the decline of our
+shellfisheries. The fisherman exhausts the wealth of the flats by
+destroying both young and adults, and returns nothing. The result is
+decrease and ultimate extermination. The farmer prepares his land
+carefully and intelligently, plants his seed and in due time reaps a
+harvest. If the fisherman could have similar rights over the tidal
+areas, he could with far less labor and capital and with far greater
+certainty year by year reap a continuous harvest at all seasons. The
+success of the leasing system in other States, notably Louisiana, Rhode
+Island and others, is definite and conspicuous.
+
+_The Obstacles to this Proposed System._--Before the proposed system
+of titles to shellfish ground can be put in actual operation, it
+is absolutely necessary to have all rights and special privileges
+pertaining to shore areas revested in State control by repeal of
+certain laws. In this centralization of authority four main factors
+must be carefully considered: (1) communal rights to fisheries in
+tidal areas, as in the colonial beach law of 1641-47; (2) the theory,
+practice and results of town supervision and control; (3) the rights
+of riparian owners; (4) the rights of the fishermen and of all other
+inhabitants of the State. So important are all four that it is
+necessary to discuss each in turn.
+
+(1) _Communal Fishery Rights of the Public._--The fundamental principle
+upon which the shellfish laws of the State are founded is the so-called
+beach or free fishing right of the public. While in other States shore
+property extends only to mean high water, in Massachusetts, Maine and
+Virginia, the earliest States to enact colonial laws, the riparian
+property holders own to mean low-water mark. But by specific exception
+and according to further provisions of this same ancient law the right
+of fishing (which includes the shellfisheries) below high-water mark is
+free to any inhabitant of the Commonwealth. The act reads as follows:--
+
+    SECTION 2. Every inhabitant who is an householder shall have
+    free fishing and fowling in any great ponds, bays, coves and
+    rivers, so far as the sea ebbs and flows within the precincts
+    of the town where they dwell, unless the freemen of the same
+    town or the General Court have otherwise appropriated them.
+
+It is necessary that some change be made in this law, which at present
+offers no protection to the planters. Its repeal is by no means
+necessary, as the matter can be adjusted by merely adding "except for
+the taking of mollusks from the areas set apart and leased for the
+cultivation of mollusks."
+
+(2) _Results of Town Administration of Mollusk Fisheries._--All
+authority to control mollusk privileges was originally vested in the
+State. The towns, as the ancient statutes will show, derived this
+authority from the higher State authority, developed their systems
+of local regulations or by-laws only with the State permission, and
+even now they enjoy the fruits of these concessions solely with the
+active consent of the Legislature. Thus the State has ever been, and
+is at present, the source of town control. The towns have no rights of
+supervision and control over shellfisheries except as derived from the
+General Court. The State gave them this authority in the beginning. It
+follows, therefore, that the Legislature can withdraw this delegated
+authority at any time when it is convinced that it is for the benefit
+of the State so to do. To those few who are directly profiting at the
+expense of the many, this resumption of authority by the State may seem
+at first sight a high-handed proceeding, but a brief survey of the
+facts will prove it to be justly warranted and eminently desirable. The
+present system of town control has had a sufficient trial. It is in its
+very essentials an un-business-like proceeding. A large number of towns
+acting in this matter as disorganized units working independently of
+one another could not in the nature of things evolve any co-ordinated
+and unified system which would be to the advantage of all. The problems
+involved are too complicated, requiring both broad and special
+knowledge, which cannot be acquired in a short term of experience.
+Lastly, the temptations of local politics have been found to be too
+insistent to guarantee completely fair allotment of valuable privileges.
+
+The Legislature has not only acted unwisely in allowing the towns
+in this respect thus to mismanage their affairs, but it has not
+fulfilled its duty to the Commonwealth as a whole. The Legislature
+has unwittingly delegated valuable sources of wealth and revenue, the
+fruits of which should have been enjoyed at least in some degree,
+directly or indirectly, by all citizens of the Commonwealth alike as
+well as by those of the coast towns. Many of the coast cities and
+towns have dealt with this opportunity very unwisely, and few have
+developed or even maintained unimpaired this extremely valuable asset
+of the State. It cannot be too strongly emphasized that such important
+sources of wealth as the shellfisheries are not the property of the
+coast towns alone; they are the property of the whole Commonwealth,
+and the whole Commonwealth should share in these benefits. In
+allowing these valuable resources to be mismanaged and dissipated by
+the shore towns, the Legislature has done a great injury to all the
+inland communities, and, indeed, even to those very coast towns for
+whose benefit such legislation was enacted. The Legislature was not
+justified, in the first place, in granting jurisdiction over these
+important industries belonging equally to the whole Commonwealth and
+to the coast towns. It was but an experiment. Inasmuch as these towns
+have grossly mismanaged the trust placed in them, the Legislature is
+doubly under the obligation to take advantage of the knowledge gained
+by this experimental delegation of the State authority to cities and
+towns. The completely obvious obligation of the Legislature is to
+remove what is either tacitly or frankly acknowledged by many city and
+town authorities to be an impossible burden upon the city or town, and
+to restore to State officers the general administrative control and
+supervision of the public rights in the shellfisheries.
+
+(3) _Riparian Ownership does not include Exclusive Fishing
+Rights._--The third objection is that in the assumption of State
+control is involved the much-discussed and vaguely understood question
+of riparian ownership. To make plain the conditions relative to the
+fisheries, including the shellfisheries on the tidal flats, it should
+be borne in mind that in only four States, Virginia and Maryland,
+Massachusetts and Maine, does the title of the riparian owner extend
+to low-water mark, but in these States the right of fishing, fowling
+and boating are specifically mentioned as not included in the title.
+Under the existing laws owners of seashore property in Massachusetts
+possess certain rights (though perhaps not in all cases clearly
+defined) over the tidal areas within 100 rods of the mean high-water
+mark. As the proposed system of shellfish grants deals with this
+territory between high and low water marks, it is necessary to see in
+what manner, if any, the rights at present possessed by riparian owners
+would be impaired by the leasing of certain rights of fishing. While
+the riparian owner has in a measure authority over the territory which
+borders his upland, there are certain specific limitations to this
+authority. He does not have exclusive rights of hunting, boating and
+fishing between the tide lines on his own property, but participates
+in these rights equally with every citizen of this Commonwealth. The
+courts have distinctly held that shellfish are fish, and that a man may
+fish--_i.e._, dig clams--on the tidal flats adjoining the shore without
+the consent of the riparian owner.
+
+(4) _Rights of the Fishermen and of All Citizens._--The fishermen as
+a class are best located to benefit most from an opportunity to lease
+exclusive fishing rights, whether they chance to be riparian owners
+or not, though every other citizen of this Commonwealth who so desired
+would not be excluded from an opportunity to secure a similar lease.
+The personnel of the fisher class has vastly changed in the past
+decade. There are to-day two distinct types: The permanent resident,
+usually native born, bound to a definite locality by ties of home and
+kin and of long association,--a most useful type of citizen. Contrasted
+with this is the other, a more rapidly increasing class,--foreign born,
+unnaturalized, nomadic, a humble soldier of fortune, a hanger-on in
+the outskirts of urban civilization, eking out an existence by selling
+or eating the shellfish from the public fishing grounds. Too ignorant
+to appreciate the importance of sanitary precaution, the alien clammer
+haunts the proscribed territory polluted by sewage, and does much to
+keep the dangerous typhoid germ in active circulation in the community.
+
+The public mollusk fisheries only foster such types of non-producers,
+and prevent them from becoming desirable citizens. The best class
+of fishermen and citizens has no advantage over the worst, but is
+practically compelled to engage in the same sort of petty buccaneering
+and wilfully destructive digging, in order to prevent that portion
+and privilege of fishing which the law says shall belong to every
+householder and freeman of the Commonwealth from being appropriated by
+these humble freebooters, who are at once the annoyance, the terror and
+the despair of cottagers and shore dwellers.
+
+All these conditions would be almost completely corrected by the
+lease of the flats to individuals, thus removing from the fishermen
+stultifying competition and compelling these irresponsible wandering
+aliens to acquire definite location. But most particularly a system of
+leasing would permit each person to profit according to his industry,
+perseverance, thrift and foresight.
+
+_The Grants._--As previously stated, the grants should be made into
+two divisions: (1) including suitable areas between the high and low
+water marks; (2) territory below mean low-water mark. The privilege of
+planting and growing all shellfish should be given for both classes
+of grants. Class 1 would be primarily for the planting of clams,
+with additional rights over oysters and quahaugs; class 2 would be
+primarily for the planting of quahaugs and oysters, with possible
+rights over clams and scallops.
+
+The grants should be leased for a limited period of years, with the
+privilege of renewal provided the owner had fulfilled the stipulated
+requirements of the lease. In order, however, that these leases should
+not degenerate into deeds, to be handed down from father to son, it
+might be necessary to assign a maximum time limit during which a man
+might remain in control of any particular lease. This would be merely
+fair play to all concerned, for it would not be just to allow one man
+to monopolize a particularly fine piece of property, while his equally
+deserving neighbor had land of far less productive value. In connection
+with this clause should follow some provisions for payment of the value
+of improvements. Should there be more than one claimant for lease of
+any particular area, some principle of selection, such as priority of
+application, highest bid, etc., should be established.
+
+That there may be no holding of grants for purposes other than those
+stipulated in the agreement, there should be a certain cultural
+standard of excellence to be decided upon relative to the use made
+of the granted areas. A clause of this kind is necessary in order to
+keep the system in a proper state of efficiency, and to insure the
+development of the shellfish industries.
+
+All taxes on the capital invested in these grants and taxes upon the
+income should go to the town in which the leasehold is situated. In
+addition, there should be a just and equable revenue assessed by
+the State on every grant, as rent for the same. This rent should be
+apportioned according to a fixed scale in determining the relative
+values of the grants, and should be paid annually, under penalty of
+forfeiture. The revenue might be divided into two parts: one part to
+go to the State department having the control of the shellfisheries,
+for the maintenance of a survey, control and protection of property
+on leased areas, and other work; the second part to go to the town
+treasury of the community in which the grant is located, to be expended
+under the direction and control of responsible State officials in
+restocking barren flats and otherwise developing the shellfish upon
+its unleased territory which is open for free public use.
+
+_Grants to be Nontransferable._--These grants, while designed for the
+use of all citizens of the Commonwealth, should be made especially
+available for the poor man with little capital. In order to assure
+the poor man of the enjoyment of his privilege, it is necessary to
+guard against the possibility of undue monopolization. Leases must,
+therefore, be strictly nontransferable. Neither should areas be rented
+to another individual under any consideration whatever. Every grant
+must be for the benefit of its individual owner. He should be at
+liberty to hire laborers to assist him in working his grant, but not
+to transfer it in any way. Any attempt on his part to do so should not
+only immediately result in the forfeiture of his grant, but should also
+subject him to a heavy penalty.
+
+_Survey._--In order to guard against confusion and to maintain an
+orderly system, an accurate survey of all granted areas should be made.
+The ranges of every grant should be determined and recorded. The plots
+should be numbered and properly staked or buoyed, and a record of the
+same, giving the name of the owner, yearly rental and value, should
+be kept on file at the proper town and State offices. The same system
+which is now in operation in the oyster industry of other States should
+be applied to all the mollusk fisheries of Massachusetts.
+
+_Administration._--The department of the State government under whose
+jurisdiction this system of leases may come should be indued with full
+authority, properly defined, to supervise the grants, furnish them with
+adequate protection by the employment of State or town police, oversee
+the survey, allot the grants, and to exercise such other powers as may
+be necessary to develop the system, remedy its defects and strengthen
+its efficiency.
+
+_Protection of Property and of the Rights granted by the Lease._--No
+system of shellfish grants is possible without absolute protection.
+The lessee must be permitted to cultivate his grant free from outside
+interference, and thus, with reasonably good fortune, he can enjoy the
+fruits of his labors. This protection, which is the greatest and most
+vital need of the entire system, and the foundation upon which depends
+its whole success, must be insured by proper legislation rigorously
+enforced, and accompanied by severe penalties.
+
+_Leasing of the Grants._--Every citizen of the Commonwealth is entitled
+to participate in this system, but for obvious reasons an inhabitant
+of any coast town should be given first choice of grants within the
+boundary of his particular town. The first grants might be given by
+allotment, but after the system had become well established, they could
+be issued in the order of their application.
+
+_Water Pollution._--The sanitary condition of the marketed shellfish
+taken from contaminated waters is not only at present to some extent
+endangering the public health, but is placing an undeserved stigma
+upon a most reputable and valuable source of food supply for the
+public. The public should demand laws closing, after proper scientific
+investigation, these polluted areas, and conferring the power to
+thoroughly enforce such laws. The danger arising from contamination
+should be reduced to a minimum by prescribing some definite regulations
+for transferring shellfish from these polluted waters to places free
+from contamination, where the shellfish may in brief season be rendered
+fit for the market.
+
+It should be unlawful to use any brand, label or other device for
+designation, intended to give the impression that certain oysters
+offered for sale were grown at specified places, _e.g._, Cotuit,
+Wellfleet, Wareham, etc., unless such oysters were actually planted,
+grown or cultivated within the towns or waters designated, for a period
+of at least three months immediately previous to the date of marketing.
+Furthermore, there should be appointed proper inspectors, whose duties
+would be to guarantee by certificates, labels and stamps the purity
+of shellfish placed upon the market, and likewise have the power of
+enforcing severe penalties on violators.
+
+
+
+
+THE SHELLFISHERIES OF MASSACHUSETTS: THEIR PRESENT CONDITION AND EXTENT.
+
+
+               By D. L. BELDING, assisted by F. C. LANE.
+
+  DR. GEORGE W. FIELD, _Chairman, Commission on Fisheries and Game_.
+
+SIR:--I herewith submit the following report upon the present extent
+and condition of the shellfish industries of Massachusetts. The
+following biological survey was made in connection with the work done
+under chapters 49, 73, 78 and 93, Resolves of 1905, and chapter 74,
+Resolves of 1906. The statistics and survey records which furnish the
+basis of the report were obtained by D. L. Belding and F. C. Lane.
+
+                        Respectfully submitted,
+
+                                                       DAVID L. BELDING,
+                                                            _Biologist_.
+
+
+INTRODUCTION.
+
+When money was first appropriated in 1905 for a three-year
+investigation of the life, habits and methods of culture of the clam,
+quahaug, oyster and scallop, provision was made for a survey of the
+present productive and nonproductive areas suitable for the cultivation
+of these four shellfish. The following report embodies the results of
+this survey.
+
+_A. Method of Work._--In making this survey two objects were in view,
+which permit the grouping of the work under two main heads:--
+
+(1) A survey of the productive and nonproductive shellfish areas of
+the State was undertaken, showing by charts the location, extent and
+abundance of each of the four shellfish, as well as the biological
+conditions of the waters and soils of the areas along the entire coast
+which could be made more productive under proper cultural methods.
+Wherever possible, information as to the production of certain areas
+was obtained from the shellfishermen as a supplement to the survey work.
+
+(2) Statistical records of the four shellfish industries were
+formulated, showing their value and extent as regards (_a_) production,
+(_b_) capital invested, (_c_) men employed. Data for these records were
+obtained from town records, from market reports and from the dealers
+and shellfishermen, both by personal interviews and by tabulated forms
+of printed questions. Owing to the present chaotic condition of the
+shellfisheries, it has been impossible to obtain absolutely exact data.
+The statistics that have been obtained are to all purposes correct, and
+are the most exact figures ever published on the subject.
+
+_B. Value of the Survey._--Before any reform measures of practical
+value can be advanced, accurate and comprehensive knowledge of the
+present shellfish situation in Massachusetts is absolutely essential.
+Up to this time there have been only vague and inaccurate conjectures
+as to the value of the shellfisheries, and even the fisherman, outside
+his own district, has little knowledge of their extent and their
+economic possibilities. The consumer has far less knowledge. For
+the first time this problem of the Massachusetts shellfisheries has
+been approached from the point of view of the economic biologist.
+This survey is intended to present a concise yet detailed account of
+the present status of the shellfisheries of Massachusetts, and is
+therefore the first step towards the preservation of our shellfisheries
+by providing a workable basis for the restocking of the barren and
+unproductive areas. It is hoped that it will be of interest both to the
+fishermen and consumers.
+
+_C. Presentation of the Report._--The first part of the report presents
+the general results of the survey, _i.e._, the present condition of
+the shellfisheries, while the second part deals directly with details
+of the survey. The report is divided into four parts, each shellfish
+being considered separately. Under each is grouped (1) the industry as
+a whole; (2) a statistical summary of the industry for the whole State;
+(3) the towns of the State and their individual industries. A series
+of charts showing the shellfish areas of the State makes clear the
+description of the survey.
+
+_Geographical Situation._--The peculiar geographical situation of
+Massachusetts renders possible the production of the four edible
+shellfish--clam, oyster, quahaug and scallop,--in great abundance.
+Cape Cod forms the dividing line between the northern and the southern
+fauna, which furnish the coast of Massachusetts with a diversity of
+molluscan life. Zoölogically, the Massachusetts coast is the point
+where the habitats of the northern (the soft clam, _Mya arenaria_)
+and the southern clam (the quahaug, hard clam or little neck, _Venus
+mercenaria_) overlap. Nature has favored Massachusetts with a coast
+indented with bays, estuaries and inlets which are especially adapted
+for the growth of marine food mollusks.
+
+_Former Natural Abundance._--If we compare the natural shellfish areas
+of to-day with those of former years, we find a great change. All
+four shellfish formerly throve in large numbers in the numerous bays
+and indentations of our coast line. The area between tide marks was
+formerly inhabited by quantities of soft clams, and the muddy patches
+just below low-water mark produced great numbers of quahaugs. In the
+estuaries were extensive natural oyster beds. On our shoals it was
+possible to gather many thousand bushels of scallops. Now thousands
+of acres once productive lie barren, and we have but a remnant of the
+former abundant yield.
+
+_Historical Wastefulness._--History tells us that the Pilgrims at
+Plymouth "sucked the abundance of the seas" and found health and
+wealth. But between the lines of history we can read a tale of
+wastefulness and prodigality with hardly a parallel, and to-day we
+find the natural heritage of the shellfisheries almost totally wasted
+through the careless indifference of our forefathers. Prof. James L.
+Kellogg, in the introduction to his "Notes on Marine Food Mollusks of
+Louisiana," gives the following excellent account of the exploiting of
+natural resources:--
+
+    As one looks over the record of the settling of this country,
+    and notes how a continent was reclaimed from a state of
+    nature, he can hardly fail to be impressed with the reckless
+    wastefulness of his ancestors in their use of the treasures
+    which nature, through eons of time, had been collecting.
+    In thousands of cases, natural resources, which, carefully
+    conserved, would have provided comfort and even luxury for
+    generations of men, have been dissipated and destroyed
+    with no substantial benefit to any one. They scattered our
+    inheritance. Such knowledge dulls a feeling of gratitude that
+    may be due to them for their many beneficent acts,--though
+    the truth probably is that few of them ever had a thought of
+    their descendants. Men seldom seem to have a weighty sense of
+    responsibility toward others than those who immediately follow
+    them. The history of the prodigality of our ancestors since
+    their occupation of this great continent has not fully been
+    written,--and it should be, in such a way that the present
+    generation might know it; for sometimes it seems as if the
+    present generation were as criminally careless of the natural
+    resources that remain to it as were any of those that are gone.
+    Perhaps it is hardly that. We have learned some wisdom from the
+    past, because our attention has recently been drawn to the fact
+    of the annihilation of several former sources of subsistence.
+    Rapidly in America, in recent years, the struggle to obtain
+    support for a family has become more severe to the wage earner.
+    In thirty years the increasing fierceness of competition
+    has resulted in a revolution of business methods. In every
+    profession and in every line of business only the most capable
+    are able to obtain what the mediocre received for their honest
+    labor in the last generation.
+
+    But it is easier to condemn the past for its failures than
+    to recognize and condemn those of our own generation. The
+    average man really has a blind and unreasoning faith in his
+    own time, and to laud only its successes is to be applauded
+    as an optimist. In the present stage of our national life we
+    certainly have no room for the pessimist, who is merely a
+    dyspeptic faultfinder; nor for the optimist, who blinds his
+    eyes to our faults and mistakes, and so fails to read their
+    priceless lessons. Instead, our intelligence, as a race, has
+    reached that degree of development which should give it the
+    courage to consider "things as they are."
+
+    Considering things as they are, we must admit that we are not
+    realizing our obligations to future generations in many of
+    the ways in which we are misusing our natural resources. This
+    waste is often deliberate, though usually due to the notion
+    that nature's supplies, especially of living organisms, are
+    limitless. The waste of 70 or 80 per cent, in lumbering the
+    Oregon "big trees," and the clean sweep of the Louisiana pine,
+    now in progress, is deliberately calculated destruction for
+    present gain,--and the future may take care of itself. In
+    making millionaires of a very few men, most of whom are still
+    living, a large part of the lower peninsula of Michigan was
+    made a hopeless desert. To "cut and come again" is not a part
+    of the moral codes of such men. It seems to mean sacrifice; and
+    yet they are woefully mistaken, even in that.
+
+    But most often, no doubt, the extinction of useful animals and
+    plants, that we have so often witnessed, has been due to the
+    ignorant assumption that, under any circumstances, the supply
+    would last forever. This idea seems especially to prevail
+    concerning marine food animals. The fact that the sea is vast
+    might naturally give the impression that its inhabitants are
+    numberless.... But when a natural food supply nears complete
+    annihilation, men begin to think of the necessity of a method
+    of artificial culture.[1]
+
+_Present Unimproved Resources._--In spite of the wastefulness of former
+generations, many areas can again be made to produce the normal yield
+if proper and adequate measures are promptly taken to restore to the
+flats, estuaries and bays of Massachusetts their normal productive
+capacity. In spite of the fact that some of the natural beds have
+entirely disappeared, either "fished out" or buried under the débris of
+civilization, and others are in imminent danger of becoming exhausted,
+Massachusetts still possesses a sufficient natural supply to restock
+most of these barren areas.
+
+_Possibilities of Development._--Opportunities for development are
+alluring. The shellfisheries could be increased, in these days of rapid
+transit and marketing facilities, into industries which would furnish
+steady employment for thousands of men and women, both directly and
+indirectly, resulting in a product valued at a minimum of $3,000,000
+annually, with possibilities of indefinite expansion. At present the
+idea of marine farming attracts popular attention. The conditions are
+parallel to agriculture, except that in the case of marine farming the
+crops are more certain,--_i.e._, are not subject to so many fatalities.
+The experiments of the Department of Fisheries and Game for the past
+three years have proved that cultivation of shellfish offers great
+inducements and profit to both individuals and towns. When the present
+waste areas are again made productive, the value of the annual catch
+should be increased tenfold.
+
+         _Statistical Summary of the Shellfisheries for 1907._
+
+  =================+=====================++=========+===========+==========
+                   |     PRODUCTION.     ||         |           |
+  NAME OF MOLLUSK. +----------+----------++ Area in |  Capital  |    Men
+                   | Bushels. |  Value.  || Acres.  | invested. | employed.
+  -----------------+----------+----------++---------+-----------+----------
+  Clam,            |  153,865 | $150,440 ||   5,111 |  $18,142  |   1,361
+  Oyster,          |  161,182 |  176,142 ||   2,400 |  268,702  |     159
+  Quahaug,         |  144,044 |  194,687 ||  28,090 |   94,260  |     745
+  Scallop,         |  103,000 |  164,436 ||  30,900 |  121,753  |     647
+                   +----------+----------++---------+-----------+----------
+      Total,       |  562,091 | $685,705 ||  66,501 | $502,857  |   2,912
+  =================+==========+==========++=========+===========+==========
+
+In the above table the areas for the scallop, clam and quahaug are only
+approximate. The scallop and quahaug fisheries cover nearly the same
+areas, and employ to a great extent the same men and capital.
+
+         _Annual Yields (in Bushels) of the Shellfisheries of
+     Massachusetts since 1879, from United States Fish Commission
+                               Reports._
+
+  ===============+=========+==========+=========+==========+=========
+      YEAR.      |  Clam.  | Quahaug. | Oyster. | Scallop. | Totals.
+  ---------------+---------+----------+---------+----------+---------
+  1879,          | 158,621 |   11,050 |  36,000 |   10,542 | 216,218
+  1887,          | 230,659 |   35,540 |  43,183 |   41,964 | 351,346
+  1888,          | 243,777 |   26,165 |  45,631 |   26,168 | 341,741
+  1898,          | 147,095 |   63,817 | 101,225 |  128,863 | 441,000
+  1902,          | 227,941 |  106,818 | 103,386 |   66,150 | 504,295
+  1905,          | 217,519 |  166,526 | 112,580 |   43,872 | 540,497
+  1907,[2]       | 153,865 |  144,044 | 161,182 |  103,000 | 562,091
+  ===============+=========+==========+=========+==========+=========
+
+Massachusetts fishermen to-day receive an annual income of $685,705
+from the shellfisheries, which approximately cover a productive
+area of 40,000 acres. Under the present methods of production, the
+average value per acre is only $17; each acre, if properly farmed,
+should furnish an annual production of at least $100, or six times
+the present yield. The shellfish areas of Massachusetts which are at
+present utilized are giving almost a minimum production, instead of
+the enormous yield which they are capable of furnishing. All that
+is necessary to procure the maximum yield is the application of
+systematic cultural methods, instead of relying on an impoverished
+natural supply. Not only are the productive areas furnishing far less
+than they are capable of producing, but also Massachusetts possesses
+6,000 acres of barren flats, which should become, under the proper
+cultural methods, as valuable as the productive areas. (This has been
+experimentally demonstrated by the commission.) While it is possible
+to develop, through cultural methods, these latent natural resources,
+it will take years to bring them to a high degree of development. It
+can be partially accomplished, at least, in the next few years, and the
+present production increased several times, _as nature responds to the
+slightest intelligent effort of man, and gives large returns_.
+
+
+DECLINE OF THE SHELLFISHERIES.
+
+_A. Is there a Decline?_
+
+(1) So obvious is the general decline of the shellfisheries that almost
+every one is aware, through the increasing prices and difficulty of
+supplying the demand, that the natural supply is becoming exhausted.
+
+(2) Statistical figures of the shellfish production not only show a
+decline, but conceal a rapid diminution of the supply.
+
+(3) Production statistics alone should never be taken as typifying the
+real conditions of an industry, as such figures are often extremely
+deceiving. For instance:--
+
+(4) The increased prices, stimulated by an increasing demand, have
+caused a greater number of men, equipped with the best modern
+implements, to swell the production by overworking shellfish areas
+which in reality are not one-fourth so productive as they were ten
+years ago.
+
+While the general decline of the shellfisheries is a matter of public
+knowledge, specific illustrations of this decline have been lacking.
+The present report calls attention to actual facts as proofs of the
+decline of each shellfishery, by a comparison of the present conditions
+in various localities with the conditions of 1879. The only past record
+of Massachusetts shellfisheries of any importance is found in the
+report of the United States Fish Commission for 1883, and, although
+this is very limited, it is sufficient to furnish many examples of the
+extinction or decline of the shellfisheries in certain localities.
+
+In a general consideration of the shellfisheries, it is noticeable that
+in certain localities the extinction of the industry has been total, in
+others only partial, while others have remained unchanged or have even
+improved. This last class is found either where the natural advantages
+are so great that the resources have not been exploited, or where
+men have, through wise laws and cultural methods (as in the oyster
+industry), preserved and built up the shellfisheries.
+
+_1879_ v. _1907_.--In comparing the present condition of the
+shellfisheries with that of 1879, it will be seen that many changes
+have taken place. Even twenty-five years ago inroads were being made
+upon the natural supply; from that time to the present can be traced
+a steady decline. During the past five years the production has been
+augmented by additional men, who have entered into the business
+under the attraction of higher prices, and the extension of the
+quahaug and oyster fisheries. Though the annual catch is greater,
+a disproportionately greater amount of time, labor and capital is
+required to secure an equal quantity of shellfish.
+
+  ==========================+==========+==========+==========
+                            |   1907.  |   1879.  |   Gain.
+  --------------------------+----------+----------+----------
+  Production (bushels),     |  562,991 |  264,818 |  297,273
+  Men,                      |    2,912 |      910 |    2,092
+  Capital,                  | $502,857 | $165,000 | $337,857
+  Area (acres),             |   66,501 |   66,501 |        -
+  ==========================+==========+==========+==========
+
+The following instances illustrate specific decline in the various
+natural shellfisheries:--
+
+(1) Oyster industry, natural beds: Wareham, Marion, Bourne, Wellfleet,
+Charles River.
+
+(2) Sea clam industry: Dennis, Chatham, Nantucket.
+
+(3) Scallop industry: Buzzards Bay and north side of Cape Cod
+(Barnstable).
+
+(4) Clam industry: Essex, Plymouth, Duxbury, Buzzards Bay, Annisquam,
+Wellfleet, Nantucket.
+
+(5) Quahaug industry: Chatham, Buzzards Bay, Fall River district.
+
+These are only a few of the more prominent cases. Similar cases will be
+found all along the coast of Massachusetts, and no one can deny that
+the natural supply is rapidly becoming exhausted, and that methods are
+needed to increase the production, or at least to save the little that
+remains.
+
+_B. Causes of the Decline._
+
+I. _An Increasing Demand._--The indirect cause of the decline of
+the shellfisheries is the increased demand. To-day more shellfish
+are consumed than ever before, and the demand is much greater each
+succeeding year. It is an economic principle that there must be an
+equilibrium between supply and demand. If the demand is increasing,
+either the supply has to increase to meet the demand, or the price of
+the commodity goes up and a new equilibrium is established. The supply
+must equal the demand of the market. This increasing demand has worked
+havoc with the shellfisheries. There was a time when the natural supply
+was of such abundance that the moderate demand of those early days
+could be met without injury to the fishery. Soon this limit was passed,
+and with a steadily increasing demand came a corresponding drain on the
+natural resources, which little by little started a decline, the result
+of which is to-day apparent.
+
+The ill-advised policy of the past has been to check the demand by
+various devices, such as closed seasons, limited daily production,
+etc. These not only have proved without benefit to the fisherman,
+but also have hurt the consumer by the increased price. The demand
+can be checked by raising the price, but this tends towards a class
+distinction between the rich and the poor. The poor man should be able
+to enjoy "the bounties of the sea" as well as the rich. The policy of
+the future should be not to check the demand, but rather to increase
+the supply.
+
+Several causes contribute to this demand, which has unlimited
+possibilities of expansion:--
+
+(1) The popularity of shellfish as an article of diet is steadily
+increasing, not merely for its nutritive value, but for variety and
+change in diet. Fashionable fads, _i.e._, the "little neck" of the
+restaurants and hotels, contribute to the popularity of these shellfish.
+
+(2) In the present age, transportation facilities and cold storage make
+possible shipments to all parts of the United States, and continually
+widen the market for sea foods.
+
+(3) The influx of summer people to the seashore not only causes an
+additional summer demand, but also widens the popular knowledge of
+these edible mollusks.
+
+(4) Advertising and more attractive methods of preserving and selling
+sea food by the dealers still further increase the demand.
+
+II. _Overfishing._--The immediate and direct cause of the decline
+is _overfishing_. Increased demand causes a severe drain upon the
+shellfish beds, which soon leads to _over_fishing. It is not merely
+the hard working of the beds, but the continuous unmethodical and
+indiscriminate fishing which has caused the total extermination of once
+flourishing beds in certain localities. Under present methods a bed is
+worked until all its natural recuperatory power is exhausted, and then
+it is thrust aside as worthless, a barren area. Prof. Jacob Reighard,
+in "Methods of Plankton Investigation in their Relation to Practical
+Problems,"[3] aptly sums up the situation in his opening paragraph:--
+
+    In this country the fisherman as a rule continues to fish
+    in any locality until fishing in that locality has become
+    unprofitable. He then moves his operations to new waters until
+    these in turn are exhausted. He is apt to look upon each new
+    body of water as inexhaustible, and rarely has occasion to ask
+    himself whether it is possible to determine in advance the
+    amount of fish that he may annually take from the water without
+    soon depleting it.
+
+In this way the shellfish beds have become exhausted through the
+indifference and lack of knowledge on the part of the fishing public.
+In colonial days the resources of the shellfisheries were apparently
+inexhaustible. The conviction that man could ever exhaust the resources
+of nature took firm hold of the Puritan mind, and even in the present
+generation many still cling to this illogical doctrine, although proof
+to the contrary can be seen on all sides. This idea has caused great
+harm to the shellfisheries, stimulating men to wreck certain localities
+by overfishing.
+
+III. _Pollution of Harbors and Estuaries and the Ill Effects upon
+Public Health through the Shellfisheries._--The unscientific disposal
+of sewage, sludge, garbage and factory waste may tend to rapidly fill
+up the harbor channels, as well as the areas where the currents are not
+so rapid.
+
+Competent authorities scout the idea that Boston harbor is at present
+filling up to any considerable degree with sewage sludge, but the
+problem must be met in the not distant future. This sewage sludge upon
+entering salt or brackish water precipitates much more rapidly than in
+fresh water or upon land, and becomes relatively insoluble, hence the
+accumulation in harbors, _e.g._, Boston and New Bedford harbors and
+the estuaries of the Merrimac, Taunton and other rivers. This sludge,
+instead of undergoing the normal rapid oxidation and nitrification,
+as it does when exposed to the air on land, undergoes in the sea
+water a series of changes, mainly putrefactive, which results in the
+production of chemical substances which in solution may (1) drive away
+the fish which in incredible quantities formerly resorted to that
+place; (2) impair the vitality and even kill whatever fish spawn or
+fry may be present; (3) check the growth of or completely destroy the
+microscopic plants and animals which serve as food for the young fish
+and shellfish; (4) by developing areas of oily film floating upon the
+surface of the water, enormous numbers of the surface-swimming larvæ of
+clams, quahaugs, scallops, oysters, mussels and other marine animals
+may be destroyed annually. But most serious of all is the fact that
+all the edible mollusks, notably the clam, quahaug, oyster and mussel,
+act as living filters, whose function is to remove from the water
+the bacteria and other microscopic plants and animals. Most of these
+microscopic organisms serve as food for the mollusk; and in instances
+where the mollusk is eaten raw or imperfectly cooked, man is liable to
+infection, if the bacillus of typhoid fever or other disease chances
+to be present in the mollusk. Though the chance of such infection is
+remote, it is nevertheless actually operative. Many typhoid epidemics
+in this country and abroad have been found to be directly referable to
+shellfish from sewage-polluted waters. For these reasons approximately
+1,500 acres in Boston harbor and 700 acres in New Bedford harbor
+have become unsuitable for the growth of shellfish; and the State
+Board of Health, after investigation, decided that clams, oysters and
+quahaugs found within these areas are likely to be the direct cause of
+a dangerous epidemic of typhoid. For this reason the taking of these
+shellfish for any purpose was very properly prohibited; but at the last
+session of the Legislature a bill was passed which permitted the taking
+of such shellfish for bait, upon securing permits from the Board of
+Health, and providing heavy penalties for both buying and selling. As
+a matter of fact, however, it is well-nigh impracticable to properly
+enforce this law, for the reason that it is possible only in very rare
+instances to keep any one lot of clams known to have been dug under
+these conditions under surveillance from the time of digging until they
+are placed upon the hook as bait. Complete prevention of the _taking_
+of such shellfish is the only method by which the public health can be
+properly safeguarded. Even though in our opinion the annual financial
+loss to the public from the destruction of this public fishery by the
+dumping of city sewage into the water is not less than $400,000, the
+public health is of greater consequence, and should not be jeopardized,
+as is the fact under present conditions. Until such a time as the
+public realize that economic disposal of sewage must take place on land
+rather than in water, laws absolutely preventing any contact with the
+infected shellfish should be enforced without exception. In instances
+like these it is greatly to be deplored that but rarely under our
+system of government can legislation, which the best knowledge and
+common-sense demand for the public weal, be passed in its adequate and
+beneficial entirety, but is so frequently emasculated in the selfish
+interests of a few persons.
+
+IV. _Natural Agencies._--The above causes are given as they are
+obviously important, but by no means are they to be considered the only
+reasons. Geographic and climatic changes often explain the extinction
+of shellfish in certain localities.
+
+
+THE PRESENT ABUSES OF THE SHELLFISHERIES.
+
+Not only has this survey shown by specific examples the alarming but
+actual decline of the natural shellfish supply (in spite of deceptive
+production statistics), but it has brought to light numerous evils
+of various kinds. These abuses have developed gradually with the
+rise of the shellfisheries, until at the present day they cannot be
+overlooked or considered unimportant. So closely are these connected
+with the present status of our shellfishery that upon their abolition
+depends its future success or failure. Some need immediate attention;
+others will require attention later. After a thorough and competent
+investigation, remedies for the correction of each evil should be
+applied.
+
+In the future Massachusetts will have to utilize all her wealth of
+natural resources, to keep her leading position among the other States
+of the Union. To do this she should turn to her sea fisheries, which
+have in the past made her rich, and hold forth prospects of greater
+wealth in the future. Untold possibilities of wealth rest with her
+shellfisheries, if obsolete methods and traditions can be cast aside.
+In any age of progress the ancient and worthless must be buried
+beneath the ruins of the past, while the newer and better take their
+place. There is no more flagrant example of obsolete methods and
+traditions holding in check the development of an industry than with
+the shellfisheries, and it is time that Massachusetts realized these
+limitations.
+
+The shellfisheries of Massachusetts are in a chaotic state, both
+legally and economically. The finest natural facilities are wasted,
+and thousands of acres of profitable flats are allowed to lie barren
+merely for a lack of initiative on the part of the general public.
+This chaotic and unproductive state will exist until both the consumer
+and the fishermen alike understand the true condition of affairs, and
+realize that in the bays, estuaries and flats of Massachusetts lies as
+much or more wealth, acre for acre, as in the most productive market
+gardens.
+
+In Rhode Island the clam and scallop fisheries have almost disappeared.
+Five or ten years from now the shellfisheries of Massachusetts will be
+in a similar condition, and beyond remedy. Now is the time for reform.
+The solution of the problem is simple. Shellfish farming is the only
+possible way in which Massachusetts can restore her natural supply to
+its former abundance.
+
+I. _The Shellfish Laws._--The first evils which demand attention
+are the existing shellfish laws. While these are supposed to wisely
+regulate the shellfisheries, in reality they do more harm than good,
+and are direct obstacles to any movement toward improving the natural
+resources. Before Massachusetts can take any steps toward cultivating
+her unproductive shellfish areas, it will be necessary to modify the
+worst of these laws.
+
+_A. Fishery Rights of the Public._--The fundamental principle upon
+which the shellfish laws of the State are founded is the so-called
+beach or free fishing rights of the public. While in other States
+property extends only to mean high water, in Massachusetts the property
+holders own to extreme low-water mark. Nevertheless, according to
+further provisions of this ancient law, the right of fishing (which
+includes the shellfisheries) below high-water mark is free to any
+inhabitant of the Commonwealth.
+
+(1) _Origin._--The first authentic record of this law is found under
+an act of Massachusetts, in 1641-47, by which every householder
+was allowed "free fishing and fowling" in any of the great ponds,
+bays, coves and rivers, as far "as the sea ebbs and flows," in their
+respective towns, unless "the freemen" or the General Court "had
+otherwise appropriated them." From this date the shellfisheries were
+declared to be forever the property of the whole people, _i.e._, the
+State, and have been for a long period open to any inhabitant of the
+State who wished to dig the shellfish for food or for bait.
+
+(2) _Early Benefits._--In the early days, when the natural supply was
+apparently inexhaustible and practically the entire population resided
+on or near the seacoast, it was just that all people should have common
+rights to the shore fisheries. As long as the natural supply was more
+than sufficient for the demand, no law could have been better adapted
+for the public good.
+
+(3) _Present Inadequacy._--Two hundred and fifty years have passed
+since this law was first made. The condition of the shellfisheries has
+changed. No longer do the flats of Massachusetts yield the enormous
+harvest of former years, but lie barren and unproductive. The law which
+once was a benefit to all has now become antiquated, and incapable of
+meeting the new conditions.
+
+(4) _Evil Effects._--If this law were merely antiquated, it could
+be laid aside unnoticed. On the contrary, as applied to the present
+conditions of the shellfisheries it not only checks any advancement,
+but works positive harm. From the mistaken comprehension of the
+so-called beach rights of the people, the general public throughout
+the State is forced to pay an exorbitant price for sea food, and the
+enterprising fishermen are deprived of a more profitable livelihood.
+The present law discriminates against the progressive majority of
+fishermen in order to benefit a small unprogressive element.
+
+(5) _Protection._--If shellfish farming is ever to be put on a paying
+basis, it is essential that the planter have absolute _protection_. No
+man is willing to invest capital and labor when protection cannot be
+guaranteed. What good does it do a man to plant a hundred bushels of
+clams, if the next person has a legal right to dig them? Since the
+law absolutely refuses any protection to the shellfish culturist,
+Massachusetts can never restock her barren flats and re-establish
+her shellfisheries until this law is modified to meet the changed
+conditions.
+
+(6) _Who are the Objectors?_ Objectors to any new system are always
+found, and are not lacking in the case of shellfish culture. These
+would immediately raise the cry that the public is being deprived of
+its rights. To-day the public has fewer rights than ever. The present
+law causes class distinctions, and a few are benefited at the expense
+of the public. The industrious fisherman suffers because a few of the
+worthless, unenterprising class, who have no energy, do not wish others
+to succeed where they cannot. In every seacoast town in Massachusetts
+the more enlightened fishermen see clearly that the only way to
+preserve the shellfisheries is to _cultivate the barren areas_.
+
+Hon. B. F. Wood, in his report of the shellfisheries of New York, in
+1906, clearly states the case.[4]
+
+    There is, unfortunately, in some of the towns and villages
+    upon our coast an unprogressive element, composed of those who
+    prefer to reap where they have not sown; who rely upon what
+    they term their "natural right" to rake where they may choose
+    in the public waters. They deplete, but do not build up. They
+    think because it may be possible to go out upon the waters for
+    a few hours in the twenty-four (when the tide serves) and dig a
+    half peck of shellfish, that it is sufficient reason why such
+    lands should not be leased by the State to private planters. It
+    might as well be said that it is wrong for the government to
+    grant homestead farms to settlers, because a few blackberries
+    might be plucked upon the lands by any who cared to look for
+    them.
+
+The following is taken from the report of the Massachusetts
+Commissioners on Fisheries and Game for 1906:[5]--
+
+    There are at least four distinct classes within our
+    Commonwealth, each of which either derive direct benefits from
+    the mollusk fisheries of our coast, or are indirectly benefited
+    by the products of the flats:--
+
+    (1) The general public,--the consumers, who ultimately pay the
+    cost, who may either buy the joint product of the labor and
+    capital invested in taking and distributing the shellfish from
+    either natural or artificial beds, or who may dig shellfish for
+    food or bait purposes for their own or family use.
+
+    (2) The capitalist, who seeks a productive investment for money
+    or brains, or both. Under present laws, such are practically
+    restricted to _distribution_ of shellfish, except in the case
+    of the oyster, where capital may be employed for _production_
+    as well,--an obvious advantage both to capital and to the
+    public.
+
+    (3) The fishermen, who, either as a permanent or temporary
+    vocation, market the natural yield of the waters; or, as in the
+    case of the shellfisheries, may with a little capital increase
+    the natural yield and availability by cultivating an area of
+    the tidal flats after the manner of a garden.
+
+    (4) The owners of the land adjacent to the flats, who are under
+    the present laws often subjected to loss or annoyance, or even
+    positive discomfort, by inability to safeguard their proper
+    rights to a certain degree of freedom from intruders and from
+    damage to bathing or boating facilities, which constitute a
+    definite portion of the value of shore property.
+
+    All of these classes would be directly benefited by just laws,
+    which would encourage and safeguard all well-advised projects
+    for artificial cultivation of the tidal flats, and would deal
+    justly and intelligently with the various coincident and
+    conflicting rights of the fishermen, owners of shore property,
+    bathers and other seekers of pleasure, recreation or profit,
+    boatmen, and all others who hold public and private rights and
+    concessions.
+
+    That any one class should claim exclusive "natural valid
+    rights," over any other class, to the shellfish products of the
+    shores, which the law states expressly are the property of "the
+    people," is as absurd as to claim that any class had exclusive
+    natural rights to wild strawberries, raspberries, cranberries
+    or other wild fruits, and that therefore the land upon which
+    these grew could not be used for the purpose of increasing the
+    yield of these fruits. This becomes the more absurd from the
+    fact that the wild fruits pass to the owner of the title of the
+    land, while the shellfish are specifically exempted, and remain
+    the property of the public.
+
+    The class most benefited by improved laws would be the
+    fishermen, who would profit by better wages through the
+    increased quantity of shellfish they could dig per hour, by
+    a better market and by better prices, for the reason that
+    the control of the output would secure regularity of supply.
+    Moreover, when the market was unfavorable the shellfish could
+    be kept in the beds with a reasonable certainty of finding
+    them there when wanted, and with the added advantage of an
+    increased volume by growth during the interval, together with
+    the avoidance of cold-storage charges. Thus the diggers could
+    be certain of securing a supply at almost any stage of the tide
+    and in all but the most inclement weather, through a knowledge
+    of "where to dig;" moreover, there would be a complete
+    elimination of the reasoning which is now so prolific of ill
+    feelings and so wasteful of the shellfish, viz., the incentive
+    of "getting there ahead of the other fellow."
+
+_B._ All the shellfish laws should be revised, to secure a unity and
+clearness which should render graft, unfairness and avoidable economic
+loss impossible, and be replaced with a code of fair, intelligent and
+forceful laws, which would not only permit the advancement of the
+shellfish industry through the individual efforts of the progressive
+shellfishermen, but also protect the rights of the general public.
+
+_C._ The majority of the shellfish laws of the State are enacted by
+the individual towns. In 1880 the State first officially granted
+to each town the exclusive right to control and regulate its own
+shellfisheries, as provided under section 68 of chapter 91 of the
+Public Statutes. This was slightly modified by the Acts of 1889 and
+1892 to read as follows (now section 85 of chapter 91 of the Revised
+Laws):--
+
+    SECTION 85. The mayor and aldermen of cities and the selectmen
+    of towns, if so instructed by their cities and towns, may,
+    except as provided in the two preceding sections, control,
+    regulate or prohibit the taking of eels, clams, quahaugs and
+    scallops within the same; and may grant permits prescribing the
+    times and methods of taking eels and such shellfish within such
+    cities and towns and make such other regulations in regard to
+    said fisheries as they may deem expedient. But an inhabitant of
+    the commonwealth, without such permit, may take eels and the
+    shellfish above-named for his own family use from the waters
+    of his own or any other city or town, and may take from the
+    waters of his own city or town any of such shellfish for bait,
+    not exceeding three bushels, including shells, in any one day,
+    subject to the general rules of the mayor and aldermen and
+    selectmen, respectively, as to the times and methods of taking
+    such fish. The provisions of this section shall not authorize
+    the taking of fish in violation of the provisions of sections
+    forty-four and forty-five. Whoever takes any eels or any of
+    said shellfish without such permit, and in violation of the
+    provisions of this section, shall forfeit not less than three
+    nor more than fifty dollars.
+
+Responsibility has thus been transferred from the State to the towns,
+and they alone, through their incompetence and neglect, are to blame
+for the decline of the shellfisheries. The town laws are miniature
+copies of the worst features of the State laws. While a few towns have
+succeeded in enacting fairly good laws, the majority have either passed
+no shellfish regulations at all, or made matters worse by unintelligent
+and harmful laws. It is time that a unified system of competent by-laws
+were enacted and enforced in every town.
+
+The ill-advised features which characterize the present town laws are
+numerous, and are best considered under the following headings:--
+
+(1) _Unintelligent Laws._--One of the worst features of our town
+shellfish laws is their extreme unfitness. Numerous laws which are
+absolutely useless for the regulation and improvement of these
+industries have been made by towns, through men who knew nothing
+about the shellfisheries. These laws were made without any regard
+for the practical or biological conditions underlying the shellfish
+industry. It is to be expected that laws from such a source would
+often be ill-advised and unintelligent, but under the present system
+it cannot be avoided. Until sufficient knowledge of the habits and
+growth of shellfish is acquired by the authorities of State and town,
+Massachusetts can never expect to have intelligent and profitable
+shellfish laws. While the majority of these unintelligent laws do no
+harm, there are some that work hardship to the fishermen and are an
+injury to the shellfisheries.
+
+(2) _Unfairness; Town Politics._--Town politics offers many chances
+for unscrupulous discrimination in the shellfish laws. Here we find
+one class of fishermen benefiting by legislation at the expense of the
+other, as in the case of the quahaugers _v._ oystermen. In one town
+the oystermen will have the upper hand; in another, the quahaugers. In
+every case there is unfair discrimination, and a resultant financial
+loss to both parties. The waters of Massachusetts are large enough for
+both industries, and every man should have a "square deal," which is
+frequently lacking under the present régime.
+
+Besides party discrimination, there is discrimination against
+certain individuals, as illustrated in giving oyster grants. Town
+politics plays a distressing part here. Favoritism is repeatedly
+shown, and unfairness results. All this shows the unpopularity and
+impracticability of such regulations and the method of making them.
+
+(3) _Present Chaotic State._--The present town laws are in a chaotic
+condition, which it is almost impossible to simplify. No one knows the
+laws, there is merely a vague impression that such have existed. Even
+the selectmen themselves, often new to the office and unacquainted with
+the shellfisheries, know little about the accumulated shellfish laws
+of the past years, and find it impossible to comprehend them. The only
+remedy is to wipe out all the old and replace them with unified new
+laws.
+
+(4) _Unsystematic Laws._--The present laws are unsystematized.
+Each town has its own methods, good and bad, and the result is a
+heterogeneous mixture. Often there are two or three laws where one
+would definitely serve. To do absolute justice there should be a
+definite system, with laws elastic enough to satisfy the needs of all.
+
+(5) _Nonenforcement._--The worst feature of allowing town control of
+the shellfisheries is the nonenforcement of the laws already passed.
+We find in many towns that good by-laws have been made, but from
+inattention and lack of money these have never been enforced and have
+become practically nonexistent. The 1½-inch quahaug law of several
+towns is an instance of this. In but one town in the State, Edgartown,
+is any effort made to enforce this excellent town by-law, although
+several of the other towns have passed the same. The proper enforcement
+of laws is as important as the making, as a law might as well not be
+made if not properly enforced. The only way that this can be remedied
+is either to take the control completely out of the hands of the town,
+or else have a supervisory body which would force the town to look
+after violators.
+
+Besides the town by-laws there are other evils which result from the
+present system of town control.
+
+II. _Lack of Protection in Oyster Industry._--In no case is the
+management by towns more inefficient and confusing than in the case of
+the oyster industry. As this subject will be taken up in the oyster
+report which follows, it is only necessary here to state that there
+is great need of a proper survey of grants, fair laws, systematic
+methods, etc. Protection is necessary for the success of any industry,
+and is especially needed for the oyster industry. The oyster industry
+of Massachusetts will never become important until adequate protection
+is guaranteed to the planters. Under the present system, uncertainty
+rather than protection is the result.
+
+III. _Town Jealousy._--The evil of town jealousy, whereby one town
+forbids its shellfisheries to the inhabitant of neighboring towns, is
+to-day an important factor. It is fair that a town which improves its
+own shellfisheries should not be interfered with by a town which has
+allowed its shellfisheries to decline. While this is true perhaps of
+the clam, quahaug and oyster, it does not hold true of the scallop. The
+result of this close-fisted policy has resulted in the past in a great
+loss in the scallop industry. The town law in regard to scallops is all
+wrong. The scallop fisheries should be open to all the State, and no
+one town should "hog the fishing," and leave thousands of bushels to
+die from their dog-in-the-manger attitude.
+
+IV. _Sectional Jealousy._--Another evil, which in the past has been
+prominent, but is becoming less and less as the years go by, is the
+jealousy of the north shore _v._ the south shore, Cape Cod _v._ Cape
+Ann. In the past this has been a stumbling block against any advance,
+as any plan initiated on the south shore would be opposed from sheer
+prejudice by the north shore representatives, and _vice versa_. The
+cry of "entering wedge" has been raised again and again whenever any
+bill was introduced for the good of the shellfisheries by either party.
+Merely for political reasons good legislation has been defeated.
+However, the last few years have shown a decided change. The jealous
+feeling has in a large measure subsided; the shellfisheries need
+intelligent consideration, and all parties realize that united effort
+is necessary to insure the future of these industries.
+
+V. _Quahaugers_ v. _Oystermen_.--On the south shore the worst evil
+which at present exists is the interclass rivalry between the
+quahaugers and oystermen. This has caused much harm to both parties,
+through expensive lawsuits, economic loss, uncertainty of a livelihood,
+as well as retarding the proper development of both industries.
+
+VI. _Waste of Competition._--At the present day the utilization of
+waste products in all industries is becoming more and more important.
+In this age material which was considered useless by our forefathers is
+made to play its part in the economic world. Through science industrial
+waste of competition is being gradually reduced to a minimum, although
+in any business which deals with perishable commodities, such as fish,
+fruit, etc., there is bound to be a certain amount of loss.
+
+Under the present system the shellfisheries suffer from the effects of
+waste resulting from competition. Both the fisherman and the consumer
+feel the effects of this, in different ways,--the fisherman through
+poor market returns, the consumer through poor service. As long as the
+shellfisheries are free to all, there is bound to be that scramble
+to get ahead of "the other fellow," which not only results in the
+destructive waste of the actual catch, but also causes a "glutted"
+market, which gives a low return to the fisherman. Thousands of dollars
+are thus lost each year by the fishermen, who are forced to keep
+shipping their shellfish, often to perish in the market, merely because
+the present system invites ruthless competition. The fishermen in this
+respect alone should be the first to desire a new system, which would
+give to each a shellfish farm and the privilege of selecting his market.
+
+VII. At the present moment there are two evils which demand attention,
+and which can be lessened by the passage of two simple laws:--
+
+(1) During the past three years many thousands of bushels of quahaugs
+under 1½ inches have been shipped out of the State, merely passing into
+the hands of New York oystermen, who replanted, reaping in one year a
+harvest of at least five bushels to every one "bedded." Through the
+inactivity of town control, the incentive to get ahead of the other
+fellow and the ignorance that they are wasting their own substance have
+caused many quahaugers in the past to do this at many places.
+
+The 1½-inch quahaug law has been for years a law for many towns
+in the State. It has been practically a dead letter in all but
+Edgartown, where it is enforced thoroughly. There should be a State law
+restricting the size of the quahaugs taken.
+
+(2) The enforcement of a 1½-inch clam law, especially in the towns of
+Fall River and Swansea, where the digging has reduced the clams to a
+small size, likewise deserves immediate attention.
+
+All the present evils have each contributed their share toward the
+ruin of the shellfisheries, and can be best summed up under one head,
+_i.e._, the abuse of nature. All the above evils have either directly
+or indirectly worked towards this end. This "abuse of nature" has
+resulted in several ways: (1) indiscriminate fishing, restricted by no
+laws, augmented by unwise laws; (2) overfishing in certain localities
+until the supply is exhausted, as, among other instances, with the
+Essex clam flats and the natural oyster beds of the Weweantit River;
+(3) exploiting and wasting the natural resources, so that nature cannot
+repair the inroads. Nature cannot cope with despoiling man,--man must
+assist nature.
+
+In the past there has been much feeling, especially among the clammers
+of the north shore, against the Fish and Game Commission. It therefore
+is necessary to correct a mistaken impression, which has arisen among
+the clammers, that "the State is going to take the clam flats away from
+us." This idea is on the face of it absurd. The Massachusetts Fish
+and Game Commission is seeking only to have this question solved in
+such a manner as to yield the most satisfactory results for the public
+good. At the present time it would be highly undesirable to take the
+complete control of the shellfisheries from any town, as long as that
+town shows itself capable of regulating them wisely. At the present day
+but few towns show any signs of this. What is necessary and desirable
+is to have an intelligent supervisory body, with power to compel each
+town to take proper care of its shellfisheries. It is advisable that
+there be a central power, co-operating with the town control in all
+matters pertaining to the shellfisheries, whether it be regulations or
+the restocking of barren areas. A board of arbitration, a committee
+of appeal for any grievance under the town control, and a commission
+that would act for the interests of the whole State, are what is
+most desirable at the present time. Such an arrangement would not be
+changing radically the present system of town control, but it would
+free it from its existing evils, place it on a firm and just basis, and
+give the shellfisheries a chance for improvement.
+
+
+THE FISHERMAN AND LAWS.
+
+The fisherman of to-day, though nominally his own master, is in reality
+subject to the demands of the market. To gain a living he is forced to
+work in all kinds of weather, at cold, disagreeable work. Under the
+present system he is oppressed by useless special town laws, which
+merely increase his daily labors without benefiting the fishery in the
+least. A few good laws only are necessary for the shellfisheries. It
+is time that the fisherman, one of the great factors in the commercial
+supremacy of Massachusetts, should be freed from all unnecessary
+burdens through a new system of satisfactory laws.
+
+
+THE REMEDY.
+
+In spite of all the existing evils of the town shellfisheries,
+the outlook is far from hopeless. To-day the shellfisheries of
+Massachusetts, owing to great natural resources, are as good or better
+than those of any other coast States, and only await development
+under proper methods to ensure a bright future. The Commissioners on
+Fisheries and Game can only point the way of reform; the result lies
+in the hands of the intelligent voters of this Commonwealth, whose
+action decides the future success or failure of the shellfisheries. It
+should be the object of every thinking voter, whether he be fisherman
+or consumer, to see that the right action be taken in regard to the
+shellfisheries.
+
+As shown in the preceding pages of this report, the attempted remedy
+has been based upon the false economic basis of attempting to check the
+demand by prohibiting digging for certain periods (closed seasons),
+limiting the amount to be legally dug by any one person, etc. It would
+be quite as logical for a town or city to prohibit by by-laws the use
+or digging of potatoes or any other food crop, when the supply was
+short, rather than to attempt to _increase_ the supply. An increasing
+demand cannot be checked by any such ill-advised measures, but can be
+met only by a corresponding increase in the natural production. The
+only remedy that can be applied successfully is shellfish culture,
+which means the utilizing of thousands of acres of barren shore area
+for the planting of farms which will furnish harvests of shellfish. In
+this way the latent potentialities of nature, which it is criminal to
+neglect, will be utilized for the good of the entire population of the
+State. /#
+
+We learn from the dictionaries that a farm is defined to be a tract
+of land under one control, devoted to agriculture, etc.; and that
+agriculture is the cultivation of the soil for food products or other
+useful or valuable growths. All this is very familiar knowledge, as
+applied to the dry land; but that there may fairly be brought within
+these definitions the operations of an industry in which lands covered
+by the salt waters of our bays and harbors are tilled, cultivated,
+raked, harrowed and planted with seedling bivalves, and harvests of a
+valuable product garnered, constituting a superb food for the masses,
+is less familiar, and to many may seem quite astonishing. It is within
+a comparatively few years that this unique style of farming has had its
+growth and development, until now many thousands of acres of land under
+water have been carefully surveyed, and the boundaries marked by buoys
+and stakes.[6]
+
+To bring the shellfisheries of Massachusetts to their maximum
+production will take years, but within five years the production can
+be nearly doubled, if work in the right direction is begun at once.
+Patience will be required to overcome the obstacles which must be met,
+and the change must necessarily be gradual.
+
+Every year the difficulties of reform increase. Owing to a steadily
+increasing demand, the natural supply is becoming smaller, and
+consequently the difficulty of increasing it becomes so much the
+harder. Soon the line of possibility will be crossed, and the
+shellfisheries will become an industry of the past. A few shellfish
+will always remain, but as an important industry, the shellfisheries,
+if no remedy is applied, in twenty-five years will be commercially
+extinct. While there is still time, let action be taken.
+
+The utilization of the barren shellfish areas, wise laws, good
+regulations and systematic methods of culture are necessary, in
+order to obtain the maximum production from these sea farms. The sea
+farm possesses one advantage over the ordinary farm,--the soil never
+becomes exhausted, as the shellfish derive their sustenance from the
+water, utilizing indirectly the waste nitrates of the land. To do this
+it is necessary that shellfish culture be at once begun, either by
+individuals or by towns.
+
+Three methods of shellfish culture offer ways of approach towards the
+utilization of the waste areas:--
+
+(1) To leave the matter wholly in the hands of the town. This is the
+poorest way, as has been shown in the past. Unless the town officials
+were well informed about the shellfisheries, it would be an absurd
+farce to entrust the future of this important industry wholly in their
+hands.
+
+(2) Place all power with the State, instead of with the town. Have
+a unified and simplified system, whereby shellfish farms and grants
+can be leased by the individuals. This plan, much better than the
+first, and possibly the final solution, is, however, not practical of
+application to the existing conditions. Later, when these conditions
+are removed, it may prove the best solution of the problem.
+
+(3) The present system of town control to remain. The appointment of
+the Fish and Game Commission, or a similar commission, to have complete
+advisory power over the towns, and power to force each town to properly
+protect its shellfish. A State law would be passed, legalizing grants
+to individuals and dividing the flats into two equal parts,--public
+and private. The leasing of grants would be in the hands of the town
+authorities, but subject to appeal for any grievance to the Fish and
+Game Commission.
+
+In the chapter relating to each shellfish will be given the practical
+methods of cultivation for reclaiming the waste areas. These methods
+have been proved by the experimental work of this commission,
+the results of which may be published in a subsequent scientific
+report upon the shellfish. The commission has definitely shown that
+shellfish culture in Massachusetts is a possibility, and, moreover, a
+remunerative possibility.
+
+
+WHO WOULD BENEFIT?
+
+(1) Under the proposed system of practical shellfish culture, many
+classes of people would be benefited. The person who would be primarily
+benefited is the fisherman. In the following ways the condition of
+the industrious fisherman would be bettered: (_a_) his work would be
+steady, not uncertain; (_b_) he would know his exact annual income, and
+could govern his living expenses accordingly; (_c_) he would receive
+more money, with less hardship; (_d_) he would ensure steady market
+returns, which under the present system are very uncertain; (e) he
+would be his own master, and not forced to work for poor pay, under the
+stress of wasteful competition.
+
+(2) The shellfisheries are not for any particular class, but should
+benefit all, and any improvement in the industry affects all people. A
+second class would also be benefited by an increase in the shellfish
+industries. This class can be divided into two groups: (_a_) those
+directly influenced; (_b_) those indirectly. In the first group are
+the middlemen,--dealers. By an increased trade, more firms enter the
+business, more men are hired, etc. Comprising the second group are
+teamsters, coopers, shop owners, sailors, transportation lines,--an
+indefinite list, which would be indirectly benefited by an increase in
+the shellfish industry.
+
+(3) Thirdly, the consumer would receive the benefit of improved quality
+of goods, reasonable prices, etc. Through increased transportation
+facilities the inland consumer would have the pleasure of partaking of
+sea food, and what were once the luxuries of the rich could be had by
+all.
+
+
+CAPITAL.
+
+Capital is needed for the best success of any business. In a broad
+sense, the tools, implements, etc., of the shellfisherman are capital.
+In the future, if the shellfisheries are to become a great industry,
+money as working capital is indispensable. Blind objection to the
+employment of capital on the part of the fishermen works against the
+best interests of the shellfisheries.
+
+
+SHELLFISH MONOPOLY.
+
+For years the fishermen have feared that the shellfisheries would
+fall into the hands of a few companies or trusts, and the individual
+fisherman thereby lose his independence. As the present age tends
+toward the formation of monopolies in all business, the fears of the
+fishermen are not altogether groundless in this respect; nevertheless,
+while there are certain chances of monopoly in the shellfisheries,
+these chances are very small. In the first place, a monopoly of a raw
+edible product, such as shellfish, is hardly possible. Never can it
+be possible for any one company to control all or the majority of a
+shellfish supply, which possesses unlimited possibilities of expansion.
+
+Secondly, there are but two ways in which a monopoly of the
+shellfisheries can be obtained: one is the control of the market by
+buying up all the shellfish,--a thing far easier under the present
+conditions; the other, by buying through contract the rights of the
+individual planters. The success of such an enterprise would depend
+wholly upon the personnel of the shellfishermen, and such a result
+could never become possible if each shellfisherman would refuse to sell
+his rights.
+
+
+SUMMARY.
+
+This survey has shown (1) that the shellfisheries have declined (an
+established fact); (2) that the causes of the decline are overfishing
+and unwise laws; (3) that the remedy is, not to check the demand,
+as has been previously attempted, but to increase the production
+by the utilization of vast areas of barren flats, which have been
+experimentally proved capable of yielding a great harvest; (4) that the
+present chaotic laws render this impossible; (5) that there is a need
+of reform, or else the shellfisheries will soon disappear; (6) that the
+first step is the removal of these laws to permit the application of
+proper cultural methods.
+
+FOOTNOTES:
+
+[1] Gulf Biologic Station, Cameron, La., Bulletin No. 3, 1905.
+
+[2] Returns of Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Game.
+
+[3] United States Fish Commission Pamphlet, 1898.
+
+[4] New York Shellfish Report, p. 7.
+
+[5] Report on the Shellfisheries, pp. 33-35.
+
+[6] Forest, Fish and Game Commission Bulletin, Shellfish Culture in New
+York, 1905. By B. Frank Wood.
+
+
+
+
+QUAHAUG (_Venus mercenaria_).
+
+
+Inhabiting common waters with the scallop, the northern range of the
+quahaug (the hard-shell clam or "little neck") in Massachusetts is
+Plymouth. Commercially it is found both on the north and south side
+of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay, the principal fisheries being at
+Wellfleet, Orleans, Edgartown, Nantucket and in Buzzards Bay.
+
+The quahaug, while essentially a southern and warm-water form, being
+found in the United States along the Atlantic seacoast as far south
+as the Gulf of Mexico, practically reaches its northern range in
+Massachusetts. In a few sheltered bays on the Maine coast quahaugs are
+sometimes found, but in small quantities. However, at Prince Edward
+Island there is said to be an abundance.
+
+Along the coast of Massachusetts north of Boston very few quahaugs
+are found, although they were formerly taken near Salem. The black
+quahaug (_Cyprina islandica_), so called from its dark epidermis, is
+often caught in the trawls, but this is a deep-sea form, and by no
+means a true quahaug. In Essex and Ipswich rivers and on Plum Island
+experimental beds have shown that quahaugs grow in these waters, but
+no spawn has yet been noticed, though ripe eggs were developed in the
+planted quahaugs. Owing to the swift currents, which carry the spawn
+perhaps for miles, it is impossible to determine accurately whether any
+set has taken place.
+
+During the past three years, as outlined by chapter 78, Resolves
+of 1905, the Fish and Game Commission has conducted a series of
+experiments upon the quahaug, designated to furnish sufficient data
+concerning the growth of this mollusk under a variety of conditions, to
+demonstrate the possibilities and value of practical quahaug farming.
+The results of these investigations upon the life, habits and culture
+of the quahaug are to be published in a later scientific report. It is
+necessary here to say that all statements in this report concerning
+the growth and culture of quahaugs have been proved by experiments,
+the results of which are on file at the office of the department of
+fisheries and game.
+
+It is the object of this report to present both to the fishermen and
+consumers (1) actual statistical figures of the industry of the State
+for 1907; (2) a biological survey of the quahauging areas, outlined
+by maps and descriptions; (3) a description of the industry. This
+survey should furnish a basis for determining any decline or advance
+in the quahaug industry of the future, as well as affording comparison
+with the United States Fish Commission survey of 1879, made by Ernest
+Ingersoll.
+
+Massachusetts, situated at the northern limit of the quahaug industry
+of the United States, is handicapped in comparison with other States,
+as only the southern waters of the State are given to this industry.
+Nevertheless, though possessing only a partial industry, Massachusetts
+ranks the fourth State in quahaug production, according to the 1906
+report of the United States Fish Commission.
+
+The same natural conditions which suit so well the shallow-water
+scallop are also adapted to the growth of the quahaug. In nearly
+all the sheltered bays, inlets and rivers of the southern coast
+of Massachusetts the quahaug can be found in varying abundance.
+Technically, there is more territory which admits the possibility of
+quahaug growth than of any other shellfish. The bathymetric range of
+the quahaug is extensive, as the quahaug is raked in all depths of
+water up to 50 feet. In spite of the vast territory nature has provided
+for the quahaug in the waters of Massachusetts, the commercial fishery
+is found only in small parts of this large area. Scattered quahaugs
+are found over the rest of the area, but in paying quantities only in
+limited places.
+
+The possibilities of developing this great natural tract of quahaug
+ground are especially alluring,--far more so than any of the other
+shellfisheries. The quahaug has a greater area, greater possible
+expansion and a more profitable market. Nature has equipped southern
+Massachusetts with numerous bays with remarkable facilities for the
+production of quahaugs; it only remains for man to make the most of
+these.
+
+_Method of Work._--The method of work used in preparing this portion of
+the report varied but little from that relating to the other shellfish,
+though several features made it harder to obtain accurate information.
+There is a more general obscurity about the history of the quahaug than
+about any of the other shellfish, even though the quahaug industry is
+commercially the youngest of all. This is due, perhaps, to the gradual
+rise of the industry through the discovery of new territory. The only
+historical record obtainable is E. Ingersoll's report on the quahaug,
+in 1879, in which he deals briefly with the industry in Massachusetts.
+Town records help but little in determining the history of the
+industry, as only of late years have the towns required the taking of
+permits.
+
+In making the biological survey, the difficulty arises of defining what
+constitutes quahaug ground, since scattering quahaugs are found over
+vast territories, but only limited areas are commercially productive.
+The estimates of the quahaugers, both historically and in regard to
+production and areas, are often erroneous and vary greatly. By the use
+of market reports, express shipments, estimates of dealers, estimates
+of several reliable quahaugers, and all methods at our command, the
+facts of the industry were compiled and errors eliminated as far as
+possible. The home consumption is hard to determine, and is merely an
+estimate. The area of the quahaug territory was plotted on the map,
+and calculations made from the plots. Whenever personal inspection was
+not possible, as in Falmouth, the estimates of several quahaugers were
+taken.
+
+
+_Results._
+
+1. _Is the Quahaug Fishery declining?_--The decline of the quahaug
+fishery is well recognized. Even the production figures, which,
+when stimulated by high prices, usually give a deceptive appearance
+of prosperity to a declining industry, since more men enter the
+fishery, show a decline in the last few years. When such a point is
+reached,--when, in spite of higher prices and more men, the annual
+production becomes less and less,--not many years will pass before the
+industry will collapse completely.
+
+Increased prices show either an increase in demand or a falling off of
+the supply. Both are perhaps true of the quahaug industry. The demand,
+especially for "little necks," has been steadily on the increase, and a
+broad inland market is gradually opening, since the quahaug is capable
+of long transportation without perishing. So the increased prices are
+a sign of the diminution of the supply, as well as of an increased
+demand, the indeterminable factor being what ratio the one bears to the
+other.
+
+The only way to determine accurately the decline in the natural supply
+is to compare the amount the average quahauger could dig ten or twenty
+years ago with the amount dug to-day. Even this comparison is unfair,
+as the better rakes, improved methods, etc., of the present time tend
+to increase the daily yield of the quahauger.
+
+This decline can best be shown by taking special localities:--
+
+(1) _Buzzards Bay._--The quahaug industry in Buzzards Bay has shown
+a great decline in the past ten to twenty years, and the industry is
+now at a low ebb, especially in the towns of Marion and Mattapoisett.
+Wareham, Bourne and Fairhaven still manage to ship about 27,000 bushels
+annually, employing over 200 men; but this is hardly up to their former
+standard. To-day at Wareham the daily catch per man is one-fifth of
+what it was twenty years ago; in 1887 a man could dig 5 bushels to a
+catch of 1 bushel now. Buzzards Bay perhaps has shown the greatest
+quahaug decline.
+
+(2) _South Side of Cape Cod._--While not so marked a decline has taken
+place as in Buzzards Bay, every quahauger agrees that the industry is
+gradually failing. In Bass River, at Hyannis, and in Chatham, there
+is a marked decrease, while at Cotuit and Osterville the industry has
+remained stationary.
+
+(3) _North Side of Cape Cod._--The best quahaug fishery of
+Massachusetts, except at Edgartown, is found on the north side of Cape
+Cod, in the towns of Wellfleet, Eastham and Orleans. These three towns
+give an annual yield of 75,000 bushels. Only about fifteen years old
+commercially, the industry has passed its prime and is on the decline.
+This decline is shown both by production figures and by the gradual
+moving to deeper water. As the quahaugs were thinned out in shallow
+water, the fishermen moved farther and farther out, using long rakes,
+until 60-foot rakes are now used at a depth of 50 feet. Probably the
+60-foot limit will never be exceeded, unless a method of dredging is
+devised; and it will be only a question of years when the industry will
+become extinct.
+
+(4) _Nantucket._--The industry here has generally declined, though in
+the last few years there has been a slight increase in production.
+
+(5) _Edgartown._--The quahaug industry at Edgartown has declined
+little, if any, while the fishery has been carried on for many years.
+The natural resources have not been seriously impaired, owing to the
+efficient town management; and Edgartown can be congratulated on being
+the only town in the State that can boast of a protected industry.
+
+Although the quahaug industry has not openly shown the tendency to
+decline that the soft clam has manifested in southern Massachusetts,
+the danger is nevertheless very great, and the disaster would be far
+worse. The fishermen of Cape Cod realize that the clam industry has
+practically gone; but they are blind to the fact that a far more
+important one--the quahaug industry--is in as grave danger, and only
+when it is too late will they wake to a realization of the situation.
+
+The clam industry on Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay will never assume the
+importance it possesses on the north shore, owing to lack of extensive
+flats. Rather the quahaug industry is the main shellfish industry of
+the south shore, as it is more valuable, more important, and capable of
+vast expansion. The development of the quahaug industry should bring
+many hundred thousand dollars to Cape Cod.
+
+II. _Causes of the Decline._--The direct cause is overfishing. The
+quahaug is hardy, little harmed by climatic changes, and has but few
+natural enemies. Man alone has caused the decline of the natural
+supply. Not satisfied with taking the mediums and large quahaugs,
+but spurred on by the high prices offered for the "little neck,"
+the quahaug fisherman has cleaned up everything he can get, and the
+natural supply has suffered greatly. If the market demands the capture
+of the "little neck," it is necessary to leave the large quahaugs as
+"spawners." At the present time, by the capture of both the industry is
+being ruined.
+
+
+_The Remedy._--_Quahaug Farming._
+
+There is only _one way_ in which the present decline can be checked,
+and that is, to increase the natural supply by cultural methods to meet
+the demands of the market. The only way to accomplish this increase
+is to plant and raise quahaugs,--in fact, have a system of _quahaug
+farming_ for the whole south shore of Massachusetts. In considering
+quahaug farming, many questions naturally arise: (1) Is quahaug farming
+an established fact, or a mere theory? (2) Possibilities of quahaug
+farming. (3) What is the growth of the quahaug, and how long does it
+take to raise a crop? (4) What is the value of a quahaug farm? (5) What
+benefits would the quahaug industry receive from such a system?
+
+(1) _Quahaug Farming an Established Fact,--not a Theory._--It is
+not the object of this report to go into a scientific treatise upon
+experiments in quahaug culture. For the past three years the Commission
+on Fisheries and Game has been conducting experiments upon the growth
+and culture of quahaugs, the results of which will be published in a
+subsequent report. These experiments have shown that quahaug farming is
+no theory, but an established fact, and that, if taken up, it will make
+the quahaug fishery the most important shellfish industry of the State.
+These experiments, consisting of small beds one one-thousandth of an
+acre in area, were located at different places along the coast. Various
+conditions in regard to food, current, tide, soil, etc., were tested.
+The results from nearly every bed were excellent, and showed the ease
+of culture and the great profit which would result if larger areas were
+thus worked.
+
+The results obtained from the experiments of the commission alone are
+sufficient to prove the practicability of quahaug farming, even if
+there were no other proofs. As it is, there have been many tests made
+by the oystermen, both outside and inside the State. Some years ago the
+oystermen near New York realized the possibilities of raising quahaugs
+on their oyster grants, and to-day Massachusetts ships many barrels of
+"seed" quahaugs out of the State to these far-sighted business men,
+who reap large returns by replanting these small "little necks." The
+Massachusetts oystermen have not been slow to realize the large returns
+afforded by quahaug culture, and some have planted many bushels of the
+"seed," thus turning their grants into partial quahaug farms. These
+men have proved that this style of farming is practical, and that as a
+money-making proposition the quahaug is far ahead of the oyster.
+
+As affairs exist to-day in Massachusetts, a few men alone have the
+privilege of raising quahaugs, while the rest stand idle. Theoretically
+and legally, no one has the right to plant and raise quahaugs in the
+State; but practically and secretly it is done with great success.
+Who can blame the oysterman for raising quahaugs with his oysters, in
+view of the fast-declining quahaug industry? Rather by so doing he is
+helping perpetuate the natural supply. The objection to this present
+system of secret quahaug farming is its unfairness. A few men are
+enjoying the privileges that many others should likewise enjoy. There
+is plenty of room, and quahaug farming might as well be carried on
+openly, to the benefit of all.
+
+While the oystermen have made a move toward general quahaug farming,
+and have shown the great possibilities that this system possesses, the
+quahaugers have also exhibited a tendency in a similar direction. The
+originators of the town law in Eastham, Orleans and Wellfleet, which
+provides for the leasing of 5,625 square feet of flat for bedding the
+catch, and thus makes possible the advantage of a favorable market,
+probably did not imagine that this was the first great step on the part
+of the quahaugers towards shellfish farming. The success of this scheme
+has here opened the eyes of the intelligent quahaugers to the even
+better possibilities of quahaug culture, and any well-devised scheme of
+shellfish farming will be favorably received.
+
+The main impulse that makes people turn to quahaug culture is the
+steady decline of the industry, especially during the last few years.
+In the previous pages of this report there have been shown: (1) the
+actuality of the decline; (2) the causes of this decline. The proof
+of the decline is so generally apparent that it has created a popular
+demand for a fair system of quahaug farming, to check the diminution of
+the present supply.
+
+(2) _Possibilities of Quahaug Farming._--The quahaug has a wide range;
+it is found in all depths of water, from high tide line to sixty feet,
+and in various kinds of mud and sand bottom. This natural adaptability
+gives the quahaug a wider area than any other shellfish, as it will
+live in nearly any bottom, although the rate of growth depends
+essentially upon its location in respect to current. This permits the
+utilization of vast areas which to-day are unproductive, and which
+can all be made into profitable quahaug farms. Quahaugs will grow on
+thousands of acres of flats, such as the Common Flats of Chatham, if
+they are planted. There are indefinite possibilities of expansion in
+quahaug farming through the reclamation of this unproductive sea bottom.
+
+(3) _Rate of Growth of Quahaug._--The rate of growth of the quahaug
+varies greatly in regard to its location in respect to the current.
+The quahaugs which have the better current or circulation of water
+show the faster growth. The fastest growth recorded by the experiments
+of the Department on Fisheries and Game was a gain of 1 inch a year;
+_i.e._, 1½-inch quahaugs attained in one year a length of 2½ inches.
+The average growth is between ½ and ¾ inch a year, or a yield of 3 to 5
+bushels for every bushel planted, or the return in one year of $4 for
+every $1 invested. In the more favorable localities there would be the
+enormous gain of $8 for every dollar invested. All this can be done in
+six months, as the quahaug grows only during the six summer months. The
+above figures are taken from experiments which have been conducted on
+Cape Cod, in Buzzards Bay and at Nantucket.
+
+(4) _Value of a Quahaug Farm._--An acre of "little-neck" quahaugs has a
+high market value. A conservative estimate of 10 per square foot gives
+the yield in one year of 2½-inch quahaugs as 600 bushels per acre; This
+means that 120 bushels of 1¾-inch quahaugs were planted to the acre.
+The price paid for the same would be $600, at the high price of $5 per
+bushel. The price received for the same, at $3 per bushel, would bring
+$1,800, or a gain of $3 for every $1 invested. This is a conservative
+estimate on all sides. Quahaugs could be planted two or three times
+as thick, seed might be purchased for less money, more money might be
+received for private shipments, and faster growth can be obtained. The
+only labor necessary is gathering the quahaugs for market. The quahaug
+farm requires no such care as the agricultural farm, and offers far
+more profit.
+
+(5) _Advantage of Quahaug Culture._--The quahaug is the most
+remunerative of any of our shellfish. It possesses several advantages
+over the oyster: (1) it is hardier,--less influenced by climatic
+conditions; (2) it has fewer enemies, as it lies protected under the
+sand; (3) it possesses a market the whole year; (4) there is more money
+for the planter in raising "little necks" than in raising oysters. If
+oyster culture has succeeded in Massachusetts, there is no question
+that, given a proper chance, quahaug culture can be put on a firm
+basis, and made the leading shellfish industry of Massachusetts. The
+value of the present quahaug industry lies chiefly in the production of
+"little necks." Under a cultural system of quahaug farms, this could be
+made a specialty. Old quahaugs would be kept as "seeders," and "little
+necks" alone raised for the market. The advantage of furnishing "little
+necks" of uniform size would lead to increased prices; steady customers
+would be obtained and certainty of production guaranteed. All the
+advantages lie with quahaug farming, as opposed to the present method
+of "free-for-all" digging.
+
+The quahaug industry of the future, if put on a cultural basis, will
+not only check the decline of a valuable industry, but will increase
+the present production many fold. A far larger supply, work for more
+men and better prices for the consumer will result.
+
+(6) _Spat Collecting._--The main obstacle that stands in the way
+of permanent quahaug culture is a lack of sufficient young "seed"
+quahaugs. While several heavy sets have been recorded, the "seed"
+quahaugs are never found in vast quantities, as are the young of the
+soft clam (_Mya arenaria_). The set of quahaugs is usually scattering
+and slight. A method of spat collecting, _i.e._, catching the spawn and
+raising the small quahaugs, is alone necessary for the complete success
+of quahaug culture. While nothing of practical importance has yet been
+found, indications are favorable that some means will be devised in the
+next few years, and that quantities of young quahaugs can be raised.
+Experiments have already shown that as many as 75 can be caught per
+square foot in box spat collectors; but a more practical method than
+this must be found to make the business profitable.
+
+
+_The Quahaug Industry._
+
+_Methods of Capture._--Several methods of taking quahaugs are in vogue
+in Massachusetts, some simple and primitive, others more advanced and
+complex, but all modifications of simple raking or digging. These
+methods have arisen with the development of the industry, and record
+the historical changes in the quahaug fishery, as each new fishery or
+separate locality demands some modification of the usual methods.
+
+(1) "_Treading._"--The early settlers in Massachusetts quickly learned
+from the Indians the primitive method of "treading" quahaugs, which
+required no implements except the hands and feet. The "treader" catches
+the quahaug by wading about in the water, feeling for them with his
+toes in the soft mud, and then picking them up by hand. Nowhere in
+Massachusetts is it used as a method of commercial fishery.
+
+(2) _Tidal Flat Fishery._--Often quahaugs are found on the exposed
+tidal flats, where they can sometimes be taken by hand, but more
+often with ordinary clam hoes or short rakes. Owing to the scarcity
+of quahaugs between the tide lines, this method does not pay for
+market fishing, and is only resorted to by people who dig for home
+consumption.
+
+(3) _Tonging._--In most parts of Buzzards Bay and in a few places
+on Cape Cod quahaugs are taken with _oyster tongs_. This method is
+applicable only in water less than 12 feet deep, as the longest tongs
+measure but 16 feet. Four sizes of tongs are used, 8, 10, 12 and 16
+feet in length. Tonging is carried on in the small coves and inlets,
+where there is little if any rough water. A muddy bottom is usually
+preferable, as a firm, hard soil increases the labor of manipulating
+the tongs, which are used in the same manner as in tonging oysters.
+
+(4) _Raking._--The most universal method of taking quahaugs is with
+rakes. This method is used in every quahaug locality in Massachusetts,
+each town having its special kind of rake. Four main types of rakes can
+be recognized:--
+
+(_a_) _The Digger._--In some localities, chiefly in Buzzards Bay,
+the ordinary potato digger or rake, having four or five long, thin
+prongs, is used. Usually it has a back of wire netting, which holds the
+quahaugs when caught by the prongs. As the digger has a short handle
+of 5 feet, it can be used only in shallow water, where the quahauger,
+wading in the water, turns out the quahaugs with this narrow rake. This
+method yields but a scanty return, and is more often used for home
+consumption than for market.
+
+(_b_) _The Garden Rake._--The ordinary garden rake, equipped with a
+basket back of wire netting, is in more general use in shallow water,
+either by wading or from a boat, as it has the advantage of being wider
+than the potato digger.
+
+(_c_) _The Claw Rake._--This type of rake varies in size, width and
+length of handle. It is used chiefly at Nantucket. The usual style has
+a handle 6 feet long, while the iron part in the form of a claw or
+talon is 10 inches wide, with prongs 1 inch apart. Heavier rakes with
+longer handles are sometimes used for deep water, but for shallow water
+the usual form is the short-claw rake.
+
+(_d_) _The Basket Rake._-The greater part of the quahaug production is
+taken from deep water, with the basket rake. These rakes have handles
+running from 23 to 65 feet in length, according to the depth of water
+over the beds. Where the water is of various depths, several detachable
+handles of various lengths are used. At the end of these long handles
+is a small cross-piece, similar to the cross-piece of a lawn mower;
+this enables the quahauger to obtain a strong pull when raking. The
+handles are made of strong wood, and are very thin and flexible, not
+exceeding 1½ inches in diameter. The price of these handles varies
+according to the length, but the average price is about $2. As the long
+handles break very easily, great care must be taken in raking.
+
+Three forms of the basket rake are used in Massachusetts. These
+rakes vary greatly in form and size, and it is merely a question of
+opinion which variety is the best, as all are made on the same general
+principle,--a curved, basket-shaped body, the bottom edge of which is
+set with thin steel teeth.
+
+_The Wellfleet and Chatham Rake._--This rake is perhaps the most
+generally used for all deep-water quahauging on Cape Cod, and finds
+favor with all. It consists of an iron framework, forming a curved
+bowl, the under edge of which is set with thin steel teeth varying
+in length from 2 to 4 inches, though usually 2½-inch teeth are the
+favorite. Formerly these teeth were made of iron, but owing to the
+rapid wear it was found necessary to make them of steel. Over the bowl
+of this rake, which is strengthened by side and cross pieces of iron,
+is fitted a twine net, which, like the net of a scallop dredge, drags
+behind the framework. An average rake has from 19 to 21 teeth, and
+weighs from 15 to 20 pounds.
+
+_Edgartown Basket Rake._--The basket rake used at Edgartown and
+Nantucket is lighter and somewhat smaller than the Wellfleet rake. The
+whole rake, except the teeth, is made of iron. No netting is required,
+as thin iron wires 1/3 inch apart encircle lengthwise the whole basket,
+preventing the escape of any marketable quahaug, and at the same time
+allowing the mud to wash out. This rake has 16 steel teeth, 1½ inches
+long, fitted at intervals of 1 inch in the bottom scraping bar, which
+is 16 inches long; the depth of the basket is about 8 inches. Much
+shorter poles, not exceeding 30 feet in length, are used with this
+rake, and the whole rake is much lighter. The price of this rake is
+$7.50, while the poles cost $1.50.
+
+The third form of basket rake is a cross between the basket and claw
+rakes. This rake is used both at Nantucket and on Cape Cod, but is not
+so popular as the other types. The basket is formed by the curve of
+the prongs, which are held together by two long cross-bars at the top
+and bottom of the basket, while the ends are enclosed by short strips
+of iron. This rake exemplifies the transition stage between the claw
+and basket types, indicating that the basket form was derived from the
+former. Handles 20 to 30 feet long are generally used with these rakes.
+
+_Shallow v. Deep Water Quahauging._--Two kinds of quahauging are found
+in Massachusetts,--the deep and the shallow water fisheries. This
+arbitrary distinction also permits a division of localities in regard
+to the principal methods of fishing. Although in all localities there
+exists more or less shallow-water fishing, the main quahaug industry of
+several towns is the deep-water fishery. In all the Buzzards Bay towns
+except Fairhaven and New Bedford the shallow-water fishery prevails;
+this is also true of the south side of Cape Cod. On the north side
+of Cape Cod the opposite is true, as the quahauging at Wellfleet,
+Eastham, Orleans and Brewster is practically all deep-water fishing. At
+Edgartown and Nantucket, although there is considerable shallow-water
+digging, the deep-water fishery is the more important.
+
+The deep-water fishery is vastly more productive than the shallow-water
+industry, furnishing annually 118,500 bushels, compared to 23,227
+bushels, or more than 5 times as much. The deep-water fishery, _i.e._,
+the basket-rake fishery, is the main quahaug fishery of the State, and
+each year it is increasing, because of the opening of new beds. On the
+other hand, the shallow-water grounds are rapidly becoming barren from
+overfishing.
+
+The deep-water quahauging is harder work, requires considerable capital
+but has fewer working days. Naturally the earnings from this fishery
+should surpass those of the shallow-water industry. The deep-water
+quahauger averages from $5 to $8 for a working day, while the
+shallow-water fisherman earns only from $2 to $3 per day.
+
+_Deep-water Quahauging._--Both power and sail boats are used in
+deep-water quahauging, though power is gradually replacing the old
+method of sailing, because of its increased efficiency and saving of
+time. When the quahaug grounds are reached, the boat is anchored at
+both bow and stern, one continuous rope connecting both anchors, which
+are from 500 to 600 feet apart, in such a way that the bow of the
+boat is always headed against the tide. A sufficient amount of slack
+is required for the proper handling of the boat, which can be moved
+along this anchor "road" as on a cable, and a large territory raked.
+The rake is lowered from the bow of the boat, the length of the handle
+being regulated by the depth of the water, and the teeth worked into
+the sandy or muddy bottom. The quahauger then takes firm hold of the
+cross-piece at the end of the handle, and works the rake back to the
+stern of the boat, where it is hauled in and the contents dumped on the
+culling board or picked out of the net. In hauling in the net the rake
+is turned so that the opening is on top, and the mud and sand is washed
+out before it is taken on board. The long pole passes across the boat
+and extends into the water on the opposite side when the rake is hauled
+in. This process is repeated until the immediate locality becomes
+unprofitable, when the boat is shifted along the cable.
+
+The usual time for quahauging is from half ebb to half flood tide, thus
+avoiding the extra labor of high-water raking. Deep-water raking is
+especially hard labor, and six hours constitute a good day's work.
+
+_Boats._--Nearly all kinds of boats are utilized in the quahaug
+fishery, and are of all values, from the $10 second-hand skiff to
+the 38-foot power seine boat, which costs $1,500. The shallow-water
+industry requires but little invested capital. Dories and skiffs are
+the principal boats, costing from $10 to $25. Occasionally a sail
+or power boat may be used in this fishery. The deep-water industry
+requires larger and stronger boats. These are either power or sail
+boats, often auxiliary "cats," and their value runs anywhere from $150
+to $1,500. The average price for the sail boats is $250, while the
+power boats are assessed at $350. At Orleans several large power seine
+boats, valued at about $1,500, are used in the quahaug fishery. These
+seine boats are 30 to 38 feet over all, have low double cabins, and are
+run by 8 to 12 horse-power gasolene engines. The ordinary power boats
+have gasolene engines from 2 to 6 horse-power. In this way each method
+of quahauging has its own boats, which are adapted for its needs.
+
+_Dredging._--So far as known, dredging is never used in quahauging
+in Massachusetts, although it is sometimes used on sea-clam beds. It
+has been tried, but without success, chiefly because of the uneven
+nature of the bottom. The invention of a suitable dredge is necessary,
+and there can be little doubt that in the future, if this difficulty
+is overcome, dredging will be used in the quahaug fishery. In 1879
+Mr. Ernest Ingersoll reports in Rhode Island the use of a quahaug
+dredge similar in structure to our rake. Evidently this form was never
+especially successful, possibly because these dredges could not be
+dragged by sail boats.
+
+_Outfit of a Quahauger._--The implements and boats used in quahauging
+have already been mentioned. The outfit of the average quahauger in
+each fishery is here summarized:--
+
+                        _Deep-water Quahauging._
+
+  Boat,                                          $300
+  2 rakes,                                         20
+  3 poles,                                          6
+                                                -----
+                                                 $326
+
+                      _Shallow-water Quahauging._
+
+  Boat,                                           $20
+  Tongs or rakes,                                   3
+  Baskets,                                          2
+                                                -----
+                                                  $25
+
+_Season._--The quahaug fishery is essentially a summer fishery, and
+little if any is done during the winter. The season in Massachusetts
+lasts for seven months, usually starting the last of March or the
+first of April, and ending about the first of November. The opening of
+the spring season varies several weeks, owing to the severity of the
+weather; and the same is true of the closing of the season.
+
+As a rule, the Buzzards Bay industry, where digging is done in the
+shallow waters of protected bays and coves, using short rakes and
+tongs, has a longer season than the quahaug industry of Cape Cod, where
+the fishery is carried on in deep and open waters. With the former,
+the cold work and hardship alone force the quahaugers to stop fishing,
+a long time after storms and rough weather have brought the latter
+industry to an end.
+
+The actual working days of the deep-water quahauger number hardly over
+100 per season, while those of the shallow-water fishermen easily
+outnumber 150. The deep-water quahauger's daily earnings are two or
+three times the daily wages of the shallow-water quahauger, but the
+additional number of working days in part make up this difference.
+
+The quahaug season can be divided arbitrarily into three parts: (1)
+spring; (2) summer; (3) fall. The spring season lasts from April 1 to
+June 15, the summer season from June 15 to September 15, and the fall
+season from September 15 to November 1. These seasons are marked by an
+increase in the number of quahaugers in the spring and fall. The men
+who do summer boating quahaug in the spring before the summer people
+arrive, and in the fall after the summer season is over. The opening
+of the scallop season, in towns that are fortunate enough to possess
+both industries, marks the closing of the quahaug season. These two
+industries join so well, scalloping in the winter and quahauging in the
+summer, that a shellfisherman has work practically all the year.
+
+_The Principal Markets._--The principal markets for the sale of
+Massachusetts quahaugs are Boston and New York. In 1879 the Boston
+market, according to Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, sold comparatively few. At
+the present time the Boston market disposes of many thousand bushels
+annually, but nevertheless the greater part of the Massachusetts
+quahaugs are shipped to New York. This, again, is due to the better
+market prices offered by that city. Besides passing through these two
+main channels, quahaugs are shipped direct from the coast dealers to
+various parts of the country, especially the middle west. This last
+method seems to be on the increase, and the future may see a large
+portion of the quahaug trade carried on by direct inland shipments.
+
+_Shipment._--Quahaugs are shipped either in second-hand sugar or flour
+barrels or in bushel bags. The latter method is fast gaining popularity
+with the quahaugers and dealers, owing to its cheapness, and is now
+steadily used in some localities. When quahaugs are shipped in barrels,
+holes are made in the bottom and sides of the barrel, to allow free
+circulation of air and to let the water out, while burlap is used
+instead of wooden heads.
+
+"_Culls._"--Several culls are made for the market. These vary in number
+in different localities and with different firms, but essentially are
+modifications of the three "culls" made by the quahaugers: (1) "little
+necks;" (2) "sharps;" (3) "blunts." The divisions made by the firm of
+A. D. Davis & Co. of Wellfleet are as follows: (1) "little necks,"
+small, 1½-2¼ inches; large, 2¼-3 inches; (2) medium "sharps," 3-3¾
+inches; (3) large "sharps," 3¾ inches up; (4) small "blunts;" (5) large
+"blunts."
+
+_Price._--The prices received by the quahaugers are small, compared
+with the retail prices. "Little necks" fetch from $2.50 to $4 per
+bushel, sharps and small blunts from $1.10 to $2, and large blunts from
+80 cents to $1.50, according to the season, fall and spring prices
+necessarily being higher than in summer. The price depends wholly upon
+the supply in the market, and varies greatly, although the "little
+necks" are fairly constant, as the demand for these small quahaugs is
+very great. To what excess the demand for "little necks" has reached
+can best be illustrated by a comparison between the price of $3 paid to
+the quahauger per bushel, and the actual price, $50, paid for the same
+by the consumer in the hotel restaurants.
+
+_Bedding Quahaugs for Market._--By town laws in Orleans, Eastham
+and Wellfleet, each quahauger may, upon application, secure from
+the selectmen a license, giving him not more than 75 feet square of
+tidal flat upon which to bed his catch of quahaugs. While no positive
+protection is guaranteed, public opinion recognizes the right of each
+man to his leased area, and this alone affords sufficient protection
+for the success of this communal effort, which is the first step by
+the people toward quahaug farming.
+
+The quahauger needs only to spread his catch on the surface, and within
+two tides the quahaugs will have buried themselves in the sand. Here
+they will remain, with no danger of moving away, as the quahaug moves
+but little. The quahauger loses nothing by this replanting, as not only
+do the quahaugs remain in a healthy condition, but even grow in their
+new environment.
+
+The result of this communal attempt at quahaug culture is beneficial.
+While the market price for "little necks" is almost always steady, the
+price of the larger quahaugs fluctuates considerably, and the market
+often becomes "glutted." This would naturally result in a severe loss
+to the quahauger if he were forced to keep shipping at a low price.
+As it is, the fortunate quahauger who possesses such a grant merely
+replants his daily catch until the market prices rise to their proper
+level. An additional advantage is gained by the quahauger, who at the
+end of the season has his grant well stocked, as higher prices are then
+offered. As many as 1,000 barrels are often held this way at the end of
+the season.
+
+_Food Value._--See food value table in scallop report.
+
+_Uses._--Besides its many uses as a food, raw, cooked and canned, the
+quahaug is of little importance in Massachusetts.
+
+(1) For bait the soft clam (_Mya arenaria_) is generally preferred, and
+but few quahaugs are used for this purpose.
+
+(2) The shell was once prized by the Indians for their wampum; now it
+is occasionally used for ornamental purposes.
+
+(3) Oystermen use it for cultch when they can get nothing better;
+though more fragile shells are usually preferred, so that the masses of
+oyster "set" can be easily broken apart.
+
+(4) Shell roads are occasionally made from quahaug shells. Possibly
+lime could be profitably obtained.
+
+
+_History of Quahaug Industry in Massachusetts._
+
+South of Plymouth harbor quahaugs have always been plentiful along
+the shores of Cape Cod, Buzzards Bay and the islands of Nantucket and
+Martha's Vineyard. Frequent shell heaps show that the Indians were
+accustomed to use this mollusk as a food, and even indulged in an
+occasional clam bake. Colonial records show us that the early colonists
+were not slow in learning to "tread out" this mollusk from the mud
+flats. The shells of the quahaug were much prized by the Indians for
+wampum beads, because of their purplish color.
+
+Although reckoned inferior by many to the soft clam (_Mya arenaria_),
+the quahaug was dug for home consumption for years in Massachusetts,
+and but little attempt was made to put it on the market. The
+commercial quahaug fishery started on Cape Cod, about the first of the
+nineteenth century, growing in extent until about 1860. From 1860
+to 1890 the production remained about constant. The production in
+1879 for Massachusetts, as given by A. Howard Clark, totaled 11,050
+bushels, valued at $5,525. It is only in the last fifteen to twenty
+years that the actual development of the quahaug fishery has taken
+place. The present production of Massachusetts is 144,044 bushels,
+valued at $194,687. To the popular demand for the "little neck" can
+be attributed the rapid development of the quahaug industry during
+the last ten years. This development has furnished employment for
+hundreds of men, and has given the quahaug an important value as a sea
+food. What it will lead to is easily seen. The maximum production was
+passed a few years ago, constant overfishing caused by an excessive
+demand is destroying the natural supply, and there will in a few years
+be practically no commercial fishery, unless measures are taken to
+increase the natural supply. Quahaug farming offers the best solution
+at the present time, and gives promise of permanent success.
+
+The following statistics, taken from the United States Fish Commission
+reports, show the rapidity of the development of the quahaug fishery:--
+
+  =============+============+===========+================
+      DATE.    |  Bushels.  |   Value.  | Price (Cents).
+  -------------+------------+-----------+----------------
+  1879,        |    11,050  |   $5,525  |      50.0
+  1887,        |    35,540  |   21,363  |      60.0
+  1888,        |    26,165  |   14,822  |      56.5
+  1898,        |    63,817  |   50,724  |      79.5
+  1902,        |   106,818  |  131,139  |     124.0
+  1905,        |   166,526  |  288,987  |     155.0
+  =============+============+===========+================
+
+Not only has there been an increase in production, but also an increase
+in price, as can be seen from the above table, which shows that the
+price has more than doubled between 1888 and 1902. This increase in
+price has alone supported a declining fishery in many towns, making it
+still profitable for quahaugers to keep in the business, in spite of
+a much smaller catch. The advance in price is due both to the natural
+rise in the value of food products during the past twenty-five years
+and also to the popular demand for the "little neck," or small quahaug.
+
+_State Laws._--There are no State laws governing the quahaug fishery,
+except the regulations of the State Board of Health in regard to sewage
+pollution in Acushnet River and Boston Harbor.
+
+_Town Laws._--Regulation of the quahaug fishery was given to each town
+by the State under the general shellfish act of 1880; the industry is
+therefore entirely governed under the by-laws of the town.
+
+An interesting comparison can be made between the quahaug regulations
+of the different towns. Good, useless and harmful laws exist side by
+side. One town will pass excellent regulations, and enforce them;
+another town will make the same, but never trouble to see that they
+are observed. Edgartown enforces the 1½-inch quahaug law; Orleans,
+Eastham and Wellfleet have the same law, but fail to enforce it. Many
+towns allow the small seed quahaugs to be caught and shipped out of the
+State, thus losing $4 to every $1 gained. These towns refuse to make
+any regulation, such as a simple size limit, which would remedy this
+matter, and have no thought for the future of their quahaug industry.
+All that can be said is that the quahaug laws are the best of the town
+shellfish regulations, and that is but faint praise.
+
+
+_Statistics of the Quahaug Fishery._
+
+In the following table the towns are arranged in alphabetical order,
+and the list includes only those towns which now possess a commercial
+quahaug fishery. In giving the number of men, both transient and
+regular quahaugers are included. In estimating the capital invested,
+the boats, implements, shanties and gear of the quahauger are alone
+considered, and personal apparel, such as oilskins, boots, etc., are
+not taken into account. The value of the production for each town is
+based upon what the quahaugers receive for their quahaugs, and not the
+price they bring in the market. The area of quahaug territory given for
+each town includes all ground where quahaugs are found, both thick beds
+and scattering quahaugs.
+
+  =============+======+=========+======+=======+================+======+=======
+      TOWN.    |Number| Capital |Number|Number |1907 PRODUCTION.|      | Value
+               |  of  |invested.| of   |  of   +--------+-------+ Area |  of
+               | Men. |         |Boats.|Dories |Bushels.| Value.|  in  | Yield
+               |      |         |      | and   |        |       |Acres.|  per
+               |      |         |      |Skiffs.|        |       |      | Acre.
+  -------------+------+---------+------+-------+--------+-------+------+-------
+  Barnstable,  |   25 |    $850 |    - |    25 |   2,500| $3,700|   950| $3.95
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Bourne,      |   46 |   1,000 |    - |    46 |   5,400|  8,400| 2,500|  3.36
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Chatham,     |   50 |   5,750 |   25 |    25 |   6,700| 10,000| 2,000|  5.00
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Dennis,      |   15 |     150 |    - |    10 |     500|    950|   200|  4.75
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Eastham,     |   25 |   8,000 |   12 |     - |  10,000| 11,500| 4,000|  2.87
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Edgartown,   |   70 |  12,000 |   42 |    18 |  20,000| 32,000| 1,800| 17.77
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Fairhaven,   |  115 |   5,000 |   11 |   100 |  15,000| 16,500| 3,000|  5.50
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Falmouth,    |    - |       - |    - |     - |     100|    115|   400|   .29
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Harwich,     |    7 |     200 |    - |     7 |   1,500|  2,550|   100| 25.50
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Marion,      |   19 |     250 |    - |    19 |     800|  1,500|   400|  3.75
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Mashpee,     |    7 |      70 |    - |     5 |     250|    285|   400|   .71
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Mattapoisett,|   28 |     500 |    - |    28 |     800|  1,500|   750|  2.00
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Nantucket,   |   48 |   6,750 |   30 |    10 |   6,294|  8,487| 5,290|  1.60
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Orleans,     |   75 |  25,000 |   30 |    25 |  33,000| 41,350| 1,500| 27.56
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Wareham,     |   50 |   1,000 |    - |    50 |   6,000| 10,500| 1,300|  8.08
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Wellfleet,   |  145 |  27,500 |  100 |     - |  33,000| 41,350| 2,500| 16.54
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |
+  Yarmouth,    |   20 |     240 |    - |    10 |   2,200|  4,000| 1,000|  4.00
+  -------------+------+---------+------+-------+--------+-------+------+-------
+               |      |         |      |       |        |       |      |Average
+  Totals,      |  745 |  94,260 |  250 |   378 | 144,044|194,687|28,090| $6.93
+  =============+======+=========+======+=======+========+=======+======+=======
+
+
+_Barnstable._
+
+Barnstable, with its extensive bays both on the north or bay side and
+on the south or Vineyard Sound side, offers great possibilities for
+quahaug production. Although the quahaug ranks, in productive value,
+the third shellfish industry of Barnstable, the natural resources
+permit an expansion under cultural methods which would place the
+quahaug ahead of the oyster, which at the present time is the leading
+shellfish industry of the town.
+
+In Barnstable harbor, on the north coast of the town, a few quahaugs
+are found scattered in isolated patches. (See Map No. 9.) These are
+relatively of small importance commercially, and no regular fishery is
+carried on. In the future the vast barren flats of this harbor may be
+made productive of quahaugs as well as clams, although at present the
+total area of quahaug grounds is hardly 5 acres.
+
+The greater part of the quahaug industry of Barnstable is conducted
+on the south shore of the township, which is especially adapted, with
+its coves and inlets, for the successful growth of this shellfish. The
+principal fishery is in Cotuit harbor and West Bay, and is chiefly
+shared by the villages of Osterville, Marston's Mills and Cotuit, which
+lie on the east, north and west sides, respectively, of the bay.
+
+While the greater part of Cotuit harbor is taken up by oyster grants,
+there are certain parts, though limited in area, which are set aside
+for quahauging. The principal area for quahauging is the flat which
+runs along Oyster Island. This was originally an oyster grant taken
+out by Wendell Nickerson, and thrown open to quahaugers to protect
+the quahaug interests from the oyster planters. This territory, which
+comprises 70 acres, is mostly hard sand. Directly west in the center of
+the harbor lies a strip of 80 acres of mud and eel grass, where both
+quahaugs and scallops abound. The depth of water on quahauging grounds
+varies from 1 to 14 feet.
+
+Scattering quahaugs are found also in Osterville harbor, West Bay,
+Popponesset River and East Bay. This bottom is practically all sand,
+and comprises a total of 1,650 acres. This cannot all be considered
+good quahaug ground, although quahaugs can occasionally be found.
+
+At Hyannis the quahaug grounds are confined to Lewis Bay, where they
+cover an area of 800 acres. The quahaugs lie in scattered patches over
+this area, but in no place is there especially good quahauging. The
+bottom is hard, usually sandy, with patches of eel grass, while the
+average depth of water is hardly more than 6 feet.
+
+In Osterville Bay about 20 men, in Lewis Bay about 5, using the same
+number of dories, make a business of quahauging in the summer months.
+Three styles of implements are used: (1) oyster tongs, varying from 8
+to 16 feet, according to the depth of water; (2) large basket rakes,
+with 30-foot handles; (3) ordinary garden rakes, with wire basket, for
+shallow-water digging.
+
+At Cotuit the quahaugs run one-third "little necks," one-third mediums
+and one-third large. Here several men, using long-handled rakes, make
+from $3 to $5 per day in favorable weather. The markets are principally
+New York and Boston, where the quahaugs are shipped, mostly in sacks,
+which is a cheaper and better way than shipment in barrels. Here the
+quahaug season lasts from April 1 to November 1, most of the work being
+done in the summer, when the oyster business is at a standstill.
+
+There are no town laws governing the quahaug fishery, other than
+forbidding a non-resident of the town the right of quahauging; and no
+licenses are required.
+
+No records of the history of the quahaug industry at Barnstable can be
+found. A. Howard Clark in 1879 makes the following brief statement,
+which is the only record obtainable:--
+
+    Both soft clams and quahaugs are found in the harbor
+    [Osterville harbor], but no considerable fishing for them is
+    carried on.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              950
+  Number of men,                                   25
+  Number of boats,                                  -
+  Value of boats,                                   -
+  Number of dories,                                25
+  Value of dories,                               $500
+  Value of implements,                           $350
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                    800
+      Value,                                   $2,000
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                  1,700
+      Value,                                   $1,700
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                  2,500
+      Value,                                   $3,700
+
+
+_Bourne._
+
+The town of Bourne was formerly included in the town of Sandwich, and
+many old laws relating to shellfish, such as oyster regulation in
+Barlow River, were enacted by the town of Sandwich. Situated at the
+head of Buzzards Bay, and separated from the adjacent town of Wareham
+by Cohasset Narrows, Bourne has many advantages for a profitable
+quahaug industry. It possesses nearly twice as much quahaug territory
+as Wareham, but, as most of this lies unproductive, has a smaller
+annual output. The territory includes over 2,500 acres of ground, most
+of which consists of flats of mud, sand and eel grass, covered with
+shallow water. It is very sparsely set with quahaugs. Outside the
+oyster grants practically the entire stretch of coast from Buttermilk
+Bay to Wings Neck is quahauging ground, as can be seen on Map No. 17.
+Other quahaug grounds lie between Basset's Island, Scraggy Neck and
+Handy's Point. It is our opinion that this large territory, which
+to-day yields on the average less than $3.50 per acre, in the future,
+under cultivation, can be made to yield an average of $100 per acre,
+thereby bringing into the town of Bourne a yearly income of at least
+$250,000, and furnishing labor for hundreds of men.
+
+About 46 men are engaged in the quahaug fishery of Bourne, using the
+same number of skiffs and dories, which represent approximately an
+investment of $875. The fishery lasts usually seven months during the
+summer, April 1 to November 1, while the winter digging is of small
+account. Practically all the digging is done in comparatively shallow
+water, with short-handled rakes or tongs. Rather more than a third of
+the quahaugs appear to be "little necks," while the mediums constitute
+one-tenth of the total catch. "Blunts" are of little consequence.
+
+The selectmen issue permits for the taking of quahaugs and clams. In
+1906, 46 permits were issued, entitling the holder to 10 bushels of
+clams and 10 bushels of quahaugs per week.
+
+There is little to be said concerning the history of the Bourne quahaug
+industry, as no early records exist. Its development has been similar
+to that of the industries of the other Buzzards Bay towns. During the
+last few years the Bourne fishery, unlike most of the towns on Buzzards
+Bay, has shown signs of increasing. This is not due, however, to any
+increase in the natural supply, but to the decline of the oyster
+industry, which gives more opportunity to the quahaugers. The same
+antagonistic feeling that is prevalent in Wareham exists here between
+the oystermen and quahaugers.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            2,500
+  Number of men,                                   46
+  Number of boats,                                  -
+  Value of boats,                                   -
+  Number of skiffs,                                46
+  Value of skiffs,                               $875
+  Value of implements,                           $125
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                  2,000
+      Value,                                   $5,000
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                  3,400
+      Value,                                   $3,400
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                  5,400
+      Value,                                   $8,400
+
+
+_Chatham._
+
+Chatham is favorably situated in regard to the quahaug fishery, as
+this shellfish is found in the waters on the north and south sides of
+the town. The grounds are extensive, covering about 2,000 acres, the
+greater part of which consists of the vast area south of the town known
+as the "Common Flats."
+
+The quahauging grounds are in four localities: (1) Pleasant Bay; (2)
+Mill Pond; (3) Stage Harbor; (4) Common Flats.
+
+(1) Part of the waters of Pleasant Bay belong to the town of Chatham.
+In an arm of this bay, known as Crows Pond, the best Pleasant Bay
+fishery is carried on in water varying from 6 to 16 feet in depth.
+
+(2) An excellent "little neck" fishery is carried on in the upper part
+of the Mill Pond, in comparatively shallow water, comprising an area
+of 3 acres. On these bars in 1905 there was a very heavy set of small
+quahaugs, which were rapidly taken up before they had a chance to
+attain to a fair size.
+
+(3) Quahaugs are raked on the west side of Stage Harbor in 5 to 15 feet
+of water, in an area of 4 acres of muddy bottom.
+
+(4) The Common Flats comprise 1,700 acres, and are covered at low tide
+by a depth of only 1 to 2 feet of water. Quahaugs are found throughout
+this territory in scattering quantities, but practically all is good
+quahaug ground except the shifting outer part of the flat. The soil
+varies from a pure sand to a sandy mud, and in parts is thickly covered
+with eel grass, which makes raking hard. This area offers one of the
+best opportunities for successful quahaug planting in the State. The
+area is large, seed can be obtained easily and quahaugs grow well in
+this locality. If it were not for the lack of protection, Chatham could
+establish one of the best quahaug industries in the State by leasing
+out the Common Flats for planting purposes.
+
+Quahaugs are taken at Chatham only with rakes. In the deep water in
+Crows Pond and in Stage Harbor basket rakes are used; but in the
+shallow water on the Common Flats and in the Mill Pond the usual
+implement is an ordinary garden rake, with wire netting basket. Handles
+from 20 to 25 feet in length are used with the basket rakes.
+
+The quahaug industry has existed in Chatham for the past twelve years.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            2,000
+  Number of men,                                   50
+  Number of boats,                                 25
+  Value of boats,                              $5,000
+  Number of dories,                                25
+  Value of dories,                               $350
+  Value of implements,                           $400
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                  2,200
+      Value,                                   $5,500
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                  4,500
+      Value,                                   $4,500
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                  6,700
+      Value,                                  $10,000
+
+
+_Dartmouth._
+
+The quahaug industry of Dartmouth is of little consequence. In 1907,
+320 permits were granted, mostly to New Bedford fishermen for "bait."
+
+
+_Dennis._
+
+The quahauging grounds of Dennis are practically all in Bass River,
+where Dennis has equal fishery rights with Yarmouth. The area of these
+grounds is 200 acres, with a maximum depth of 6 feet of water over the
+beds. The history of the industry is the same as that of Yarmouth, as
+the two industries are closely associated, and a similar decline has
+resulted. The laws for both towns are the same.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              200
+  Number of men (transient),                       15
+  Number of boats,                                  -
+  Value of boats,                                   -
+  Number of skiffs,                                10
+  Value of skiffs,                               $100
+  Value of implements,                            $50
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                    300
+      Value,                                     $750
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                    200
+      Value,                                     $200
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                    500
+      Value,                                     $950
+
+
+_Eastham._
+
+Eastham is similar to Orleans in situation, possessing a good coast
+line on both the east and west, which affords excellent opportunities
+for the quahaug fishery.
+
+On the west or bay side are extensive beds of quahaugs, for the most
+part blunts, extending into deep water for nearly 3 miles. This
+quahauging territory comprises about 4,000 acres, which is open to the
+quahaugers of both Wellfleet and Orleans. While scattering quahaugs are
+found over approximately all this territory, the fishery is conducted
+in only certain definite places.
+
+In Nauset harbor on the east side during the season of 1906 numerous
+beds of "little necks," about the 1½-inch size, were discovered. It is
+thought that these came from the spawn of certain quahaugs which the
+life savers were accustomed to bed in the harbor for their own use.
+These quahaugs were torn up and scattered by the ice during a severe
+winter, and in this way the nucleus of a new fishery was formed. Two
+men who discovered the best of these beds cleared $60 in one week.
+
+On the west coast of the town 25 men commonly dig with long-handled
+rakes. These fishermen work at quahauging about 100 days in the year,
+and average from 5 to 6 bushels per day. Power boats are used for the
+most part, although the boats are not so large or expensive as those
+of the Orleans fishermen, for the Eastham quahauger digs in the more
+sheltered waters of Wellfleet Bay.
+
+The production for 1906 was 10,000 bushels, but this does not give the
+true yield of the Eastham flats, as the Wellfleet and Orleans fishermen
+rake to a great extent in Eastham waters, and so many more bushels are
+actually taken within the town limits.
+
+The town laws of Eastham are the same as those of Wellfleet. (See
+Wellfleet.) The history of the Eastham quahaug industry is so closely
+connected with that of Orleans and Wellfleet that no additional
+features require mention.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            4,000
+  Number of men,                                   25
+  Number of boats,                                 12
+  Value of boats,                              $7,375
+  Number of dories,                                 -
+  Value of dories,                                  -
+  Value of implements,                           $625
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                  1,000
+      Value,                                   $2,500
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                  9,000
+      Value,                                   $9,000
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                 10,000
+      Value,                                  $11,500
+
+
+_Edgartown._
+
+The finest "little neck" fishery in Massachusetts is found in Katama
+Bay, in the town of Edgartown. Two-fifths of the entire catch are
+"little necks." The most productive grounds are situated in the lower
+part of Katama Bay, while quahaugs are also found in Edgartown harbor
+and in Cape Poge Pond, the total area of these localities comprising
+1,800 acres.
+
+The fishing is mostly done from power dories or sail boats with basket
+rakes. Poles from 20 to 25 feet long are used, as the water over the
+beds is less than 20 feet deep. Some quahaugs are taken in the shallow
+water with small claw rakes. The catch is shipped to the New York and
+Boston markets.
+
+The quahaug industry of Edgartown is the best-regulated shellfish
+industry in Massachusetts. If excellent care had not been taken of
+the "little neck" fishery of Katama Bay by enforcing a size limit
+of 1½ inches, through the employment of a special shellfish warden,
+the quahaug fishery of Edgartown would have been ruined long ago by
+the exportation of small "seed" quahaugs. To-day the number of small
+quahaugs which are returned to the water greatly exceeds the amount of
+marketable quahaugs taken. This is the only case in Massachusetts where
+the quahaug fishery, by careful regulations of the town, has maintained
+an undiminished supply. If other towns had taken similar care of their
+quahaug fisheries in the past, the general decline of the industry in
+this State would never have become so serious.
+
+The following is a copy of the shellfish permit, which every Edgartown
+quahauger is required to take out, at the cost of $2, before he can
+rake quahaugs for market. Any man over sixty years old obtains his
+permit free. This permit should serve as a model for other towns.
+
+                           SHELLFISH PERMIT.
+
+              TOWN OF EDGARTOWN, SELECTMEN'S OFFICE, 190_.
+
+    In consideration of having received from ____ of Edgartown the
+    sum of $2, permission is hereby granted to him to take from any
+    of the waters of this town daily, between sunrise and sunset,
+    twenty-five bushels of scallops or clams, including shells,
+    and four bushels, including shells, of quahaugs; of these four
+    bushels, not more than two bushels are to be of the size known
+    as "little necks."
+
+    The acceptance of this permit constitutes an agreement by the
+    holder thereof that he will, and that any other person who for
+    the time being has or shall have in his custody or possession
+    any building, boat, barrel, box, tub, crate or other vessel or
+    receptacle containing or suitable for or capable of containing
+    shellfish, and belonging to or under the control of the holder
+    of this permit, shall, at any time or place when requested
+    so to do by either of said selectmen or by their authorized
+    agent, or by any constable or fish warden of said town, or
+    by any other officer authorized to enforce the laws relating
+    to shellfish or shellfisheries in said town, open any such
+    building, boat, barrel, box, tub, crate or other vessel or
+    receptacle, and fully expose to them or either of them the
+    contents thereof for inspection; and if the holder of this
+    permit or such other person as aforesaid, when so requested,
+    refuses or neglects so to do, said selectmen may revoke this
+    permit or suspend the same for any stated time, at their
+    discretion.
+
+    The holder of this permit is subject to the regulations for
+    the taking of eels and shellfish as made and posted by the
+    selectmen, and also to any additional regulations which said
+    board may hereafter make and publish.
+
+    If the person having this permit for the taking of shellfish
+    violates any law of the Commonwealth or any regulation now
+    or hereafter made by said selectmen, relating to shellfish
+    or shellfisheries in said town, said selectmen may revoke
+    said permit, or suspend the same for any stated time at their
+    discretion.
+
+    No person is allowed by law to take from the waters of
+    said town, or to sell or offer for sale, or to have in his
+    possession, any "little neck" clams or quahaugs measuring less
+    than one and one-half inches across the widest part. Any person
+    violating this provision of law is liable to a fine of not less
+    than ten nor more than one hundred dollars.
+
+    This permit will expire April 1, 190 , unless sooner revoked.
+
+                                               _Selectmen of Edgartown._
+
+Ernest Ingersoll in 1879 makes the following statement concerning the
+quahaug fishery of Martha's Vineyard:--
+
+    Martha's Vineyard used to be bordered by good quahaug ground,
+    but I am not aware that many are caught there now. In an old
+    book I find the following allusion to it: "The poquau (_Venus
+    mercenaria_) is found in Old Town Harbor, at Cape Poge, and in
+    Menemsha Pond: great quantities are exported."
+
+A. Howard Clark in 1879 says:--
+
+    Soft clams and quahaugs are abundant in the harbor, and are
+    used by the fishermen for bait.... Three hundred bushels of
+    quahaugs and sea clams, valued at $150, were taken during the
+    year 1879.
+
+If such were the conditions in 1879, the industry has had a great
+development. To-day Edgartown is one of the best quahaug towns of the
+State, and produces the finest "little necks." Comparing the production
+figures of 1879 and 1907, a great increase is noted:--
+
+                    _Production, 1879._
+
+  Bushels,                                        300
+  Value,                                         $150
+
+                    _Production, 1907._
+
+  Bushels,                                     20,000
+  Value,                                      $32,000
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            1,800
+  Number of men,                                   70
+  Number of boats,                                 42
+  Value of boats,                             $10,500
+  Number of dories,                                18
+  Value of dories,                               $450
+  Value of implements,                         $1,050
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                  8,000
+      Value,                                  $20,000
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                 12,000
+      Value,                                  $12,000
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                 20,000
+      Value,                                  $32,000
+
+
+_Fairhaven._
+
+At Fairhaven the quahaug industry is of considerable importance, and
+the output from this town alone is nearly half the entire production of
+Buzzards Bay.
+
+Some 3,000 acres are more or less bedded with quahaugs. Of this,
+probably not more than one-tenth is very productive. The best
+quahauging is in Acushnet River, where digging for market has been
+forbidden because of sewage pollution (see New Bedford), and in Priests
+Cove as far as Sconticut Neck. In these grounds "little necks" are
+numerous. The grounds around West Island and Long Island, once very
+productive, are now largely dug out. Little Bay and the east coast of
+Sconticut Neck are fairly productive, while the west coast yields only
+a small amount. Most of the quahaugs now dug come from the deep water
+west-southwest of Sconticut Neck. Here, with rakes having handles from
+40 to 60 feet long, the quahaugers dig in water 7 fathoms or more in
+depth. The quahaugs, mostly large sharps, are in bluish mud or sticky
+bottom, and are all large. A number of blunts are found with these
+large sharps. In the Acushnet River, owing to the enforced closed
+season, there are a large number of "little necks."
+
+About 115 men are employed now in quahauging. Before the Acushnet River
+was closed by law, over twice that number are reported to have been
+engaged in the business. Six power boats and five cat boats, besides a
+considerable number of skiffs and dories, are used in the fishery.
+
+No permits are required for ordinary quahauging except in the
+prescribed territory of Acushnet River, where permits to catch a
+certain amount for bait are given as in New Bedford.
+
+The production for 1879, as given by A. Howard Clark in "The Fisheries
+of Massachusetts," was 3,000 bushels, which is just one-fifth of the
+present production. The supply of quahaugs has decreased the last few
+years, though new territory is constantly being opened up, as the
+quahaugers go out further into the deeper water. The increased price,
+however, probably more than counterbalances the decline in production.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            3,000
+  Number of men,                                  115
+  Number of boats,                                 11
+  Value of boats,                              $2,600
+  Number of skiffs,                               100
+  Value of skiffs,                             $1,500
+  Value of implements,                           $900
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                  1,000
+      Value,                                   $2,500
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                 14,000
+      Value,                                  $14,000
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                 15,000
+      Value,                                  $16,500
+
+
+_Falmouth._
+
+There is practically no quahaug industry in Falmouth. Hardly 100
+bushels are dug annually, and those only for home consumption. A few
+quahaugs are perhaps shipped by the oystermen.
+
+This town, with its numerous inlets, bays and brackish water ponds,
+offers perhaps as fine an opportunity for shellfish culture, especially
+for quahaugs, as exists in Massachusetts. There is no reason why the
+water of Waquoit Bay and the other brackish ponds should not produce a
+great supply of quahaugs, if properly worked.
+
+Quahaugs are found mostly in scattering quantities over a large area in
+Waquoit Bay and in small quantities on the north and west side of Great
+Pond, comprising a total of nearly 400 acres. Not all this ground,
+which is the greater part mud, is capable of producing quahaugs, but
+many parts could produce good harvests. On the bay side of the town
+small patches of good quahaugs are found at North Falmouth, Squeteague
+Pond, West Falmouth harbor on the southeast side, and a few are found
+in Hadley harbor, Naushon. These, together with the small patches
+in Great Pond, comprise about 1 acre of good quahaug ground, and are
+mostly dug by summer people.
+
+In the past twenty-five years there has been a great decline in the
+quahaug industry, especially in Waquoit Bay, which to-day barely
+produces 50 bushels. A. Howard Clark states, in 1879:[7]--
+
+    Quahaugs are plenty in Waquoit Bay, and are gathered and eaten
+    by the villagers, but none are shipped. It is estimated that
+    about 500 bushels of quahaugs are annually consumed by the
+    people of Falmouth town.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              400
+  Number of men,                                   --
+  Number of boats,                                 --
+  Value of boats,                                  --
+  Number of dories,                                --
+  Value of dories,                                 --
+  Value of implements,                             --
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                     10
+      Value,                                      $25
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                     90
+      Value,                                      $90
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                    100
+      Value,                                     $115
+
+
+_Harwich._
+
+The quahaug fishery of the town of Harwich is carried on in that part
+of Pleasant Bay which lies within the town limits. In the southern
+waters of the town, on the Sound side, scattering quahaugs are found
+in certain localities, but are not of any commercial importance. The
+most important of those localities are off Dean's Creek and in Herring
+River, where quahaugs are dug for home consumption.
+
+Harwich shares with Chatham and Orleans the quahaug fishery of Pleasant
+Bay, but has a more limited territory, as only a small portion of
+Pleasant Bay lies within the town limits. Practically all this
+territory, comprising 100 acres, is quahauging ground, though the
+commercial quahauging is prosecuted over an area of 10 acres only.
+Scattering quahaugs are found over an area of 100 acres.
+
+As the waters of Pleasant Bay are sheltered, the fishing is all done
+from dories, with basket rakes having 20 to 25 foot poles. The depth of
+water over the quahaug beds is from 6 to 16 feet.
+
+In regard to the quahaug fishery in Pleasant Bay, Mr. Warren J.
+Nickerson of East Harwich, who has been acquainted with the industry
+for many years, says:--
+
+    Pleasant Bay is and has been a very valuable quahaug ground.
+    Some fifty years ago there were shipped in vessels to New Haven
+    and other places 13,000 bushels in one year from its waters.
+    Since then there has been more or less taken from these waters
+    by fishermen from the towns of Orleans, Chatham and Harwich.
+    During the last few years there have been 25 regular fishermen
+    and perhaps 12 transient. Probably 8,000 bushels a year for the
+    last five years would be a fair estimate of the catch. Thirty
+    per cent of these were "little necks."
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              100
+  Number of men,                                    7
+  Number of boats,                                 --
+  Value of boats,                                  --
+  Number of dories,                                 7
+  Value of dories,                               $100
+  Value of implements,                           $100
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                    700
+      Value,                                   $1,750
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                    800
+      Value,                                     $800
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                  1,500
+      Value,                                   $2,550
+
+
+_Marion._
+
+The town of Marion, situated on the western side of Buzzards Bay,
+possesses a spacious harbor, the waters of which furnish excellent
+quahaug grounds.
+
+This territory, comprising a total of 400 acres, is chiefly confined
+to Marion harbor, running in a narrow strip parallel to the shore from
+Aucoot Cove all along the coast to Planting Island. Almost all the head
+of the harbor and all of Blankinship's and Planting Island Cove is
+quahaug area. Small grounds are also found at Wing's Cove and in the
+Weweantit River.
+
+The town law requires each year the possession of a permit costing $1
+before a person is entitled to dig quahaugs for sale. Nineteen of these
+licenses were issued in 1906, but not more than 2 or 3 of these went to
+men who depend upon quahauging for a living. The remaining 16 engage in
+the fishery to a greater or lesser extent in the summer season.
+
+The annual production for 1906 was 800 bushels, valued at $1,500, as
+about half were "little necks." Mediums are not numerous, and are
+bought by the quahaug dealers at $1.25 per bushel and sold by them at
+so much per hundred.
+
+In Marion the quahaug industry once flourished to a marked degree, but
+at present is very much on the decline. The coves, which once were
+bedded with "little necks" and quahaugs, are now nearly exhausted. No
+reasons exist for this condition of affairs, so far as known, except
+overdigging. Gradually for many years the supply has perceptibly
+declined, until now it is at a very low ebb. Where a thousand barrels
+were formerly produced, it is doubtful if a thousand bushels are now
+dug during the entire season, and the overworked beds are becoming each
+year more depleted. A. Howard Clark, in his report on the fisheries of
+Marion, estimates the quahaug production in 1880 as 2,000 bushels. The
+yield for 1906 is only 800 bushels, which shows an alarming decline
+in production. If once the waters of Marion could produce a large
+amount of quahaugs, there is no reason why they cannot again be made to
+produce the same, or more.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              400
+  Number of men,                                   19
+  Number of boats,                                 --
+  Value of boats,                                  --
+  Number of skiffs,                                19
+  Value of skiffs,                               $200
+  Value of implements,                            $50
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                    400
+      Value,                                   $1,100
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                    400
+      Value,                                     $400
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                    800
+      Value,                                   $1,500
+
+
+_Mashpee._
+
+The quahaug industry at Mashpee is at a low ebb. Natural facilities
+are favorable, but a lack of initiative on the part of the inhabitants
+causes a small production. The best grounds are found in Popponessett
+Bay and River, where a territory of 200 acres includes several oyster
+grants which are worked but little. On the east side of Waquoit Bay
+scattering quahaugs are found in Mashpee waters.
+
+There are 3 regular and 4 intermittent quahaugers, with an invested
+capital of $70, who are obliged by the town laws to have a permit
+costing $1. The quahaug industry of the town has remained about the
+same for the last twenty-five years, and now a good quahauger can
+scarcely average 1½ to 2 bushels per day.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              400
+  Number of men,                                    7
+  Number of boats,                                 --
+  Value of boats,                                  --
+  Number of skiffs,                                 5
+  Value of skiffs,                                $50
+  Value of implements,                            $20
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                     25
+      Value,                                      $60
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                    225
+      Value,                                     $225
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                    250
+      Value,                                     $285
+
+
+_Mattapoisett._
+
+The town of Mattapoisett, situated to the west of Marion, receives but
+little income from her shellfisheries, as the waters are for the most
+part too open and exposed for shellfish culture. The quahaug fishery
+is the most important shellfish industry of the town, but even this,
+when compared with the quahaug fishery of other towns, is rather
+unimportant, as most of the suitable territory is nonproductive.
+
+Quahaugs are very unevenly distributed over 800 acres. The best
+quahaugs are found in Aucoot Cove and at Brants. In the main harbor
+quahaugs are found, though scattering, as indicated on the map.
+
+No licenses or permits are required of the 28 men and boys who add to
+their income from time to time by quahauging. Most of these depend on
+other sources of employment for their main support. The industry as a
+whole is gradually declining, as overfishing has made it impossible for
+the natural supply to perpetuate itself.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),              750
+  Number of men,                                   28
+  Number of boats,                                 --
+  Value of boats,                                  --
+  Number of skiffs,                                28
+  Value of skiffs,                               $425
+  Value of implements,                            $75
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                    400
+      Value,                                   $1,100
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                    400
+      Value,                                     $400
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                    800
+      Value,                                   $1,500
+
+
+_Nantucket._
+
+The quahaug industry of Nantucket ranks second to the main shellfish
+industry, the scallop fishery, and brings annually about $8,000 to the
+island. Nantucket is especially adapted for quahaugs, as Nantucket
+harbor, Maddequet harbor and the Island of Tuckernuck possess extensive
+territory. In spite of these natural advantages, which are as fine
+as any in the State, Nantucket produces only 6,000 bushels annually,
+whereas her resources, under proper cultural methods, warrant an annual
+production exceeding even that of Wellfleet, which is at present
+shipping 33,000 bushels.
+
+The quahauging territory of Nantucket is divided into three sections:
+(1) Nantucket harbor; (2) Maddequet harbor; and (3) Tuckernuck.
+
+In Nantucket harbor quahaugs are found over an area of 2,290 acres,
+both scattering and in thick patches. The principal areas are situated
+as follows:--
+
+(1) Near the town between Monomoy Heights and the wharves is a
+territory of 240 acres. In the deep water directly out from the wharves
+there has been good quahauging although the bed was discovered only a
+few years ago.
+
+(2) On the east side of the harbor, between Abram's Point and Pocomo
+Head, including Polpis harbor, are extensive grounds, comprising about
+900 acres, of scattering quahaugs.
+
+(3) On the opposite side of the harbor lies a strip of quahaug
+territory of 250 acres, which extends between Third Point and Bass
+Point.
+
+(4) At the head of the harbor on both sides quahaugs are found over an
+area of 900 acres.
+
+Maddequet harbor on the western end of the island has approximately 300
+acres suitable for quahaugs, running from Broad Creek to Eel Point.
+
+On the eastern end of Tuckernuck Island is a bed of quahaugs covering
+about 200 acres; while on the west side, between Muskeget and
+Tuckernuck, is a large area of 2,500 acres, which is more or less
+productive. The Tuckernuck fishery is largely "little necks," and it is
+from here that the shipment of small "seed" quahaugs has been made.
+
+In the spring and fall men who have been boatmen during the summer work
+at quahauging. While 48 men work irregularly, about 18 men are engaged
+in the fishery during the entire summer, though probably never more
+than 30 are raking at any one time.
+
+The production in 1906, from April I to November I, was 2,159 barrels,
+or 6,477 bushels; value, $7,557.
+
+                          PRODUCTION, 1907.[8]
+
+  ==============+========================================+
+                |              QUAHAUGS                  |
+                |---------+-----------+---------+--------+
+                | Barrels |  Average  | Bushels |  Value |
+     MONTHS     |         | price per |         |        |
+                |         |  Barrel   |         |        |
+  --------------+---------+-----------+---------+--------+
+  April         |   138   |   $3.50   |    414  |  $483  |
+  May           |   257   |    4.00   |    771  | 1,028  |
+  June          |   460   |    4.00   |  1,380  | 1,840  |
+  July          |   355   |    3.00   |  1,065  | 1,060  |
+  August        |   312   |    3.50   |    936  | 1,092  |
+  September     |   302   |    3.42   |    906  | 1,032  |
+  October       |   123   |    4.00   |    369  |   492  |
+  November      |    50   |    3.00   |    150  |   150  |
+                +---------+-----------+---------+--------+
+    Total       | 1,997   |   $3.60   |  5,991  |$7,177  |
+  "Little necks"|   101   |           |    303  | 1,310  |
+                +---------+-----------+---------+--------+
+    Grand total | 2,098   |           |  6,294  |$8,487  |
+  ==============+=========+===========+=========+========+
+
+  +=======================================================
+  |              |            "LITTLE NECKS"
+  |              |---------+-----------+---------+--------
+  |              | Barrels |  Average  | Bushels |  Value
+  |   MONTHS     |         | price per |         |
+  |              |         |  Barrel   |         |
+  +--------------+---------+-----------+---------+--------
+  |April         |    --   |     --    |    --   |   --
+  |May           |     4   |   $14.00  |    12   |  $56
+  |June          |    13   |    14.00  |    39   |  182
+  |July          |    33   |    14.00  |    90   |  462
+  |August        |    20   |    15.00  |    60   |  300
+  |September     |    22   |    10.00  |    66   |  220
+  |October       |     9   |    10.00  |    27   |   90
+  |November      |    --   |     --    |    --   |   --
+  |              +---------+-----------+---------+--------
+  |  Total       |   101   |   $12.97  |   303   |$1,310
+  +==============|=========+===========+=========+========
+
+The month of June shows the largest production, as the summer people
+do not arrive in any numbers until July. The men who do the summer
+boating are engaged in the quahaug fishery during this month, naturally
+increasing the production.
+
+The principal method is raking from a boat or dory with a long-handled
+basket rake, very similar in form to the rake used on Cape Cod. The
+second method, applicable only in shallow water, employs the use of
+a claw rake with a much shorter handle. The quahauger uses this rake
+in the shallow water, where he can wade at low tide. The largest claw
+rakes are often wider than the basket rakes, and are much cheaper.
+
+At Nantucket about 5 per cent. of the entire catch is "little necks,"
+which are found mostly at Tuckernuck. The quahauger usually makes three
+culls of his catch: (1) "little necks"; (2) medium; (3) large. A few
+blunts are obtained. The quahaugs are shipped chiefly to New York and
+Boston markets, either directly by the quahaugers or through Nantucket
+firms.
+
+The boats used in the industry, numbering 24 sail, 6 power and 10
+single dories, and approximating $6,150 in value, are in a way
+transitory capital, and are used in the winter for scalloping and other
+fishing. Nevertheless, it is necessary to class them as capital used in
+the quahaug fishery.
+
+No special town laws are made for the regulation of the Nantucket
+quahaug fishery, although at any time by vote of the town suitable
+regulations and by-laws can be made.
+
+Quahaugs have probably always been abundant at Nantucket, as over fifty
+years ago they were reported as plentiful. It is only of late years
+that the fishery has assumed any great importance, when the increasing
+prices, especially for the "little necks," made it profitable for men
+to enter the business. As it is, many men now quahaug only when they
+have nothing else to do.
+
+From the statistics of the United States Fish Commission for 1879 we
+find that the annual catch for that year amounted to 150 bushels,
+valued at $75. As a striking contrast to this, the present production
+of 6,294 bushels, valued at $8,487, shows the great development of the
+fishery, which has been caused by more men entering the business, the
+opening up of new beds, such as the "little neck" beds of Tuckernuck,
+and the improved methods of raking in the deep water.
+
+It is rather difficult to state definitely, from lack of past
+statistical figures, whether Nantucket industry is declining or
+improving. Between 1879 and 1906 no records are obtainable. The
+production figures for 1906 show 6,477 bushels, as compared with 6,144
+bushels in 1907. Whether there was merely a sudden temporary increase
+in the supply by the opening up of new beds in 1906, or whether there
+is a steady decline, can only be determined by the production of future
+years. Many indications point to the latter, in spite of the assurance
+of the quahaugers that 1907 was a good season, because of high market
+prices.
+
+The last few years have witnessed a change in the quahaug fishery,--a
+realization that there is more money in planting and raising quahaugs
+than in oyster culture. The out-of-State oystermen, especially in New
+York, have been the first to realize this, and have been buying, at the
+rate of $4 to $5 per bushel, all the small quahaugs they can procure,
+merely replanting, to reap the following year a yield of 3 to 6 bushels
+for every bushel planted.
+
+Under the stimulus of the high prices offered, many bushels of small
+quahaugs have been shipped from the town, which thus lost what the
+planters gained. There is much feeling against such a practice, but so
+far nothing has been done by the town to stop this shipping of "seed"
+quahaugs. As the town has full control of its shellfisheries, it has
+only to pass a simple law allowing no quahaugs under 2 inches to be
+taken, and see that it is properly enforced. Such a matter should be
+attended to at once, as not only is the actual value of the catch
+diminished, but the industry is seriously impaired by the capture of
+these small quahaugs before they can spawn.
+
+The only other way to remedy this difficulty is to grant licenses
+allowing the replanting of these small quahaugs on the barren parts of
+the harbor until they have obtained a proper size. The results obtained
+from the experiments of the commission in Polpis harbor show that
+quahaugs will grow rapidly when thus replanted in suitable places, and
+that a gain of ½ to ¾ of an inch, or 3 to 6 bushels for every bushel
+bedded, can be obtained during the six summer months (May to November).
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            5,290
+  Number of men,                                   48
+  Number of boats,                                 30
+  Value of boats,                              $5,800
+  Number of dories,                                10
+  Value of dories,                               $350
+  Value of gear,                                 $600
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                    303
+      Value,                                   $1,310
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                  5,991
+      Value,                                   $7,177
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                  6,294
+      Value,                                   $8,487
+
+
+_New Bedford._
+
+The quahaug industry of New Bedford was practically annihilated by the
+law of 1905, which closed the Acushnet River and Clark's Cove to both
+clammer and quahauger. Good beds of quahaugs, particularly "little
+necks," exist in both these waters, but can be taken only for bait.
+As several sewers run into the Acushnet River, and the public health
+was endangered by the consumption as food of the quahaugs taken from
+the river and the waters near its mouth, nearly 400 acres of quahaug
+territory were closed by the State Board of Health. What little
+available territory there is outside the prescribed area, off Clark's
+Point, is free to all.
+
+A license is required to dig quahaugs for bait in this territory, and
+such is issued free of charge. The maximum amount permitted to be dug
+is 2 bushels per week of clams or quahaugs, or of both. Some 320
+permits have been issued since the law was passed, in 1905. Eleven of
+these have been since revoked for unlawful conduct on the part of the
+possessors. For the first offence the license is merely revoked, for
+the second a fine of $10, and for the third $100 is imposed.
+
+
+_Orleans._
+
+Although Orleans is well represented by all four main types of
+shellfish, the quahaug fishery is the leading industry of the town. A
+favorable coast line, fronting on the west the waters of Cape Cod Bay
+and bounded on the east by Pleasant Bay, provides excellent facilities
+for the quahaug fishery.
+
+The main quahauging territory is in Cape Cod Bay. While the west coast
+of Orleans is only about a mile long, the privileges which allow
+the citizens of Orleans free fishing in Eastham waters, according
+to the act of incorporation in 1792, "whereby the benefits of the
+shellfishery were to be mutually shared," opens up an extensive tract
+of quahaug territory, from 2 to 3 miles in width, extending north as
+far as Billingsgate Island and the Wellfleet line. The actual Orleans
+quahaug territory consists only of 1,000 acres, which furnish but poor
+quahauging, while the water is several fathoms deep.
+
+On the east side an entirely different condition prevails. Here in
+the waters of Pleasant Bay is a bed of quahaugs which, though worked
+for a long time, is still in excellent condition. The proportion of
+"little necks" is larger than on the west side, running about one-half
+the entire catch; neither is the water as deep here, rarely having
+a greater depth than 12 feet, and by no means as rough as the more
+exposed waters of Cape Cod Bay. The quahauging grounds here comprise
+500 acres.
+
+Although there are 1,500 acres of quahaug territory in the town of
+Orleans, only a small part of this is commercially productive, and the
+larger part of the fishery is carried on in Eastham waters.
+
+The possession of two entirely different quahaug grounds, one on the
+east, the other on the west coast, makes practically two different
+industries, each of which will have to be considered separately.
+
+(1) _Cape Cod Bay Industry._--In Cape Cod Bay 50 men rake quahaugs
+whenever the weather will permit. Owing to the great depth of water,
+the work is difficult, requiring rakes with handles often 60 feet long.
+Two men generally go in one boat, the usual type being an elongated
+dory, some 30 to 32 feet over all, carrying from 4 to 12 horse-power
+gasolene engines. These boats are built to stand rough weather, and
+cost from $700 to $1,000 apiece. Thirty boats are employed in this
+business in the bay.
+
+The quahauger averages perhaps 100 working days in a year, as in a
+strong wind and choppy sea it is impossible to rake in the deep water.
+A good fisherman expects to rake from 2 to 3 barrels of quahaugs a
+day. Five to ten years ago as many as 15 barrels were dug in a day
+by one man, but this is impossible now. Even as it is, the profits
+are large. The best quahauger in Orleans cleared in 1906 over $1,600,
+while several others made nearly $1,400. As at Wellfleet, the Orleans
+quahaugers receive licenses to replant their quahaugs along the shore,
+and it is customary to thus keep them until the New York or Boston
+markets offer suitable prices. Nearly two-thirds of these deep-water
+quahaugs are blunts, and perhaps one-tenth of the catch is "little
+necks."
+
+(2) _Pleasant Bay Industry._--About 25 men dig here from ordinary
+dories, using short rakes and tongs. The average wages are $2 to $3 per
+day, which is considerably less than the high wages of the Cape Cod Bay
+fishery; but many more days can be utilized during the year, while the
+work is much easier and the necessary outlay of capital is slight. Here
+the quahaugs run about one-half "little necks," and the proportion of
+blunts is small.
+
+Little evidence of decline can be seen in Pleasant Bay, where the bed
+of quahaugs, although raked for a long time, still shows few signs of
+decrease. On the Cape Cod Bay side the reverse is true, and the supply
+is gradually diminishing.
+
+The same town laws for regulation of the quahaug fishery apply for
+Wellfleet, Eastham and Orleans. (See Wellfleet.)
+
+The main historical features of the quahaug industry at Orleans have
+been similar to Wellfleet, the industry lying practically dormant until
+1894, when it rapidly reached its present production. Unfortunately,
+but little data can be obtained for comparison of the industry of 1879
+with 1907. Ernest Ingersoll reports, in 1879:--
+
+    At Orleans, some few men who go mackereling in summer stay at
+    home and dig clams in winter, getting perhaps 50 barrels of
+    quahaugs among others, which are peddled in the town.
+
+Comparing the two years by table, we find:--
+
+  =======================+=================+===============================
+                         |1879.            |1907.                         |
+  -----------------------+-----------------+------------------------------+
+  Annual production,     |150 bushels,     |33,000 bushels.               |
+  Value of production,   |$82.50,          |$41,350.                      |
+  Number of men,         |A few,           |75.                           |
+  Location, quahaug beds,|Pleasant Bay,    |Cape Cod Bay and Pleasant Bay.|
+  Market,                |Home consumption,|New York and Boston.          |
+  =======================+=================+===============================
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  ==========================+===============+===============+=========
+                            | Cape Cod Bay. | Pleasant Bay. |  Total.
+  --------------------------+---------------+---------------+---------
+  Area (acres),             |      1,000    |       500     |   1,500
+  Number of men,            |         50    |        25     |      75
+  Number of boats,          |         30    |         -     |      30
+  Value of boats,           |    $23,000    |         -     | $23,000
+  Number of dories,         |          -    |        25     |      25
+  Value of dories,          |          -    |      $500     |    $500
+  Value of implements,      |     $1,250    |      $250     |  $1,500
+                            |               |               |
+          _Production._     |               |               |
+                            |               |               |
+  "Little necks":--         |               |               |
+     Bushels,               |      2,700    |     3,000     |   5,700
+     Value,                 |     $6,750    |    $7,000     | $13,750
+                            |               |               |
+  Quahaugs:--               |               |               |
+     Bushels,               |     24,300    |     3,000     |  27,300
+     Value,                 |    $24,300    |    $3,300     | $27,600
+                            |               |               |
+  Total:--                  |               |               |
+     Bushels,               |     27,000    |     6,000     |  33,000
+     Value,                 |    $31,050    |   $10,300     | $41,350
+  ==========================+===============+===============+=========
+
+
+_Provincetown._
+
+No commercial quahaug fishery is carried on at Provincetown. A few
+quahaugs, chiefly "little necks," are found in the tide pools among the
+thatch on the northwestern side of the harbor.
+
+
+_Swansea._
+
+A quahaug fishery existed in Swansea until three years ago. Since that
+time there has been no commercial fishery, though a few quahaugs are
+still dug for home consumption.
+
+
+_Truro._
+
+Occasionally a few scattering quahaugs are found on the bars, which
+extend out one-quarter of a mile from shore on the bay side. No quahaug
+fishery is carried on.
+
+
+_Wareham._
+
+The town of Wareham, situated on the northeast side of Buzzards Bay
+and separated from the adjoining town of Bourne by Cohasset Narrows,
+has a coast line indented with numerous small inlets, bays and rivers,
+which afford excellent opportunities for the growth of the quahaug.
+The villages of Onset, Wareham and part of Buzzards Bay enjoy the
+privileges of this fishery.
+
+Quahaugs are found over practically the entire territory, and comprise
+a total area of about 1,300 acres. Although much of this area is
+barren, the commercial fishery is maintained by small isolated beds
+which occur here and there.
+
+The two principal centers of the industry are in the Wareham River and
+in Onset Bay. At Onset the whole bay, except the oyster grants, as
+included between the southeast end of Mashnee Island and Peters Neck,
+is used for quahauging. A few quahaugs are found in Broad Cove, and
+fair digging is obtained in Buttermilk Bay and Cohasset Narrows. The
+Wareham River, outside the oyster grants, and a narrow shore strip from
+Weweantit River to Tempe's Knob, comprise the rest of the territory. In
+Onset Channel a fine bed exists in deep water, 2 to 4 fathoms, but the
+ground is so hard that not much digging is done.
+
+It will be seen from the map that practically 75 per cent. of the
+quahaug territory is taken up by oyster grants, especially in the
+Wareham River and Onset Bay. Town sentiment is in a chaotic state
+over the oyster and quahaug deadlock, and much friction naturally
+exists between the opposing factions, the quahaugers and oystermen.
+The struggle between these two parties was at its height several years
+ago, and the enmity still continues, though not so openly, owing to the
+decline of the quahaug industry. Rightly managed, affairs ought to be
+so arranged that prosperity might be brought to both factions; but town
+customs and town laws, poorly enforced at the best, are hardly able to
+cope with this evil, which has resulted in much expense legally and
+financially to both parties, and both industries are badly crippled in
+consequence,--the oyster industry by lack of protection and the quahaug
+industry by loss of grounds. It is hoped that in the future suitable
+arrangements can be made for both industries, and that the quahaug
+industry, which is at present declining, can be put on an equal footing
+with the oyster industry, by granting licenses to plant and grow
+quahaugs.
+
+Most of the digging is done with garden rakes, potato diggers or by
+hand. Some tongs are used, but few if any long-handled basket rakes,
+since the digging is chiefly confined to the shallow water, not more
+than 10 feet deep, except in Onset Channel, where it ranges from 12 to
+24 feet.
+
+No information or statistical records of the quahaug fishery of Wareham
+can be obtained, and it is therefore impossible to draw any comparison
+between the present industry and the industry of twenty-five years ago.
+
+The decline of the quahaug fishery in Wareham is an established
+fact. The production of 6,000 bushels for 1906 is far less than the
+production of five years ago. Since 1901 the output has steadily
+declined, and where the quahauger once was able to rake 5 bushels at
+a tide, to-day he can rake scarcely 1 bushel in the same time. It
+is only a question of a few years when the natural supply will be
+completely exterminated. The only salvation of the industry in Wareham
+is to increase the natural supply by quahaug farming.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            1,300
+  Number of men,                                   50
+  Number of boats,                                  -
+  Value of boats,                                   -
+  Number of dories,                                50
+  Value of dories,                               $750
+  Value of implements,                           $250
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                  3,000
+      Value,                                   $7,500
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                  3,000
+      Value,                                   $3,000
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                  6,000
+      Value,                                  $10,500
+
+
+_Wellfleet._
+
+The town of Wellfleet possesses the finest quahaug industry in
+Massachusetts. More men are engaged in the business and the annual
+production is larger than that of any other town of the State.
+
+In colonial days the towns of Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet were
+incorporated as one town,--the town of Eastham. In 1763 an act was
+passed incorporating the North Precinct of Eastham into a district by
+the name of Wellfleet, "Reserving to the inhabitants of said town the
+privileges by them heretofore enjoyed of all ways to and of erecting
+houses on the beaches and islands for the convenience of the fishery of
+all kinds, and of anchorage and of landing all goods or wares at any of
+their common landing places in any of the harbors of said Eastham in
+like manner as they might have done if this act had never been made and
+passed." By this act were created the two independent towns of Eastham
+and Wellfleet, which held in common all fisheries, thus giving the
+mutual right of the shellfisheries to both towns.
+
+In 1797 another act of incorporation, separating Orleans from Eastham,
+was enacted, which provided that the benefits of the shellfisheries of
+these two towns were to be mutually enjoyed.
+
+The result of these two acts was to give Eastham and Wellfleet and at
+the same time Eastham and Orleans mutual rights of the shellfishery,
+but forbidding mutual shellfisheries between Wellfleet and Orleans.
+While this may seem to give theoretically the advantage to Eastham,
+actually the town gains nothing in the quahaug fishery, as Orleans has
+practically no productive grounds on the bay side, and the Orleans
+quahaugers fish in the Eastham waters.
+
+The quahaug territory of Wellfleet comprises about 2,500 acres, and
+approximately takes up all the harbor, wherever there are no oyster
+grants, running from the "Deep Hole" between Great Island and Indian
+Neck southward to the Eastham line. Outside of these limits a few
+quahaugs are found on the flats of Duck Creek and along the shore
+flats of the town. They are more abundant on the north side of Egg
+Island, where they are taken in shallow water with ordinary hand
+rakes. The best quahauging is found in the channel extending from an
+imaginary line between Lieutenant's Island and Great Beach Hill south
+to Billingsgate. The greatest depth at low tide is 4½ fathoms and the
+general average is about 3 fathoms. In this channel are found most of
+the "little necks," small blunts and small sharps.
+
+Outside of the oyster grants, quahaugs are found south of Great
+Island, north of Billingsgate Island on the west side of the harbor,
+on Lieutenant's Island bar and at the mouth of Blackfish Creek. A few
+quahaugs, both sharps and blunts, are raked with 25-foot rakes in the
+shallow water 6 to 8 feet near the beach, usually on a sandy bottom.
+
+The principal market for Wellfleet quahaugs is New York, though many
+are sent to Boston and other parts of the country, even to the middle
+west. Quahaugs have been shipped from Wellfleet to Milwaukee and
+arrived in good condition after ten days.
+
+The annual production is 33,000 bushels, one-sixth of these, 5,500
+bushels, being "little necks." There were 140 men engaged in the
+fishery in 1906, and 145 permits were granted in 1907. The average
+yield for a day's raking is 4 bushels, although an exceptional
+quahauger can sometimes rake 7 bushels.
+
+Practically all the raking is done in deep water, with rakes the
+handles of which are often 47 feet long. Each quahauger has a set
+of handles of various lengths for different depths of water. Both
+power boats and "cats" are used here in quahauging, the power boats
+possessing considerable advantage over the sail boat. Thirty-eight
+power boats and 62 sail boats, both single and double manned, are used
+at Wellfleet.
+
+At present there is every indication of a declining fishery. Until
+the last three years the industry has been steadily on the increase
+since 1894. The maximum production was reached a few years ago, and
+the industry is slowly on the decline, unless the opening up of new
+beds gives it a fresh start. Unfortunately, all the quahaugers do not
+realize the possibility of this seemingly inexhaustible supply giving
+out, and believe it will continue forever; but any one can see that
+it is impossible for the natural supply to continue when such inroads
+are yearly made, and that it is only a question of time when the best
+business asset of the town will become extinct.
+
+For years there has been an antagonistic feeling between the
+quahaugers and the oystermen, due to the conflicting interests of
+these industries. Although the quahaug territory has been narrowed
+down by the giving of oyster grants in the harbor, the quahaug fishery
+has not suffered severely, as the poorer quahaug grounds were alone
+granted, with the idea that more money could be made by using these
+for oyster culture. Although these grants were laid out in good faith,
+injustice in many instances has been done the quahaug industry; but on
+the whole the change has been for the benefit of the town. In the broad
+waters of Wellfleet harbor there is room for both industries, and there
+is no reason why both should not prosper if wisely regulated, without
+the intervention of town politics. At present this antagonism has hurt
+the interests of both, and it is manifestly unfair that either should
+drive the other out while there is room for both to prosper.
+
+Wellfleet is the only town that can boast of a quahaug club. This
+club was formed in 1904, and had an enrollment of practically all the
+quahaugers.
+
+Permits are required of every man engaged in the quahaug fishery. These
+cost $1 apiece, and are granted on application to any one who has been
+a resident of the town for six months. These permits are to be obtained
+each year, on or before May 1, after which date an additional charge of
+50 cents is made for collecting. No person without a regular permit is
+allowed to catch quahaugs for market. Permits were first issued in 1904.
+
+Section 2 of chapter 269 of the Acts of 1904 is as follows:--
+
+    SECTION 2. No inhabitant of said towns shall sell or offer for
+    sale little neck clams or quahaugs which measure less than one
+    and one-half inches across the widest part, and no person shall
+    in any of said towns sell or offer for sale little neck clams
+    or quahaugs which measure less than one and one-half inches
+    across the widest part.
+
+This excellent law was passed for the towns of Eastham, Orleans
+and Wellfleet, but has never been enforced. Although enacted and
+technically lived up to, no measures are made for its enforcement,
+which would necessitate a shellfish inspector. This furnishes an
+example of the nonenforcement of one of the few good town laws.
+
+Section 4 of chapter 269 of the Acts of 1904 is as follows:--
+
+    SECTION 4. The selectmen of the said towns may, in their
+    respective towns, grant licenses or permits for such periods,
+    not exceeding two years, and under such conditions as they
+    may deem proper, not however covering more than seventy-five
+    feet square in area, to any inhabitants of the town to bed
+    quahaugs in any waters, flats and creeks within the town at
+    any place where there is no natural quahaug bed, not impairing
+    the private rights of any person or materially obstructing any
+    navigable waters. It shall be unlawful for any person, except
+    the licensee and his agents, to take any quahaugs in or remove
+    them from the territory covered by any such license.
+
+The above should receive well-deserved praise, as it is one of the most
+useful town laws ever enacted in Massachusetts. Each quahauger is thus
+enabled to stake off a little plot 75 feet square on the flats, whereon
+he can bed his catch whenever the market price is too low for shipment.
+This not only makes steadier work for the quahaugers, since a dull
+market does not stop digging, as before, but also enables him to obtain
+a better price for his quahaugs, and he is not forced to lose through
+the wastes of competition.
+
+Quahaugs have always been abundant at Wellfleet. Forty years ago about
+15 men were engaged in the business, and shipped their catch to Boston
+by packet boats, quahaugs then wholesaling at 50 cents per bushel.
+
+In 1879 (report of the United States Fish Commission) Ernest Ingersoll
+gives the following account of the quahaug industry at Wellfleet, which
+furnishes such an excellent comparison with the present industry that
+it is given here:--
+
+    The early productiveness of Cape Cod is shown by the presence
+    of numerous shellfish heaps, particularly in Wellfleet and
+    Barnstable harbors, filled up by the Indians, and consisting
+    almost wholly of the shells of this mollusk. Though in greatly
+    depleted numbers, the quahaug still survives along the inside
+    of the Cape, and at Wellfleet has been raked from early times
+    by the settlers. Mr. F. W. True contributes some notes on
+    this place, from which I learn that the quahaug fishery as
+    a business there dates from the beginning of the nineteenth
+    century. It grew in extent until 1863, and from that time
+    until 1868 the trade was at its height, since when it has
+    diminished year by year, owing to lack of good market rather
+    than failure of the supply. Between 1863 and 1869 the average
+    catch each year was not less than 2,500 bushels. Of this amount
+    a comparatively small part was consumed at Wellfleet, and the
+    rest were shipped to Boston, Provincetown, Salem, Newport,
+    Manchester and a few other New England ports. From 1870 to 1876
+    the quantity of quahaugs taken per year decreased from 2,500
+    bushels to 1,800 bushels, and this latter amount has remained
+    constant to the present year. Of the total catch in 1878,
+    fully one-half, or 900 bushels, was consumed in Wellfleet, and
+    the remaining 900 bushels were shipped to Boston and other
+    neighboring towns. For three years, beginning with 1876, 75
+    bushels of quahaugs have been annually shipped to New York City.
+
+    Quahaugs are found in all parts of Wellfleet Bay except in a
+    small spot near the wharves, called the "Deep Hole," and a
+    similar one on the west side of the bay. Both of these places
+    are covered with a thick, soft mud. It is not usual, however,
+    to fish in parts of the bay where the average depth at low
+    water exceeds 8 feet. Most of the raking is done on the western
+    side. In ordinary years, quahaug raking is begun the last of
+    March and continues until the first of October. As a general
+    thing, no raking is done through the winter months, although
+    in some years a small amount has been done through holes cut
+    in the ice. The fishermen rake about four tides per week,
+    beginning at half-ebb and raking to half-flood. The boats used
+    are either cat boats or yawls rigged with two sails. Each boat
+    carries 1 man. The rake employed at Wellfleet is described
+    by Mr. True as similar in form to an oyster rake, but made of
+    steel instead of iron. In former days this instrument was of
+    iron, the tips of the teeth only being of steel. An average
+    rake has seventeen teeth, and weighs about 12 pounds. The
+    handle or tail is of wood, and is about 23 feet long. The
+    baskets in which the quahaugs are collected and measured are
+    of ordinary manufacture, and hold about a bushel each; and the
+    whole outfit of a quahaug fisherman does not cost over $150,
+    and the total amount of capital invested in apparatus at the
+    present time in Wellfleet does not exceed $800. This amount is
+    about evenly divided between 5 men, none of whom are engaged in
+    this fishery more than a part of their time.
+
+    Quahaugs are sent to market always in the shell, and packed
+    in second-hand flour or sugar barrels. The wholesale price
+    of quahaugs for many years averaged 60 cents per bushel, but
+    in 1879 it fell to 55 cents. One dollar and seventy-five
+    cents is the average wholesale price per barrel. Quahaugs
+    retail in Wellfleet at 80 cents per bushel. The usual method
+    of transportation is by packet, at a cost of 25 cents per
+    barrel.[9]
+
+                     COMPARISON OF 1879 WITH 1907.
+
+  =========================+======================+======================
+                           |         1879.        |         1907.
+  -------------------------+----------------------+----------------------
+  Annual production,       |1,800,                |33,000.
+                           |                      |
+  Annual value,            |$990,                 |$41,250.
+                           |                      |
+  Average price per bushel,|55 cents,             |$1.25.
+                           |                      |
+  Number of men,           |5,                    |145.
+                           |                      |
+  Capital,                 |$800,                 |$25,950.
+                           |                      |
+  Market,                  |Boston and New York,  |New York, Boston,
+                           |                      |and other cities.
+                           |                      |
+  Season,                  |April 1 to October 1, |April 1 to October 1.
+                           |                      |
+  Boats,                   |5 sail boats,         |100 boats, one-third
+                           |                      |power, two-thirds
+                           |                      |sail.
+                           |                      |
+  Deepest water,           |8 feet,               |40 feet.
+                           |                      |
+  Longest rake,            |23 feet,              |47 feet.
+                           |                      |
+  Best quahaug beds,       |West side of harbor,  |Channel.
+  =========================+======================+======================
+
+From the account of Mr. Ingersoll the above table has been formulated,
+showing the vast increase in the quahaug business of Wellfleet since
+1879, as well as certain changes in the industry. This by no means
+proves that the quahaug industry is on the increase; it merely shows
+that it has taken a tremendous development since 1879, and the
+fact that the quahaug industry of Wellfleet has passed its maximum
+production a few years ago and is now on the decline should not be
+overlooked in consulting this table, which otherwise would give an
+erroneous impression. The changing of the quahaug grounds from shallow
+to deeper water alone is a sign of the decline of the industry. The
+quahaug industry has developed to its present extent only since 1894,
+and is comparatively recent. By the opening of the great beds of
+"little necks" and quahaugs in the channel and deep water the industry
+suddenly became important.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            2,500
+  Number of men,                                  145
+  Number of power boats,                           38
+  Value of power boats,                       $14,000
+  Number of sail boats,                            62
+  Value of sail boats,                        $10,300
+  Value of implements,                         $3,200
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                  5,500
+      Value,                                  $13,850
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                 27,500
+      Value,                                  $27,500
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                 33,000
+      Value,                                  $41,350
+
+
+_Yarmouth._
+
+The quahaug grounds, which lie mostly in Bass River, are free to the
+inhabitants of Dennis and Yarmouth, as these two towns have common
+fishery rights. Quahaugs are found in four localities: (1) Bass River;
+(2) Mill Creek; (3) Barnstable Bar on the north shore; and (4) Lewis
+Bay. The total area is 1,000 acres, which includes all grounds where
+there are any quahaugs, as there are now no thick beds. The average
+depth of water over the quahaug grounds is 4 feet.
+
+The town law governing the quahaug fishery reads thus:--
+
+    All persons other than the inhabitants of the towns of Dennis
+    and Yarmouth are prohibited from taking clams and quahaugs from
+    the shores and waters of the town of Yarmouth. Inhabitants
+    of the Commonwealth not residents of Dennis and Yarmouth may
+    obtain permits of the selectmen to take sufficient quantity of
+    said shellfish for their family use.
+
+The history of the quahaug industry of Yarmouth is one of decline. The
+industry has existed for fifteen years, starting in 1892. Mr. Edgar N.
+Baker, who has been interested in the business ever since it started,
+says:--
+
+    In the last ten years it is safe to say that the catch has
+    fallen off fully 75 per cent., and nothing but the constant
+    advance in prices and lack of profitable employment has
+    prompted men to give their attention to this method of
+    obtaining their "bread and butter." The most conservative
+    estimate would not put it below 50 per cent.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Area of quahaug territory (acres),            1,000
+  Number of men (transient),                       20
+  Number of boats,                                 --
+  Value of boats,                                  --
+  Number of skiffs,                                10
+  Value of skiffs,                               $100
+  Value of implements,                           $140
+
+                             _Production._
+
+  "Little necks":--
+      Bushels,                                  1,200
+      Value,                                   $3,000
+  Quahaugs:--
+      Bushels,                                  1,000
+      Value,                                   $1,000
+  Total:--
+      Bushels,                                  2,200
+      Value,                                   $4,000
+
+FOOTNOTES:
+
+[7] "The Fisheries of Massachusetts," United States Fish Commission
+Report, Section II., p. 253.
+
+[8] Returns of Special Agent Wm. C. Dunham.
+
+[9] "The Oyster, Scallop, Clam, Mussel and Abalone Industries," by
+Ernest Ingersoll. United States Fish Commission Report, Section V.,
+Vol. 2, p. 603.
+
+
+
+
+SCALLOP (_Pecten irradians_).
+
+
+The common shallow-water scallop is unknown commercially on the north
+shore, occurring only south of Boston. It is usually found in abundance
+along the southern shore of Cape Cod, in Buzzards Bay, and about the
+islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard.
+
+For the past three years investigations in regard to its growth, habits
+and culture have been carried on by the Commissioners on Fisheries and
+Game. These investigations are now practically completed. In another
+report the whole life history of this bivalve will be given, showing
+the application of this scientific study to the existing conditions of
+the industry.
+
+The scallop fishery in Massachusetts is only a partial industry, as it
+does not concern the whole coast line, but merely the Vineyard Sound
+and Buzzards Bay shore. Compared with other States, the production of
+Massachusetts is favorable, New York alone exceeding it in output.
+The southern coast of Massachusetts is especially adapted for this
+shellfish. Its bays, sheltered harbors and inlets afford excellent
+ground for the scallop, which requires protection against the heavy
+seas. Thousands of acres of eel-grass flats from 1 to 60 feet under
+water were formerly covered by beds of scallops, and in parts are still
+thickly set. While the extent of the scalloping area is large, only
+portions are ever productive at any one time. A set may be in one part
+this year, and the next year's spawn may catch in a different place.
+Thus, while all the ground is suitable for scallops, only a small part
+is in productive operation each year.
+
+While the possibilities of future development are not as alluring as
+in the other shellfisheries, yet much can be done to assist nature and
+help preserve the supply. Wise laws and well-directed efforts can save
+many bushels of the young scallops which yearly die on the exposed
+flats where they have set in unfavorable places.
+
+_Scope of the Report._--The object of this report is to present certain
+information concerning the scallop industry which will be of use to
+the scallop fishermen, and of interest to the general public and the
+consumers. While the scallop is well known as an article of food, the
+majority of people know little about the animal. It will therefore be
+necessary in the following report to give brief descriptions of the
+various methods used in the capture of this bivalve, in order to make
+clear the more technical portions.
+
+The first part of the report considers the general results of the
+survey, the history of the industry, the scallop laws, the methods of
+scalloping and the statistics of the industry. The second part gives a
+more detailed description, the following points being considered under
+each town: (1) survey; (2) statistics of industry; (3) town laws; (4)
+history.
+
+_Methods of Work._--Several difficulties stand in the way of procuring
+exact information concerning the scallop industry, especially in regard
+to historical data which should show the improvement or decline of the
+fishery. The town records are incomplete, lost, or furnish but slight
+information. Little has been written about this industry, and we were
+thus forced to rely upon the scallopers for information concerning the
+history and former production of each town. Fortunately, the scallop
+industry is of recent origin (thirty years), and the information is
+very nearly correct. By the use of town records, market reports,
+records of express shipments, personal surveys and estimates by the
+various scallopers, and by all other methods at our command, the facts
+of the last few years have been obtained in an approximately correct
+form.
+
+The area of the scallop territory was obtained by personal inspection
+and calculated by plottings on the maps. In designating the area
+suitable for scallops in any town by a certain number of acres or
+by plottings on the map, it does not mean that scallops are found
+each year over all this territory. Allowances must be made for the
+uncertainty of the scallop supply. Some years there will be no
+scallops; in other years, plenty. Even when scallops are plentiful,
+they rarely cover the whole territory, but are found only in certain
+parts in different years. The designation of an area as scallop
+territory means that scallops have been found in the past over this
+territory, and that the natural conditions of the territory appear
+favorable for scallops.
+
+
+_The Decline._
+
+The most important questions which first come to mind when considering
+the scallop industry of to-day are these three: (1) Has there been any
+decline in the industry? If so, how extensive? (2) What are the causes
+of the decline? (3) How can the fishery be improved?
+
+I. _Extent of the Decline._--There is no question but that the industry
+as a whole has declined. This decline has made itself manifest,
+especially in certain localities, _e.g._, Buzzards Bay, where until
+1907 the entire fishery, except at New Bedford and Fairhaven, had been
+totally extinct for the past seven years.
+
+Along the south side of Cape Cod, at Edgartown and Nantucket, the
+supply has on the average remained the same. Of course there is varying
+abundance each year, but as a whole the industry in these localities
+can hardly be said to have declined.
+
+On the other hand, on the north side of Cape Cod we find a marked
+decline. A scallop fishery no longer exists at Plymouth, Barnstable
+harbor, Wellfleet and Provincetown, though twenty-five years ago these
+places boasted of a valuable industry.
+
+So we have to-day in Massachusetts three localities, two of which show
+a marked decline in the scallop fishery, while the other shows some
+improvement. Of the two depleted areas, the one (north of the Cape) may
+never revive the industry; the other (Buzzards Bay) gives indications
+that the industry can once more be put on a very profitable footing.
+The only thing necessary is perpetual precaution on the part of the
+fishermen, in order to prevent this decline. Massachusetts must not
+allow the industry to become extinct, as in Rhode Island.
+
+II. _Causes of the Decline._--The causes of the decline of this
+industry can be grouped under three heads: (1) natural enemies; (2)
+overfishing by man; (3) adverse physical conditions.
+
+The natural enemy of the scallop which works the greatest mischief is
+the starfish, or "five finger," as it is often called. The starfish
+destroys the scallop in the same manner as it attacks the oyster. The
+decline of the scallop fishery in Buzzards Bay is attributed by the
+fishermen to the inroads of this pest. Undoubtedly the starfish was
+the chief apparent cause, since, according to report, dredges full of
+starfish could be hauled up. In other localities in Massachusetts the
+starfish has not been so plentiful.
+
+While the main cause of the decline of the natural clam, quahaug and
+oyster beds is overfishing by man, the decline of the scallop fishery
+cannot be so considered. The scallop has a short life, hardly 25
+per cent. passing the two-year limit; so it does no harm to capture
+the marketable scallops which are over sixteen months old, as the
+scallop spawns when one year old, and dies a natural death usually
+before it reaches a second spawning season. When only old scallops
+are taken, as is generally the case, it is probably _impossible_
+for man to exterminate the scallops by _overfishing_. Unfortunately,
+in certain localities in the past there has been a large capture of
+the "seed" scallop, viz., the scallop less than one year old, which
+has not spawned. This has worked the ruin of the scalloping in these
+localities. The capture of the spawners for another year merely makes
+the next year's set so much smaller, and causes a rapid decline.
+
+As a rule, it is hardly profitable to catch the "seed" scallop, owing
+to its small size. But a direct relation can be established between a
+high market price and the capture of seed. When the market price is
+high and scallops scarce, it becomes profitable to catch the young
+"seed." The present scallop law now defines a "seed" scallop, and
+forbids its capture. By protecting the "seed" scallop the State has
+done all that at present appears expedient to insure the future of the
+industry; the rest lies in the hands of the towns.
+
+So, while the scallop has declined in certain localities, and the
+decline has been hastened by unwise capture of the "seed" scallop,
+the main decline of the fishery cannot be attributed to wholesale
+overfishing, as it is impossible to overfish if only the old scallops
+(over one year old) are taken; for, unlike most other animals, the
+scallop usually breeds but once, and its natural period of life is
+unusually brief. These scallops, if not taken, will die, and prove a
+total loss; so every fisherman should bear in mind that, as long as the
+"seed" scallops are protected, severe fishing of large scallops is not
+likely to injure the future scallop industry.
+
+The principal causes of the decline of the fishery, besides the inroads
+of man, are best termed "adverse physical conditions." Severe winters,
+storms, anchor frost, etc., work destruction upon the hapless scallop.
+The "infant mortality" is especially great.
+
+As the scallop dies before reaching its second birthday, only one set
+of scallops spawn in any one season. There are never two generations of
+scallops spawning at one time. I quote from Ernest Ingersoll in this
+connection:--
+
+    This represents a case where the generations follow one another
+    so rapidly that there are never two ranks, or generations,
+    in condition to reproduce their kind at once, except in
+    rare individual instances, since all, or nearly all, of the
+    old ones die before the young ones have grown old enough
+    to spawn. If such a state of affairs exists, of course any
+    sudden catastrophe, such as a great and cold storm during the
+    winter, or the covering of the water where they lie for a long
+    period with a sheet of ice, happening to kill all the tender
+    young (and old ones, too, often) in a particular district,
+    will exterminate the breed there; since, even if the older
+    and tougher ones survive this shock, they will not live long
+    enough, or at any rate, will be unable to spawn again, and so
+    start a new generation.[10]
+
+The set of young scallops is abundant in shallow water upon the
+eel-grass flats, which often, as is the case of the Common Flats at
+Chatham, are exposed at extremely low tides. A severe winter often
+kills off all the "seed" thus exposed. In this case no spawn is
+obtained the following summer, causing the suppression of the scallop
+fishery in that locality for at least a few years, and possibly its
+permanent extinction.
+
+III. _Improvement; restocking Barren Areas._--The scallop industry,
+unlike the clam and quahaug, offers but little inducement to private
+enterprise. For successful private culture small bays or coves would be
+needed, and suitable areas are very scarce. The scallop offers better
+opportunity for communal culture, _i.e._, by towns.
+
+There is but one way now known of artificial propagation for the
+scallop industry, and that is by transplanting in the fall the abundant
+set from the exposed places to the deeper water before the seed is
+killed by the winter. It is merely assisting nature by preventing a
+natural loss, and in no sense can properly be termed propagation. It
+is merely a preventive, and money used in this way to preserve the
+scallops is well expended. Usually the set is abundant, and can be
+transferred in large numbers. This is the only practical method now
+known of increasing our scallop supply, though it is hoped in the
+future that other methods may be devised.
+
+In connection with the above comes the question, if we can thus
+preserve scallops doomed to destruction, will it not be profitable
+to transplant scallops to places where the scalloping has been
+exterminated by various causes, and by means of these "seeders" furnish
+succeeding generations which may populate the barren areas? This plan
+is practical and feasible, and should be given due consideration. Why
+should not scallops be transplanted to our Buzzards Bay harbors, to
+again restock these areas? Often the attempt might fail, but there is
+bound to be success if there is perseverance. The best time to plant
+these scallops is in the fall, as a double service will be given: (1)
+preservation from destruction of the seed scallops; (2) furnishing
+spawn and young in the barren locality. Ingersoll speaks of the
+restocking of Oyster Bay in 1880:--
+
+    In the spring of 1880 eel grass came into the bay, bringing
+    young scallops [the eel grass carries the scallops attached to
+    it by the thread-like byssus]; thus the abundance of that year
+    was accounted for, though there had not been a crop before in
+    that bay since 1874.
+
+If such a restocking can be accomplished by nature, it can be done with
+more certain effect with man's assistance.
+
+
+_The Industry._
+
+I. _The Methods._--The methods of scalloping follow the historical
+rise of the fishery. As the industry grew more and more important,
+improvements became necessary in the methods of capture, and thus,
+parallel with the development of the industry, we can trace a
+corresponding development in the implements used in the capture of the
+scallop.
+
+(_a_) _Gathering by Hand._--When the scallop was first used as an
+article of food, the primitive method of gathering this bivalve by hand
+was used. This method still exists on the flats of Brewster, and often
+in other localities after heavy gales wagons can be driven to the beach
+and loaded with the scallops which have been blown ashore.
+
+(_b_) _Scoop Nets._--This hand method was not rapid enough for the
+enterprising scallopers, and the next step in the industry was the
+use of scoop nets, about 8 inches in diameter, by which the scallops
+could be picked up in the water. These nets were attached to poles
+of various lengths, suitable to the depth of water. "This method,"
+writes Ingersoll, "was speedily condemned, however, because it could be
+employed only where scallops are a foot thick and inches in length, as
+one fisherman expressed it."
+
+(_c_) _The Pusher._--The next invention was the so-called "pusher." The
+"pusher" consists of a wooden pole from 8 to 9 feet long, attached to
+a rectangular iron frame 3 by 1½ feet, upon which is fitted a netting
+bag 3 feet in depth. The scalloper, wading on the flats at low tide,
+gathers the scallops by shoving the "pusher" among the eel grass. When
+the bag is full, the contents are emptied into the dory and the process
+repeated. The scallopers who use the "pusher" go in dories, which are
+taken to the various parts of the scalloping ground and moved whenever
+the immediate locality is exhausted. This method is in use to-day,
+but is applicable only to shallow flats, and can be worked only at
+low tide, where dredging is impossible. It is hard work, and not as
+profitable as the better method of dredging. This method of scalloping
+is used chiefly at Chatham, Dennis and Yarmouth; occasionally it is
+used at Nantucket and other towns.
+
+(_d_) _Dredging._--The greater part of the scallop catch is taken by
+dredging, which is the most universal as well as the most profitable
+method. The dredge, commonly pronounced "drudge," consists of an iron
+framework about 3 by 1½ feet, with a netting bag attached, which will
+hold from one to two bushels of scallops. Cat boats, carrying from 6 to
+10 dredges, are used for this method of scalloping. These boats, with
+several "reefs," cross the scallop grounds pulling the dredges, which
+hold the boat steady in her course. A single run with all the dredges
+overboard is called a "drift." The contents of all the dredges is said
+to be the result or catch of the "drift."
+
+When the dredges are hauled in they are emptied on what is known as
+a culling board. This board runs the width of the boat, projecting
+slightly on both sides. It is 3 feet wide, and has a guide 3 inches
+high along each side, leaving the ends open. The scallops are then
+separated from the rubbish, such as seaweed, shells, mud, etc., while
+the refuse and seed scallops are thrown overboard by merely pushing
+them off the end of the board. Each catch is culled out while the
+dredges are being pulled along on the back "drift," and the board is
+again clear for the next catch. The culled scallops are first put in
+buckets and later transferred either to bushel bags or dumped into the
+cockpit of the boat.
+
+Two men are usually required to tend from 6 to 8 dredges in a large
+cat boat, but often one man alone does all the work. This seems to be
+confined to localities, as at Nantucket nearly all the cat boats have
+two men. At Edgartown the reverse is true, one man to the boat, though
+in power dredging two men are always used.
+
+Several styles of dredges are used in scalloping, as each locality has
+its own special kind, which is best adapted to the scalloping bottom of
+that region. Four different styles are used in Massachusetts, two of
+which permit a subdivision, making in all six different forms. Each of
+these dredges is said by the scallopers using them to be the best; but
+for all-round work the "scraper" seems the most popular.
+
+(1) _The Chatham or Box Dredge._--As this dredge was first used in
+Chatham, the name of the town was given to it, to distinguish it from
+the other styles. At the present time its use is confined to Chatham
+and the neighboring towns of the Cape. With the exception of a very few
+used at Nantucket, it is not found elsewhere in Massachusetts.
+
+The style of the box dredge is peculiar, consisting of a rectangular
+framework, 27 by 12 inches, of flat iron 1 by ¼ inches, with an
+oval-shaped iron bar extending back as a support for the netting
+bag, which is attached to the rectangular frame. To the side of the
+rectangular frame is attached a heavy iron chain about 4 feet long, to
+which is fastened the drag rope.
+
+(2) _The Scraper._--As can be seen by the illustration, this style of
+dredge consists of a rigid iron frame of triangular shape, which has a
+curve of nearly 90° at the base, to form the bowl of the dredge. Above,
+a raised cross bar connects the two arms, while at the bottom of the
+dredge a strip of iron 2 inches wide extends from arm to arm. This
+strip acts as a scraping blade, and is set at an angle so as to dig
+into the bottom. The top of the net is fastened to the raised cross bar
+and the lower part to the blade.
+
+The usual dimensions of the dredge are: arms, 2½ feet; upper cross bar,
+2 feet; blade, 2½ feet. The net varies in size, usually holding about a
+bushel of scallops, and running from 2 to 3 feet in length. Additional
+weights can be put on the cross bar when the scalloper desires the
+dredge to scrape deeper. A wooden bar, 2 feet long, buoys the net.
+
+Two styles of this dredge are in use. At Nantucket the whole net is
+made of twine, while at Edgartown and in Buzzards Bay the lower part of
+the net is formed of a netting of iron rings, the upper half of the net
+being twine. The iron rings are supposed to stand the wear better than
+the twine netting. This difference seems to be merely a matter of local
+choice. The "scraper" is perhaps the dredge most generally used, as, no
+matter what style is in use, a scalloper generally has a few "scrapers"
+among his dredges.
+
+(3) _The "Slider."_--The principle of the "slider" is the reverse of
+the "scraper," as the blade is set either level or with an upward
+incline, so the dredge can slide over the bottom. This dredge is used
+on rough bottom and in places where there is little eel-grass. In some
+dredges the blade is rigid, but in the majority the blade hangs loose.
+
+The "slider" used at Edgartown differs from the "scraper" by having
+perfectly straight arms and no curved bowl, the blade being fastened
+to the arms in a hook-and-eye fashion. The dimensions of this dredge
+are the same as those of the "scraper," although occasionally smaller
+dredges are found.
+
+(4) _The "Roller" Dredge._--This style of dredge is used only in
+the town of Mattapoisett, where the scallopers claim it is the most
+successful. The dredge is suitable for scalloping over rough ground, as
+the blade of the dredge is merely a line of leads, which roll over the
+surface of the ground gathering in the scallops.
+
+The dredge consists of an oval iron frame, 32 by 20 inches, which acts
+as the arms, and is attached to another iron frame, 32 by 3 inches. The
+blade of the dredge consists of a thin rope with attached leads. The
+net is made wholly of twine, and is about 2½ feet long.
+
+_Scalloping with Power Boats._--The season of 1907 has witnessed in
+Massachusetts the first use of auxiliary power in the scallop fishery.
+At Edgartown the main part of the scalloping is now done by power,
+which, in spite of the additional expense of 5 gallons of gasolene per
+day, gives a proportionately larger catch of scallops. The Edgartown
+scallopers claim that their daily catch, using power, is from one-third
+to one-half better than under the old method of dredging by sail.
+Not only can they scallop when the wind is too light or too heavy
+for successful scalloping by sail, but more "drifts" can be made in
+the same time. A slight disadvantage of scalloping with power is the
+necessity of having two men, as the steering of the power boat demands
+much closer attention than the sail boat, which is practically held to
+a fixed course by the dredges. A power boat for scalloping possesses
+only the disadvantage of additional cost; but it is only necessary
+to look forward a few years, when expedition rather than cheapness
+will be in demand, to a partial revolution in the present methods of
+scalloping, whereby the auxiliary cat boat will take the place of the
+sail boat in the scallop fishery.
+
+II. _Preparing the Scallop for Market._ (1) _The "Eye."_--The edible
+part of the scallop is the large adductor muscle. The rest of the
+animal is thrown away, though in certain localities it is used as fish
+bait and in others for fertilizer. Why the whole of the animal is not
+eaten is hard to say. Undoubtedly all is good, but popular prejudice,
+which molds opinion, has decreed that it is bad, so it is not used as
+food. This is perhaps due to the highly pigmented and colored portions
+of the animal. Nevertheless, there is a decided possibility that in
+the future we shall eat the entire scallop, as well as the luscious
+adductor muscle.
+
+The adductor muscle is called by the dealers and fishermen the "eye," a
+name given perhaps from its important position in the animal, and its
+appearance. The color of the "eye," which has a cylindrical form, is a
+yellowish white.
+
+(2) _The Shanties._--The catch of scallops is carried to the shanty of
+the fisherman, and there opened. These shanties are usually grouped
+on the dock, so the catch can be readily transferred. Inside of these
+shanties, usually 20 by 10 feet or larger, we find a large bench 3 to
+3½ feet wide, running the length of the shanty, and a little more than
+waist high. On these benches the scallops are dumped from the baskets
+or bags, and pass through the hands of the openers. Under the bench are
+barrels for the shells and refuse.
+
+(3) _The Openers._--The openers are usually men and boys, though
+occasionally a few women try their hand at the work. Of late years
+there has been a difficulty in obtaining sufficient openers, and the
+scallopers often are forced to open their own scallops. The openers
+are paid from 20 to 30 cents per gallon, according to the size of the
+scallops. One bushel of average scallops will open 2½ to 3 quarts of
+"eyes." An opener can often open 8 to 10 gallons in a day, making an
+excellent day's work. The price now paid is more than double that paid
+in 1880, which was 12½ cents per gallon. Some openers are especially
+rapid, and their deft movements cause a continual dropping of shells in
+the barrel and "eyes" in the gallon measure.
+
+(4) _Method of opening the Scallop._--The opening of a scallop requires
+three movements. A flat piece of steel with a sharp but rounded end,
+inserted in a wooden handle, answers for a knife. The scallop is taken
+by a right-handed opener in the palm of the left hand, the hinge
+line farthest away from the body, the scallop in its natural resting
+position, the right or smooth valve down. The knife is inserted between
+the valves on the right-hand side. An upward turn with a cutting motion
+is given, severing the "eye" from the upper valve, while a flirt at the
+same moment throws back the upper shell. The second motion tears the
+soft rim and visceral mass of the scallop and casts it into the barrel,
+leaving the "eye" standing clear. A third movement separates the "eye"
+from the shell and casts it into a gallon measure. Frequently the last
+two movements are slightly different. The faster openers at the second
+motion merely tear off enough of the rim to allow the separation of the
+"eye" from the shell, and on the third movement cast the "eye" in the
+measure, while the shell with its adhering soft parts is thrown into
+the refuse barrel. These last two motions can hardly be separated, so
+quickly are they accomplished.
+
+(5) _"Soaking."_--The "eye" is then usually put through the following
+course of treatment before marketing; the treatment is what is
+familiarly known as "soaking." It has been noticed that whenever salt
+water products are allowed to soak in fresh water, an increase of bulk
+is found. This is due to a change, called osmosis, which causes the
+swelling of the tissues. The "eye" can be increased, by the process
+of osmosis, to a gain of more than one-third its natural size; that
+is, 4½ gallons of scallop "eyes" can be increased to 7 gallons by
+judicious "feeding" with fresh water. Also, a change has taken place
+in the scallops after a few hours' soaking. No longer do we find the
+poor yellow-colored small "eye" of the freshly opened scallop, but a
+beautiful white, plump "eye," which at once tempts the purchaser. While
+these changes have added to the salable properties of the scallop by
+beautifying its appearance and increasing its size, the scallop has
+lost much of its sweet flavor and freshness.
+
+Practically every scallop sold in the markets or shipped from any
+scalloping center is soaked, as the "soaking," if not already done
+by the fishermen, is administered by the retail dealers. There
+are scallopers who are ready to ship the unsoaked scallops at a
+proportionate price the moment the market demands them; but the
+consumer, through ignorance, demands the large, nice-appearing "eyes,"
+and thus unwittingly favors the practice. However, as long as pure
+water is used and other sanitary precautions taken, no actual harm may
+arise from soaking scallops.
+
+Two methods of swelling scallops are in use. When the scallops are
+shipped in kegs, which usually contain 7 gallons, the following method
+is applied: 4½ to 5 gallons of "eyes" are placed in each keg, and are
+allowed to stand over night in fresh water; in the morning before
+shipment more water is added and the keg closed, and by the time of
+arrival to the New York or Boston market the scallops have increased to
+the full amount of 7 gallons.
+
+The second method of "soaking" is slightly more elaborate. The eyes are
+spread evenly in shallow wooden sinks 5 by 3 feet, with just enough
+fresh water to cover them, and left over night. In the morning a milky
+fluid is drawn off, and the "soaked" scallops are packed for market in
+kegs or butter tubs.
+
+(6) _Shipment._--The kegs in which the scallops are shipped cost 30
+cents apiece, and contain about 7 gallons. A full keg is known as a
+"package." The butter tubs are less expensive, but hold only 4 to 5
+gallons. Indeed, anything which will hold scallops for shipment is used
+to send them to market.
+
+When the scallops get to the market they are strained and weighed, 9
+pounds being considered the weight of a gallon of meats. In this way
+about 6 gallons are realized from every 7-gallon keg. With the improved
+methods of modern times scallops can be shipped far west or be held
+for months in cold storage, for which purpose unsoaked scallops are
+required. Certain firms have tried this method of keeping the catch
+until prices were high, but it has not been especially successful.
+
+(7) _Market._--One of the greatest trials to the scallop fisherman is
+the uncertainty of market returns when shipping. He does not know the
+price he is to receive; and, as the price depends on the supply on the
+market, he may receive high wages or he may get scarcely anything. The
+wholesale market alone can regulate the price, and the fisherman is
+powerless. While this is hard on the scalloper, it does not appear that
+at the present time anything can be done to remedy the uncertainty of
+return. The scallop returns from the New York market are usually higher
+than from the Boston market. The result of this has been to give New
+York each year the greater part of the scallop trade, and practically
+all the Nantucket and Edgartown scallops are shipped to New York.
+
+Either from a feeling of loyalty, or because the market returns are
+sooner forwarded, or because the express charges are less, Cape Cod
+still ships to the Boston market, in spite of the better prices offered
+in New York. Why so many Cape scallopers should continue to ship to
+Boston, and resist the attractions of better prices, is impossible to
+determine, and appears to be only a question of custom.
+
+(8) _The Price._--The price of scallops varies with the supply. The
+demand is fairly constant, showing a slight but decided increase each
+year. On the other hand, the supply is irregular, some years scallops
+being plentiful, in other years scarce.
+
+_The Maine or Deep-sea Scallop._--In the Boston market the
+shallow-water scallop has a formidable rival in the giant scallop of
+the Maine coast, which is nearly twice as large. Nevertheless, the Cape
+scallop maintains its superiority and still leads its larger brother in
+popular favor, wholesaling at 50 to 70 cents more a gallon. There is no
+doubt that this competition has had a tendency to lower the price of
+the Cape scallop, possibly accounting for the higher market price in
+New York.
+
+_Outfit of a Scalloper._--While we have traced the scallop from its
+capture among the eel-grass to its final disposition, we have not
+considered the equipment of the scalloper. The average capital invested
+in the business can best be summed up under these two heads,--the boat
+fisherman and the dory fisherman.
+
+                   _Boat Fisherman._
+  Boat,                                       $500.00
+  Dory,                                         20.00
+  Six dredges,                                  25.00
+  Rope and gear,                                25.00
+  Culling board,                                 2.00
+  Incidentals,                                   3.00
+  Shanty,                                       50.00
+                                              -------
+     Total,                                   $625.00
+                   _Dory Fisherman._
+  Dory,                                        $20.00
+  Oars,                                          1.50
+  Pusher,                                        2.50
+  Shanty,                                       25.00
+                                              -------
+    Total,                                     $49.00
+
+
+III. _The Scallop Season._--There is considerable diversity of opinion
+among the scallopers as to when the scallop season should open. Some
+advocate November 1 as the opening date, instead of October 1, as the
+present law reads; and many arguments are put forth by both sides.
+
+The class of fishermen who desire November 1 are those who are engaged
+in other fishing during the month of October, and either have to give
+it up or lose the first month of scalloping. Naturally, they wish a
+change, putting forth the additional argument of better prices if the
+season begins later. The scalloper who is not engaged in other fishing
+of course desires the law to remain as it is at the present time,
+claiming that the better weather of October gives easier work, more
+working days, and allows no chance of loss if the winter is severe.
+
+Under the present law, the town can regulate the opening of its season
+to suit the demands of the market and the desire of the inhabitants.
+This does away with the necessity of any State law on this point,
+which, under the present system of town control, would be inadvisable.
+
+The general opinion of the fishermen is in favor of the present date,
+October 1. As nearly as could be determined, about 75 per cent. favor
+October 1 and 25 per cent. November 1. This sentiment is divided by
+localities, as more men were in favor of November 1 at Nantucket and
+Edgartown than on Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay, where very few favored a
+change.
+
+IV. _The Utilization of Waste._--While it seems an enormous waste that
+out of a bushel of scallops only 2½ to 3 quarts of edible meats are
+obtained, it is not all absolute loss. Oyster growers buy the shells
+for cultch to catch the oyster seed, paying from 3 to 5 cents per
+bushel. Other uses are found, such as ornaments and in making shell
+roads. The refuse is used for fish bait, and often barrels of it are
+salted for this purpose. It is also used in some places for manure for
+agricultural purposes.
+
+In the last year a new use for scallop shells has developed. Similar to
+the souvenir postal card, scallop shells bound together with ribbon
+and containing miniature photographic views have been put on the
+market. Three firms near Boston make a business of this, and use only
+the lower or bright valve of the scallop. Certain scallopers furnish
+these scallop shells, cleaned of meat, at the rate of $6 per barrel;
+and, though it takes considerable time to separate the shells when
+opening, the excellent price makes this new industry pay. The question
+of the future is to find new and more important uses for our waste sea
+products. Some day what is now waste in the scallop industry may be
+utilized for the benefit of the public.
+
+V. _Food Value._--As a food the scallop stands ahead of all the other
+shellfish, containing much more nourishment than the oyster. The
+following figures are from the tables of Professor Atwater, rearranged
+by C. F. Langworthy:[11]--
+
+                  (All values expressed as per cent.)
+
+  ==============================+=========+======+=======+=========+=====
+                                | Refuse, | Salt | Water | Protein | Fat
+                                | Bone,   |      |       |         |
+                                | Skin,   |      |       |         |
+                                |  etc.   |      |       |         |
+  ------------------------------+---------+------+-------+---------+-----
+  Oysters, solids,              |      -- |   -- |  88.3 |     6.1 | 1.4
+  Oysters, in shell,            |    82.3 |   -- |  15.4 |     1.1 |  .2
+  Oysters, canned,              |      -- |   -- |  85.3 |     7.4 | 2.1
+  Scallops,                     |      -- |   -- |  80.3 |    14.7 |  .2
+  Soft clams, in shell,         |    43.6 |   -- |  48.4 |     4.8 |  .6
+  Soft clams, canned,           |      -- |   -- |  84.5 |     9.0 | 1.3
+  Quahaugs, removed from shell, |      -- |   -- |  80.8 |    10.6 | 1.1
+  Quahaugs, in shell,           |    68.3 |   -- |  27.3 |     2.1 |  .1
+  Quahaugs, canned,             |      -- |   -- |  83.0 |    10.4 |  .8
+  Mussels,                      |    49.3 |   -- |  42.7 |     4.4 |  .5
+  General average of mollusks   |    60.2 |   -- |  34.0 |     3.2 |  .4
+    (exclusive of canned).      |         |      |       |         |
+  ==============================+=========+======+=======+=========+=====
+
+                  (All values expressed as per cent.)
+
+  ==============================+=========+=========+===========+=======
+                                |Carbohy- | Mineral | Total     | Fuel
+                                | drates  | Matter  | Nutrients | Value
+                                |         |         |           | per
+                                |         |         |           | Pound
+  ------------------------------+---------+---------+-----------+-------
+  Oysters, solids,              |     3.3 |      .9 |      11.7 |  235
+  Oysters, in shell,            |      .6 |      .4 |       2.3 |   40
+  Oysters, canned,              |     3.9 |     1.3 |      14.7 |  300
+  Scallops,                     |     3.4 |     1.4 |      19.7 |  345
+  Soft clams, in shell,         |     1.1 |     1.5 |       8.0 |  135
+  Soft clams, canned,           |     2.9 |     2.3 |      15.5 |  275
+  Quahaugs, removed from shell, |     5.2 |     2.3 |      19.2 |  340
+  Quahaugs, in shell,           |     1.3 |      .9 |       4.4 |   65
+  Quahaugs, canned,             |     3.0 |     2.8 |      17.0 |  285
+  Mussels,                      |     2.1 |     1.0 |       8.0 |  140
+  General average of mollusks   |     1.3 |      .9 |       5.8 |  100
+    (exclusive of canned).      |         |         |           |
+  ==============================+=========+=========+===========+======
+
+
+_The Laws._
+
+The State laws regulating the fishery were made for the benefit of the
+industry and for the preservation of the "seed" scallop, which is the
+only requirement necessary for insuring the future supply.
+
+Each town has charge over its scallop fishery, under the general
+shellfish act of 1880, which entrusted all regulation of the
+shellfisheries to the selectmen of the towns. The town laws governing
+the scallop fishery are by far the most satisfactory of the shellfish
+laws of the towns. Although in many respects beneficial, they have
+certain disadvantages.
+
+The main disadvantage of the town laws is found in the jealousy of
+neighboring towns. One town may make a law to oppose another town, and
+will often injure its own interests thereby. In this connection the
+condition at Dennis, during the winter of 1904-05, was an instance. As
+scallops were remarkably abundant, the town made by-laws intended to
+exclude from its scallop fisheries the residents of other towns. At
+the close of the scalloping season, when the ice came, the scallops
+were still abundant. The inhabitants of the town thought they could
+get the rest next season. They did not know that the scallop does not
+live two years. The next year not a single scallop of that set was to
+be found; they had died. If other scallopers had been allowed to go
+there, thousands of dollars could have been saved, and many scallopers
+given employment. This one case illustrates the disadvantages of town
+jealousy; and Dennis is by no means to blame, as it merely protected
+itself against the similar restrictions of neighboring Cape Cod towns.
+
+The town laws which benefit the scallop industry are made each year
+according to the condition of the industry. Edgartown and Nantucket
+have perhaps the best-governed scallop industries. Laws requiring
+licenses, regulating the opening of the season and restricting at
+proper times the catch, so as to get the best market prices instead of
+overstocking the market when the prices are low, are to be recommended
+on account of their benefit to the scallopers.
+
+
+_History._
+
+In considering the rise of a fishing industry, it is often difficult
+to state exactly the year when the industry started, as there are
+differences of opinion as to how large a fishery should be before it
+could be justly considered an industry. The scallop fishery has existed
+for years, but did not become an established industry of the State
+before the year 1872. At that time there was hardly any demand for
+scallops, and the catch was with difficulty marketed. Since then the
+market demand for the scallop has steadily increased, until the supply
+can hardly meet the popular demand. It seems almost incredible that
+the scallop as an article of food should once have been scorned and
+practically unknown.
+
+During the years of 1876 and 1877 the industry took a sudden spurt. At
+this time the introduction of the dredge on Cape Cod revolutionized
+the industry, and made it possible to open up the deep-water fields.
+The industry on Cape Cod first started at Hyannis, where a number of
+men entered the new business; and for several years the production
+increased rapidly, with the opening of new territories and improved
+methods of capture. While the natural supply has remained the same or
+declined in certain localities, as has been shown in a previous part of
+this report, the value of the industry, in regard to the number of men
+engaged and capital invested, has steadily increased.
+
+               SCALLOP PRODUCTION FOR MASSACHUSETTS.[12]
+
+  =====================================================================
+         YEAR.       |  Bushels. |   Value. |  Gallons. |    Price
+                     |           |          |           |  per Gallon.
+  -------------------+-----------+----------+-----------+--------------
+  1879,              |    10,542 |   $3,514 |     7,028 |        $0.50
+  1887,              |    41,964 |   38,933 |    27,976 |         1.39
+  1888,              |    26,168 |   43,202 |    17,446 |         2.48
+  1898,              |   128,863 |   85,383 |    85,908 |         0.99
+  1902,              |    66,150 |   89,982 |    44,100 |         2.04
+  1905,              |    43,872 |   98,712 |    29,248 |         3.37½
+  =====================================================================
+
+These figures show that the price of scallops varies greatly, dependent
+largely upon the amount caught that season; also that there has been,
+in spite of the irregularity of the catch, a gradual rise in prices
+since 1879, due to a more extensive market.
+
+In considering the scallop industry the following points should be
+noted: (1) It has been necessary to record as scallop area any grounds
+where scallops have ever been found, in spite of the fact that only a
+portion of this total area is in any one year productive. (2) The boats
+engaged in the scallop fishery are but transitory capital, which is
+utilized, outside of the scallop season, in other fisheries. (3) The
+quahaug and scallop fisheries in many towns supplement each other, as
+the same men and boats are engaged in both industries. (4) The length
+of the season varies in the different localities. In New Bedford and
+Fairhaven the scallops are mostly caught in a few weeks, as many boats
+enter the business temporarily. This necessarily gives an excess of
+invested capital and a small production. In these two towns the number
+of scallop licenses are recorded as showing the number of men engaged
+in the fishery, while as a fact but a small part of these are steadily
+engaged in the industry.
+
+    Key: N= Number
+
+  ============+======+============+==========+=======+================+=======
+              |Number| Boats      |  Extra   | Value |   Production   |Area of
+              |  of  |            |  Dories  |  of   |    1907-08     |Scallop
+      TOWN    | Men  +---+--------+---+------+  Gear +-------+--------+Grounds
+              |      | N | Value  | N |Value |       |Gallons| Value  |(Acres)
+              +------+---+--------+---+------+-------+-------+--------+-------
+  Barnstable  | 39   | 23|  $8,000|  -|     -|   $575|  1,530|  $2,004|  2,800
+  Bourne      | 38   | 30|  15,000|  -|     -|  1,200| 12,000|  15,720|  3,000
+  Chatham     |107   | 35|  10,650| 61|$1,430|  1,185| 34,615|  45,345|  2,000
+  Dennis      | 30   |  9|   4,230|  9|   180|    368|  2,950|   3,865|  2,250
+  Edgartown   | 39   | 26|   8,000|  -|     -|    550| 17,000|  22,270|  2,000
+  Fairhaven   |73[13]| 50|  12,500|  -|     -|  1,500|  1,300|   1,703|  2,500
+  Harwich     | 12   |  7|   2,350|  -|     -|    280|  2,170|   2,843|  3,200
+  Marion      | 44   | 16|   5,300| 24|   250|    580|  7,000|   9,170|  1,500
+  Mattapoisett| 22   | 19|   6,900|  -|     -|    760|  5,000|   6,550|  1,200
+  Nantucket   | 99   | 47|  13,250| 20|   500|    700| 20,245|  26,539|  4,500
+  New Bedford |38[13]| 20|   5,000|  -|     -|    600|    700|     917|    400
+  Tisbury     | 20   |  8|   3,000|  6|    90|    300|  3,000|   3,930|    800
+  Wareham     | 45   | 36|  10,800|  -|     -|  1,300| 10,000|  13,100|  2,500
+  Yarmouth    | 41   | 15|   3,750| 10|   200|    475|  8,000|  10,480|  2,250
+  ------------+------+---+--------+---+------+-------+-------+--------+-------
+     Total    | 647  |341|$108,730|130|$2,650|$10,373|125,510|$164,436| 30,900
+  ============+======+===+========+===+======+=======+=======+========+=======
+
+
+_Barnstable._
+
+The principal scalloping grounds of the town of Barnstable are found in
+Hyannis bay and at Cotuit. Scallops are said to have once been abundant
+in Barnstable harbor, on the north side of Cape Cod. At the present day
+the scallop is unknown commercially in this locality, and few are found
+on the sand flats of the harbor. A. Howard Clark, in his report on the
+fisheries of Massachusetts, in 1880, makes the following statement
+concerning this industry in Barnstable harbor:--
+
+    Scallops are abundant along the shores of the harbor, and
+    in 1876 a party of men from Hyannis established themselves
+    here for the purpose of gathering them. In 1877 the price of
+    scallops declined very greatly, forcing these men to abandon
+    their enterprise. The fishery was continued, however, by two
+    men of Barnstable. In the winter of 1877-78 the latter shipped
+    40 half-barrels of "eyes," and during the winter of 1878-79
+    only 6 half-barrels. They were sent to Boston and New York.
+
+This furnishes a concrete example of the extinction of the productive
+scallop beds in certain localities. The chances are that a severe
+winter or other adverse physical conditions killed all the scallops
+in the harbor, and rendered impossible any future supply. Although
+Barnstable harbor, with its swift tides, is not suitable for scallops
+in all parts, yet there are certain localities where they should
+thrive. In no way is it visionary or impossible that by the proper
+transplanting of young scallops from the waters on the south side of
+the Cape, these "seeders" might furnish other generations of scallops,
+and revive an extinct industry. At any rate, the chances for success in
+this line look favorable, and should be carefully considered.
+
+_Hyannis._--Although the scallop industry on the north coast of the
+town is extinct, it still flourishes as of old on the south coast. The
+bulk of the business is carried on here, and nearly all the shipments
+are made from this town. The scallop territory comprises 2,700 acres,
+in the following localities: (1) Lewis Bay; (2) near Squaw's Island;
+(3) Hyannisport harbor; and (4) the shore waters. At Hyannisport small
+scallops are taken with "pushers" in the shallow water, while large
+scallops are taken by dredging in the other three localities. Scallops
+are found in different parts and in varying abundance each year.
+Practically all this territory as outlined on the map is suitable for
+scallops.
+
+Two methods of scalloping are in use at Hyannis: (1) the hand "pusher,"
+used in shallow water, especially in the harbor at Hyannisport; (2)
+dredging. These two methods cover different territories, and it is
+possible that one year scallops may be found only on the flats where
+it was impossible to dredge with a boat, and another year be all in
+the deep water where the "pusher" cannot be used. However, in most
+years both methods are in use. The dredge most commonly used is the
+"scraper," although the Chatham style is found here. Six to nine are
+carried by each boat.
+
+Hyannis claims the distinction of shipping the first Cape Cod scallops
+to market. This was in 1874, and was the start of a considerable
+industry which employed 80 men. There has been more or less scalloping
+ever since that time. Ernest Ingersoll, in his report on the scallop
+fishery of the United States, in 1880, says in reference to scallop
+fishing at Hyannis from 1876 to 1878:--
+
+    The most northerly locality at which such a fishery exists,
+    as far as I am informed, is at Hyannis, Mass., and during
+    the winter of 1877 many persons of all ages and conditions
+    were employed in it there. One firm fitted up a large house
+    expressly for the business, and employed a large number of
+    openers. Skiffs, cat-rigged yawl boats, dories and punts, 200
+    in number, and of every size, shape, form and color, were used;
+    most of them were flat bottomed, shaped like a flatiron, and
+    therefore very "tender" when afloat. Each boat carried two
+    dredges, locally termed "drags." In that year, according to Mr.
+    F. W. True, each of the 200 boats averaged 120 bushels, or 100
+    gallons, during the season, which would give a total of 24,000
+    bushels, or 20,000 gallons for the fleet. The scallops were
+    sent to New York and also to Boston, and an average price of
+    $5 per half-barrel was received. In 1876 the price was $7, and
+    in 1878 only $3.50. Further inquiries show that this spurt at
+    Hyannis had no precedent, and has completely died away, so that
+    at present there is no catch there, or at least no shipments.
+
+The 1904-05 fishery was very successful, while the season of 1905-06
+proved the reverse. The production for 1905-06 was 1,350 gallons,
+valued at $3,200; while the 1906-07 season furnished 1,000 gallons,
+worth $2,000. The following notes, made in November, 1905, give the
+situation of the industry for that year:--
+
+The scalloping areas this season have been at Squaw's Island and in
+Lewis Bay, the first locality furnishing the better fishing. By the
+middle of November both areas were practically exhausted and the
+season over. The production to November 12 was 900 gallons. After that
+time the shipments to the Boston and New York markets were small and
+irregular, in spite of the high price of $3 to $3.50 per gallon.
+
+_Cotuit._--In the report of Mr. Ingersoll we find no mention of
+scalloping at Cotuit. Either there was none in 1879, or it was too
+small to be of any importance. To-day the scalloping is of slight
+importance, and practically all is used for home trade. Undoubtedly
+there has been but little change in the past twenty-five years. Side
+by side with the pigmy scallop industry has grown the oyster industry,
+which has made Cotuit famous. Undoubtedly the latter has sapped the
+strength of the former by encroaching on its area; but it has always
+been for the best interests of the people, as the oyster industry here
+is far more valuable than the scallop fishery.
+
+The grounds of Cotuit are quite small, extending over an irregular
+strip of 100 acres. The bottom is mostly muddy, and covered with
+patches of eel grass. All the rest of the bay, where the bottom is
+more suited for oyster culture, is taken up by grants. This scalloping
+area, although small, is free to the scallopers of Osterville, Cotuit,
+Marston's Mills and Hyannis, and even where heavily set it is soon
+fished out.
+
+In the years previous to 1904-05 exceptionally fine scalloping had been
+reported by the fishermen. The season of 1904-05 was exceptionally
+poor, and in 1905-06 hardly any scallops were obtainable. In 1907
+scalloping began October 1, and by December 15 all the boats were
+hauled up, as the scallops became too scarce for profitable fishing.
+Dredging is the only important method employed in the Cotuit fishery,
+although a few scallops were picked up on the flats.
+
+A town law forbidding the capture of scallops for market before
+December 1 was passed in 1899. This, nevertheless, permitted any
+resident of Barnstable, between October 1 and December 1, to catch
+scallops for his family use, and for this reason could never be
+strictly enforced. In 1907 this law was repealed, as many believed that
+it was detrimental rather than helpful to the Cotuit interests, as it
+gave the Hyannis scallopers, after they had fished for two months in
+Hyannis Bay, the cream of the Cotuit fishery.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  ============+=======+=================+=======+======================
+              | Number|      BOATS.     | Value | PRODUCTION, 1907-08.
+     TOWN.    |   of  +--------+--------+  of   +----------+-----------
+              |  Men. | Value. | Number.| Gear. | Gallons. |  Value.
+  ------------+-------+--------+--------+-------+----------+-----------
+  Hyannis,    |   16  | $3,200 |    8   | $200  |    1,130 |  $1,480
+  Hyannisport,|   14  |  2,800 |    7   |  200  |      100 |     131
+  Cotuit,     |    9  |  2,000 |    8   |  175  |      300 |     393
+  ------------+-------+--------+--------+-------+----------+-----------
+      Total,  |   39  | $8,000 |   23   | $575  |    1,530 |  $2,004
+  ============+=======+========+========+=======+==========+===========
+
+
+_Bourne._
+
+The villages of Buzzards Bay, Monument Beach and Cataumet share the
+scallop fishery of the town of Bourne, and have had during 1907-08 a
+successful season for the first time in eight years.
+
+The available scallop territory of the town covers approximately 3,000
+acres, extending from Buttermilk Bay along the whole coast of the town
+to Cataumet.
+
+The fishing is mostly done by dredging with cat boats, carrying from
+six to ten dredges per boat, although a few scallopers dredge with
+power. The dredges are generally of the "scraper" type, with the chain
+bottom, similar to the dredges used at Edgartown. The scallopers both
+open their own catch and hire openers to assist them. Thirty boats, 8
+carrying 2 men, and 22 with 1 man, totalling 38 men, are employed in
+the scallop fishery.
+
+The industry lasted until Jan. 1, 1908, when the boats were hauled up
+for winter. The total estimate for the season is 20,000 bushels, or
+12,000 gallons (unsoaked), valued at $15,720. The largest daily catch
+recorded for one boat was 72 bushels.
+
+The principal market is New York, though part of the catch is sent
+to New Bedford. The price varied from $1.15 to $3 per gallon. The
+scallopers claim that they do not soak the scallops, as the "eye" is
+large enough to sell well without increasing its size. Undoubtedly
+soaking is done to some extent. The scallops are large, opening about
+3½ quarts per bushel.
+
+Twelve hundred dollars are invested in gear and $15,000 in boats, which
+vary from $300 to $1,300 in value.
+
+Licenses costing $1 are required by the selectmen of every scalloper.
+
+Here again we find the old tale of the decline of a once prosperous
+industry, and new enthusiasm in the success of the 1907-08 season. The
+1906-07 season was an improvement over the previous one, when eight
+licenses were issued, allowing a maximum of 1,605 bushels to be taken.
+In previous years no licenses were given, as there were no scallops.
+
+
+_Brewster._
+
+Scalloping at Brewster can hardly be called an industry. Here the
+primitive method of picking up the scallops on the exposed flats at
+low tide is alone used. The scallops are washed by the heavy seas on
+the flats, and can be gathered by men, women and children when the
+tide goes down. Somewhere in the deeper water is a bed of scallops,
+but in 1905 no one had been able to locate it. In 1905 only one man
+made a business of gathering and shipping these scallops. He averaged 2
+bushels per tide, going down with a team and carting them to his house,
+where he opened them. All shipments were made to Boston, at an average
+price of $1.75 to $2. The people pick up many for home use.
+
+
+_Chatham._
+
+The town of Chatham, situated at the elbow of Cape Cod, possesses
+abundant facilities for all the shore fisheries. For the past
+twenty-five years the scallop fishery has held almost equal rank with
+the lobster and cod fisheries, for which Chatham is noted, and has in
+many years furnished employment when other fishing had failed.
+
+Scallops are found only in the southern waters of the town. Between
+Inward Point and Harding's Beach many acres of eel-grass flats,
+sheltered from the open ocean by Monomoy Island, furnish excellent
+grounds for scallops. The entire area of these grounds is approximately
+2,000 acres, although this whole territory is never completely stocked
+in any one year. During the season of 1907-08 the following places
+constituted the scalloping grounds:--
+
+(1) Island Flats in Stage Harbor, on the east side of the channel,
+opposite Harding's Beach, furnished a number of scallops, which were
+rapidly caught the first of the season, as these flats were near the
+town. Here the water is not more than 1½ to 2 feet deep at low tide,
+and thick eel grass covers the greater part except near the channel.
+The first of the season a man could obtain 8 bushels per day, but later
+a catch of 2 bushels was considered good.
+
+(2) Directly south of Harding's Beach lies John Perry's flat, commonly
+known as "Jerry's," where there has been good scalloping for many years.
+
+(3) The western half of the Common Flats furnished the best scalloping
+in 1907-08, as the scallops, though small (6 pecks to a gallon), were
+plentiful. These flats run nearly dry on low course tides, and are
+covered with eel grass. Nearly every year there is a heavy set of
+scallop seed, which, because of the exposed nature of the flats, is
+wholly or partially destroyed. The entire set was destroyed in the
+winter of 1904-05, while 30 per cent. was lost in 1906-07.
+
+(4) On the flats just south of Inward Point was another bed of scallops.
+
+(5) In the bend north of Inward Point scallops were plentiful.
+
+(6) On the northwest edge of the Common Flats scallops can be dredged
+over an area of 160 acres at a depth of 5 fathoms. These are of good
+size, opening 3½ quarts to the bushel.
+
+Two methods of obtaining scallops are employed: (1) by the use of the
+"pusher;" and (2) by dredging. As the "pusher" is used on the flats
+at low water where the boats cannot sail, the boat man possesses the
+advantage of "pushing" at low tide and dredging at high water. Sixty
+per cent. of the scallopers at Chatham go in dories and use "pushers,"
+as the Common Flats afford excellent opportunity for this sort of
+fishing; the remaining 40 per cent. scallop in boats, using "pushers"
+to a limited extent. Four to six box dredges are used for each boat,
+the smaller boats carrying four, the larger six.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                  107
+      Dory men ("pushers"), 62
+      Boat men (dredgers),                         45
+  Number of boats,                                 35
+      Single-manned,                               26
+      Double-manned,                                9
+  Value of boats,                             $10,650
+  Number of dories,                                61
+  Value of dories,                             $1,430
+  Value of scallop gear for dories,               135
+  Value of scallop gear for boats,              1,050
+  Total value of scallop gear,                  1,185
+
+Last season 34,615 gallons, valued at $45,345, were shipped to Boston
+and New York. Shipments are made in butter tubs, containing 4 to 6
+gallons each.
+
+The larger scallops in the deep water are from 2½ to 2¾ inches in
+length, taking 5 pecks to open a gallon of "eyes." On the flats are
+smaller scallops, from 2 to 2¼ inches in length, of which 6½ pecks
+are required to make a gallon. About 4,000 gallons were bought in
+Chatham by two dealers, paying $1.30 per gallon; the rest were shipped
+to Boston and New York by the individual scallopers, shipments being
+made semiweekly to New York. The scallops were shipped in butter tubs
+containing from 4 to 6 gallons, on which the express charges were: to
+New York, 65 cents; to Boston, 35 cents. The 1907-08 production was
+20,000 gallons, valued at $40,000.
+
+In 1905-06 practically all the catch were "seed" scallops of the set
+of 1905; only about 5 per cent. of the catch were scallops of the 1904
+set. Owing to the exceptional cod fishing, only 15 men made a business
+of scalloping, going mostly one man to a boat, and averaging 3½ bushels
+per day after the scalloping "struck in," Dec. 1, 1905. The high prices
+alone made it profitable to catch these small scallops, which gave only
+3 pints of "eyes" to a bushel of shells,--just one-half the amount
+yielded by a bushel of large scallops. The fishermen were all from
+South and West Chatham. The entire catch was estimated at 2,800 gallons.
+
+
+_Dennis._
+
+The scallop grounds of Dennis and Yarmouth are common property for the
+inhabitants of both towns, while other towns are excluded from the
+fishery. The West Dennis scallopers fish mostly on the Yarmouth flats
+at the mouth of Parker River, and between Bass and Parker rivers on the
+shore flats. There is also scalloping along the shore on the Dennis
+grounds. These grounds are for the "pushers." Dredging is carried on at
+Dennisport, and the boats cover a wide territory at some distance from
+the shore. The town possesses a large area, which either has scattering
+scallops or is well stocked one year and barren the next. Nearly 2,250
+acres of available territory is included in the waters of the town. The
+flats, which are of sand with thick or scattering eel grass, according
+to the locality, afford a good bottom for scallops. Were it not for the
+eel grass, the scallops would perish by being washed on the shore by
+southerly winds.
+
+Thirty men make a business of scalloping in the town of Dennis, 22
+from Dennisport and 8 from West Dennis. At Dennisport scalloping is
+practically all done by dredging, while at West Dennis scallops are all
+taken by the use of "pushers." At Dennisport 9 boats, 3 sail and 6 cat
+boats, with power, carrying 18 men, are employed in the business. Here
+also are 4 dory scallopers. At West Dennis the scallopers go mostly in
+pairs, using only 5 dories.
+
+The dredges used at Dennisport are similar to the Chatham dredge. At
+Dennisport the scallopers open the scallops and also employ openers,
+while at West Dennis the scallopers do the entire work.
+
+In 1907-08 the production was 2,950 gallons, valued at $3,865.
+Scallops were shipped to the New York and Boston markets, although the
+greater part of the catch went to New York.
+
+The scallops taken at Dennisport are large, opening 3 quarts to the
+bushel. At West Dennis, where the fishing is done in the shallow water,
+the scallops are somewhat smaller, yielding only 2½ quarts to the
+bushel.
+
+During the month of November large quantities of scallops were blown
+ashore at Dennisport, and it is said that as many as 72 bushels were
+gathered by one man in a day.
+
+                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
+
+  Value of boats:--
+      Sail,                                    $1,230
+      Power,                                    3,000
+      Dories,                                     180
+                                               ------
+          Total,                               $4,410
+
+  Value of gear:--
+      Boat,                                       350
+      Dory,                                        18
+                                               ------
+          Total,                                 $368
+
+Permits are required for scalloping, but are issued free of charge by
+the selectmen. Dennis and Yarmouth have common scallop fishery rights,
+the town scallop regulation reading as follows:--
+
+    All persons other than the inhabitants of the towns of Dennis
+    and Yarmouth are prohibited from taking scallops from the
+    shores and waters of the town of Yarmouth excepting for their
+    family use, and in no case without a permit.
+
+During the season of 1904-05 there existed off Dennisport one of the
+largest beds of scallops ever known in Massachusetts. Not only was it
+extensive, but the scallops were very numerous. An enormous yield was
+the result, affording great profit to a large number of scallopers,
+and bringing into the town thousands of dollars. It was stated by the
+scallopers that when the scalloping ceased because of the severe winter
+and ice the number of scallops appeared in no way diminished. During
+the season the catch averaged over 25 bushels per boat. Prospects
+looked good for the following season, as the fishermen expected the
+scallops to live until the next year. Unfortunately, the life of a
+scallop is less than two years, and before spring practically the whole
+of this large bed was dead,--a heavy loss to the fishing interests of
+the town and of the State.
+
+In cases like this the exclusion of scallopers from the neighboring
+towns, through the present system of town laws, has resulted in severe
+economic and financial loss to the State, as many more scallops
+could have been captured without injury to the future supply if more
+fishermen had been given an opportunity to enjoy this fishery.
+
+The following season, 1905-06, presented a marked contrast to that
+of 1904-05. Some adverse conditions had injured the set of 1905, and
+as a result there were scarcely any adult scallops. By January 1 the
+scallops of the 1906 set had become large enough in certain localities
+to permit capture. Owing to the high prices, these scallops, less than
+eight months old ("seed" scallops), were profitable to catch, and the
+season's catch at Dennisport after January 1 consisted of these young
+scallops. At that time the present "seed" scallop law was not in force,
+so the capture of these scallops was entirely legal.
+
+About 6 men were engaged during 1905-06 in scalloping at Dennisport.
+The scallops were obtained by dredging in the deeper water. The average
+catch was 3 to 4 bushels per day. The 1906-07 season was hardly above
+the average. At West Dennis 8 men were engaged in scalloping on the
+flats with "pushers." The scallops were small, averaging about 2 inches
+in width. It is only once every three or four years that West Dennis
+scallops are in the deep water where it is necessary to dredge them;
+usually the scallops are found on the shallow-water flats. The 1907-08
+season is the best season the town has had since 1904-05.
+
+
+_Dartmouth._
+
+A few scallops are occasionally found in Slocum's River and other
+places, but in no quantity to furnish any commercial fishery.
+
+
+_Eastham._
+
+The scalloping grounds are on the west side of the town, about half a
+mile out. During the season of 1906-07, 6 men, working at intervals
+during the winter, managed to take a total of 500 bushels from these
+flats.
+
+
+_Edgartown._
+
+Edgartown, situated at the eastern end of Martha's Vineyard, possesses
+extensive scallop grounds, and is one of the leading towns in the
+production of this shellfish. This fishery, even more important than
+the quahaug industry, furnishes steady winter employment for a large
+number of the inhabitants.
+
+The important grounds are in Cape Poge Pond and in Edgartown harbor,
+while occasionally beds of scallops, especially "seed," are found in
+Katama Bay. These grounds comprise an area of 2,000 acres, chiefly of
+grass bottom.
+
+At Edgartown scalloping is done both with sail and with power boats,
+which are generally auxiliary cat boats, though power dories are used
+to some extent. All but two of the power boats are doubly manned,
+while the sail boats carry but one man. Eleven sail and 15 power boats,
+employing 39 men, are engaged in the fishery.
+
+Two kinds of dredges are used, the "scraper" for scalloping in the
+eel grass and the "slider" for clean surface. The depth of water over
+the scallop beds is not more than 18 feet, necessitating 10½ fathoms
+of rope. The price of a dredge, including rope, is about $3, which is
+cheaper than in the Buzzards Bay towns. Each power boat uses six to
+eight, which are held out by "spreaders," poles extending from the
+sides of the boat, in order that the dredges may cover more ground and
+not trail behind one another.
+
+The greater part of the scalloping is done by power, and, in spite of
+the extra cost of nearly 90 cents per day, the proportionate increase
+makes this method more profitable; it is claimed to increase the catch
+about one-third. Scalloping with power necessitates the services of two
+men, as one man has to cull while the other steers. At the end of the
+"drift" the boat is stopped, and both men cull. With sail, culling can
+be done when dredges are overboard. When two men scallop, the owner of
+the boat takes three-fifths while his partner shares two-fifths of the
+profit.
+
+Twenty-five to 30 openers prepare the scallop for market during the
+afternoons and evenings. These are paid at the rate of 25 cents per
+gallon, and average about $1.50 per day, a good opener cutting out a
+gallon of "eyes" in an hour. Small scallops open 700 "eyes" per gallon;
+the larger ones, 500.
+
+The 1907-08 season was successful, as the scallops were plentiful, the
+daily catch per boat running between 5 and 50 bushels. About 17,000
+gallons, valued at $22,270, were shipped between Oct. 1, 1907, and
+April 1, 1908.
+
+Shipments are made mostly to the New York market; a very few to Boston
+market. The freight charges on a keg, which weighs about 70 pounds, is
+55 cents. In warm weather scallops are sent by express, the charges
+being 80 cents. The scallops are packed in butter tubs of large size,
+averaging from 6 to 7 gallons, and costing 8 cents apiece. These are
+obtained second hand from the grocery stores at New Bedford. The tubs
+are packed full and closed tightly. By the time the scallops arrive at
+market they are reduced in quantity by the jarring, in warm weather
+from 7 to 6 gallons, and in cold from 7 to 6½. Returns from the market
+are made in about a week. Scallops can be held back for better prices
+three to four days in warm weather, and about seven in cold.
+
+                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
+
+  Value of power boats,                        $5,250
+  Value of sail boats,                          2,750
+  Value of gear,                                  550
+                                               ------
+      Total,                                   $8,550
+
+By vote of the town, the season for several years has been open one
+month later than the State season. Shellfish permits costing $2 are
+required of every scalloper. The daily catch for one man is restricted
+to 25 bushels.
+
+Edgartown was one of the pioneer towns in the State in the scallop
+fishery, and as early as 1875 scallops were shipped to the market. The
+industry has maintained a steady supply, and has not shown the great
+variation of the Cape and Buzzards Bay fisheries. This is due perchance
+to the natural conditions, which render favorable the maintenance of an
+extensive industry.
+
+The last four seasons have been very successful, as when scallops were
+scarce the increased price more than made up for the diminished supply.
+The 1904-05 season was favorable, but, owing to the severe winter,
+fishing ceased about January 1, although scallops were plentiful both
+in Cape Poge Pond and Edgartown harbor. In 1905-06 scallops were found
+only in Cape Poge Pond, as the previous severe winter had killed all
+the harbor "seed." This season was most successful, as Nantucket and
+Edgartown, owing to the scarcity of scallops in other localities,
+received very high market prices. Scallops were more abundant in
+1906-07, but the lower prices made the industry less prosperous than in
+the previous season.
+
+              COMPARISON OF 1879 WITH 1907-08 PRODUCTION.
+
+  =====================+=======+=========
+                       | 1879. | 1907-08.
+  ---------------------+-------+---------
+  Gallons,             |  500  |  17,000
+  Value,               | $250  | $22,270
+  =====================+=======+=========
+
+
+_Fairhaven._
+
+Fairhaven possesses, with New Bedford, the scalloping grounds of
+the Acushnet River, and in addition a much larger territory around
+Sconticut Neck and West Island. The scalloping territory comprises
+about 2,500 acres, most of which is unproductive or productive only at
+intervals.
+
+The town charges $1 for the license to each scalloper. Seventy-three
+licenses were issued in 1906-07. This is a larger number than has been
+issued in recent years. The highest number ever issued was 80.
+
+The capital invested is transitory, for the season, as in New Bedford,
+usually lasts only three weeks. Possibly $14,000 is invested in this
+way in boats and gear.
+
+In a good season as high as 2,000 gallons have been shipped in a week.
+The average season hardly produces this amount in the whole three
+weeks. In the season of 1907-08, 1,300 gallons were shipped. Some years
+ago the starfish was a source of damage to the fishery, but of late
+years it has attracted little notice.
+
+We find the following account of the scallop fishery of Fairhaven
+written by A. Howard Clark in 1879:--
+
+    Ten boats took 2,100 bushels of scallops in 1880. Fourteen men
+    with 10 boats dredge for scallops from the middle of October
+    to the middle of January. Great quantities are found in the
+    Acushnet River, as well as along the western shore of the bay.
+    A small dredge, holding about a bushel, is used. It is made
+    with an oval-shaped iron frame, 3½ feet in length. Wire netting
+    is used in the front part and twine at the back. Small sail
+    boats, each with two men, fish with from one to twelve of these
+    dredges in tow, sailing with just enough sheet to allow a slow
+    headway. As soon as a dredge is filled, the men "luff up," haul
+    in, empty, and go on. These little boats take from 10 to 75
+    bushels a day. If the breeze be unfavorable, one man takes the
+    oars while the other tends the dredges.
+
+The amount of production at the present time is about the same, or
+even more, than the figures given for 1879. In all other respects the
+industry has changed. Five times as many men now work at the business,
+while more boats and capital are invested. This looks as if the
+industry had improved. The industry as regards the methods of capture
+has improved, but the actual production has remained the same. Now the
+season lasts barely three weeks, whereas twenty-five years ago with few
+men it lasted four months.
+
+
+_Fall River District._
+
+No scallop fishery exists in these waters at the present time. In 1879,
+800 gallons were taken from this region. This furnishes an excellent
+illustration of the total decline of the scallop fishery in certain
+localities.
+
+
+_Falmouth._
+
+The town of Falmouth cannot be said to support any scallop industry of
+importance. Each year in Squeteague Pond, Wild Harbor, North Falmouth
+and in West Falmouth harbor a few scallops can be found; but these are
+used only for limited local consumption, and usually are very scarce.
+Scallops are occasionally present in small quantities in Waquoit Bay.
+
+
+_Harwich._
+
+The scallop territory of Harwich covers an extensive area on the south
+side of the town, and in some places extends for a distance of from 2
+to 3 miles out from shore. Usually the scallops are found, as in the
+last season (1907-08), outside the bar, at a distance of 3 miles from
+shore, where they can be taken only by dredging from sail or power
+boats. The intervening body of water sometimes contains a few scallops
+in a quantity to make a commercial fishery. The total area of the
+scallop grounds is about 3,200 acres. The bottom is mostly sandy, with
+patches of eel grass.
+
+All the scallops are caught by dredging, as the water is too deep for
+any other method. Twelve men were engaged in the fishery during the
+1907-08 season. The boats, 7 in number, consisted of 3 power and 4
+sail; 5 were manned by 2 men, 2 were sailed singly. The dredges used
+here are the same style as the Chatham dredge.
+
+The 1907-08 production was 2,170 gallons, valued at $2,843. The
+scallops were shipped to the Boston and New York markets, the greater
+part being shipped to New York, at an average price of $1.30 per
+gallon. The scallops taken in 1907-08 were large, opening 3½ quarts to
+the bushel.
+
+                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
+
+  Value of boats,                              $2,350
+  Value of gear,                                  280
+  Value of shore property,                        400
+                                               ------
+      Total,                                   $3,030
+
+For the last two years there has been practically no scallop fishery.
+The 1904-05 season was the last successful season, when the large bed
+of scallops was found off Dennis. The 1907-08 season, however, has
+been fairly good, and it is thought that the following year may be as
+successful.
+
+
+_Marion._
+
+Marion was included in the general revival of the scallop fishery which
+came to Buzzards Bay during the past season of 1907-08, and for the
+first time in eight years has had a successful scallop season.
+
+The scallop grounds of the town extend over an area of 1,500 acres,
+situated on both sides of Great Neck, and extending from the Wareham
+line to Aucoot Cove.
+
+All scalloping is done by dredging. The fishery can be divided into two
+classes: (1) the boat fishery; (2) the skiff fishery. Under the first
+class comes the cat boat and sloop, carrying six dredges; while the
+second class consists of the small sail skiffs, with one dredge. The
+skiff scalloper rows or sails, as the wind permits, and with his one
+dredge makes an average catch of 3 bushels per day. Forty-four men,
+using 16 sail and power boats and 24 skiffs are engaged in the fishery.
+The business likewise requires the services of nearly 24 openers.
+
+About two-thirds of the dredges are of the "scraper" type, with chain
+netting; the rest "sliders," with loose blades. A very few "roller" or
+"lead" dredges are used.
+
+The production for 1907-08 was 7,000 gallons, valued at $9,170. The
+scallops were mostly sent to the New Bedford market. The scallops
+are of two sizes: the smaller, which are taken in the shallow water,
+open only 2½ quarts per bushel, while in the deeper water the larger
+scallops yield about 3½ quarts. The rest of the body of the scallop,
+after the removal of the eye, is saved for bait at Marion, the
+scalloper receiving 30 cents per bucket.
+
+                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
+
+  Value of boats,                              $5,300
+  Value of skiffs,                                250
+  Value of gear,                                  580
+                                               ------
+      Total                                    $6,130
+
+The three towns of Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester have common
+fishery rights, as all three were included in the original town of
+Rochester. In 1852 Marion became an independent town, and in 1857
+Mattapoisett was likewise separated from Rochester. Until 1893 Marion
+and Mattapoisett had separate fishery rights, Rochester having mutual
+rights with both. Since then the fishery of these towns has been common
+to all three. Every scalloper is required to have a permit, the boatmen
+paying $2, the skiff scallopers $1, respectively.
+
+The scallop industry supplanted the waning oyster industry at Marion
+some twelve years ago, and for a time it flourished greatly. The
+abundance of scallops and extent of the grounds furnish excellent
+scalloping. After a few very successful years the industry suddenly
+died out and became practically extinct. The direct cause is claimed by
+the scallopers to have been the starfish, which came in the harbor in
+great abundance at the time of the decline of the industry. Up to this
+season but little scalloping had been done for several years, and not a
+single permit was issued for the season of 1906-07.
+
+
+_Mashpee._
+
+The scallop territory of Mashpee lies in the Popponesset River and Bay,
+comprising at most 200 acres. For the last six years there has been no
+scallop industry in the town. A few scallops are occasionally taken for
+home consumption.
+
+
+_Mattapoisett._
+
+The scallop territory of Mattapoisett, comprising an area of 1,200
+acres, much of which is open and exposed, is in general confined to the
+following localities: Nasketucket Bay, Brant Bay, Brant Island Cove,
+Mattapoisett harbor, Pine Neck Cove and Aucoot Cove. The location and
+extent of these grounds are indicated on Map 8.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   22
+  Number of boats:--
+      Sail,                                        13
+      Power,                                        6
+                                               ------
+          Total,                                   19
+
+  Boats, how manned:--
+      Single,                                      16
+      Double,                                       3
+
+Dredging is the only method of scalloping used in Mattapoisett.
+Small cat boats and a few power boats are employed in the fishery.
+The "roller" dredge is the most popular style with the Mattapoisett
+scallopers, who claim that on the uneven bottom this dredge is the most
+successful. This town is the only locality in the State where this kind
+of dredge is used. The cost of a dredge completely rigged with rope,
+which is often 15 fathoms long, is $4.50, and 8 to 10 dredges are used
+for each boat.
+
+During the 1907-08 season the production was 5,000 gallons, valued at
+$6,550. These were mostly marketed at New Bedford, where they were
+purchased unsoaked by the New Bedford Fish Company. At the first part
+of the season it was not uncommon for a boat to catch 25 bushels per
+day, but as the season progressed the size of the catch gradually
+diminished. The scallops were large, opening 3 quarts to the bushel.
+
+                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
+
+  Value of boats,                              $6,900
+  Value of gear,                                  760
+                                               ------
+      Total,                                   $7,660
+
+The scallop industry at Mattapoisett, though once important, was
+extinct for several years. The present season has shown a revival, and
+the industry has again assumed a commercial value.
+
+
+_Nantucket._
+
+Nantucket is one of the leading towns of the State in the scallop
+fishery. The grounds lie both in Nantucket harbor and in Maddequet
+harbor on the west end of the island. The former of these is the
+larger and more important, as the fishery is near the town. When the
+scallops become scarce in Nantucket harbor, the scallopers adjourn to
+the fresher beds of Maddequet. Nantucket harbor contains approximately
+3,000 acres of scallop territory; Maddequet and Muskeget, 1,500 acres.
+
+Practically all the scalloping is done by dredging from sail boats,
+employing about 99 men in the fishery. The dredges are of the "slider"
+and the "scraper" types, the iron frames of which cost $1.50 and the
+netting bags 30 cents. From 6 to 10 of these are used per boat, and are
+dragged by 7 fathoms of 15-thread rope. Five regular openers are hired,
+who receive from 20 to 25 cents per gallon, according to the size of
+the scallops. A few scallops are taken in the shallow water by the dory
+fishermen with "pushers," which are locally known as "scoops." These
+differ from the Cape Cod "pusher," being more rounded and smaller in
+size.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of boats:--
+      Power,                                       10
+      Sail,                                        37
+      Dories,                                      20
+
+  Boats, how manned:--
+      Single,                                      15
+      Double,                                      32
+      Single dories,                               20
+
+In 1906-07 the production was 9,820 gallons, valued at $12,875.
+
+  ==================+==========+===========+===========
+                    |          |   Price   |
+     1907-08.[14]   | Gallons. |per Gallon.|  Value.
+  ------------------+----------+-----------+-----------
+  October,          |    2,639 |     $1.25 |  $3,298.75
+  November,         |    4,160 |      1.00 |   4,160.00
+  December,         |    5,430 |      1.00 |   5,430.00
+  January,          |    5,910 |      1.50 |   8,865.00
+  February          |      960 |      2.00 |   1,920.00
+  March,            |    1,146 |      2.50 |   2,865.00
+                    +----------+-----------+-----------
+      Total,        |   20,245 |     $1.31 | $26,538.75
+  ==================+==========+===========+===========
+
+Shipments were made by express to New York and Boston, the charges to
+New York being 95 cents, to Boston 55 cents per keg. The greater part
+was shipped to New York market. The scallops were shipped mostly in
+7-gallon kegs, which cost 33 cents apiece. About 30 New York and 20
+Boston firms receive shipments from the Nantucket scallopers.
+
+Two kinds of scallops, the large "channel" and the small or "eel
+grass," are obtained. The small scallops are more numerous than the
+large, but are naturally less desirable.
+
+                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
+
+  Value of power boats,                        $4,000
+  Value of sail boats,                          9,250
+  Value of dories,                                500
+  Value of gear,                                  700
+                                               ------
+      Total,                                  $14,450
+
+Of late years the scallopers have taken an interest in protecting the
+scallop. Many scallopers when fishing in shallow water "cull out" the
+small "seed" scallops, and, instead of returning them to the shallow
+water, transplant them to the deep water of the channel, where they
+are not only protected in case of severe winter, but produce a larger
+scallop the following year. This is the only attempt at protecting
+the scallop ever made in Massachusetts, and shows how important the
+industry is to the town.
+
+For the two seasons previous to 1907-08 every scalloper was required to
+have a license. In 1905-06 the price was 50 cents, while the following
+year, 1906-07, 190 licenses, costing $1 each, were taken out. No
+licenses were required in 1907-08. Special by-laws, either limiting the
+catch or enforcing a close season to meet the demands of the fishery,
+are made by the town each year.
+
+Scallops have been always plentiful, but fifty-five years ago they
+were not caught, as they were considered poisonous. The present
+industry started in 1883, and since that time, in spite of its ups and
+downs, it has remained a constant source of revenue to the island.
+Notwithstanding a scarcity of scallops, the high prices of 1905-06
+enabled the fishermen to have a fairly successful season. Both the
+1906-07 and the 1907-08 seasons have been very prosperous, as scallops
+have been plentiful.
+
+
+_New Bedford._
+
+The scallop industry at New Bedford has been in existence since about
+1870, and has furnished a livelihood for an average of 15 men ever
+since. Of late years the industry has shown a marked decline.
+
+In 1879 A. Howard Clark says:--
+
+    Scallops are plentiful in the Acushnet River, and large
+    quantities are taken with dredges from October through the
+    winter. The business of late years has greatly increased.
+
+About the same time Ernest Ingersoll also writes:--
+
+    In the Acushnet River and all along the western shore of
+    Buzzards Bay these little mollusks abound, and their catching
+    has come to be of considerable importance in that locality.
+    Mr. W. A. Wilcox, who sends me notes on the subject, says that
+    it is only eighteen years ago that a fisherman of Fairhaven
+    (opposite New Bedford) was unable to sell 5 gallons that he had
+    caught. But the taste has been acquired, and a local market has
+    grown up to important proportions, so that in 1880 14 men and
+    10 small boats (dories) were dredging for scallops in Buzzards
+    Bay from the middle of October to the middle of January. Mr.
+    Wilcox says: "These small boats will take from 10 to 75 bushels
+    a day." These men are not willing to work every day, however,
+    since the tautog and other fishing calls their attention,
+    and there is danger of overstocking the market. It therefore
+    happens that the total catch reported for both New Bedford and
+    Fairhaven men will not exceed 6,400 gallons, valued at $3,864,
+    60 cents being a fair price in this and the Boston market. The
+    value of the investment devoted to this business at Fairhaven
+    is about $120.
+
+The scallop industry of 1907 cannot be compared with that of former
+years. The amount of scallops taken is not one-third of the former
+production. More men are engaged in the business than twenty-five years
+ago, but the beds are raked clean in a shorter time. The annual yield
+has sadly fallen off, in spite of improved methods of capture and
+increased number of fishermen. This decline cannot here be attributed
+to either of the natural enemies of the scallop, as neither the
+starfish nor oyster drill are abundant. Severe climatic conditions and
+overfishing by man are the direct causes of this decline.
+
+The scallop area of New Bedford comprises approximately 400 acres,
+principally in the Acushnet River and in Clark's Cove.
+
+In 1906-07, 38 licenses were issued by the city for scalloping. This is
+a marked decrease over former years. Probably not all these men fish
+regularly. In the last few years the season has been rather short,
+lasting between three and four weeks, as the scallops were practically
+all caught in that time.
+
+The capital required for the business, consisting of cat boats, skiffs,
+dredges, shanties, etc., amounts to about $5,600; but this is merely
+transient, and is only employed for three or four weeks, and then
+devoted to other fisheries.
+
+                           ANNUAL PRODUCTION.
+
+  ========================================
+   YEAR. | Bushels. | Gallons. | Value.
+  ---------+----------+----------+--------
+  1905-06, |  1,000   |  1,000   | $3,000
+  1906-07, |  1,200   |  1,200   |  3,000
+  1907-08, |    700   |    700   |    917
+  ========================================
+
+All scalloping is done by dredging from either cat boats or dories.
+Since 1879 improvements have been made, and cat boats instead of
+dories, each manned by one man with six dredges, now do the work once
+wholly performed, as Ingersoll says, by dories. All the scalloping
+takes place in deep water.
+
+When the law of 1905 made the Acushnet River and Clark's Cove forbidden
+shellfish territory, because of the sewage pollution of the harbor,
+the capture of scallops in season was still allowed. This was based on
+the principle that there is no danger in eating the clean "eye" of the
+scallop, although as a matter of fact there is actual danger of typhoid
+infection to those handling anything from sewage-polluted waters.
+
+The following notes were made Nov. 21, 1905, upon the fishery of that
+year:--
+
+At the opening of the season a bed of scallops was discovered just
+outside the harbor beyond the light. Twenty-five boats set to work
+immediately, but there was not a sufficient supply of scallops to keep
+them long employed, and one by one they dropped out, until by November
+21 only two or three boats were still engaged in the fishery.
+
+The scallops of this year were of large size, 2½ to 2¾ inches, and
+turned out a gallon of "eyes" per bushel,--an excellent yield, as the
+average scallops only shuck out 2½ to 3 quarts to a bushel of shells.
+If a man could obtain a gallon per day by November 21 he was lucky, and
+owing to the high retail price, he made a fair day's wages.
+
+
+_Orleans._
+
+On the flats about ½ to 1 mile from the west shore scallops are
+occasionally found. Six years ago there was a fairly good season, but
+since that time there have been very few scallops, and these are taken
+only for home consumption.
+
+
+_Provincetown._
+
+Scallops are obtained on the flats in the east bend of the harbor
+toward the Truro shore, where they are blown by a southwest wind.
+Evidently there must be a bed of scallops in the deep water from which
+the scallops are washed on the flats. In 1905-06 from 2 to 6 men were
+engaged in picking up these scallops and retailing them for home trade.
+About 1894 or 1895 scallops were numerous, and it was not uncommon for
+a man to pick up 5 bushels on the flats at one tide. Since 1900 but few
+scallops have been found.
+
+
+_Tisbury._
+
+The scalloping grounds of Tisbury are in the harbor at Vineyard Haven.
+Only Vineyard Haven fishermen make a business of scalloping here. The
+scallop grounds comprise an area of 800 acres.
+
+Most of the scallops are obtained by dredging from cat boats, which
+are nearly all equipped with power. With two exceptions the boats are
+singly manned. Fourteen men go in 8 boats, using from six to eight
+dredges per boat. Six men scallop in skiffs, using one dredge. The
+dredges are similar to those used at Edgartown.
+
+During the season of 1907-08, 3,000 gallons of scallops, valued at
+$3,930 were captured. The fishermen ship chiefly to the New York
+market. The scallops are of an exceptionally large size, opening, it is
+said, 4 quarts to the bushel. The proportionate size of the "eye" to
+the shell is much greater than with the ordinary scallop.
+
+                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
+
+  Value of boats,                              $3,000
+  Value of skiffs,                                 90
+  Value of gear,                                  300
+                                               ------
+      Total,                                   $3,390
+
+No licenses or permits are required for scalloping. The last season
+(1907-08) is the second season that scallops have been abundant in this
+locality.
+
+
+_Wareham._
+
+Situated at the head of Buzzards Bay, the town of Wareham possesses
+a considerable water area which is suitable for scallops. The
+entire territory, embracing approximately 2,500 acres, extends in a
+southwesterly direction from Peter's Neck, including Onset Bay, to
+Abiel's Buoy and from there to Weweantit River. Scallops are also found
+in the Wareham River. Scallops are mostly found in the deeper water,
+which makes dredging the only profitable method of scalloping in this
+locality.
+
+Scalloping is practically all done by dredging either from sail or
+power boats, only 3 power boats being in use during the 1907-08 season.
+Three men from the village of Wareham use "pushers," but the yield from
+this style of fishing is very small. The style of dredge in most common
+use is the "scraper." This year the price paid for the frame of the
+dredge is $3.50. These dredges have the blade set downward firmly, and
+have a chain bottom of iron rings. The usual number per boat is eight,
+but at Onset any number from four to fourteen are used, according to
+the size of the boat and the individual choice of the scalloper. Nearly
+all the boats are cat boats, averaging in value about $300.
+
+About 30 regular openers have been engaged off and on by the
+scallopers. When the catch was large at the first of the season more
+openers were engaged,--often as many as 3 to a scalloper. One-tenth of
+the number are women.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of scallopers,                            45
+  Number of boats:--
+      Power,                                        3
+      Sail,                                        33
+                                               ------
+      Total,                                       36
+
+The quantity of scallops taken during 1907-08 was approximately
+10,000 bushels, valued at $13,100. During October the catch was
+about 15 bushels per day for the average scalloper, but later became
+considerably less. The greater part of the scallops were sold to
+the New Bedford Fish Company, the representatives of which bought
+them unsoaked from the fishermen. Certain of the fishermen, however,
+preferred to ship their catch to the Boston and New York markets.
+
+                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
+
+  Value of boats,                             $10,800
+  Value of gear,                                1,300
+  Value of shore property,                      7,000
+                                               ------
+      Total,                                  $19,100
+
+No permits were issued in 1907-08. Previous to this year, permits were
+required from every scalloper. Wareham has a fish committee, the duty
+of which is to enforce the fish laws.
+
+The first scalloping started in Wareham in 1879, when several boats
+from New Bedford commenced dredging in Wareham waters. From that
+time the industry rapidly developed, until it assumed considerable
+importance as a winter occupation. Since 1899 the industry has been
+practically dead until the present season of 1907-08. The Wareham
+scallopers to a man attribute this decline to the inroads of the
+destructive starfish. While the scallops have been so exterminated
+that no profitable fishery has been conducted the last seven years,
+they have not been wholly extinct, as a few could be found each year.
+Lately the number has been increasing, until in 1907-08 the season was
+very profitable. In connection with this it is said that the starfish
+were less numerous than usual. The prospects of another good season in
+1908-09 are excellent, as "seed" scallops are said to be plentiful in
+many places, especially in the deep water, which furnishes protection
+in case of a severe winter.
+
+
+_Wellfleet._
+
+At the present time in Wellfleet Bay there is no commercial scallop
+fishery, although scattering scallops are found in various parts of the
+harbor.
+
+
+_Yarmouth._
+
+The scallop grounds of Yarmouth are on the south side of the town, on
+the flats which border the shore from Bass River to Lewis Bay. Part of
+the waters of Lewis Bay belong to the town of Yarmouth, and scallops
+are found over all this territory. The nature of the bottom is the
+same as at Dennis and Barnstable. The total area of scallop territory
+is estimated at 2,250 acres. The scallop grounds of Dennis are open to
+Yarmouth scallopers.
+
+Both dredges and "pushers" are employed in the scallop fishery of the
+town. The method depends upon the location of the scallops, whether
+in shallow or deep water, as well as the means of the individual
+scallopers. Both the Chatham dredge and the "scraper" are used.
+Forty-one men were engaged in the 1907-08 fishery, using 15 boats and
+ten dories.
+
+The production for 1907-08 was 8,000 gallons, valued at $10,480.
+Scallops were shipped to New York and Boston markets.
+
+                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
+
+  Value of boats,                              $3,750
+  Value of dories,                                200
+  Value of gear,                                  475
+                                               ------
+      Total,                                   $4,425
+
+The same laws as were quoted for Dennis, the two towns having common
+fishery rights.
+
+The 1904-05 season was prosperous, as Yarmouth scallopers had the
+privilege of scalloping in the large bed off Dennis. The two following
+years were very poor, and even the last season has not been up to the
+average.
+
+FOOTNOTES:
+
+[10] E. Ingersoll, "The Scallop Fishery," United States Fish Commission
+report, 1881.
+
+[11] United States Department of Agriculture, Farmers' Bulletin 85,
+1898.
+
+[12] Statistics taken from the United States Fish Commission reports.
+
+[13] Licenses.
+
+[14] Return of Special Agent William C. Dunham.
+
+
+
+
+OYSTER (_Ostrea Virginiana_).
+
+
+_Introduction._
+
+                     RESOLVES OF 1905, CHAPTER 73.
+
+    _Resolved_, That the commissioners on fisheries and game
+    are hereby authorized and directed to make a biological
+    investigation and report as to the best methods, conditions and
+    localities for the propagation of oysters under the conditions
+    found in Massachusetts waters. The commissioners may expend for
+    the purposes of this resolve a sum not exceeding five hundred
+    dollars a year for a period of three years.
+
+As authorized by the above act, the Commissioners on Fisheries and Game
+have conducted experiments of a biological nature upon the oyster. At
+the start of the investigations, for a proper understanding of the
+various conditions in the different localities, it was necessary to
+make a survey of the oyster industry of the State. Recently this survey
+has been supplemented by sending printed questions to the oystermen,
+and the whole put in the form of a report, which gives an account of
+the industry. This first report on the oyster is merely a broad survey
+of the whole industry of the State, and is preliminary to future
+reports of a more scientific character.
+
+_The Need of a Survey._--In 1879 Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, in his
+"Monograph on the Oyster,"[15] gave an excellent account of the oyster
+industry of Massachusetts. Since that time no complete account, either
+statistical or biological, has been written. Meanwhile, the oyster
+industry of the State, owing to its steady improvement, has changed in
+the past twenty-eight years, and what was true of 1879 is not true of
+1907. Not only have localities changed and new areas been opened up,
+but also the whole industry has expanded through the enterprise and
+business ability of the oystermen, and to-day Massachusetts possesses
+an oyster fishery which more than doubles the production of 1879. Thus
+a survey of this fishery, by comparison with that of 1879, shows the
+changes that have taken place, and gives some idea of the growth of the
+industry.
+
+It is hoped that this report will furnish sufficient data to give
+actual knowledge of the conditions of oyster culture in the State, show
+the success of this industry, and indicate what is essential for its
+future improvement. It is necessary, in view of the conflict between
+the quahaug and oyster fisheries, that the public understand the exact
+situation, and this is possible only through a published account of
+each industry.
+
+_Scope of the Report._--The object of the report is to furnish
+information which will be of value both to the oysterman and to the
+consumer. Primarily the report is for the oysterman, showing the extent
+of the industry in his own locality and in other parts of the coast,
+where perhaps he is unacquainted with the conditions. While exact facts
+are presented for the benefit of the oysterman, this report at the
+same time tries to give a general description of the industry for the
+consumer, who perhaps knows nothing of the oyster except as an article
+of food.
+
+The first part of the report has been arranged under the following
+headings: (1) the natural oyster beds; (2) results of the survey; (3)
+history of the industry; (4) the oyster laws; (5) the oyster industry;
+(6) general statistics. The second part considers separately the
+industry of each town or section.
+
+_Methods of Work._--The statistical figures for the oyster industry
+are reasonably complete as the oyster fishery is on a more systematic
+business basis than any of the other shellfisheries. Nevertheless,
+on certain points it was impossible to obtain absolutely correct
+information, as, for instance, the area of grants, since no survey is
+made of the grants when leased, and the oysterman himself does not
+know the exact area of his granted territory. Thus an estimate has
+to be made by each oysterman of his granted area, and, while this is
+approximately correct, it cannot be considered as absolutely true.
+
+The statistical returns were compiled by sending to each oysterman in
+the State a blank form, containing a series of questions, with the
+request that he would co-operate with the commission by answering.
+Many oystermen responded with complete answers, thus permitting the
+commission, through their aid, to publish an extended report on the
+oyster fishery. However, it was found impossible to obtain complete
+information from several towns, as a number of oystermen neglected
+to return these blanks. The return of each oysterman is filed at the
+office of the Commission on Fisheries and Game, and only the total
+for each town is published, thus treating as confidential the private
+business of individuals. The commission expresses a most cordial
+acknowledgment to the oystermen for their co-operation in this matter.
+
+The other parts of the report were obtained by personal inspection of
+the oyster beds as to their biological conditions, by means of town
+records, and interviews with the oystermen. Town records, which should
+have given the location, number and areas of the grants, proved nearly
+worthless in most cases, owing to incompleteness, loss and confusion.
+Owing to the frequent change in selectmen, little if any information
+could be obtained from this source, as the new selectmen were generally
+unacquainted with the work of their predecessors concerning the leasing
+of oyster grants. The grants were often incompletely described, bounds
+uncertain and the acreage unknown.
+
+The interviews with the individual oystermen furnished more and better
+information both in regard to the present condition of the industry and
+the general history for each town.
+
+Personal inspection of the oyster grounds was made, the biological
+conditions noted and the area of the grants plotted on the accompanying
+maps. Not all these grants are worked, and parts of the cultivated
+grants are unfit for oyster raising. The charted area includes all
+grants, cultivated or uncultivated.
+
+In reviewing the history of the industry, information was obtained
+from town records, oystermen who had been in the business for years,
+and various newspapers and periodicals. For a comparison of the oyster
+industry of 1879 and 1907 the excellent report of Mr. Ernest Ingersoll
+upon the "Oyster Industry," published in the tenth census of the United
+States, was used for comparison, and in many places directly quoted.
+Were it not for this work and the report of A. Howard Clark on the
+"Fisheries of Massachusetts," it would have been impossible to draw any
+reliable comparison with the oyster industry of twenty-eight years ago.
+
+_Massachusetts as an Oyster State._--Massachusetts is perhaps not so
+well adapted for oyster culture as it is for clam or quahaug farming,
+and does not equal other seacoast States in the extent of its oyster
+industry. Nevertheless, the oyster industry is on a much firmer footing
+than the other shellfisheries, and is an important adjunct to the
+wealth of the southern Massachusetts towns.
+
+All the oyster grants, except in the towns of Wellfleet, Eastham
+and Orleans, are found south of Cape Cod, as the southern shore of
+Massachusetts alone is adapted for the oyster industry. Along the south
+side of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay the numerous inlets and estuaries
+afford with their brackish water excellent ground for the cultivation
+of this bivalve, and many acres which otherwise would be barren have
+been made productive through the grant system; while the shores of
+Massachusetts which adjoin the waters of Narragansett Bay possess, in
+the Taunton, Cole and Lee's rivers, excellent waters for the growth of
+seed oysters. Thus Massachusetts possesses good facilities for oyster
+culture, which are capable of a far greater expansion than present
+conditions indicate.
+
+However well developed the oyster industry is at present, there is
+plenty of room for improvement. It is the consensus of opinion among
+the oystermen that the business is developing every year,--a fact that
+speaks well for its future. Improvements in the oyster industry can
+arise in three ways: (1) investment of more capital in the business,
+which will allow more extensive operations; (2) more intensive
+cultivation of the present grounds; (3) the opening of new areas for
+oyster culture and the utilization of waters at present useless.
+Everything indicates that the oyster industry will take advantage of
+opportunities as soon as they are given.
+
+_The Oyster Grant System._--Oyster culture in Massachusetts is the
+logical result of the failure of the natural oyster beds. When these
+beds became destitute of oysters through overfishing, it was necessary
+that means should be used to perpetuate the stock. Oyster planting had
+been successfully carried on in the States south of Massachusetts, and
+it was merely a question of experiment whether the oyster would respond
+to the same methods in Massachusetts. Thus oyster culture arose in this
+State at first as an experiment, later as an established industry.
+Grants were given, as through this way only could oyster planting
+become a success, and the "free fishery" people were forced to bow to
+public opinion, which decreed that grants should be leased. Thus oyster
+grants arose from necessity, as in no other way could Massachusetts
+preserve her oyster supply.
+
+The system of oyster grants and oyster culture, in spite of its many
+failings, has shown what can be done to preserve and increase a natural
+shellfish industry if the proper methods are used. Planted beds have
+furnished enough spawn to maintain the natural beds, which would have
+long ago been depleted through the inroads of overfishing. They have
+preserved a fishery which would have disappeared almost completely, and
+established a better and more extensive industry, not only benefiting
+the oystermen, but also those indirectly associated with the business,
+such as teamsters, transportation companies, etc.
+
+In the following report various abuses of the present system of oyster
+culture will be enumerated, and it is only necessary to state that
+many evils must be eliminated before the oyster industry can obtain
+its maximum expansion. Such evils as town politics, disputes with
+quahaugers, etc., will have to be remedied. The greatest obstacle
+which now checks the oyster industry is the _lack of protection_.
+Until complete protection is given to the oysterman, the industry will
+never attain to its full development. The removal of the abuses by the
+organization of the oyster industry of the State under a unified system
+is the best way to secure proper regulation and improvement of the
+oyster industry.
+
+
+_The Natural Oyster Beds._
+
+While there has been much discussion whether oysters were ever native
+in Massachusetts Bay, or merely the result of southern "plants,"
+the consensus of opinion is that there were natural oyster beds in
+existence when the first settlers came to this coast. Not only do
+historical records show this, but the remains of the natural beds at
+the present time indicate that oysters have existed for centuries.
+Thus there seems to be no reasonable doubt that the northern coast
+of Massachusetts, as well as the southern, once possessed extensive
+natural oyster beds.
+
+I. _Location of the Natural Oyster Beds._--(1) _Parker River._--A
+natural bed of oysters once existed in the Parker River at Newbury, and
+even fifty years ago it is said that oysters could still be obtained
+from this natural bed. About 1882 the experiment of fattening oysters
+for market was made, and many bushels were bedded on the flats during
+the summer by an oyster firm at Newbury. These oysters not only grew
+well, but threw considerable spawn, furnishing a good set in the river.
+Oyster raising was then tried, but the result was a failure, as the
+oysters which were planted in too shallow water were killed during the
+winter.
+
+(2) _Mystic and Charles Rivers._--Mr. Ernest Ingersoll states that: "In
+1634 William Wood, in his 'New England's Prospect,' speaks of 'a great
+oyster bank' in Charles River, and another in the 'Mysticke,' each of
+which obstructed the navigation of its river." He locates the Charles
+River beds as either off Cambridgeport or near the site of the Boston
+Museum of Natural History.
+
+Dr. G. W. Field, chairman of this department, in his report in 1902
+as biologist to the Charles River Dam Commission, makes the following
+statement about the Charles River oyster:--
+
+    The oyster (_Ostrea_), formerly abundant, is no longer living,
+    and, from what indications I have been able to gather, probably
+    became extinct within twenty-five years. Their dead shells are
+    brought up by dredging operations. Their peculiar elongated
+    shape is the result of growth being concentrated at the upper
+    end, as a result of their closely crowded position in the bed,
+    or of an attempt to keep the opening above the accumulating
+    mud, and thus avoid being smothered. The fact that there are
+    few signs of small "seed oysters" tends to prove that the
+    bottom was so muddy that they found few places to "set." From
+    the elongated shape of the shells may be inferred that the
+    amount of sedimentation going on in that particular region
+    was rapid during the life of the group of oysters whose
+    shells are to be found in quantities in the material dredged
+    between Harvard and Brookline bridges. This sediment need not
+    necessarily have been sand or clay, or any material which is
+    persistent, but it might have been flocculent organic débris,
+    which remained but a short time and left little or no evidence,
+    beyond its effect upon the shape of the oyster shells.
+
+In the above account Dr. Field not only locates the original oyster
+beds of Charles River, but also furnishes evidence which indicates the
+cause of their extinction, _i.e._, the débris and sewage, or waste
+poisonous, polluting materials, of a large city emptying into the
+river. This is not only true of the Charles, but also of the Mystic and
+Taunton river beds, which have been destroyed in like manner.
+
+(3) Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, in his report on the "Oyster Industry of the
+United States," in 1880 mentions that natural oyster beds were once
+at Weymouth, Ipswich, Barnstable and Rowley. Nothing further can be
+learned concerning these places.
+
+(4) _Wellfleet._--An extensive oyster bed was found at Wellfleet Bay,
+which not only furnished a sufficient supply for the first settlers,
+but enabled the inhabitants of Wellfleet to carry on a considerable
+trade by shipping them to Boston and other ports, until it was finally
+destroyed in 1775. Its destruction was due to overfishing and the
+utilization of the shells for lime, which soon destroyed the natural
+bar.
+
+(5) _Chatham._--A natural oyster bed once existed in the Oyster Pond,
+but no trace of it now remains.
+
+(6) _Harwich._--Herring River in the town of Harwich still possesses
+the remnants of a natural oyster bed, as occasionally a few oysters
+can be gathered along its banks. This bed once comprised a stretch of
+three-quarters of a mile along the river.
+
+(7) _Yarmouth._--The town of Yarmouth once possessed a natural oyster
+bed in Mill Creek, but this was fished out by 1895 and then granted for
+oyster culture.
+
+(8) _Barnstable._--There is a natural oyster bed at Centerville.
+
+(9) _Martha's Vineyard._--Native oysters are said to have existed in
+the brackish ponds on the south side of the island; a few are found
+there at the present time.
+
+(10) _Falmouth._--A few native oysters are to be found in the salt
+ponds on the south coast of the town. In Squeteague Pond and Wild
+Harbor oysters were once native.
+
+Buzzards Bay comprises the best natural oyster territory in the State.
+At the present time the natural oyster industry has been supplanted
+by oyster culture, which gradually took the place of the declining
+natural oyster fishery. While natural beds still exist to some extent,
+they are, to all practical purposes, extinct. Where once there were
+extensive areas, now there are only scattering oysters. In many cases
+the beds have been so completely destroyed that the ground has been
+granted for oyster culture. That Buzzards Bay is a "natural set area"
+can be readily seen by the amount of "seed oysters" that are caught by
+the oystermen who plant shells for the purpose.
+
+(11) _Bourne._--(_a_) _Red Brook Harbor._--In 1879 Ernest Ingersoll
+says:--
+
+    On the southern shore of this harbor, about a mile from its
+    head, exists a living bed of natural oysters some 7 acres in
+    extent, under the protection of the town for public benefit.
+    The oysters growing on it are reported to be large, but not of
+    extraordinary size, scalloped and roundish, differing in no
+    respect from aged oysters grown after transplanting to another
+    part of the bay.
+
+In 1907 this natural bed had been reduced to 3 acres, and the
+unproductive part granted.
+
+(_b_) _Barlow River._--In 1873 an act was passed to protect the oyster
+fishery in Barlow River, by ordering a closed season of one and
+one-half years. The passage of this act shows that a natural bed of
+importance existed in this river, and that even in 1873 the effects of
+overfishing were apparent. At the present time there are but few native
+oysters in Barlow River, or, as it is sometimes called, Pocasset River.
+
+(_c_) _Monument River._--A natural bed also existed in Monument River,
+which became so depleted that about 1875 the river was surveyed and
+divided into small grants.
+
+(12) _Wareham._--(_a_) _Wareham River._--Natural oysters are found in
+the Wareham or Agawam River, which has been one of the most productive
+natural beds in the State, and still furnishes a scant living for two
+or three men. In view of the overfishing, it is surprising that any
+of the natural oysters have survived, except on reserved areas of the
+town, which are opened every three or seven years for the capture of
+"seed."
+
+(_b_) _Weweantit River._--The Weweantit River, which lies between the
+towns of Wareham and Marion, has a larger and better natural oyster bed
+than the Wareham River, but this has also been depleted by overfishing,
+except on the reserved areas of the town of Wareham.
+
+(13) _Dartmouth._--A few oysters are found in Slocum's River.
+
+(14) _Westport._--Westport River has also a few oysters.
+
+(15) _Taunton River, Coles River and Lee's River._--These rivers once
+had extensive beds of natural oysters, but now are wholly devoted to
+growing oysters. Old records and laws show how important these natural
+beds were, and also furnish an excellent illustration of the effects of
+overfishing combined with water pollution from manufacturing sources.
+
+II. _Decline of the Natural Oyster Beds._--The above-mentioned examples
+furnish abundant proof that the natural oyster beds of the State, which
+once were sufficient to supply the wants of our forefathers, have
+declined to such an extent that at the present time but few natural
+oysters are tonged for the market. Where there were formerly many acres
+of excellent native oysters, to-day there is scarcely an acre that can
+be called good oyster fishing, except in a few cases where the towns
+maintain a nearly perpetual closed season. No proof of the decline is
+necessary; it is an established fact.
+
+There have been two principal causes which have ruined the natural
+oyster beds; besides these two,--(1) water pollution and (2)
+overfishing,--certain geographical changes have doubtless occurred,
+which have accelerated the decline.
+
+(1) _Water Pollution._--The effect of water pollution through the
+sediment deposited by sewage and manufacturing waste on the natural
+oyster beds is well illustrated by the destruction of the Charles River
+beds. This is also shown in a less degree in the Taunton River.
+
+(2) _Overfishing._--The primary cause of the decline of the natural
+oyster beds was overfishing. This is particularly true of the beds
+south of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay, which were of large extent, and
+unpolluted by manufacturing wastes or sewage. This overfishing has
+not been the result of the last few years, since records show that as
+early as 1824 Harwich passed an act to preserve the oyster fishery
+of the town; and that Sandwich, in the part which is now the town of
+Bourne, in 1832 passed regulations protecting the natural oyster
+fishery in Monument River; while at Wellfleet the natural oyster bed
+was completely exterminated by the year 1775. Overfishing has affected
+the natural beds in several ways, all of which have worked toward the
+general decline of the native oyster.
+
+(_a_) The first settlers took the large oysters from the natural beds,
+which under normal conditions had all they could do to keep up the
+supply. In this way the beds were deprived of the spawning oysters,
+with the result that in spite of the closed seasons, which gave little
+if any benefit, a gradual decline set in.
+
+(_b_) At the same time that the oysters were being taken from the beds,
+the early oystermen through ignorance were making an economic blunder
+by not returning the shells to the waters. The oyster shells furnish
+naturally the best surfaces for the collection of "seed," as spat will
+set only on clean surfaces. By taking the large oysters and with them
+the shells and other débris from the bed, the natural oyster bars were
+destroyed and less space given for the spat to catch. So both the
+taking of the large oysters in excessive amounts and the destruction of
+the natural spat collectors, either for lime, as was done at Wellfleet,
+or for other purposes, were sufficient in the early days to cause the
+decline of the natural oyster beds.
+
+(_c_) In more recent times the destruction of the natural beds has been
+hastened by the taking of the small oysters. This practice was due to
+two reasons: (1) the supply of large oysters was exhausted; (2) oyster
+culture became important, and the natural beds were raked clean for
+"seed" which the oystermen obtained for planting on their grants. Thus
+the oyster grant system has been the chief cause of the destruction of
+the natural beds in the last forty years. It was only when the natural
+beds failed that grants were given, and so oyster culture cannot be
+considered the primary cause of the destruction of the natural beds,
+but only a later agency in their total extermination. The natural beds
+in Buzzards Bay all bear testimony to these three means of overfishing,
+and in recent years particularly to the last.
+
+It has been a most fortunate thing for Massachusetts that the oyster
+grant system was inaugurated as soon as the decline of the natural
+fishery became manifest, else at the present time there would be no
+oysters in the State, for it is recognized that the present natural
+beds are perpetuated by the spawn which comes from the various oyster
+grants. Foresight has indeed provided an excellent oyster industry,
+which is rapidly improving. It is only necessary to apply similar
+methods of culture to the other shellfish industries of the State to
+insure their future also; otherwise the decline, which is following the
+same steps as the destruction of the natural oyster beds, will lead to
+the commercial extinction of these valuable fisheries.
+
+
+_Results of the Survey._
+
+The survey of the oyster industry has shown several interesting
+facts which should be brought to the attention of the fishermen
+and consumers. In the first place, it has shown that the oyster
+fishery is a larger and more important industry than it has been
+commonly considered, and that the welfare of the shore fisheries of
+southern Massachusetts depends upon its maintenance. Secondly, the
+oyster industry is to-day in a position where it cannot reach its
+full development for the reason merely that the present laws do not
+encourage the expansion of the industry. Thirdly, the oyster industry
+is trammeled by certain abuses, chiefly of a legal nature, which
+hinder its development, and upon the abolition of which depends its
+future success. Fourthly, the oyster industry under present conditions
+encroaches to some extent upon the other shellfish rights, especially
+in relation to the quahaug fishery, and has caused much jealous
+feeling; but if properly regulated there should be room for both
+industries.
+
+In order to obtain the opinion of the oystermen concerning the present
+abuses of the oyster industry, and how these could be best remedied,
+the following question was asked of the individual planters: "What
+measures or laws would, in your opinion, be best adapted for the
+improvement of the oyster industry?" Although many neglected to answer
+this question, forty-three opinions were offered, dealing with the
+problems which the oystermen consider as needing attention and upon
+which the welfare of the industry depends. These answers have been
+arranged in tabular form, showing the number of oystermen who advocate
+certain measures.
+
+                          MEASURES SUGGESTED.
+
+  Present laws satisfactory,                                      11
+  Direct State control of oyster industry,                        11
+  Town control, with right of appeal to the department of
+    fisheries and game,                                            1
+  Longer length of lease,                                          4
+  More certainty of re-leasing grants if improved,                 7
+  More protection for industry,                                    4
+  Right to grow all kinds of shellfish,                            1
+  More ground for cultivation,                                     1
+  State to forbid marketing of oysters from contaminated waters,   1
+  Provision for destruction of starfish,                           2
+                                                              ------
+      Total,                                                      43
+
+While these answers show a diversity of ideas, about 75 per cent.
+urge that something be done to improve the present system, and, while
+many are in favor of placing the industry under State control, the
+majority is definitely of the opinion that the present system of town
+control is proving a serious drawback to the oyster industry. The best
+interests of the oysterman and the consumer demand a better method of
+regulation of this industry. As long as town politics, partiality and
+carelessness enter into the leasing of oyster grants, and thus deprive
+certain people of their rights, it is safe to say that the oyster
+industry can never get beyond its present state of development. One
+solution of the difficulty might be full State control of leasing the
+grounds for the oyster industry. This is possibly too radical a step
+at present, and the system can perhaps be so adjusted as to remedy its
+defects without taking the control of the fishery entirely away from
+the hands of the town. Another solution is to continue the system of
+town control, but to have a State commission which would act as a board
+of appeal for all who felt aggrieved at the judgment of the selectmen.
+
+The advisability of ten-year grants has caused much comment among the
+oystermen. Practically all grants are now given for this period of
+time. As a system it is deservedly unpopular, since it does not help
+the quahaug interest, and it checks the development of the oyster
+industry. The oyster business, unlike the other branches of shellfish
+culture, requires a considerable capital. This system of ten-year
+grants operates directly to discourage the outlay of capital. If the
+oysterman were sure of reaping the benefits of his labor and capital,
+it would be to his selfish interest to develop his own grant to its
+maximum capacity. But what far-sighted business man will invest money
+in a business which stands a good chance of being completely "wiped
+out" in a few years? Again, this system makes three years out of the
+ten practically worthless. The oysterman usually "seeds" his grant
+about three years before he expects to reap his harvest; but when his
+grant has run for seven years, it is evident that he will plant no more
+oysters because of the uncertainty of obtaining a second lease, and
+naturally does not desire to invest his labor and money for the benefit
+of an unknown successor.
+
+The remedy for this is not difficult. If a grant were rented annually
+as long as the planter desired to hold it, to be forfeited if not
+improved to a certain standard (to be decided upon), or for non-payment
+of rent, the difficulties above enumerated would disappear. Much of
+the territory now held unimproved would either be brought up to a
+standard of excellence or given over to the quahaugers, and in either
+case direct benefits would result. If legislation were so arranged
+that any man might take, by the payment of a nominal rent, a small
+piece of ground, which he could hold as long as he improved it, the
+oyster industry could be put on a firmer footing; a man confident of
+enjoying the fruits of his labors could thus improve his grant, and, as
+he acquired skill and knowledge, could add other land and ultimately
+expect to build up a successful business.
+
+A third important suggestion relates to the marketing of oysters in
+a sanitary condition. The oyster industry of the State has suffered
+severely because of the scare resulting from the marketing of oysters
+from contaminated waters. The Cape and Buzzards Bay oysters are
+in general free from all sewage contamination, and should not be
+considered on the same basis as the impure varieties from outside
+the State. Naturally, the Massachusetts oystermen desire that there
+be some guarantee for the purity of the oysters marketed, as their
+interests suffer because this impure stock is often sold under the name
+of the Cape oyster. If laws were passed requiring the inspection and
+certification of marketed oysters in regard to healthful conditions
+under which they have been produced, both the oyster planter and the
+consumer would be benefited.
+
+There is but little doubt that the oyster industry can be still
+further developed by opening waste territory which at this time does
+not appear available, since under existing conditions proper capital
+cannot be induced to enter the business. The oyster industry demands
+more attention than it has hitherto received, and must be considered an
+important asset of the Commonwealth.
+
+
+_History of the Industry._
+
+Although the oyster laws are the mile-stones which mark the progress
+of the oyster industry, and any consideration of the development of
+these laws naturally gives many historical features, it is nevertheless
+necessary, at the risk of repetition, to give a separate account of the
+history of the oyster fishery. The Massachusetts oyster fishery can be
+divided historically into three distinct periods: (1) the free fishing
+period; (2) the period of bedding southern oysters; (3) the period of
+oyster grants.
+
+(1) _The Free Native Fishery (1620-1840)._--In the early colonial
+days the oyster fishery was considered in the same way as the other
+shellfisheries are now looked upon, _i.e._, held to be the common
+property of the inhabitants of the Commonwealth. The natural supply
+was abundant enough to meet the needs of all the inhabitants, and for
+many years no signs of decline were manifest. In 1775 the natural beds
+of Wellfleet gave out, furnishing the first record of unmistakable
+decline. From that time there arose an extensive series of protective
+laws, with the one object of preserving the natural supply by limiting
+the demand. This policy of protective laws, though perhaps temporarily
+beneficial, was based on an erroneous principle. It was preventive, but
+not constructive, and did not build up the demolished fishery.
+
+(2) _Oyster Bedding (1840-70)._--With the decline of the natural beds,
+the practice of bedding southern "plants" became an important part of
+the oyster trade. The southern oysters were bedded on the flats in the
+spring and taken up for market in the fall. Salem, Wellfleet and Boston
+were the leading places in this new phase of the oyster industry, and
+many thousand bushels were annually planted.
+
+(3) _Oyster Grants (1870-1908)._--So successful was this summer
+bedding of southern oysters that experiments were soon made in rearing
+oysters. This proved successful from the start, and within a few years
+the extensive grant system which is now in vogue was inaugurated on
+Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay.
+
+These three methods, although separated by definite periods in which
+each have been the leaders, remain to a greater or less extent at
+the present day. The natural beds are still in existence, and, as at
+Wareham, are opened once in three or seven years, according to the
+discretion of the selectmen, for catching "seed." The summer bedding of
+oysters still continues, as certain planters find it more profitable to
+fatten than to grow oysters, and the oyster grant system is now in full
+operation.
+
+A comparison of the industry of 1907 with that of 1879 shows several
+changes. These changes are for the most part improvements which have
+arisen with the development of the industry. In some cases the changes
+have been detrimental, and a few localities have shown a decline. New
+fields have opened to the oysterman both in new localities and through
+the extension of the present beds. On the whole, there has been a great
+increase in the grant system of oyster culture, while the "bedding"
+of southern "plants," which in 1879 employed many men, boats and
+extensive capital, has practically disappeared. The annual production
+has increased gradually, and for 1906-07 is approximately five times
+as large as in 1879. The following figures, except for 1907, are taken
+from the United States Fish Commission's reports, and show the gradual
+increase in production:--
+
+  =========+==========+========
+    YEAR.  | Bushels. |  Value.
+  ---------+----------+--------
+  1879,    |  36,000  | $41,800
+  1887,    |  43,183  |  64,115
+  1888,    |  45,631  |  66,453
+  1898,    |  101,225 |$156,235
+  1902,    |  103,386 | 133,682
+  1907,[16]|  161,182 | 176,142
+  =========+==========+========
+
+
+_The Oyster Laws._
+
+In submitting a complete report upon the oyster industry, the oyster
+laws, which have played an important part in the development of the
+fishery, cannot be totally neglected. However, so important a subject
+demands separate investigation, and offers excellent opportunities for
+legal research. Therefore it is not the purpose of this report to give
+more than a brief account of the present oyster laws and their history.
+
+The shellfish laws of Massachusetts constitute the foundation of the
+oyster industry, as they have taken a practically extinct native
+fishery and have built up the present extensive business. So closely
+are they connected with its welfare that the future of this growing
+industry depends upon the proper expansion of these laws to meet the
+new conditions.
+
+A survey of these oyster laws, with an analysis of their merits and
+defects, is needed. Their defects have brought about the present
+unsatisfactory situation in certain localities, and should be remedied.
+Their merits should be strengthened and amplified, as the basis of
+future expansion. They have come into being from time to time, in
+response to the immediate need of the hour; consequently they have no
+unity, and are, indeed, but imperfectly understood. An insight into
+their perplexing details should bring out many inconsistencies. Again,
+no comprehensive knowledge of the history of the industry is possible
+without a study of the laws. The errors once committed need not be
+repeated to further embarrass the industry, and the lessons learned by
+experience would be well applied to its future development.
+
+_Protective and Constructive Laws._--The oyster laws can be divided
+into two classes: (1) protective; and (2) constructive. The early laws,
+which were passed to save the natural supply, were of the first class;
+while the laws establishing the present system of oyster culture come
+under the second heading. The beginnings of all legislative enactment
+arose in the treatment of the natural oyster beds. These beds were fast
+becoming exhausted, when laws were passed to protect their important
+natural resources. This measure was only partially successful. It did
+succeed in preserving the remnant of those old beds from destruction,
+but it was powerless to build up an industry of any extent. When it
+became clearly evident that no possible fostering of native resources
+could supply the growing demands of the market, legislation quite
+logically directed itself toward the artificial propagation of oysters.
+From this step arose a series of problems which long proved baffling,
+and still engross a great deal of public attention. The artificial
+propagation of oysters necessitated the leasing of grants in tidal
+waters. This giving up of public property to private individuals
+aroused the opposition of rival shellfish industries, who saw in this
+measure a curtailment of their resources. Numerous other difficulties
+of minor significance arose from time to time, all demanding attention
+at the hands of the Legislature.
+
+Apart from the general supervision of the oyster industry, there
+have been two other sources of legislative enactment. First, special
+laws have been called for to regulate the fishery in certain waters
+under the oversight of the State Board of Health. Secondly, during
+the past few years the attention of the Legislature has been directed
+towards the development of the oyster fishery as an important asset
+of the Commonwealth, and laws authorizing various experiments, both
+scientific and practical, have been passed in order to devise methods
+of increasing and developing the industry.
+
+I. _Protective Laws._--The history of the oyster laws of Massachusetts
+is a history of the industry itself. The rise and decline of the
+fishery are distinctly traceable in the development of the legal
+machinery which regulates it. From the time of the Pilgrims the oyster
+beds of the coast had been regarded as inexhaustible mines. The fallacy
+of this view gradually became apparent, as these beds began to be
+depleted through overfishing. As early as 1796 a general law, entitled
+"An act to prevent the destruction of oysters and other shellfish," was
+passed by the Legislature. Prior to 1869 the town of Harwich adopted
+this old law. Shortly after, Swansea followed suit, and restricted the
+exploitation of her native oyster beds in the Lee and Cole rivers. In
+1870 Wellfleet inaugurated an innovation, in the nature of a permit
+to take oysters, which was required of all citizens of the town. The
+idea of this permit was to regulate the fishery, centralize control
+in the hands of the selectmen and add to the income of the town. In
+1873 Sandwich passed a law enforcing a close season on all her native
+beds, to last for a period of one year. In 1875 Brewster followed the
+lead of Wellfleet, in demanding permits of all outsiders and also from
+all citizens taking more than 3 bushels at any one time, although an
+unlimited amount might be taken for food.
+
+The aim of all this legislation was not to develop the industry
+directly, but indirectly by preserving and fostering the native beds.
+This theory, while excellent in motive, did not work out well, as the
+native beds could not by any possible protection be brought to produce
+an annual yield at all adequate to the growing demands of the market.
+
+The utilization of purely natural resources proving unequal to the
+demands of the occasion, the creation of other resources became
+necessary, and an entirely new epoch in the history of the oyster
+fishery was inaugurated. This epoch marked the beginning of the
+production of oysters by artificial means, and the establishment of
+this new industry and the perplexing complications which grew out of it
+have been the source of legislative strife for many years.
+
+II. _Constructive Laws._--The first legislation authorizing the present
+system of oyster culture was instituted at Swansea, in 1869. This was
+the beginning and the foundation of a broad movement of oyster culture
+which spread rapidly along the southern coast of the State. This
+curious law allowed the selectmen to sell, by public or private sale,
+the oyster privilege of Swansea outright to any person or persons who
+were citizens of the town. The measure, although apparently designed
+to restrict the exhaustion of the native resources, did not tend to
+develop the industry. It possessed one element of value, i.e., it
+increased the revenue of the town. Apart from its interest as the
+forerunner of artificial propagation of oysters, this old law is
+noteworthy, as it forms the basis of the system which to-day regulates
+the industry in that section of the country. The custom of selling an
+extensive oyster privilege, as apart from the system of leasing grants,
+first clearly outlined in the law of 1869, still holds throughout this
+section. It remains the usual custom to sell either the whole of a
+township's available oyster territory, or else an extensive part of it,
+to one man for a lump sum per year.
+
+In 1874 an important step occurred in the evolution of the oyster
+industry. Swansea and Somerset were given the privilege of granting
+any of their bays, shores, banks and creeks for the propagation of
+oysters. This act was far more sweeping and advanced than any of its
+predecessors, but it was in one respect too sweeping. It interfered
+with the rights of the property owners along the shore, and was
+therefore contrary to the general underlying principle of the State
+law, which allows the cultivation of oysters only in so far as such
+cultivation does not interfere with the vested rights of all citizens
+alike. The measure proved untenable, and was promptly repealed.
+Its repeal was on general principles a thing to be desired, but
+nevertheless a blow to the industry. The tidal waters along the coast
+have always been the most valuable part of the oyster territory, as
+they have proved to be the best adapted for obtaining "oyster set."
+This measure was therefore designed to aid the oyster growers, and give
+them valuable privileges which belonged originally to the adjoining
+property owners. Even to the present day the dividing line between
+the rights of property owners and oystermen has remained an unsettled
+question.
+
+It was about this time that the close season proved a failure in
+Buzzards Bay, and the towns of Wareham, Bourne and Marion turned their
+attention toward the establishment of an oyster industry. This attempt
+became a settled policy of these towns about 1875.
+
+In 1878 a peculiar act was passed, making it unlawful for any person
+to remove oysters from any grant, even his own, between the hours
+of sunset and sunrise. This act was necessary for the protection of
+the oyster planters, by preventing the stealing of oysters from the
+grant at night. Various efforts had been made to protect grants from
+such attacks, but the extreme difficulty of detection was always an
+insuperable obstacle to proper enforcement, and it was deemed expedient
+to prohibit all fishing at night. That this problem had become an
+important one is shown by the title of the law, which was styled
+"An act for the better protection of the oyster fisheries in this
+commonwealth."
+
+In 1884 an important act was passed, enlarging the limits of that
+territory which might lawfully be used for the cultivation of oysters.
+Practically all communal waters outside the jurisdiction of adjacent
+land owners was thrown open for oyster grants.
+
+In 1885 the institution of a public hearing was inaugurated. This was a
+concession to the hostile quahaug element, and allowed the public the
+opportunity of protesting against the granting of territory for oyster
+culture; nevertheless, the final power really remained in the hands of
+the selectmen. A further concession to this element was the law which
+called for the revoking of grants within two years if unimproved. The
+interests of the oystermen were also kept in sight, and legislation
+passed which was designed to protect grants still more from the
+depredations of outsiders. Provision was likewise made for the proper
+enforcement of these laws, and the penalties attached were increased.
+
+In 1886 an act was passed which was designed to do away with all
+possible outside monopoly. The danger of organized capital acquiring
+control of a large tract and excluding small individual planters had
+become apparent, and this means was taken to guard against it. The act
+prohibited the transfer of grants in any township to any person not a
+citizen of that township; thus, if any monopoly did exist it would be
+restricted to only one township. The limits during which fishing on
+grants might be carried on was lengthened two hours, so that it read
+from "one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset."
+
+In 1892 the town of Yarmouth obtained a law requiring a permit for
+citizens to take oysters from native beds, not exceeding 2 bushels per
+week, from September 1 to June 1. This is now the only town in the
+Commonwealth to require such a permit from citizens.
+
+In 1895 legislation was passed relative to the proper definition of
+the boundaries of grants. This was rendered necessary because of
+the haphazard methods hitherto pursued in giving grants with very
+indefinite boundaries. Mean low-water mark was fixed as the shoreward
+boundary of grants, while mean high-water mark was defined as the limit
+to which shells might be placed to catch the set. This, however, was
+dependent upon the owners of the adjacent property, and their consent
+was held necessary before this territory between high and low water
+could thus be utilized.
+
+In 1901 special legislation was passed, restricting the catching of
+oysters in contaminated waters except for bait.
+
+In 1904 authority was granted to proper officials to develop the oyster
+industry by planting shellfish, or by close season.
+
+In 1905 the Fish and Game Commission was authorized to expend a sum
+not exceeding $500 per annum for the investigation of the oyster, by
+experiment or otherwise, with a view to developing the industry.
+
+The development of the oyster laws has been by a process of evolution.
+They have kept pace with the growth of the industry, and have been in
+fact the logical outcome of that expansion. The various acts which go
+to make up the bulk of this legislation have been passed from time to
+time to fill the immediate demands of the hour, and consequently lack
+that unity and consistency which might otherwise characterize them.
+Changing conditions have called for alterations in the legal machinery,
+as the industry has expanded, to meet new requirements. These additions
+have frequently been dictated by short-sighted policy, and the
+Commonwealth as a whole has often been lost sight of in the welfare of
+the community.
+
+Of all the shellfisheries, the oyster industry is most hampered by
+unwise legislation. It is the most difficult to handle, because it
+presents many perplexing phases from which the others are free. Clams,
+quahaugs and scallops flourish in their respective territories, and
+legislation merely tends to regulate their exploitation or marketing.
+With the oyster, however, other problems have arisen. The areas in the
+State where oysters grow naturally are few in number and relatively
+of small importance. The clam, quahaug and scallop grounds are to be
+compared with wild pastures and meadows, which yield their harvests
+without cultivation; while the oyster grants are gardens, which must be
+planted and carefully tended.
+
+With this distinction arises another question, of far-reaching
+significance,--the question of private ownership. The quahaug, clam
+and scallop fisheries demand that the tidal flats and waters be held
+in common as communal interests, and freely open to all citizens of
+the town; the oyster fishery requires that certain portions of these
+flats and waters be set aside for private ownership. With the economic
+questions involved in this discussion it is not the purpose of this
+report to deal. There is one fact, in any case, which cannot be argued
+away. The oyster industry is dependent solely upon private ownership
+of grants. If, therefore, the oyster industry is to be encouraged at
+all,--and it certainly has very great possibilities,--this fact of
+private ownership must be accepted at once. If, as some assert, it is
+an evil, it is a necessary evil, and it has come to stay. The questions
+remaining for legislation on this subject are the proper regulation of
+this private ownership, so as to give the maximum of encouragement to
+the oyster fishery, and the minimum of danger to the rival shellfish
+industries.
+
+The oyster and quahaug industries openly clash. This is an unfortunate
+occurrence, but it cannot be avoided, since the ground suitable for
+the culture of oysters is almost always the natural home of the
+quahaug. Therefore, when portions of this ground are given out to
+private individuals for the production of oysters, the available
+quahaug territory is necessarily reduced. Over this question endless
+disputes have arisen. The problem is undoubtedly one requiring delicate
+adjustment; but there is no reason why these two industries should not
+flourish side by side, as there would be plenty of room for both if all
+the available territory were properly utilized.
+
+There is one important feature of this problem, however, which the
+present laws have wholly failed to recognize. Wherever practicable,
+the best of the quahaug territory should not be granted; and as far as
+possible, the oystermen should utilize only those tracts of territory
+which are not naturally very productive of quahaugs.
+
+
+_The Oyster Industry._
+
+For the benefit of those who perhaps are not familiar with the methods
+employed in the oyster industry, the following brief account is given:--
+
+I. _Selecting the Grant._--The oysterman, in selecting a grant, has to
+consider first the nature of the soil; and secondly, the location as
+influencing the growth of the oyster. Not less important is the quality
+of the oyster, which means not only a good price, but also readiness
+of sale, as the oysters produced in certain localities are especially
+desirable in appearance and flavor.
+
+As the oyster will not grow on all kinds of bottom, but demands a firm
+soil, free from soft mud and shifting sand, the oyster area of the
+State is naturally limited. Usually but part of an oysterman's grant is
+suitable for the cultivation of oysters, and he is forced to let the
+rest of the territory lie idle, unless he can, with shells or gravel,
+artificially change this waste area into suitable ground. Shifting sand
+perhaps can never be made suitable for oysters; but many acres of soft
+mud can be made productive, if the oysterman only has a reasonable
+guarantee that he would receive the results of his labor.
+
+While the oyster culture is limited by the nature of the bottom, it is
+also restricted by other conditions. The salinity of the water has much
+to do with the rapidity of growth, and the oysters seem to thrive in
+localities where a slight amount of fresh water enters. The amount of
+food in the water is the principal factor in the rate of growth, and
+to this is due the fact that the rate of growth varies considerably
+in different localities. As a rule, the beds with good circulation of
+water (_i.e._, currents) show the more rapid growth.
+
+II. _Collecting the "Seed."_--The term "seed" is applied to one, two,
+three and even four year old oysters which the oystermen plant on their
+grants. These grants are in reality salt-water gardens, requiring
+constant supervision; and the obtaining of the "seed" for planting is a
+most important consideration. The gathering of the oyster "seed" is a
+simple process, but one which requires much research.
+
+Early in the summer, usually during the months of June and July in
+these waters, the Massachusetts oyster spawns. Both sperm from the
+adult male and the eggs from the adult female oysters are extruded
+in considerable quantities into the water, and there the eggs are
+fertilized. As fertilization is somewhat a matter of accident,
+undoubtedly the great majority of eggs never develop. The fertilized
+eggs pass rapidly through various changes in the course of a few hours,
+and emerge as microscopic embryos, with thin, transparent coverings.
+At this period these forms are free swimming, and are found in great
+numbers in the water. They are extremely delicate, and great quantities
+are destroyed by natural agencies, such as cold storms, sudden changes
+in temperature, etc. They likewise are subject to the depredations of
+all sorts of marine creatures, and comparatively few in proportion
+survive. The survivors, after leading this free-swimming existence for
+several days, settle to the bottom, where they attach themselves by
+a calcareous fixative to stones, shells, pieces of wood, etc. Here,
+unless buried by silt and soft mud or killed by exposure, poisonous
+pollution, etc., the young oyster rapidly becomes of a size suitable
+for planting.
+
+The economic utilization of this scientific knowledge is as follows:
+shells offer a very good surface for the attachment of the young
+oyster, and many thousand bushels are annually strewn over the bottom
+previous to the spawning season. Considerable judgment is needed in
+choosing the right time to plant these shells, which after a few
+weeks in the water become so coated with slime that fixation of the
+"spat" becomes impossible. In Massachusetts the area between high and
+low water mark has been found by experiment to be the most valuable
+territory for this purpose, as shells planted here collect the heaviest
+set and can be handled with the least expense. A projecting sand bar or
+point with a current is also well adapted for catching oyster spat.
+
+The scallop shell is the most serviceable in spat collecting, because
+it is more brittle, and the clusters of oysters when attached are
+readily broken apart. After the oysterman has obtained a successful
+set, he allows the young oysters to obtain a suitable growth before he
+makes a final planting, either in the spring or fall.
+
+III. _Size of the "Seed" used for Planting._--While many oysters are
+raised from native spat in the Buzzards Bay district, the greater
+part of the seed is purchased in Connecticut and Long Island, and is
+carried in schooners or steamers to Massachusetts waters. The usual
+price ranges from 35 cents to $1 per bushel, according to size and
+quality. The oystermen cannot always choose the size of "seed" they
+desire for planting, as the set of any one year is very uncertain,
+and several seasons may pass before a large quantity of "seed" can be
+obtained. Thus the oyster planters are forced to take whatever size
+they can obtain, whether it be two, three or four year old "seed." As
+a rule, the small "seed" is most in demand, as it means relatively
+faster growth and less money invested. Often, when the ground is most
+favorable for fattening, large oysters are preferred for planting,
+and certain oystermen make this line of work a specialty. Certain
+localities where there is plenty of lime in the water are well adapted
+for growth, and yet produce poor-"meated" oysters, while in other
+grounds the reverse is true. The oystermen occasionally by a double
+transfer utilize both grounds, planting oyster "seed" for the first few
+years in the rapid-growing localities, and then transplanting the large
+oysters to the "fattening" ground six months before marketing.
+
+IV. _Preparing the Grant._--The first step in preparing the grant is to
+remove all débris. In the deep water, this is usually done by dredging;
+in the shallow water, by whatever means is the easiest. If the bottom
+is of firm soil, the grant is then ready for planting; however, if the
+soil is soft mud, it is necessary to shell the bottom in order to give
+it greater firmness. The oysterman continually has to keep a sharp
+lookout in order to protect his grant from enemies such as the starfish
+and the oyster drill, and to keep it clear of seaweed and other matter
+which would interfere with the growth of the oyster.
+
+V. _Sowing the "Seed."_--The "seed" oysters are planted on the prepared
+bed by scattering them with shovels or scoops from the boats and scows.
+The oysterman, knowing the maximum amount of "seed" the bed will grow
+to the best advantage, plants the required number, taking care that
+the oysters are properly scattered, as for the best growth oysters
+should lie separate and not in crowded masses. The amount of "seed"
+that can be planted on a given area depends upon the natural conditions
+of the locality.
+
+VI. _Enemies._--The oyster, having passed through the countless dangers
+of his embryonic career, is still harassed by several enemies. Of
+these, the most destructive is the starfish. This animal, commonly
+known as the "five-finger," occurs along the entire Massachusetts
+coast, and is especially abundant in Buzzards Bay. Occasionally whole
+oyster beds are wiped out by this pest, which sweeps over the ground
+in vast armies. The method of attack of the starfish is unique. By
+exerting with its tube feet a steady pull in opposite directions
+on both valves of the shell of the victim, the starfish tires the
+contracted muscle of the oyster, and the shells open. The starfish then
+extrudes its stomach so as to enwrap the prey, and in this curious
+manner devours the oyster.
+
+A close second to the starfish in amount of damage is the oyster
+"drill" or "borer" (_Urosalpinx cinerea_). This little mollusk with its
+rasping tongue drills a small hole through the shell of the oyster, and
+then sucks out the contents.
+
+A third enemy, according to the oyster planters, is the "winkle"
+(_Fulgur carica_ and _F. caniculatus_). The method of attack is
+somewhat obscure.
+
+Besides this dangerous trio of living enemies, the oyster is subject to
+constant peril from inanimate agencies. Probably the greatest of these
+is shifting bottom. Where oysters are grown on sandy soil, the violent
+waves of winter storms frequently tear up the bottom, or else the force
+of currents is such as to kill the oysters by completely burying them
+in the sand. Again, if the oysters are growing in very muddy bottom
+they are constantly liable to be smothered in the slimy ooze. Ice in
+winter frequently tears oysters from their beds and bears them to some
+unfavorable environment, where they soon die.
+
+VII. _Harvesting the Oysters._--The oysterman completes his planting
+about June 1. During the summer months, the growing period of the
+oyster, the grants remain idle except for the care and supervision of
+the oystermen. As the oyster takes from three to five years to attain
+its growth, the oysterman practically harvests but one-fourth to
+one-third of his entire stock each year, beginning about September 1
+and continuing through the winter as the weather permits.
+
+In winter the oysterman, to keep up the market supply, beds "culled"
+oysters near the shore, where he can tong them through the ice whenever
+it is impossible to obtain oysters from his grant.
+
+The implements used in gathering the oyster harvest are of three
+kinds: tongs, dredges and rakes. Tongs are employed principally by the
+smaller oyster growers, and on ground where the water is comparatively
+shallow. A pair of tongs is really a pair of long-handled rakes,
+fastened together like a pair of shears. The pole, corresponding to
+the blade of the shears, varies from 8 to 16 feet in length. The
+rakes, some 2 to 2½ feet broad, are so fitted to the end of the poles
+that when extended by spreading the handles they rest upon the bottom
+parallel to each other. These tongs are usually worked from skiffs or
+flat-bottomed boats, the oystermen first separating the tips of the
+handles and then bringing them together, thus causing a corresponding
+movement of the two rakes, which with their 2-inch iron teeth gather in
+all the intervening oysters. The tongs with their burden of oysters are
+then lifted into the boat, emptied, and the process repeated.
+
+Dredging is a much faster and less laborious method of oystering
+than tonging, and can be carried on over a much larger territory.
+The oyster dredge consists of a bag of woven iron rings attached
+to an iron framework. From each corner of the framework iron rods
+extend, converging at a point some feet away. At this point the rope
+is attached, by which the dredge is dragged from either a sail or
+power boat. The blade, resting horizontally on the surface, is armed
+with teeth which rake the oysters into the bag. When this bag, which
+holds from 3 to 8 bushels, is full, the dredge is raised, usually by a
+windlass worked by steam, gasolene or hand power, as the case may be,
+its contents dumped out and the dredge lowered for another haul.
+
+Rakes, the third implement in general use, are not employed as
+extensively as tongs or dredges, but are used in still water, where the
+bottom is suitable.
+
+VIII. _Marketing._--The "catch" as soon as it is dredged or tonged
+is brought in boats to the oyster houses, where men with hatchets or
+similar implements break apart the clustered oysters and cast aside
+the empty shells, bits of rock, etc. Three different varieties of
+marketable oysters are usually sorted out, according to size: (1)
+large, (2) medium and (3) small. The respective sizes vary somewhat
+with the locality, demands of the market and the season; but the large
+oysters commonly count about 900 to the barrel, the medium 1,000 or
+more, while the small run 1,200 or over.
+
+The different sizes as they are sorted out are packed in barrels and
+are then ready for shipment. The principal markets are of course New
+York and Boston, though the demand farther inland is increasing, and
+shipments to Chicago or places even farther west are frequently made.
+
+
+_General Statistics._
+
+The following facts concerning the oyster industry have been compiled
+from the written statements of the different oystermen. Complete
+returns have not been received from Wareham, Barnstable, and Falmouth,
+while possibly a few oystermen in the other towns have been overlooked.
+Falmouth raises but few oysters for the market and these returns have
+been recorded, the remaining oystermen merely planting for their own
+use. In the towns of Barnstable and Wareham about four-fifths of the
+oystermen have made returns. The facts given in the following tables
+are based only on the returns at hand, and therefore do not give a
+complete report for these two towns.
+
+                          STATISTICAL SUMMARY.
+
+  ====================+==============+============================+=======
+                      |   NUMBER OF  |   AREA OF WORKED GRANTS    |
+        TOWN.         |    GRANTS.   |        (ACRES).            |Number
+  --------------------+------+-------+------+---------+-----------+of Men.
+                      |Total.|Worked.|Total.|Suitable.|Unsuitable.|
+  --------------------+------+-------+------+---------+-----------+-------
+  Wellfleet,          |    35|     23|   967|      810|        157|    14
+  Chatham,            |    21|     21|    65|       55|         10|    20
+  Dennis-Yarmouth,    |     4|      2|    10|       10|          -|     3
+  Barnstable,         |    29|     29|   188|      121|         67|    33
+  Falmouth,           |    22|      6|    44|       23|         21|     5
+  Bourne,             |   135|     42|   100|       83|         17|    21
+  Wareham,            |   125|     70|   196|      159|         37|    26
+  Fall River district,|    14|     14|   810|      510|        300|    36
+  Nantucket,          |     2|      1|    20|        3|         17|     1
+                      +------+-------+------+---------+-----------+-------
+     Total,           |   387|    208| 2,400|    1,774|        626|   159
+  ====================+======+=======+======+=========+===========+=======
+
+                           CAPITAL INVESTED.
+
+  ================+========+===========+===========+==========+==========
+        TOWN.     | Boats. |Implements.|  Shore    |   Bedded |   Total.
+                  |        |           | Property. |  Oysters.|
+  ----------------+--------+-----------+-----------+----------+----------
+  Wellfleet,      | $10,115|      $575 |    $1,200 |  $19,500 |  $31,390
+  Chatham,        |   1,695|       313 |     1,225 |   23,300 |   26,533
+  Dennis-Yarmouth,|      25|        50 |       100 |    5,000 |    5,175
+  Barnstable,     |   5,269|     1,139 |     4,300 |   28,850 |   39,558
+  Falmouth,       |   1,525|       105 |     1,000 |      450 |    3,080
+  Bourne,         |   5,515|       483 |       150 |   18,300 |   24,448
+  Wareham,        |   9,355|     1,120 |     2,420 |   27,725 |   40,620
+  Fall River      |        |           |           |          |
+     district,    |  19,840|     2,000 |     6,200 |   68,500 |   96,540
+  Nantucket,      |     518|        15 |        25 |      800 |    1,358
+                  +--------+-----------+-----------+----------+----------
+     Total,       | $53,857|    $5,800 |   $16,620 | $192,425 | $268,702
+  ================+========+===========+===========+==========+==========
+
+                         PRODUCTION OF 1906-07.
+
+  ================+====================+==================+===========
+                  | MARKETABLE OYSTERS.|   SEED OYSTERS.  |   Total
+      TOWN.       +---------+----------+--------+---------+   Value.
+                  | Bushels.|  Value.  |Bushels.|  Value. |
+  ----------------+---------+----------+--------+---------+-----------
+  Wellfleet,      |  22,500 |  $24,850 |  1,000 |  $1,000 |  $25,850
+  Chatham,        |  14,550 |   23,987 |      - |       - |   23,987
+  Dennis-Yarmouth,|   1,000 |    1,500 |      - |       - |    1,500
+  Barnstable,     |  25,850 |   48,050 |    100 |     100 |   48,150
+  Falmouth,       |   3,012 |    6,025 |      - |       - |    6,025
+  Bourne,         |   2,100 |    4,100 | 23,000 |  15,000 |   19,100
+  Wareham,        |   7,770 |   12,790 | 22,100 |  12,090 |   24,880
+  Fall River      |         |          |        |         |
+     district,    |  38,000 |   26,250 |      - |       - |   26,250
+  Nantucket,      |     200 |      400 |      - |       - |      400
+                  +---------+----------+--------+---------+-----------
+     Total,       | 114,982 | $147,952 | 46,200 | $28,190 | $176,142
+  ================+=========+==========+========+=========+===========
+
+                    SECTIONAL ARRANGEMENT OF TOWNS.
+
+  _A._ North side of Cape Cod:--
+          1. Wellfleet.
+          2. Eastham.
+          3. Orleans.
+  _B._ South side of Cape Cod:--
+          1. Chatham.
+          2. Harwich.
+          3. Dennis and Yarmouth.
+          4. Barnstable.
+          5. Mashpee.
+          6. Falmouth.
+  _C._ Buzzards Bay:--
+          1. Bourne.
+          2. Wareham.
+          3. Marion.
+  _D._ Fall River district.
+  _E._ Nantucket.
+
+
+_Wellfleet._
+
+For the past thirty years there has been an extensive oyster industry
+at Wellfleet, and many grants have been taken out in the waters of
+Wellfleet Bay, which possesses some of the best oyster ground in the
+State. In spite of the success of the past years, the industry is
+declining, indicating, possibly, that after 1910 no more grants will be
+leased.
+
+Four parts of the bay are taken up by oyster grants in the vicinity of:
+(1) Mayo's Beach; (2) Great Island; (3) Indian Neck; (4) Lieutenant's
+Island.
+
+(1) Nine grants, covering an area of 176 acres of both flats and
+deeper water, extend out from Mayo's Beach a distance of 1,500
+feet. These grants extend along shore from Commercial Wharf to Egg
+Island, a distance of 3,500 feet. Seven of these grants have each a
+shore extension of 200 feet, the other 2 having 600 and 1,500 feet
+respectively. The principal planting on these grants is done by D.
+Atwood & Co.
+
+(2) On the west side of the bay, along the shores of Great Island and
+Beach Hill, there are 7 grants which are now worked. Originally there
+were 12 grants in this locality, but 5 of them expired some time ago.
+The area included in these 5 grants is 500 acres, while the entire
+granted area covers 708 acres. Wright & Willis, R. R. Higgins and L. D.
+Baker have done most of the planting on these grants in the past few
+years.
+
+(3) On the east side of the bay, near Indian Neck, are 5 grants,
+comprising 224 acres. J. A. Stubbs does all the planting here. A single
+grant of 11 acres of flats is held in Duck Creek Cove by J. C. Wiles.
+These grants extend along the shore for 2,000 yards and run out into
+the bay for 1,000 yards.
+
+(4) Off Lieutenant's Island are 8 grants, comprising a total area of
+1,062 acres. Only 3 of these, comprising 559 acres, are now worked.
+Joseph Crosby of Osterville is the principal planter on these grants.
+
+From the statistical returns of the oyster planters it is found that
+23 grants are now held for oyster planting, comprising an area of 967
+acres; 810 acres, or 83 per cent. of this area, is suitable for oyster
+culture. There is very little soft mud bottom, only 82 acres, while the
+shifting sand area is 75 acres.
+
+The total area of grants ever leased at Wellfleet comprises 2,182
+acres, of which 1,473 are now held. The average depth of water over
+these grants at mean low tide is 4 feet, the extremes running from 1 to
+12 feet.
+
+  Capital invested,                           $31,390
+  Power boats,                                      4
+  Value of power boats,                        $9,250
+  Sail boats,                                       4
+  Value of sail boats,                           $750
+  Dories and skiffs,                                8
+  Value of dories and skiffs,                    $115
+  Implements:--
+      Dredges,                                     14
+      Tongs,                                       12
+  Value of implements,                           $575
+  Value of shore property,                     $1,200
+  Value of oysters on grant,                  $19,500
+
+Most of the oystering is done by dredging, two large gasolene oyster
+boats, the "Cultivator" and the "Marion," being employed for this
+purpose. Tongs are also used extensively. Fourteen men are engaged from
+six to twelve months each year in the oyster business.
+
+The production for 1906-07 was 22,500 bushels of marketable oysters,
+valued at $24,850; and 1,000 bushels of "seed," worth approximately
+$1,000. Most of the planted "seed" is obtained from Long Island and
+Connecticut.
+
+The damage from the natural enemies of the oyster is reported as very
+slight.
+
+The Wellfleet oyster has a peculiar salty flavor not possessed by other
+oysters. For some trade this is preferred, while for others it is not
+so desirable. Before marketing the extreme saltiness is sometimes
+removed by floating the oysters in Duck Creek, where the water is less
+salt, using large, scow-like floats, 30 by 15 feet.
+
+Several Boston firms are engaged in oyster culture at Wellfleet,
+including D. Atwood & Co., J. A. Stubbs and R. R. Higgins.
+
+For years there has been a conflict between the quahaugers and the
+oystermen at Wellfleet. This is very natural, owing to the rivalry
+between the two industries and the rapid rise of the quahaug fishery in
+the last fifteen years. Owing to their greater number, the quahaugers
+have obtained the upper hand in town affairs, with the result that
+in 1910, when all the oyster leases run out, it is said that no more
+will be granted, and the oyster business of Wellfleet will come to an
+end. This is especially unfortunate for the town, as there is room
+for both industries, and the destruction of either one would be a
+great financial loss. It is hoped that some means can be devised to
+straighten out the difficulties between the opposing factions before
+either industry is ruined.
+
+But little oyster spat has ever been caught in Wellfleet Bay. That
+oysters will set there is evidenced by the young "seed" caught on the
+piles of the wharves and on stones and rocks around the harbor. It is
+noteworthy that at Wellfleet the spat sets only between the tide lines,
+and does not catch where water is constantly over the ground. This is
+directly contrary to the conditions in Long Island Sound, where the set
+is caught in deep water. E. P. Cook and J. A. Stubbs have tried spat
+collecting in Herring River for several years, with the results of one
+or two good sets, the best being caught by Mr. Cook in 1906. The other
+years have proved failures in this line. There is no question but that
+oyster spat can be profitably caught if sufficient interest is taken in
+the matter.
+
+The early laws were as follows:--
+
+    In 1772 a law having been enacted by the General Court,
+    regulating the taking of oysters in Billingsgate Bay, an
+    amendment to that act was now asked by the town, namely, that
+    during the summer months oysters shall not be taken to market,
+    nor fished by the inhabitants of the town for their own use
+    during the months of July and August.
+
+In 1773:--
+
+    That, inasmuch as the oyster fishery, which is of great
+    value to the town and of great advantage to the Province,
+    has received detriment from persons taking young oysters,
+    the enactment of more stringent regulations are necessary to
+    prevent their destruction.
+
+These early laws show that the natural oyster beds were highly prized
+by the Inhabitants in colonial days, and that measures, even then,
+were necessary to prevent their extinction. At the present time
+Wellfleet has no other regulations than the general oyster laws of the
+Commonwealth.
+
+The history of the oyster industry of Wellfleet can be divided into
+three periods: (1) the natural oyster fishery; (2) the "bedding" of
+southern oysters; (3) oyster planting.
+
+(1) _The Natural Oyster Beds of Wellfleet._--The first settlers found
+a natural oyster bed near Hitchin's Creek, or Silver Spring, in 1644,
+and it is said that oysters were very abundant at that time. Old shells
+are occasionally dredged or raked up at the present day from these
+beds. The Rev. Enoch Pratt, in his "History of Eastham, Wellfleet and
+Orleans," gives the following account of this early oyster industry:--
+
+    Oysters were found in great abundance on the flats at the first
+    settlement [1644], but at this time [1770] the inhabitants had
+    so increased and such quantities were taken for consumption and
+    for the Boston market, that it became necessary, to prevent
+    their entire destruction, for the district to take measures to
+    preserve and propagate them.... Shops and stands were opened
+    in Boston, Salem, Portland and other places, where the oysters
+    were sold in quantities to suit the purchaser.
+
+    In 1775 all the oysters in the bay died. What caused their
+    destruction is not certainly known, but it is supposed that
+    as, at this time, a large number of blackfish died and came on
+    shore, where their carcasses remained, producing a very filthy
+    condition of the water, it caused this mortality.
+
+A more probable explanation is given by Mr. E. P. Cook of Wellfleet.
+The early inhabitants, not knowing the value of the natural shell beds
+for catching the spat, greedily took every shell and burned them into
+lime as a fertilizer for their farms and plaster for their houses.
+There was once a fine strip of woods near this original oyster rock,
+but this was cut down, and the sand gradually washed over the beds,
+killing the young oysters. To these two causes can be attributed the
+final destruction of the natural beds in 1775.
+
+(2) _The Bedding of Southern Oysters._--After the destruction of the
+natural beds, an important industry arose in the "bedding" of southern
+oysters for northern trade. Privileges for bedding oysters on the flats
+were granted to a number of oyster firms. These men hired schooners
+in the latter part of the winter or the early spring, which went to
+the southern oyster grounds and brought back loads of oysters. These
+oysters were spread or bedded over the leased flats of the harbor,
+where they remained until the following fall, when they were taken up
+for market. In this way the oysters gained in size by the summer's
+growth, and were fattened for market. Considerable trade sprang up in
+the carrying of oysters, and many vessels were engaged in this traffic.
+In 1841 Mr. Gould, the conchologist, states that 120 men, with 30
+vessels of about 40 tons each, were employed for three months of the
+year, and brought to the town an annual revenue of $8,000.
+
+In 1841 Capt. William Dill is credited with bringing into Wellfleet the
+first cargo from Virginia, which started a large trade in Chesapeake
+oysters. Mr. Ernest Ingersoll makes the following statement concerning
+the Virginia trade:--
+
+    Nevertheless, it was not until about 1845 or 1850 that the
+    business began to confine itself to Virginia oysters, and a
+    large business to be done. At its height, about 1850, it is
+    probable that more than 100,000 bushels a year were laid down
+    in the harbor; some say 150,000.... The favorite ground was at
+    the mouth of Herring River.
+
+The Rev. Enoch Pratt writes, in 1844:--
+
+    The inhabitants of the town tried the experiment of bringing
+    oysters from the south and laying them down on the flats, which
+    succeeded well. In the course of a year they doubled their
+    size and their quality was much improved. This soon became a
+    large business, and a number of vessels have been employed in
+    the spring of every year in bringing them here. The number of
+    bushels which are now [1844] annually brought is about 60,000.
+    Nearly all the oyster shops and stands in Boston, and other
+    cities and towns in this State, are supplied from this place,
+    and are kept by persons belonging to the town. This business
+    affords a living for many families.
+
+Mr. Ernest Ingersoll thus describes the decline of the oyster trade in
+1870:--
+
+    The war of the rebellion, however, interfered somewhat with the
+    oyster trade, and it began to decline so far as Wellfleet was
+    concerned. Then the various dealers in northern ports, having
+    learned something, began to bed near home in their own harbors,
+    and so saved freightage. Finally, the steamers from Norfolk
+    and the railways entered into so serious a competition that
+    fully ten years ago [1870] Wellfleet Bay was wholly deserted
+    by the oystermen as a bedding ground, though her vessels still
+    continue to carry cargoes in winter from Virginia to Boston,
+    Portland, Salem, Portsmouth and the Providence River, to supply
+    the active trade and fill the new beds, which the dealers at
+    these various ports had learned could be established at home.
+    The reader thus discovers how important a part Wellfleet has
+    played in the history of the oyster trade of New England. A
+    hundred thousand bushels of the bivalves once grew fat along
+    her water front, and thousands of dollars were dispensed
+    to the citizens in the industry they created. Now [1880] a
+    little experimental propagation, to the value of a few hundred
+    dollars, and about 6,000 bushels of bedded oysters from
+    Virginia, worth perhaps $5,000 when sold, form the total active
+    business. The oyster fleet, however, remains, though greatly
+    diminished, and carrying its cargoes to Boston, Portland and
+    elsewhere, instead of bringing them to be laid down in the home
+    harbor. It will be long before Wellfleet, and its neighbor,
+    Provincetown, lose the prestige of old custom as oyster
+    carriers.
+
+(3) _Oyster Raising._--In 1876 the first attempt to raise oysters from
+"seed" at Wellfleet, is said to have been made by E. P. Cook, who
+obtained a grant from the town of about 30 acres, on which were planted
+500 bushels of "seed" from Somerset, Mass. The "Oysterman" of Dec. 20,
+1906, gives the following account of oyster planting at Wellfleet:--
+
+    In 1876 our informant, Mr. E. P. Cook, conceived the idea that
+    these waters could grow "seed" oysters as well as fatten big
+    stock. He went to Somerset, Mass., and got a carload of 500
+    bushels and planted them. A few had previously been planted
+    but with ill success. The people laughed at him for dumping
+    his good money overboard. He was the first man to lease a
+    piece of oyster ground from the State, and of course had his
+    pick, which was 600 feet on the shore next to the Silver
+    Spring, the original spot of the natural rocks. Mr. Cook here
+    showed his acumen as a culturist. The next spring they had
+    made a remarkable growth, and all had lived. Then there was
+    a stampede of the fellows who laughed, to get some ground,
+    too. Soon every inch of available ground had been taken up.
+    We mention the following who took up plats: Solomon Higgins,
+    I. C. Young, Benjamin Oliver, Daniel Oliver, Edward Oliver,
+    Cornelius Rogers, William Smith, S. B. Rich, Theodore Brown,
+    Stephen Young. These men did not all plant. The next year Mr.
+    Cook bought 500 bushels more, and now he had 1,000 bushels on
+    his grounds. These were two-year-old plants, and when they
+    had laid there three years he sold these primitive beauties
+    for $5 per barrel. Some time after this he bought Mr. Rich's
+    plot. Subsequently Mr. Cook sold 400 of his 600 feet to R. R.
+    Higgins, the founder of the famous oyster-packing house by that
+    name. This same man bought the 200 feet of Solomon Higgins. Now
+    this house had 600 feet of shore ground. R. R. Higgins was the
+    first wholesaler with capital invested in the culture of the
+    Cape Cod oysters. Finally, this house absorbed all the ground
+    Cook had. Eight years after this the Wright & Willis firm came
+    on the scene; that period had elapsed since the first cargo
+    of "seed" had been freighted here. They bought the remainder
+    of the Solomon Higgins grant. Then Mr. Cook took out another
+    grant below Smalley's Bar. Capt. Albert Harding and Capt. D.
+    A. Newcomb took out leases. In 1892 Mr. Cook sold his lease to
+    the D. Atwood Company. Then Mr. Cook bought the Capt. Albert
+    Harding lease and sold the right to plant on it, the law then
+    not allowing the lessee to turn over the grant in toto. Then
+    H. & R. Atwood became interested here. About this time some
+    friction between the planters and clammers existed, but it
+    should be remembered that the planters occupied only about
+    200 of the 2,400 acres involved in this dispute. Then it was
+    that J. A. Stubbs came on the stage of activity, and Mr. Cook
+    secured a lease for this wholesale concern.
+
+
+_Eastham._
+
+The oyster industry of Eastham is closely associated with the Wellfleet
+industry, and practically all the business is carried on by Wellfleet
+firms.
+
+The grants extend along the western shore from the Eastham-Wellfleet
+line south, running out into the bay a distance of 1 mile. The average
+width of these grants is 900 feet. Twenty-four grants have been given
+out by the selectmen, but only 12 of these are in existence at the
+present time, the others having lapsed for non-payment of dues. (The
+town charges $3 for the original grant, and $1 each year thereafter).
+The area of the grants is 800 acres, of which only 125 acres are under
+cultivation. As all the business, which is but small, is done by
+Wellfleet firms, the statistics of the industry are included in the
+Wellfleet report. All the grants, as at Wellfleet, expire in 1910.
+
+
+_Orleans._
+
+There are 5 grants on the west coast of the town, but practically
+nothing is done in the oyster business. The oyster industry of Orleans
+is a dead issue, and quahaugers dig at will over all the granted
+territory.
+
+The grants are all eight to nine years old, and will not be renewed,
+as they are said to be unconstitutional, since the waters of Eastham
+and Orleans are common, and the consent of Eastham was not obtained
+when they were granted. The real reason for not renewing them will be
+because they are not profitable. The sand shifts on a good deal of the
+territory, and where the water is too deep for shifting, oyster culture
+does not seem to pay.
+
+Four years ago 15,000 bushels of two-year-old "seed" was sent here from
+Connecticut. The greater part of this "seed" died in transportation,
+and much of the remainder was killed by the shifting sand. Two years
+ago (1905) 3,000 bushels of marketable oysters were shipped from
+Orleans; but little has been done since then. No set has ever been
+caught here, although spat catches readily on the rocks which lie
+between the tide lines.
+
+
+_Chatham._
+
+The oyster furnishes an important industry for the town of Chatham,
+which ranks next to Wellfleet and Cotuit in the production of "Cape"
+oysters.
+
+The oyster grants are all situated in Oyster Pond and Oyster Pond
+River, covering an area of 65 acres of excellent bottom. Of this, 55
+acres is hard bottom; 6 acres, soft mud; and 4 acres of coarse shifting
+sand. The whole of Oyster Pond River and the most of the shore waters
+of Oyster Pond are taken up by grants. The central part of Oyster Pond
+possesses a soft bottom, and is therefore unsuited for oyster culture.
+The depth of water over the grants varies from dry to 6 feet at low
+tide.
+
+Records show that a natural oyster bed once existed in Oyster Pond, as
+in 1802 "excellent oysters, but scarce," were reported. Even now old
+shell heaps are found, which contain extremely large oyster shells,
+and indicate that the Indians used these oysters for food. Indeed,
+the name, Oyster Pond, was given long before grants were issued, and
+doubtless received this name because of these natural oysters.
+
+No natural oysters remained in 1877, when the first grants were issued
+to George S. Atwood, John Vanhise, Jonathan Small, Stephen Gould and
+Frank Lanpier. The last three named held together one grant in Oyster
+Pond River; Atwood's grant was in Oyster Pond; while Vanhise's grant
+was partly in Oyster Pond and partly in Stage harbor, where oyster
+culture was a failure. The planting was not very successful at first,
+owing to a lack of proper methods.
+
+These grants were issued in 1874 for a term of twenty years. The next
+series of grants were issued for ten years, and in 1893 the first
+grants were renewed for the same length of time. Since the period of
+the twenty-year grants there have been two ten-year leases, and the
+present leases will expire in 1911.
+
+A town regulation restricts the oyster grants to the southern waters of
+the town, and allows no grants to be given in the waters of Pleasant
+Bay, where there is considerable territory which might be suitable
+for oyster raising. As all the available territory is now taken up in
+Oyster Pond, no more grants can be issued.
+
+The method of obtaining a grant by a resident of the town is to choose
+the locality, stake out the grant and report the same to the selectmen,
+who will grant a license if the bounds are satisfactorily described,
+and no part of another grant is included. The price of the license,
+which runs for a period of ten years, is $2, and 50 cents is charged
+for recording it. No regular survey of the grant is made. Taxes are
+paid yearly on stock and working capital.
+
+  Capital invested,                           $26,533
+  Power boats,                                      1
+  Value of power boats,                          $300
+  Sail boats,                                       2
+  Value of sail boats,                           $500
+  Dories and skiffs,                                8
+  Value of dories and skiffs,                    $105
+  Scows,                                           12
+  Value of scows,                                $790
+  Implements:--
+      Dredges,                                     10
+      Tongs,                                       34
+  Value of implements,                           $313
+  Value of shore property,                     $1,225
+  Value of oysters on grant,                  $23,300
+
+Owing to the shallow water, most of the work is done by tonging. Flat
+scows, 25 by 10 feet, are generally used for this work, as they afford
+excellent footing for the oysterman in tonging and plenty of room for
+the oysters. These scows, which have a capacity of 100 bushels, can be
+anchored by stakes or iron piping, and definite areas covered by the
+tonger. In the fall the oystermen make their "culls" on these scows.
+Chatham is the only town in Massachusetts where scows are in general
+use. Dredging is done only to a limited extent by 3 oystermen, the
+others all using tongs. Twenty men are engaged from four to six months
+of the year in the oyster business at Chatham.
+
+The production for 1906-07 was 14,550 bushels, valued at $23,987. The
+oyster industry has been increasing every year, the production for
+1906-07 being one-third more than the 1905-06 output. The oystermen are
+unanimous in saying that the oyster business of Chatham is steadily
+improving.
+
+No "seed" oysters are raised in Chatham, as no large set has ever been
+caught, and all attempts in this line have proved unsuccessful. All
+the "seed" oysters are brought from Greenport, L. I. These run from
+two to four years old, the larger oysters being preferred. As a rule,
+oystermen are forced to take what they can get when they buy seed.
+
+The only natural enemy which infests the Chatham oyster is the oyster
+drill (_Urosalpinx cinerea_). The damage done by this pest is slight,
+amounting to nearly $800 annually.
+
+
+_Harwich._
+
+No oyster industry is now carried on in the town of Harwich. A
+natural oyster bed once existed in Herring River, and occasionally
+a few oysters can be picked up at the present time; but the bed
+is practically fished out. This bed once extended a distance of
+three-quarters of a mile in the lower part of the river.
+
+In 1824 an act was passed to prevent "the wilful destruction of oysters
+and other shellfish in the town of Harwich," which shows that even as
+early as 1824 the natural bed in Herring River was on the verge of
+depletion.
+
+
+_Dennis and Yarmouth._
+
+The oyster industries of Dennis and Yarmouth are so connected that they
+will have to be considered as belonging to one town.
+
+Four grants have been leased in the two towns, but only 2 of these are
+worked. Three grants are situated in Bass River, while the fourth,
+which is not operated, owing to the shifting sand, lies outside Dog
+Fish Bar. The 2 grants which are worked are situated in Bass River, and
+comprise an area of 10 acres of hard bottom, all of which is suitable
+for oyster culture. The Bass River grants, which are taxed at the
+valuation of $1,000 apiece, expire in 1914.
+
+Mill Creek, in West Yarmouth, one of the most valuable shellfish areas
+in the town, originally contained a natural oyster bed which extended
+from the mouth of the creek up for 1,000 feet, comprising an area of
+2-1/3 acres. Nevertheless, this was granted in 1895 for a period of ten
+years. Two years ago the lease expired, and it is said that the oysters
+have come in again in abundance.
+
+All along the south shore of the two towns "seed" oysters, which have
+been washed out of Mill Creek, can be picked up. A small amount of
+"seed" is raised on the grants, but this is not enough to furnish the
+requisite amount required for planting purposes, so about 2,500 bushels
+is annually brought into the town from Oyster Bay, L. I.
+
+No damage is done in these waters by the natural enemies of the oyster,
+as both the starfish and oyster drill are very scarce.
+
+One thousand bushels of marketable oysters, valued at $1,500, were
+shipped in the season of 1906-07.
+
+Three men are engaged for a period of seven and one-half months in the
+oyster industry.
+
+  Capital invested,                            $5,175
+  Dories,                                           2
+  Value of dories,                                $25
+  Tongs,                                            5
+  Value of implements,                            $50
+  Value of shore property,                       $100
+  Value of bedded oysters,                     $5,000
+
+The oysters are taken by tonging from dories, as the water is
+comparatively shallow. No dredging is done.
+
+Yarmouth is the only town in the State which requires a license for
+taking oysters from a natural bed.
+
+
+_Barnstable._
+
+Barnstable is the great oyster town of the Commonwealth, as it has
+the twofold distinction of possessing the most extensive industry
+and producing the finest quality of oysters. The causes which have
+brought the cultivation of oysters in this town to so flourishing a
+condition have been fourfold: first, Barnstable has a long coast line,
+much cut up by bays and rivers, which give it a very large available
+area; secondly, this area is remarkably suited for the cultivation
+of oysters, as it is for the most part hard, clean bottom, in
+comparatively shallow water and well sheltered from storms; thirdly,
+there is little damage from the enemies of the oyster,--the starfish,
+winkle and drill, fourthly, the waters of the township are notably
+pure, free from contamination, and well adapted for the production of a
+rapid-growing oyster of excellent quality.
+
+Barnstable township contains several villages, three of which, Cotuit,
+Marston's Mills and Osterville, are prosperous centers of the oyster
+fishery. Hyannis, a fourth village, once maintained a business of this
+nature, which proved unprofitable and has now practically disappeared.
+Oyster grants are scattered along the shores of Popponesset River and
+Bay, in Cotuit harbor, Bluff Channel, South Bay, Osterville Narrows
+and at Marston's Mills. In addition, a large but indefinite territory
+along the southern shore, as indicated on the map, is maintained as
+experimental grants.
+
+Cotuit is by far the most important center of the industry. Here the
+fishery is conducted on an extensive scale. The white, clean sandy
+bottom and the remarkably pure waters of the bay produce an oyster
+with a bright, clear shell, which distinguishes it from oysters
+grown elsewhere. This Cotuit oyster is much sought for by hotels and
+fancy dealers, and is universally considered par excellence among
+Massachusetts oysters.
+
+Barnstable, though supporting an immense industry, has by no means
+exhausted her latent resources. Extensive experiments to increase the
+productive area of the town have been carried on for the past few
+years. A strip of territory along the southern coast, some 4 miles
+long and 3 miles wide, has been granted. This territory is of doubtful
+utility, as the bottom is largely shifting sand exposed to the full
+force of southerly gales. These grants have hardly been in force long
+enough to demonstrate their possibilities, but it is probable that a
+large territory may be thoroughly suitable for the future expansion of
+the oyster industry.
+
+Unfortunately, several oystermen did not make statistical returns,
+thus rendering a complete record for the Barnstable oyster industry
+impossible. The majority of the oystermen willingly responded, and the
+present report comprises only those returns which have been sent in.
+
+The total area comprised by the grants, 29 in number, is 188 acres, of
+which 121 acres are of hard bottom, suitable for oyster culture. There
+is very little shifting bottom. The usual Cotuit bottom is a clear
+sand, which is especially favorable for the production of fine oysters.
+
+Thirty-three men are employed from six to eight months each year in
+the industry, which gave in 1906-07 a production of 25,850 bushels
+of marketable oysters, valued at $48,050. Except for a small natural
+oyster bed at Centerville, no "seed" is caught in Barnstable, and is
+all brought from Long Island and Connecticut. Several firms plant
+only large oysters, bedding them in the spring and taking them up the
+following fall, when they have acquired the Cotuit flavor.
+
+  Capital invested,                           $39,558
+  Power boats,                                      4
+  Value of power boats,                        $3,900
+  Sail boats,                                       3
+  Value of sail boats,                           $800
+  Dories,                                          22
+  Value of dories,                               $413
+  Scows,                                            7
+  Value of scows,                                $156
+  Implements:--
+      Dredges,                                     23
+      Tongs,                                       45
+  Value of implements,                         $1,139
+  Value of shore property,                     $4,300
+  Value of oysters on grant,                  $28,850
+
+
+_Mashpee._
+
+The oyster industry of Mashpee is rather limited. Five grants exist in
+the west channel of Popponesset River, covering practically all the
+territory. Only about 5 to 10 acres of this territory is suitable for
+oyster culture. The ground granted for oysters is used indiscriminately
+for quahauging and scalloping, and seems to be almost public property.
+
+But one man is engaged in the oyster business, and he rarely ships
+any, but peddles them around the community. No "seed" is caught.
+Starfish and oyster drills are very scarce. A cat boat, dory and tongs
+constitute the capital invested, which is valued at $200. The annual
+production is valued at $100.
+
+
+_Falmouth._
+
+The oyster industry of Falmouth is conducted on the south side of
+the town, in the waters of Waquoit Bay. There are no oysters on the
+Buzzards Bay side of the town.
+
+According to the town records, there are 22 grants in existence. These
+grants are mostly small, not averaging more than 2 to 10 acres, and are
+but little cultivated. Returns from 6 of these grants, which comprise
+all the territory worked for market, are alone used for the statistical
+figures.
+
+The best oyster territory is in Waquoit Bay and Child's River. In
+Waquoit Bay 6 acres are granted, 4½ acres of which is hard bottom,
+suitable for oyster culture. In Child's River the grants comprise 20
+acres, two-thirds of which, or 13 acres, is hard bottom. Altogether,
+some 44 acres are granted, and, although a good deal of the surface is
+muddy, there are 23 acres of very fair oyster ground.
+
+No business is made of raising "seed," but from two to three year old
+"seed" is shipped from Greenport, L. I., and replanted.
+
+In 1906-07, 3,012 bushels of marketable oysters, valued at $6,025, were
+shipped. Many of the grants are leased to men who raise oysters for
+their own use only, while but few make a business of shipping oysters.
+
+The only enemy is the oyster drill, which does but slight damage here.
+
+Three men are engaged for nine months each year in the oyster industry
+at Falmouth; while 5 or more run grants for their own use.
+
+  Capital invested,                            $3,080
+  Power boats,                                      1
+  Value of power boats,                          $800
+  Sail boats,                                       1
+  Value of sail boats,                           $250
+  Dories,                                           4
+  Value of dories,                                $75
+  Scows,                                            1
+  Value of scows,                                $400
+  Implements:--
+      Dredges,                                      2
+      Tongs,                                        6
+  Value of implements,                           $105
+  Value of shore property,                     $1,000
+  Value of bedded oysters,                       $450
+
+
+_Buzzards Bay District._
+
+The Buzzards Bay oyster industry is in a state verging on chaos. In
+some specially favored localities it is in a flourishing condition;
+in others hardly less favorable it is almost completely stagnant.
+Great natural advantages exist, which if properly utilized would
+create a business of immense proportions. These resources are for
+the most part but poorly improved, and in many cases are neglected
+altogether. A spirit of uncertainty, which discourages confidence and
+checks initiative, seems to pervade the business atmosphere. Amid this
+uncertainty and conflicting forces, one fact, at once the starting
+point of the whole difficulty and at the same time the sole solution
+of the problem, stands out vividly clear. This is the need of proper
+_legislation_.
+
+The troubles which beset the Buzzards Bay oyster industry are directly
+traceable to defects in the present legislative system. These defects
+are both active and passive. In some cases unwise and illogical laws
+are in operation, which hamper business activity; in other cases laws
+for which there is a crying need are laid aside or neglected. A reform
+in certain aspects of town supervision is the demand of the hour. Until
+the present system receives an overhauling, it is doubtful if the
+industry will ever experience full prosperity.
+
+In order to gain a clear insight into the difficulties which darken the
+immediate outlook in this region, it will be necessary to take a brief
+survey of the history and present status of the industry.
+
+The beginnings of the oyster fishery in Buzzards Bay arose from the
+exploitation and subsequent depletion of the natural beds. These beds,
+of which there are several scattered along the coast from Bourne to
+Mattapoisett, furnished for a long time a large annual output of
+oysters. In the early '70's the supply began to decrease rapidly, and
+the fear of total extermination caused the selectmen of Marion, Wareham
+and Sandwich (Bourne) to attempt a strict supervision of the fishery.
+These attempts were in all cases unsatisfactory, and about 1875 the
+artificial culture of oysters began almost simultaneously in the three
+towns by the issue of licenses or grants to private individuals. The
+measure was popular from the first. Almost all the available land
+was speedily appropriated, and a flourishing but exotic industry,
+stimulated by a considerable outlay of capital, burst into life.
+
+At Marion the new business lasted precisely fifteen years. The industry
+was largely a losing venture. The oysters did not grow well, and were
+of inferior quality. In time, doubtless, when the causes which produced
+these effects had been studied, a stable and well-ordered industry
+would have resulted. It is but natural to assume that where oysters
+grew in a "wild" state, cultivated ones could likewise be grown. Such
+an outcome, however, was not destined to follow. The grants had been so
+given that they all expired at the same time. When this date arrived,
+the majority of the inhabitants of Marion were of the opinion that
+the oyster grants would yield far better returns if utilized merely
+for the quahaugs which grew naturally on them, and the whole harbor
+was consequently thrown open as common ground. From that date the
+quahaug fishery has waned almost to the point of extinction, but no
+efforts have been made to resurrect the old oyster industry, which has
+practically disappeared.
+
+At Bourne the industry began with bright prospects. The present
+business, though somewhat impoverished, still possesses those inherent
+resources which are capable of developing a more extensive industry.
+
+At Wareham the business was of slower growth and more logical
+development, and it has continued to increase, until at present the
+town possesses an important industry. It has struggled with many
+problems which have retarded its growth, and which still embarrass it.
+These are primarily problems of legislation, as the industry stands in
+need of better regulations before it can attain its maximum development.
+
+In all these difficulties, which have been briefly outlined and hinted
+at, the main source of annoyance has been the strife between two rival
+factions,--the oyster and quahaug interests. These interests have ever
+been at war, and the result has been almost fatally destructive to
+both. The questions at stake in this controversy have been broad in
+their general interest. The quahaug industry is essentially democratic,
+representing roughly labor as against capital, and demands that tidal
+flats and waters be kept as common property for general use. The oyster
+industry, on the other hand, is essentially exclusive, representing
+organized capital, and maintains that oyster grants are as much the
+subject of private ownership as farms and city lots. The whole aim of
+legislation has been to reconcile these wholly opposite theories. The
+problem has been complex and many-sided, and it is not strange that the
+selectmen of the towns in question have been unable to harmonize the
+two factions or pass regulations suitable to both parties. Certain it
+is that in trying to benefit both they have benefited neither, and the
+present confusion has resulted.
+
+The matter is one certainly of sufficient importance to merit attention
+from the State. It is not merely local. The whole Commonwealth is
+interested vitally in the development of its industries, and it is
+unwise to allow so important an industry as the oyster fishery to
+remain solely in the hands of local authority, especially when local
+authority has shown itself unable to cope with the problem.
+
+The present system in vogue in the Buzzards Bay district is perhaps
+unfair to both parties in its policy. The selectmen may lease an
+unlimited number of grants, of an unlimited area, to any citizen or
+number of citizens of the town in question. Theoretically at least
+they may grant all the available area in sight to one man. There must
+of course be the formality of a hearing, and sufficient pressure may
+be and is frequently brought to bear upon the selectmen to retard them
+from exercising the full extent of their authority; but nevertheless
+the system is unjust to the majority, and it is small wonder that the
+quahaug fishermen feel aggrieved that some of their former privileges
+are thus curtailed. Furthermore, the clause which demands that these
+grants should be used for the cultivation of oysters is oftentimes
+openly evaded, and a good portion of the granted area, though not used
+for oysters, is closed to the quahaugers.
+
+On the other hand, the oystermen, while apparently enjoying great
+privileges, in reality are severely handicapped. An oysterman obtains
+a grant perhaps with great difficulty, owing to opposition from
+the quahaug men. He can carry on no extensive business without the
+expenditure of considerable capital. If he "seeds" his grant, the first
+two or three years are spent in the maturing of the first harvest.
+The grant is given only for ten years; consequently, when it has run
+for seven or eight years the owner is in doubt whether to plant any
+more "seed," as he does not know that his license will be renewed and
+naturally does not wish to plant a bed for his unknown successor.
+Again, if he is fairly successful and wishes to expand his business,
+he cannot without great risk invest in the costly equipment necessary
+for such an enterprise, as he has no certainty of getting a sufficient
+amount of territory or of keeping it any length of time. Furthermore,
+additional complications arise from the disputes with owners of
+adjoining shore property. This is particularly unfortunate, as this
+tidal area along the shore is most valuable for the collection of
+oyster set or "seed."
+
+From the foregoing statements it appears that the oyster and quahaug
+factions are in the position of two combatants who continue to fight,
+while the object of the strife is lost to both. It is impossible to
+handle so grave a problem by merely theorizing, but a few ideas might
+be suggested as bearing favorably on the subject. It would seem wise
+to refrain as far as possible from granting the best portions of
+quahaug territory, for there is sufficient room for both industries to
+flourish. Then, too, grants might be rented at so much per acre as long
+as the owner desired within certain time limits, assuming that he paid
+his annual rental and improved his grant. These and other suggestions
+might be made which would seem an improvement over the present
+circumstances; but it is doubtful if conditions can be much bettered
+until some motive force and centralized authority is supplied by proper
+legislation.
+
+
+_Bourne._
+
+Bourne has long supported a promising oyster industry. In some respects
+it has greater advantages for the extension of this business than
+Wareham, but the invested capital, the annual product and the resulting
+revenue are all overshadowed by those of its neighboring rival. The
+great natural resources which Bourne possesses, its extensive available
+area, its multiplicity of bays, inlets, islands and rivers,--these and
+a variety of other causes combine to make it a most favorable locality
+for the growth of oysters; and it is indeed an unfortunate circumstance
+both for the shellfish interests of the community and the broader
+interests of the State that so great a source of economic wealth should
+be so little improved. The vexing questions which harass the oyster
+planters of Wareham and hamper their efforts are present here in even
+greater force. In many places where a flourishing business was once
+carried on the industry is at a standstill, while nowhere does it
+evince that life and activity which its decided advantages warrant.
+
+The town books contain records of 135 grants in force to-day. No
+accurate system of charting is in vogue except in the Monument River,
+and no absolutely reliable data concerning the total area is available,
+but the combined territory comprised in these grants aggregates nearly
+600 acres. Of this territory, however, only a portion, and a relatively
+small portion, is really improved; the remainder is either allowed to
+lie dormant or is worked merely for the quahaugs which it produces. The
+oyster territory of Bourne is divided into five distinct sections: the
+Monument River section, the region about Mashnee Island, Toby Island
+and vicinity, Basset's Island and the neighborhood of Wing's Neck, and
+Pocasset and the Red Brook harbor or Cataumet district. Of these five
+regions, the Monument River ranks first, both in the total area and
+also in importance, and it is here that most of the business is carried
+on.
+
+The statistical returns of the Bourne oystermen show that only 42
+grants comprising 100 acres are worked. Of this 83 acres is hard bottom
+suitable for oyster raising while the remaining 17 acres is mostly soft
+mud.
+
+  Capital invested,                           $24,448
+  Power boats,                                      3
+  Value of power boats,                        $3,000
+  Sail boats,                                       8
+  Value of sail boats,                         $1,900
+  Dories and skiffs,                               29
+  Value of dories and skiffs,                    $615
+  Implements:--
+      Dredges,                                     99
+      Tongs,                                       38
+  Value of implements,                           $483
+  Value of shore property,                       $150
+  Value of bedded oysters,                    $18,300
+
+Twenty-one men make a living from the industry. The production for
+the year ending Aug. 1, 1907, amounted to 2,100 bushels of marketable
+oysters, valued at $4,100, and 23,000 bushels of "seed," worth $15,000.
+The methods employed in oyster culture here are similar to those in use
+at Wareham. Thousands of bushels of shells, preferably those of the
+scallop, are strewn over the bottom to collect the set, which is then
+taken up and transferred to the proper grant or shipped for sale. The
+two great enemies of the oyster, the borer or drill, and the starfish,
+flourish here. The borer seems more destructive in those sections which
+are comparatively sheltered, the starfish in more exposed localities.
+
+The history of the industry is one of picturesque variety. The
+beginnings of the industry were bright with promise; the sudden growth
+which followed was spectacular but erratic; and the difficulties
+which soon arose plunged it into complications from which it emerged
+much shattered and greatly declined. Originally there were three good
+natural beds,--in Monument River, Barlow's River and Red Brook harbor,
+respectively. These beds long supplied all the oysters produced,
+and when in 1834 they began to be depleted, legislation was enacted
+regulating them until 1863, when the town surveyed a number of grants
+in the Monument River, each with an average area of 1½ to 10 acres,
+and allowed one of these grants to every citizen desiring it, on the
+payment of $2.50. These old beds still linger as rather uncertain
+assets of the communal wealth. The Monument River grounds still supply
+a fairly large harvest, the Barlow River has declined much more, while
+the Cataumet beds are nearly extinct.
+
+The shellfish laws of this region are of vital importance, as it is
+their province to inaugurate order from chaos, put a stop to wasteful
+methods, and take such steps as appear necessary for the proper
+development of the industry. How greatly these laws fail in their
+mission is abundantly shown by the present conditions of the fishery.
+The whole situation is on the threshold of a change. What this change
+will be, whether for better or worse, depends upon the legislation of
+the future.
+
+
+_Wareham._
+
+Wareham is the second town in the State in the production of oysters,
+being excelled in this respect by Barnstable alone. Its commanding
+position at the head of Buzzards Bay, the numerous indentations of
+its coast line, and the three rivers which lie partially within its
+borders, give it a wide expanse of available territory exceptionally
+favorable for the development of this shellfish industry.
+
+The substantial success which has attended the oyster business at
+Wareham has been attained by slow but steady growth. Many problems have
+been encountered,--problems of local prejudice, opposition from rival
+industries and the like; but these problems have simply hampered the
+industry,--they have not sufficed to check its growth. At present the
+business seems firmly established, and can enter on its future career
+of prosperity as soon as the barriers which block its progress shall
+have been removed.
+
+The town records show a total of 125 grants in operation to-day. These
+grants are poorly described and for the most part unsurveyed, but their
+total area approximates 1,000 acres. According to the statistical
+returns of the oystermen, 70 grants, comprising 196 acres, are under
+cultivation. Of this, 159 acres are of hard bottom, suitable for oyster
+planting, while the waste area is equally soft mud and shifting sand.
+
+  Capital invested,                           $40,620
+  Power boats,                                      4
+  Value of power boats,                        $3,800
+  Sail boats,                                      17
+  Value of sail boats,                         $4,485
+  Dories and skiffs,                               50
+  Value of dories and skiffs,                    $820
+  Scows,                                            2
+  Value of scows,                                $250
+  Implements:--
+      Dredges,                                    120
+      Tongs,                                       84
+  Value of implements,                         $1,120
+  Value of shore property,                     $2,420
+  Value of bedded oysters,                    $27,725
+
+The catching of oyster "seed" at Wareham is more important than the
+raising of marketable oysters; 22,100 bushels of seed, valued at
+$12,090, were exported last year (1906-07). Thousands of bushels
+of shells, chiefly those of the scallop, are planted yearly in
+shallow water, to catch the set. The territory where these shells
+may be planted to the best advantage is on the fringe of tidal flats
+which skirt the coast. This area, however, which is consequently of
+considerable value, is of doubtful ownership, being claimed both by
+the oystermen and also by the owners of the adjacent shore property.
+The dispute arising over this question has been most harmful to the
+industry.
+
+The marketable oysters raised at Wareham are of very good quality.
+There were 7,770 bushels of these oysters, valued at $12,790, produced
+in 1906-07, and shipped mostly to New York and Boston. Altogether,
+there are 26 men depending on this industry for a living.
+
+Besides the grants, there are two native beds, one each in the Wareham
+and the Weweantit rivers. These beds comprise nearly 80 acres, and,
+though now greatly reduced, they still yield a considerable amount of
+seed oysters.
+
+The laws governing the industry here are similar to those at Bourne.
+The ten-year grant prevails, with all its attendant evils to the
+oysterman; while the quahaugers have abundant cause to complain, from
+the fact that practically all the available territory has been granted
+to the oystermen. While it is true that scarcely a third of this land
+is utilized for the cultivation of oysters, it is likewise true that
+the rights of the oystermen are by no means strictly observed by
+the quahauger. There can be but one result of this policy,--endless
+wrangling and confusion, and, in the end, loss to both parties.
+The unfortunate thing about the whole matter is that most of this
+wastefulness is entirely needless; but this is a problem for future
+legislation.
+
+
+_Marion._
+
+The oyster industry at Marion is practically dead. The last grants
+expired some ten or twelve years ago, and were never renewed. Of the
+two original natural beds, that in Blankinship's Cove is now almost
+entirely depleted, while the larger and more important bed in the
+Weweantit River has greatly declined in importance. This bed, however,
+still supplies all the marketable oysters produced within the town,
+though the annual production is insignificant. From twenty-five to
+thirty years ago the oyster industry had its beginning, and for a time
+flourished. Almost all the available territory, both in the harbor and
+in the Weweantit River, was granted. The older grants were leased for
+fifteen years, and those of later date were arranged to run out at the
+same time; so it followed that all the leases expired simultaneously,
+and the industry came to an abrupt end. These old grants were not
+renewed, for two reasons: first, they had not paid very well; and,
+secondly, the growing quahaug industry promised more lucrative returns.
+The scallops, too, began to be abundant, and the old oyster business
+gave way before its newer and more prosperous competitors.
+
+
+_Fall River District._
+
+The Fall River district, comprising the six towns of Fall River,
+Freetown, Berkley, Dighton, Somerset and Swansea, may best be treated
+as a geographical unit. The oyster industries of the individual
+communities overlap to a considerable extent, and make distinct
+separation difficult, while, as the same methods of culture everywhere
+obtain and the same problems and difficulties are encountered, a brief
+survey of this whole region may be comprehensively discussed in one
+article.
+
+The beautiful shores of Mount Hope Bay and its tributary streams, the
+Cole, Lee and Taunton rivers, furnish an extensive territory for a
+large oyster industry. The best of this area is now included within the
+confines of the bay itself, though the Cole and Lee rivers furnish a
+small but valuable addition. The Taunton River, however, which thirty
+years ago produced the finest oysters in the State, and was the main
+source of supply for this district, has become utterly worthless
+for the growth of marketable oysters. In fact, this river, with its
+curious history, and the difficulties which it now presents to the
+carrying on of an important and profitable industry, furnishes the
+most interesting problem of this whole region. This river embraces the
+entire oyster territory of Freetown, Berkley and Dighton and portions
+of Somerset and Fall River,--certainly half of all the available
+territory of the whole section; and yet it is an indisputable fact that
+this large and formerly profitable area is now altogether unsuitable
+for the production of edible shellfish.
+
+The causes for this transformation of a river which once supplied a
+large annual revenue to the prosperous communities which lined its
+banks, into a stream unwholesome and unfit for the proper maturing of
+its shellfish, have been much discussed. The prevailing opinion seems
+to lay the blame to the impurities discharged into the river by the
+Taunton factories. Other theories, ingenious but far less worthy of
+weight, have been urged; but the burden of evidence strongly points to
+the sewage of the city of Taunton as the probable main factor in the
+decline of the industry.
+
+While greatly impaired as a favorable territory for the propagation
+of oysters, the river, however, is still largely utilized. Extensive
+grants are sold by the towns of Dighton, Berkley and Freetown to
+oystermen, who bed them with "seed," which is allowed to remain until
+it is from two to three years old, when it is taken up and replanted in
+some other locality where the waters are uncontaminated, and here left
+for a certain time until it becomes "purified" and ready for shipment
+to market. By this method the old grants are still worked, though
+greatly declined in value, as oysters can no longer be sold to market
+direct, and the process of transplanting entails considerable expense.
+
+In the other towns of this region the industry is carried on much the
+same as in Buzzards Bay or Barnstable. A great deal of attention is
+paid to the enemies of the oyster, particularly the starfish. This
+animal is combated chiefly with "mops" of cotton waste which are
+dragged over the bottom, and the starfish, becoming entangled in the
+strands, are removed and destroyed. As this fairly effectual warfare is
+being constantly waged, the numbers of this pest are kept well reduced,
+and the grounds maintained in very good condition.
+
+By a peculiar local custom, which would be decidedly unpopular in some
+coast communities, the towns of this section usually sell their entire
+oyster privilege to some individual or company, ordinarily the highest
+bidder. In this manner, aided by the fact that some persons purchasing
+such rights re-sell them to others, the oyster industry of this entire
+region is owned and controlled by a very few men. This arrangement,
+however, does not seem to be unpopular, the only difficulty arising
+from those clammers who are accustomed to dig clams under water, and
+sometimes find a bed located on an oysterman's grant. In such cases
+the owners usually waive their rights, and allow the clammers to dig
+undisturbed.
+
+As has been said, the oyster industry in this district, while it has
+by no means attained its maximum development, has indeed reached very
+considerable proportions. The entire amount of area granted aggregates
+810 acres. Of this total, some 510 acres are suitable for oyster
+culture, the remainder being soft mud, shifting sand, or otherwise
+unfit for utilization. The entire output for 1907 exceeded 38,000
+bushels, valued at $26,250. Thirty-six men depend partially upon the
+business for a livelihood.
+
+  Capital invested,                           $96,540
+  Power boats,                                      9
+  Value of power boats,                       $19,500
+  Dories and skiffs,                               17
+  Value of dories and skiffs,                    $340
+  Implements:--
+      Dredges,                                     12
+      Tongs,                                       18
+  Value of implements,                         $2,000
+  Value of shore property,                     $6,200
+  Value of oysters on grant,                  $68,500
+
+
+_Nantucket._
+
+The oyster industry of Nantucket is of recent origin, and the oysters
+are as yet raised only for home consumption.
+
+Two grants have been leased by the selectmen, but only one of these is
+now planted. These grants are situated in the east and west bends of
+Polpis harbor. The cultivated grant in the west bend comprises some
+20 acres, only 3 of which are of hard bottom and suitable for oyster
+culture, the remaining 17 having a soft mud bottom.
+
+The "seed" planted on the grant is obtained at New Haven. In the last
+few years the oysters on this grant have thrown a large quantity of
+spawn, which has caught on piles and stones at various places around
+Nantucket harbor.
+
+The only enemy to the Nantucket oyster is the oyster drill.
+
+The production of marketable oysters for 1906-07 was 200 bushels,
+valued at $400. These were sold for home trade on the island.
+
+One man is engaged in the oyster business for a period of three months
+each year.
+
+The oysters are taken both by dredging and with tongs.
+
+  Capital invested,                            $1,358
+  Power boats,                                      1
+  Value of power boats,                          $500
+  Dories,                                           1
+  Value of dories,                                $18
+  Implements:--
+      Dredges,                                      2
+      Tongs,                                        1
+  Value of implements,                            $15
+  Value of shore property,                        $25
+  Value of oysters on grant,                     $800
+
+FOOTNOTES:
+
+[15] The Oyster Industry in the United States. Tenth Census of the
+United States.
+
+[16] Returns of the Massachusetts department on fisheries and game.
+
+
+
+
+CLAM (_Mya arenaria_).
+
+
+_Mya arenaria_, commonly known as the "soft" or "long-neck" clam, is
+found along the entire Massachusetts coast, wherever there is afforded
+a sufficient shelter from the open ocean. Exposed beaches with open
+surf are never inhabited by this mollusk, which is usually found on the
+tide flats of bays, inlets and rivers, and on the sheltered beaches
+between high and low tide lines. The clam occurs in various kinds of
+soil, from rocky gravel to soft mud, but grows best in a tenacious soil
+of mud and sand, where it lies buried at a depth of from 6 to 12 inches.
+
+As Cape Cod marks the dividing line between a northern and a southern
+fauna, it also divides the clam flats of Massachusetts into two
+distinct areas. The same clam is found both north and south of Cape
+Cod, but the natural conditions under which it lives are quite
+different. In comparing these two areas, several points of difference
+are noted.
+
+(1) The clam areas of the north coast are mostly large flats, while
+those of the south shore are confined to a narrow shore strip, as
+Buzzards Bay and the south side of Cape Cod for certain geological
+reasons do not possess flats, but merely beaches.
+
+(2) The rise and fall of the tide is much higher on the north shore,
+thus giving an extent of available flats nearly six times the clam area
+south of Cape Cod.
+
+(3) Clam growth as a rule is much faster on the north shore. This is
+due to the great amount of tide flow over the river flats of the north
+shore. Current is the main essential for rapid clam growth, as it
+transports the food. The average south shore flats possess merely the
+rise and fall of the tide, and as a rule have not the currents of the
+north shore rivers.
+
+(4) The temperature of the northern waters is several degrees colder
+than the waters south of Cape Cod. This affords, as has been shown
+experimentally, a longer season of growth for the southern clam. The
+north shore clam in the Essex region only increases the size of its
+shell through the six summer months, while the south shore clam grows
+slightly during the winter.
+
+The present advantages lie wholly with the north shore district, as
+through overdigging the less extensive areas of southern Massachusetts
+have become in most parts commercially barren. Overdigging has not
+occurred to the same extent on the north shore, owing to the vast
+extent of the flats. Nevertheless, many acres of these, as at Plymouth,
+Kingston, Duxbury, and even Gloucester and Essex, have become wholly or
+partially unproductive. The only important clamming in Massachusetts
+to-day is found in the towns bordering Ipswich Bay. The south shore and
+a good part of the north shore furnish but few clams for the market.
+
+In view of restocking the barren areas through cultural methods, the
+north shore possesses two advantages over the south shore: it has a
+larger natural supply at present, which will make restocking easier; it
+has larger areas of flats, which can be made to produce twenty times
+the normal yield of the south shore flats. Although, compared with the
+north shore, the clam area of the south shore seems poor, it is above
+the average when compared with the clam areas of the other States
+south of Massachusetts, and when properly restocked the clam flats of
+southern Massachusetts should furnish a large annual production.
+
+If the clam industry is not properly cared for, it will be totally
+ruined before many years. The clammers do not realize this, because of
+a mistaken impression that nature will forever furnish them with good
+clamming, and they have little thought for the future; while, on the
+other hand, the consumer is indifferent from lack of knowledge.
+
+_Scope of the Report._--The object of this report is to present in
+brief form the condition of the clam fishery in Massachusetts. For this
+purpose facts showing the present extent of the industry have been
+compiled, with the view of furnishing both the clammer and consumer
+with certain desirable information.
+
+The report will consider: (1) general conditions of the industry of
+1907; (2) a survey of the clam-producing area, illustrated by maps;
+(3) a plan of clam culture which will make productive many acres of
+barren flats; (4) the history of the clam industry, a comparison being
+made between the industries of 1879 and 1907; (5) a description of the
+industry.
+
+_Methods of Work._--The same methods as used with the other shellfish
+were pursued in obtaining the statistical data for the clam industry.
+The clam-producing areas were examined and the observations recorded.
+Town records, which were of some assistance with the other shellfish,
+furnished practically no clam data, compelling the Commission to
+rely upon the estimates of the clammers and clam dealers. While this
+method made it difficult to secure accurate detailed information, the
+statistics for each town were checked up in a variety of ways, thus
+furnishing as nearly correct figures as can be obtained.
+
+In making an historical comparison of 1879 and 1907, the report
+of Ernest Ingersoll on the clam fishery of the United States, and
+the report of A. Howard Clark on the fisheries of Massachusetts,
+as published in the United States Fish Commission Report, Section
+V, volume 2, and Section II., respectively, were of great use, as
+practically all of the statistics for 1879 were obtained from these two
+reports.
+
+In making the survey of the clam areas, records were made of: (1)
+soil; (2) food (_a_) in water, (_b_) on surface of soil; (3) rate of
+currents; (4) abundance of clams and localities of set; (5) barren
+flats that can be made productive. In the present report only the kind
+of soil, abundance of clams and area of barren flats will be given, the
+food problem being reserved for later publication.
+
+_Summary._--In the following summary the seacoast towns are arranged
+in geographical order from north to south. The number of men includes
+both regular and intermittent clammers who dig for the market; all
+others are excluded. In determining the production of any town it
+is impossible to obtain exactly correct figures, as the amount dug
+for home consumption is an unestimable quantity, and the clams are
+marketed in a number of ways, rendering it almost impossible to get
+complete statistics. The production statistics have been obtained in
+a variety of ways, and the final estimates have resulted from careful
+consideration of all facts. The invested capital includes the clammer's
+outfit and boat, but does not include personal apparel, such as boots
+and oil skins.
+
+The clam flats are divided into two main divisions: (1) productive; and
+(2) barren. The barren areas are those where at present no clams grow
+at all, not even scattering; and areas yielding even a few clams are
+still considered productive flats, though to all practical purposes
+barren. It was necessary to make the division thus, as otherwise no
+decisive line could be drawn. The barren flats are divided into those
+sections that can be made productive and those that can never be made
+to grow clams. The productive flats, on the other hand, are divided
+into areas of good clamming and areas of scattering clams which do not
+support a commercial fishery. The normal production of the clam flats
+has been carefully estimated, in view of the previous experiments of
+the Fish and Game Commission, and the different classes of flats have
+each been given a certain valuation in computing the total for each
+town. The areas given of the clam flats are based upon calculations, as
+no engineering survey was made.
+
+The price of clams varies in different localities, and chiefly depends
+upon the quality of clams and the method of marketing. In certain towns
+clams are "shucked" (removed from the shell),--a process which greatly
+increases their market value; while in other places they are sold only
+in the shell. These two facts account for the apparent variation in the
+value of the production in different localities, as each town is given
+its own market price.
+
+The following production table does not include an important
+factor,--the amount of clams dug by the summer people. An unestimable
+quantity is annually taken from the flats in this way, and is not
+included in the production statistics. Indeed, summer people have
+affected the clamming interests of several towns, as the selectmen
+have refused to place closed seasons, etc., on certain depleted flats
+in order to cater to the summer residents, who desire free clamming
+near their cottages. The total number of licenses issued by the boards
+of health of Boston and New Bedford for taking shellfish in their
+respective harbors are given as representing the number of clammers. In
+reality, however, only a few of these licensees make a regular business
+of clamming.
+
+                     SUMMARY OF THE CLAM INDUSTRY.
+
+  =============+======+=========+=================+===========================+
+               |      |         |1907 PRODUCTION. |        TOTAL AREA.        |
+               |      |         +--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
+               |Number|         |        |        |     |     |       |Mussels|
+      TOWN.    |  of  | Capital |        |        |     |     |       |and Eel|
+               | Men. |invested.|Bushels.| Value. |Sand.| Mud.|Gravel.| Grass.|
+  -------------+------+---------+--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
+  Salisbury,   |66[17]|    $625 |  15,000| $16,500|   34|  216|     - |     - |
+  Newburyport, |175   |   2,700 |  55,500|  61,000|  150|  930|     - |     - |
+  Newbury,     |  6   |      75 |     300|     250|  110|  250|     - |     - |
+  Rowley,      | 15   |     800 |   2,000|   1,500|  250|  150|     - |     - |
+  Ipswich,     |136[17]   7,500 |  25,000|  18,750|  390|  500|    55 |    25 |
+  Essex,       | 50   |   1,200 |  15,000|  12,750|  500|  125|     - |    25 |
+  Gloucester,  | 31   |     600 |   6,000|   8,000|  250|  200|     - |   100 |
+  Manchester,  |  -   |       - |     100|     100|   10|   10|     - |     - |
+  Beverly,     |  -   |       - |     100|     100|   30|   20|     - |     - |
+  Salem,       |  7   |      75 |     200|     200|   75|   25|     - |     - |
+  Lynn,        |  7   |     100 |   1,000|   1,000|   90|  300|     5 |     5 |
+  Saugus,      | 10   |     100 |   1,000|   1,000|  100|  150|     - |     - |
+  Nahant,      |  -   |       - |     300|     300|   50|  100|   100 |     - |
+  Boston,      |350[18]   2,250 |   7,500|   6,000|  525|3,325| 1,380 | 1,095 |
+  Cohasset,    |  -   |       - |     200|     200|   50|   50|     - |     - |
+  Scituate,    |  -   |       - |     200|     200|   50|   45|     5 |     - |
+  Marshfield,  |  -   |       - |     200|     200|   40|   50|    10 |     - |
+
+  =============+======+===================+===========+======+============
+               |      |  PRODUCTIVE AREA. |           |      |
+               |      +--------+----------+           |      |
+               |      |        |          |Barren Area| Waste| Possible
+      TOWN.    |Total |  Good  |Scattering|possibly   |Barren|   Normal
+               | Area |Clamming|  Clams   |Productive | Area |Production.
+  -------------+------+--------+----------+-----------+------+------------
+  Salisbury,   |   250|   150  |     100  |       -   |     -|    $70,000
+  Newburyport, | 1,080|   800  |     280  |       -   |     -|    250,000
+  Newbury,     |   360|     -  |     100  |     260   |     -|     40,000
+  Rowley,      |   400|    20  |      80  |     300   |     -|     60,000
+  Ipswich,     |   970|   400  |     420  |     125   |    25|    200,000
+  Essex,       |   650|   150  |     150  |     325   |    25|    120,000
+  Gloucester,  |   550|    75  |     100  |     275   |   100|     70,000
+  Manchester,  |    20|     -  |       5  |      10   |     5|      2,000
+  Beverly,     |    50|     -  |      10  |      30   |    10|      5,000
+  Salem        |   100|     5  |      10  |      70   |    15|     11,000
+  Lynn,        |   400|    10  |      30  |     160   |   200|     26,000
+  Saugus,      |   250|    10  |      40  |     100   |   100|     22,000
+  Nahant,      |   250|     -  |      50  |     150   |    50|     25,000
+  Boston,      | 6,325|   100  |   1,180  |   1,000   | 4,045|    376,000
+  Cohasset,    |   100|     -  |      10  |      40   |    50|      6,000
+  Scituate,    |   100|     -  |      20  |      40   |    40|      8,000
+  Marshfield,  |   100|     -  |      30  |      30   |    40|      9,000
+
+  =============+======+=========+=================+===========================+
+               |      |         |1907 PRODUCTION. |        TOTAL AREA.        |
+               |      |         +--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
+               |Number|         |        |        |     |     |       |Mussels|
+      TOWN.    |  of  | Capital |        |        |     |     |       |and Eel|
+               | Men. |invested.|Bushels.| Value. |Sand.| Mud.|Gravel.| Grass.|
+  -------------+------+---------+--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
+  Duxbury,     |    5 |      60 |     700|     600|  800|    -|     - | 2,700 |
+  Kingston,    |    4 |      50 |     500|     450|  150|    -|     - |   450 |
+  Plymouth,    |    6 |      60 |   3,000|   2,500|  400|  100|     - | 1,100 |
+  Barnstable,  |   25 |     200 |     700|     550|  200|  150|     - |    50 |
+  Yarmouth,    |    5 |      40 |     600|     500|   25|   15|    10 |     - |
+  Orleans,     |   30 |     200 |   3,000|   3,000|  125|   50|    20 |     5 |
+  Eastham,     |   36 |     250 |   4,000|   4,000|  100|   50|    30 |    20 |
+  Wellfleet,   |   11 |     300 |     800|     640|  450|    5|   150 |     - |
+  Truro,       |    1 |       2 |      50|      60|   50|    -|     - |     - |
+  Provincetown,|    5 |      15 |     400|     320|  400|    -|     - |     - |
+  Chatham,     |   10 |     400 |   1,500|   1,200|  330|   10|    20 |     - |
+  Harwich,     |    - |       - |     100|      80|   10|   10|    10 |     - |
+  Dennis,      |    - |       - |      50|      45|   25|   15|    10 |     - |
+  Mashpee,     |    2 |      20 |      50|      45|   20|    5|    20 |     5 |
+  Falmouth,    |    - |       - |     200|     175|   40|    5|     5 |     - |
+  Bourne,      |    - |       - |     100|     100|    5|    5|    30 |     - |
+  Wareham,     |    6 |     100 |     800|     800|   15|   10|    75 |     - |
+  Marion,      |    1 |      15 |     100|     100|    -|    -|    10 |     - |
+  Mattapoisett,|    1 |      15 |     100|     100|    -|    5|     5 |     - |
+  Fairhaven,   |    - |       - |     100|     100|    -|   25|    25 |     - |
+  New Bedford, |320[18]       - |     300|     225|    5|    5|    15 |     - |
+  Dartmouth,   |    4 |      50 |     200|     160|   15|   10|     5 |     - |
+
+  =============+======+===================+===========+======+============
+               |      |  PRODUCTIVE AREA. |           |      |
+               |      +--------+----------+           |      |
+               |      |        |          |Barren Area| Waste| Possible
+      TOWN.    |Total |  Good  |Scattering|possibly   |Barren|   Normal
+               | Area |Clamming|  Clams   |Productive | Area |Production.
+  -------------+------+--------+----------+-----------+------+------------
+  Duxbury,     | 3,500|     5  |      10  |     800   | 2,685|    83,000
+  Kingston,    |   600|     5  |       5  |     150   |   440|    18,000
+  Plymouth,    | 1,600|    10  |      50  |     440   | 1,100|    58,000
+  Barnstable,  |   400|    10  |      10  |     330   |    50|    39,000
+  Yarmouth,    |    50|     5  |      10  |      25   |    10|     6,000
+  Orleans,     |   200|    25  |      50  |      75   |    50|    27,000
+  Eastham,     |   200|    25  |      50  |     100   |    25|    30,000
+  Wellfleet,   |   605|     3  |      12  |     250   |   340|    28,000
+  Truro,       |    50|     1  |       2  |      47   |     -|     5,000
+  Provincetown,|   400|     3  |       3  |     200   |   194|    21,000
+  Chatham,     |   360|    10  |      50  |     300   |     -|    44,000
+  Harwich,     |    30|     1  |       5  |      10   |    14|     2,400
+  Dennis,      |    50|     1  |       4  |      30   |    15|     4,200
+  Mashpee,     |    50|     2  |       8  |      30   |    10|     5,400
+  Falmouth,    |    50|     2  |       8  |      40   |     -|     6,400
+  Bourne,      |    40|     -  |      30  |       -   |    10|     6,000
+  Wareham,     |   100|     -  |      50  |       -   |    50|    10,000
+  Marion,      |    10|     -  |      10  |       -   |     -|     2,000
+  Mattapoisett,|    10|     -  |      10  |       -   |     -|     2,000
+  Fairhaven,   |    50|     -  |      25  |      25   |     -|     7,500
+  New Bedford, |    25|     -  |      15  |       -   |    10|     3,000
+  Dartmouth,   |    30|     5  |      15  |       -   |    10|     5,000
+
+  =============+======+=========+=================+===========================+
+               |      |         |1907 PRODUCTION. |       TOTAL AREA.         |
+               |      |         +--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
+               |Number|         |        |        |     |     |       |Mussels|
+      TOWN.    |  of  | Capital |        |        |     |     |       |and Eel|
+               | Men. |invested.|Bushels.| Value. |Sand.| Mud.|Gravel.| Grass.|
+  -------------+------+---------+--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
+  Swansea,     |   25 |     250 |   5,000|   5,000|  100|  100|     - |     - |
+  Somerset,    |    - |       - |      50|      50|    -|   25|    25 |     - |
+  Dighton,     |    - |       - |      40|      40|    -|    5|     5 |     - |
+  Berkley,     |    - |       - |      25|      25|    -|    5|     5 |     - |
+  Freetown,    |    - |       - |     100|     100|    -|   10|    15 |     - |
+  Fall River,  |    - |       - |     100|      75|    -|   20|     5 |     - |
+  Nantucket,   |    4 |      40 |     400|     350|  150|   25|    25 |     - |
+  Edgartown,   |    7 |      50 |   1,200|   1,000|  150|    -|    50 |     - |
+               +------+---------+--------+--------+-----+-----+-------+-------+
+      Total,   |1,361 | $18,142 | 153,865|$150,440|6,269|7,111| 2,125 | 5,580 |
+  =============+======+=========+========+========+=====+=====+=======+=======+
+
+  =============+======+===================+===========+======+============
+               |      |  PRODUCTIVE AREA. |           |      |
+               |      +--------+----------+           |      |
+               |      |        |          |Barren Area| Waste| Possible
+      TOWN.    |Total |  Good  |Scattering|possibly   |Barren|   Normal
+               | Area |Clamming|  Clams   |Productive | Area |Production.
+  -------------+------+--------+----------+-----------+------+------------
+  Swansea,     |   200|    20  |      30  |     100   |    50|    24,000
+  Somerset,    |    50|     -  |      10  |      20   |    20|     4,000
+  Dighton,     |    10|     -  |       2  |       8   |     -|     1,200
+  Berkley,     |    10|     -  |       4  |       6   |     -|     1,400
+  Freetown,    |    25|     -  |      15  |       -   |    10|     3,000
+  Fall River,  |    25|     -  |      10  |      15   |     -|     3,500
+  Nantucket,   |   200|     5  |      15  |     130   |    50|    18,000
+  Edgartown,   |   200|    20  |     100  |      50   |    30|    33,000
+               +------+--------+----------+-----------+------+------------
+      Total,   |21,085| 1,878  |   3,233  |   6,096   | 9,878|$1,801,000
+  =============+======+========+==========+===========+======+============
+
+_Decline of the Natural Clam Supply._--The decline of the clam supply
+is a matter of general knowledge. People who live along the seashore
+realize that they can no longer gather the amount of clams they once
+could dig with ease from the same flats. On the southern shore of the
+State especially it is oftentimes difficult to obtain even enough for
+family use. The consumer also realizes the loss of the clam, as he is
+forced to pay higher prices.
+
+If specific cases of this decline are demanded, the following instances
+should show the exact depletion in the various localities. Even in the
+best clam-producing town of the State, Newburyport, where the clam
+production, according to statistics, has apparently increased during
+the last twenty-five years (as a result of more men entering the
+fishery), the supply has shown signs of failing. Essex now possesses
+many acres of flats formerly productive which now lie in a practically
+barren condition. Gloucester can no longer boast of her former clam
+industry, as the flats in Annisquam River are in poor condition. Hardly
+30 men now make a business of clamming in that town, whereas 92 men
+were engaged in the fishery in 1879. Passing south of Gloucester, we
+find great evidence of decline in the Boston harbor flats. Even before
+the edict closing the harbor from clammers was in force, the production
+did not by any means equal that of 1879. Plymouth harbor, including the
+three towns of Duxbury, Kingston and Plymouth, furnishes an excellent
+illustration of this decline. Here an area of flats as extensive as
+all the other flats of the State combined now lies practically barren,
+whereas in former times great quantities of clams were taken. These
+flats had already become depleted to a marked extent by 1879, and
+to-day practically no clams are shipped to market from the Duxbury
+flats, although you can still read "Duxbury clams" on the menus of
+the hotels and restaurants, showing how important a clam industry
+this town once possessed. Buzzards Bay district lies at present
+unproductive except for supplying home consumption and the demands of
+the summer people. The shores of Cape Cod no longer yield their former
+supply of clams, and the most striking example of the extinction of a
+flourishing fishery is found in the town of Chatham, which now does not
+produce one-tenth part of its production in 1879. The Fall River or
+Narragansett Bay district does not come up to its past productiveness,
+and now chiefly yields clams which in former times would have been
+considered as too small to use.
+
+As can be seen by the following table, which gives a comparison between
+the industry in 1879 and 1907, the localities south of Gloucester all
+show a decline in their production, and there is no town on the coast
+which has not shown some depletion in the natural clam supply. The
+localities of the north shore, while indicating by their statistics a
+gain in production, nevertheless have not their former abundance, and
+the actual diminution of the supply is concealed by the fact that more
+men have entered the industry.
+
+  =====================+=========================+===========================
+                       |          1879.          |         1907.
+      LOCALITY.        +-------+--------+--------+--------+--------+---------
+                       |  Men. |Bushels.| Value. |  Men.  |Bushels.| Value.
+  ---------------------+-------+--------+--------+--------+--------+---------
+  Ipswich,             |   75  | 11,500 | $4,600 |  136   | 25,000 | $18,750
+  Salisbury and        |       |        |        |        |        |
+      Newburyport,     |   60  | 28,800 | 11,520 |  241   | 70,500 |  77,500
+  Essex,               |   75  | 11,500 |  4,500 |   50   | 15,000 |  12,750
+  Gloucester,          |   92  | 13,978 |  5,200 |   31   |  6,000 |   8,000
+  Boston harbor,       |   90  | 40,000 | 20,000 | 350[19]|  7,500 |   6,000
+  Duxbury,             |  -[20]|  5,000 |  2,500 |    5   |    700 |     600
+  Plymouth             |  -[20]|  5,000 |  2,500 |    6   |  3,000 |   2,500
+  Harwich,             |   15  |  1,125 |    400 |    -   |    100 |      80
+  Chatham,             |  150  | 35,000 | 12,250 |   10   |  1,500 |   1,200
+  Nantucket,           |  -[19]|  2,253 |    872 |    4   |    400 |     350
+  Edgartown,           |  -[20]|  4,000 |  1,570 |    7   |  1,200 |   1,000
+  New Bedford district,|  -[20]|  5,800 |  2,900 | 332[19]|  1,600 |   1,685
+  Fall River district, |  -[20]|  3,375 |  3,121 |   25   |  5,315 |   5,290
+  =====================+=======+========+========+========+========+==========
+
+_Causes of the Decline._--The same cause which has been stated in the
+general report has contributed to the decline of the clam supply,
+_i.e._, the increasing demand which has led to overfishing. Thus the
+decline can be directly attributed to the exploiting of natural clam
+resources by man, although it must be admitted that natural agencies,
+such as geographical changes, destroy the clam flats of certain
+localities and build up others.
+
+This decline has become possible through the indifference of the towns
+to the welfare of their clam fishery, and by not restricting, through
+town laws, the extermination of the clams in time to allow nature to
+replenish the flats. Some towns, such as Ipswich, have regulated this
+matter by placing closed seasons on portions of the flats, which has
+been the partial means of preserving their natural supply. Thus the
+town laws have proved inadequate, as most towns have no laws at all, or
+have such unwise ones that they often defeat their own object.
+
+It is again necessary to emphasize the need of reform in the clam
+industry. This Commonwealth once possessed an extensive supply of
+clams, and still possesses part of its former abundance; but the
+present supply is diminishing at such a rate that it will not be
+a quarter of a century before the natural clam fishery will be
+commercially extinct. On the south shore clams are now commercially
+extinct, and it is only a question of time, if the present methods are
+allowed to remain, before the north shore clams will also disappear.
+The experiments of the Massachusetts department of fisheries and game
+and the work of men who have planted this shellfish all show that
+thousands of dollars can be brought into the State by utilizing the
+waste clam areas, and that the production can be so increased as to
+even exceed that of former years. Immediate action is necessary, if
+this important industry is to be saved.
+
+_The Remedy._--The remedy is comparatively simple, and abundant proof
+of its success is at hand. By restocking the barren and unproductive
+areas of the Commonwealth the present production can be increased many
+times. Experiments have shown that clams can be readily, successfully
+and economically transplanted, and that it is a completely practical
+undertaking. Not only can the barren areas be restocked, but the yield
+of the productive areas can be much increased. Clam farming is the only
+practical method of restocking these areas, and only through such means
+can the clam flats be made to yield their normal harvest.
+
+
+_Clam Farming._
+
+The subject of clam farming has received a good deal of attention the
+past few years, and much has been said concerning the enormous profits
+which would result from the cultivation of this shellfish. While the
+newspaper statements have been for the most part correct, there has
+been considerable exaggeration and many details have been inaccurate.
+To remove any misapprehensions, the following account of clam farming
+is given.
+
+The value of clam farming has been perhaps overestimated. While no
+fabulous returns are ever to be expected, the yield is large in
+proportion to the labor, and steady returns are sure. The methods
+used are simple, the capital required is small, the area suitable for
+raising clams is extensive, and clam farming gives promise of becoming
+one of the most prominent and remunerative shore industries. The
+profits derived from such a system should furnish steady employment for
+hundreds of men on the Massachusetts coast.
+
+Massachusetts possesses thousands of acres of tidal flats which are
+capable of producing clams. Most of these flats are practically barren,
+_i.e._, produce no clams in paying quantities, and yet if planted with
+small clams will yield in from one to two years large quantities of
+marketable bivalves. This large area of barren flats should be divided
+into small farms, which should be leased to individuals for the purpose
+of planting and raising clams.
+
+_The Necessity of Clam Farming._--It is a well-known fact that the
+natural supply of clams is becoming rapidly exhausted, and that this
+important fishery will become commercially extinct unless steps are
+taken to check its decline. The only practical means known at the
+present time is _clam farming_. In the past, methods such as close
+seasons and restricting the catch have been used, but with poor
+results, as these have been economically wrong. The correct method
+in such cases is not to restrict the demand, but to increase the
+supply. Clam farming offers the only means of increasing the natural
+production, and not only checking the decline, but establishing a large
+industry.
+
+_Is Clam Farming Practical?_--Clam farming is not a theory but an
+_established fact_. Clams will grow if planted in suitable places, and
+will yield large returns. For three years the Commission of Fisheries
+and Game have made numerous experiments in clam farming in many
+seacoast towns. They have not only proved its complete practicability,
+but have also shown that large profits result from successful planting.
+Records are on file at the State House showing the exact results of
+these experimental farms, which indicate the future success of clam
+farming.
+
+Besides the experiments of the Commission on Fisheries and Game,
+_successful clam farming_ is now being carried on in several towns of
+the State. The leading town in this line is Essex, where at least 15
+grants are held by the clammers. The only protection given is based
+upon public sentiment, which, however, is sufficient to insure the
+success of the enterprise. All these grants were staked out on flats
+which were producing no clams when granted, although part of this
+area was once very productive. So far these grants have proved most
+successful, thus proving by actual experience that clam farming is a
+worthy rival of agriculture.
+
+_Historical Attempts at Clam Farming._--Clam farming has been in
+existence for years. The first record of any legislation upon this
+subject is found in an act to regulate the clam fishery in and around
+the shores of Plymouth, Kingston and Duxbury in 1870, whereby a license
+was granted for a term not exceeding five years to any inhabitant
+of these towns to plant, cultivate and dig clams. This license cost
+$2.50, and gave the exclusive use of the flats and creeks described
+to the licensee and his heirs during the time specified, and also the
+right in an action of tort to recover treble damages from any person
+who, without his consent, dug or took clams from said grant. Evidently
+nothing was done to follow out this law, which was soon forgotten.
+
+In 1874 an act was passed to regulate the shellfisheries (including
+clams) in the waters of Mount Hope Bay and its tributaries. The terms
+of this act were practically the same as the Plymouth act, the only
+difference being the substitution of the word _shellfish_ for _clam_.
+
+In 1888 an act was passed by the town of Winthrop, authorizing the
+planting of clams on the shores of that town. The grant was to consist
+of not over 2 acres of _barren_ flats, situated more than 500 feet from
+high-water mark. The other provisions of this act were the same as
+those of the Plymouth act of 1870.
+
+The most important clam culture law was passed in 1888. This authorized
+the planting of clams on the shores of Essex. Here the provisions of
+the law were followed out, and the first energetic attempt at clam
+farming started. The law, the provisions of which were nearly the same
+as the previous laws, reads as follows:--
+
+
+ACTS OF 1888, CHAPTER 198.
+
+      AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE PLANTING OF CLAMS, IN AND AROUND THE
+                           SHORES OF ESSEX.
+
+    _Be it enacted, etc., as follows:_
+
+    SECTION 1. The selectmen of the town of Essex may by writing
+    under their hands grant a license for such a term of years, not
+    exceeding five, as they in their discretion may deem necessary
+    and the public good requires, to any inhabitant of said town,
+    to plant, cultivate and dig clams upon and in any flats and
+    creeks in said town now unproductive thereof, not exceeding two
+    acres to any one person, and not impairing the private rights
+    of any person.
+
+    SECTION 2. Such license shall describe by metes and bounds
+    the flats and creeks so appropriated and shall be recorded by
+    the town clerk before it shall have any force, and the person
+    licensed shall pay to the selectmen for the use of said town
+    two dollars and to the clerk fifty cents.
+
+    SECTION 3. The person so licensed and his heirs and assigns
+    shall for the purposes aforesaid have the exclusive use of
+    the flats and creeks described in the license during the term
+    specified therein, and may in an action of tort recover treble
+    damages of any person, who, without his or their consent digs
+    or takes clams from such flats or creeks during the continuance
+    of the license.
+
+    SECTION 4. Said town of Essex at any legal meeting called for
+    the purpose may make such by-laws, not repugnant to the laws of
+    the commonwealth, as they may from time to time deem expedient
+    to protect and preserve the shellfisheries within said town.
+
+    SECTION 5. Whoever takes any shellfish from within the waters
+    of said town of Essex in violation of the by-laws established
+    by it or of the provisions of this act shall for every offence
+    pay a fine of not less than five or more than ten dollars
+    and costs of prosecution, and one dollar for every bushel of
+    shellfish so taken.
+
+    SECTION 6. This act shall take effect upon its passage.
+    [_Approved April 9, 1888._]
+
+In the report of the United States Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries
+for 1894 Mr. Ansley Hall gives the following account of clam culture
+under this act:--
+
+    During the first two years (1889-90) the people were slow to
+    avail themselves of the privilege of planting, for fear that
+    after they had spent their time and labor they would not be
+    able to secure protection from trespassers; but in 1891 and
+    1892 lots were obtained and planted. In 1892 there were 25
+    acres that were quite productive, about one-third of the entire
+    catch of the section being obtained from them. The catch from
+    these lots is not definitely known, but is estimated at about
+    2,500 barrels.
+
+    Cultivated clams possess some advantage over the natural
+    growth, from the fact that they are more uniform in size, and
+    are as large as the best natural clam. They bring $1.75 per
+    barrel, while the natural clams sell for $1.50 per barrel. This
+    is the price received by the diggers. One acre of these clams
+    is considered to be worth $1,000, if well seeded and favorably
+    located so as not to be in danger of being submerged with sand.
+    This valuation would be too high for an average, since all the
+    acres are not equally well seeded and located. The clammers
+    are generally impressed that the industry can be extensively
+    and profitably developed, and their only fear is that they
+    will not be able to secure lots permanently. The greater part
+    of the land available for this purpose is covered by the deeds
+    of people owning farms along the river, and the consent of the
+    land owners has to be obtained before lots can be taken up.
+    It seems probable, however, that the business will continue
+    to progress unless checked by complications that may arise
+    relative to the occupancy of the grounds.
+
+The result of this first practical attempt at clam culture was a
+complete failure, and after a few years' trial the clam farms were all
+given up. The main reason for this failure was lack of protection both
+from outsiders and from one another. Nevertheless, this attempt proved
+that with proper protection a most successful industry could be made of
+clam farming. The following statement by Prof. James L. Kellogg, in the
+United States Fish Commission Bulletin for 1899, describes the failure
+of clam culture at Essex:--
+
+    It is not difficult to determine the reasons for the failure
+    of the culture experiment at Essex. The areas upon which clams
+    were planted were those which were at the time unproductive.
+    The beds still containing clams--the "town flats"--were free
+    to any native of Essex. The one thing which was absolutely
+    necessary to the success of any planter was that the clams on
+    his leased ground should not be disturbed by other diggers.
+    This protection was apparently not given in any case by the
+    town authorities, and, as no person lived within sight of the
+    majority of the beds, it was quite impossible for any man to
+    guard his property much of the time.
+
+    As to what followed it is not easy to obtain definite testimony
+    from the clammers themselves. Other citizens of the town,
+    however, and some few clammers, intimate that most of the men
+    began to take clams from any property but their own, and that
+    in this way the full result of no man's labor in planting was
+    ever realized. Others who did not make clam digging a regular
+    business, but only dug occasionally, are said to have had no
+    respect for the rights of those who had leased property. It was
+    said that at times when vessel builders and the shoe factory
+    released employees, many of them, for lack of other occupation,
+    turned their attention to clam digging, with the result that
+    too many clams were at the time taken from the flats.
+
+    Another reason for the failure of the Essex experiment is that
+    a number of short-sighted clammers began to fear, after the
+    clams had been planted, that the production might suddenly
+    become so great as to glut their market, and, as a consequence,
+    force prices down. Some few individuals, inspired by this fear,
+    are reported to have said and to have done everything in their
+    power to prevent the success of the experiment. In all cases,
+    it is said, the selectmen of the town, who issued the leases,
+    refused their aid in the prosecution of trespassers.
+
+    In spite of the fact, which had been demonstrated in the
+    experiment, that when properly planted the clams grew much more
+    rapidly and became much larger than on the natural beds, no
+    applications for a renewal of the leases were made when the
+    first ones expired. No change in the condition at Essex may be
+    hoped for until there is some evidence that a law protecting
+    the planter will be strictly enforced. With proper protection,
+    a great industry might, and probably would, be quickly
+    established, not only in Essex, but in any region where clam
+    flats are now unproductive because of excessive digging.
+
+_Protection Necessary._--The same lack of protection which ruined the
+Essex clam experiments has been the cause of similar failures in other
+shore towns. As long as no protection is given, clam farming can never
+become possible, as the whole success of the enterprise depends wholly
+upon the planter's having complete control of his land. The present
+law gives absolutely no protection, as according to the old free beach
+law a person has a right to dig a mess of clams anywhere between the
+tide lines, no matter whether natural or planted. This practically
+discourages clam farming, however profitable, as no clammer is going to
+the labor and expense of planting clams, if the next person who comes
+along has a legal right to dig as many as he pleases. Until a law is
+passed which gives to the clam planter absolute protection from this
+sort of trespassing, and does away with the antiquated free fishing
+law, clam culture can never become a successful industry.
+
+_Present Clam Culture._--In 1906 grants of barren flats were again
+issued for the purpose of clam culture in Essex, and this time the
+attempt seemed successful. Two things encouraged this: the excellent
+results of the experiments in Essex River by the Commission on
+Fisheries and Game, and the possible results indicated by the
+experiments of 1888. The only protection for these clam grants is by
+public sentiment, and the mutual agreement of all the clammers to
+respect the rights of the individual. So far there has been no trouble
+from trespassing and the lack of protection, which caused the failure
+of first attempts. It is hoped that these clam farms will become
+permanently successful, despite the lack of protection, as they will
+greatly increase the production of the Essex clam flats.
+
+_Clam Farming and Agriculture._--The comparison between clam farming
+and agriculture is very close, and both possess many common features,
+though there are several points of difference. The clam obtains its
+sustenance entirely from the water, while agricultural products obtain
+their nourishment chiefly from the soil. The nitrogenous waste products
+of the land washed into the streams furnish the nourishment to the
+little marine plants (diatoms) on which the clams feed.
+
+_Rate of Growth of the Clam._--The report of the Commission on
+Fisheries and Game for the year 1906 contains the following
+statements:--
+
+_What is the natural growth of the clam per year?_
+
+There is great diversity in the growth of the clam, owing to the
+location in respect to three essential conditions,--current, length
+of time submerged, and soil. The following figures give briefly the
+general trend of results from numerous experimental beds under great
+variety of conditions. For simplicity, a 1-inch clam is taken as the
+standard.
+
+A 1-inch clam will grow in one year to a size between 2 and 3 inches.
+Under fairly favorable conditions, with a moderate current, a 1-inch
+clam will increase to 2½ inches, or a gain of 900 per cent, in volume.
+For every quart planted, the yield in one year will be 9 quarts. For
+beds without current, 1-inch clams average about 2 inches, or a gain
+of 500 per cent.; _i.e._, five quarts for every quart planted. Beds
+under exceptionally fine conditions have shown the amazing return of
+15 quarts for every quart of 1-inch clams planted. Clams increased in
+these beds from 1 to 3 inches in length. Therefore, by planting clams 1
+inch or over, under _favorable_ conditions a _marketable_ clam can be
+produced in _one year_.
+
+_What is the maximum production per square foot?_
+
+The number of clams per square foot that can be raised to the best
+advantage depends upon the location of the flat in respect to natural
+conditions. Clams thickly planted (15 to 20 per square foot) in
+favorable locations may show a greater growth than when thinly planted
+(5 per square foot) in less favorable locations; therefore, no definite
+statement can be made which will apply in all cases. The only rule
+that can be given is that a flat with a current will produce a greater
+number of clams per square foot than one without a current. On good
+flats clams can be planted conveniently and economically from 10 to 15
+per square foot, or even a larger number.
+
+_What results can be obtained by planting on barren flats?_
+
+There are two groups of flats which come under the term barren:
+(1) flats which once produced clams in great numbers, but now are
+practically barren, except for an occasional clam here and there;
+(2) flats which never have produced clams, and on which for physical
+reasons clams can never grow. The first group of flats is alone
+considered in this answer.
+
+Experimental beds were planted on certain flats in the Essex River
+which come within the first group of barren flats. These once
+productive flats had been cleaned out in the past, and for some reason
+had not seeded naturally. Forty beds were laid out under all kinds of
+conditions, with the object of finding a way to make these once more
+productive. Results have been all that could be hoped for. Only 4 poor
+beds were found, out of the 40 laid out; 36 beds were in thriving
+condition. It should be noted that no attempt was made to choose the
+best places, but all conditions were tried. Over two-thirds of the
+clams were re-dug, the increase averaging, in terms of 1-inch clams,
+over 1,000 per cent., or 10 quarts for every quart planted the year
+before.
+
+If many acres of Massachusetts flat, idle at present, are capable of
+such a yield, should such economic waste be allowed? Why should not
+the towns, by the expenditure of a little money, restock flats such as
+these for the benefit of their inhabitants? I do not say that all flats
+can be made productive in this way, as I know of many cases where the
+mere sowing of seed clams will not restock a flat; but I do say that
+Massachusetts possesses enough flats of the former nature, which should
+be made a profit to her clammers. Clam set occurs, as Mr. Stevenson
+shows in his report, in large quantities; the transportation of seed
+clams is easy; planting requires little labor, the practical way being
+to sow the clams, which burrow readily; while the yield in proportion
+to the labor is enormous.
+
+_What sized clams are best for planting?_
+
+The size best adapted must be determined for each flat. Shore flats
+with little current will allow the planting of any size, from ¼ inch
+up; flats with a swift current necessitate a larger clam (1 to 1½
+inches), as the smaller will be washed out of its burrow; soft mud also
+demands a larger clam, as the smaller will be stifled by the oozy silt.
+
+_What are the physical conditions that influence the growth of clams?_
+
+There appear at least three essential conditions for rapid growth of
+clams: (1) a good current; (2) low and level flat; and (3) a tenacious
+soil, relatively free from decaying matter.
+
+A low flat gives the clams longer feeding periods, as the water remains
+over them longer, therefore there is a greater growth. This has been
+experimentally shown by Dr. A. D. Mead.
+
+According to Prof. J. L. Kellogg, clams cannot do well in a soil
+which contains much decaying organic matter, as the acids eat away
+the shells. Soils of this description also facilitate the spread of
+infection from one clam to another.
+
+Current is the chief essential for successful clam culture. The term
+"current" does not imply a rapid flow of water, but rather a good
+circulation of water over the flat. In the Essex and Ipswich rivers the
+clam flats have a continuous current. On such flats the growth is more
+rapid than on flats which have no circulation of water, in addition to
+the mere rise and fall of the tide. The current performs the work of
+(1) keeping the flats clean and carrying away all contamination, but
+its most important work is as (2) _food carrier_.
+
+_Value of a Clam Farm._--The value of an acre of clam flats, if
+properly cultivated, is about $450 per year for the average clam flat.
+Many of the more productive flats will yield a far greater amount,
+while others will not yield as much. It has been often erroneously
+stated that an acre of clam flats would produce $1,000 per year. This
+is a decided overestimation, as it would be hardly possible for the
+most productive flat to yield that amount. It is possible, however,
+for a good flat to yield about $750 per year, but this is only under
+the most favorable conditions. Such yields as these are large for the
+clammer, whose average yearly income is only $400 (a few of the more
+expert clammers make possibly $700 to $750), and a man possessing a
+clam farm of 1½ to 2 acres would make a good living.
+
+_Method of operating a Clam Farm: choosing the Ground._--In choosing
+a grant, the planter should have in mind three things: (1) the
+accessibility of the grant, for his own convenience, and nearness to
+the market, as much of the success of clam farming depends upon the
+expense of marketing the product, and the ease with which it can be
+disposed of; (2) the length of time allowed for labor by the exposure
+of the flat (flats vary greatly in the amount of time exposed each
+tide, the low flats being submerged nearly all the time, and the high
+flats having a much longer exposure),--a high flat possesses the
+advantage of allowing a longer working period for the clammer; (3)
+the natural facilities of the flat itself as regards the growth of
+clams. Moreover, the flat should be chosen in regard to (1) soil; (2)
+current; (3) tide. A good flat should have a soil which is tenacious
+and compact, affording at the same time easy digging. Probably the best
+soil is a mixture of fine sand and mud in a ratio of one-third mud
+to two-thirds sand, as this amount of mud gives the right degree of
+tenacity.
+
+The growth of a clam depends upon the circulation of water over the
+flat, as the current carries the food, and, therefore, the more current
+the more food for the clams. Current also keeps the bed clean, and
+prevents contamination and disease from spreading among the clams.
+Then, again, the growth of a clam depends upon the amount of water over
+the bed; _i.e._, length of time covered. The clam can only feed when
+the tide is over the bed, and thus the feeding time is limited for
+the higher flats. While experiments have shown that clams grow faster
+when continually under water than when exposed part of the time, the
+question of tide is not so great a factor as that of current in regard
+to clam growth, and can be almost disregarded.
+
+The best flat for clam planting is a _fairly high flat_ with a _good
+current_ over it, as it gives nearly as rapid growth and a much longer
+period to dig than a flat which is exposed only a short period. This
+flat must have the right kind of soil, which must not be shifting sand
+or too soft mud, but a compact, tenacious mixture.
+
+_The Seed Clams._--Nature has provided the means of stocking these
+farms. The set of clams is usually restricted to certain localities,
+which, however, vary from time to time, and heavy sets are found in
+limited areas. These sets run as thick as 2,000 per square foot of
+surface, occasionally covering an area of 3 acres. From these natural
+set areas the natural clam flats are partially restocked by the washing
+out of the small clams. More often these whole sets are wasted, as
+the clams, instead of washing on the good flats, are carried to
+unproductive places and consequently perish. Thus there are areas of
+heavy set which are of no use to any one, as practically all the clams
+perish before they become adults. These areas of heavy set occur in
+nearly every harbor of the coast to a greater or less extent, and are
+available for nearly every town.
+
+The problem now is to make use of these large sets, and not allow them
+to go to waste. It has been shown that these clams when transplanted
+will grow much faster, and will not perish; therefore, clam farming
+offers both the possibility of saving these natural sets and utilizing
+barren ground.
+
+Methods of spat collecting have been constantly referred to in
+connection with clam farming, especially by the Rhode Island Fish
+Commission, and the impression has been given that clam farming can
+never become a success until some practical method of spat collecting
+has been found. With the soft clam there is no need of any method
+of spat collecting, as the natural set is more than sufficient for
+restocking the barren flats. All that is necessary is to utilize
+the enormous natural sets. If this is done, the barren flats of
+Massachusetts can be made productive.
+
+The main difficulty is in devising some method of obtaining the small
+clams with sufficient rapidity. As the nature of the soil and the
+size of the clams vary, no one method can apply to every case, and it
+depends upon the ingenuity of the clammer. The methods used at present
+are: (1) digging with an ordinary clam hoe, which is slow work; (2)
+digging in shallow water, so that the clams may be washed out; (3)
+digging a series of trenches across the heavy set area, and scooping
+out the clams washed in these trenches; (4) carrying both sand and
+clams by the dory load; (5) by using a sieve, in the form of a cradle,
+which washes the clams out in the water. This last method is the most
+successful for small clams, and has been used by the commission in
+obtaining seed clams for their experimental beds. By using a cradle 3
+by 2 feet, covered with sand wire netting, clams which ran 3,000 per
+quart, were obtained by 3 men at the rate of 2 bushels an hour,--an
+amount sufficient to plant from 1/25 to 1/10 of an acre.
+
+Another problem of importance is the transportation of seed clams, as
+in many instances the clams will have to be carried some distance.
+The best method of shipping seed clams is to pack them dry in damp
+sea weed, putting them in small packages, so they will not be crushed
+by their own weight. The best though most expensive method is to pack
+the clams in crates, such as are used for strawberries. It has been
+found that clams kept in water are not in such good condition as those
+shipped dry, and it is of the utmost importance that the clams be in
+good condition when planted.
+
+The length of time a clam will live out of its natural element depends
+upon the temperature; in cold weather it will keep for several days,
+and even weeks; while in warm weather the seed clam will be in poor
+condition after one day's exposure.
+
+_Preparing the Grant._--Usually the ground needs no preparation, and
+the clams can be planted at once. It is a good plan to remove any
+mussels and any of the enemies of the clam from the grant.
+
+_Planting the Clams._--The planting of the seed clams is perhaps the
+easiest work of the clam culturist, as it necessitates merely the
+sowing of the seed on the surface of the flat. The small clams when
+left this way burrow into the ground as soon as the water is over them,
+and require no planting on the part of the culturist.
+
+_Working the Farm._--This style of farming requires no cultivation for
+the growth of the clams. Once planted, the farmer has no further work
+until the time when he is ready to dig them. The clams grow better
+when undisturbed than when the soil is upturned by frequent digging.
+Protection from man and the natural enemies of the clam demand the
+attention of the owner at all times.
+
+_Harvesting the Clams._--The time of digging will vary as to the size
+of clam desired and the rate of growth on the grant. The clam farmer
+can cater to a particular trade by regulating the size of the clams
+marketed. He may find it more profitable to market a small clam after a
+short period of growth, or _vice versa_, on the same principle that a
+farmer raises hogs for the market.
+
+North of Boston, in localities favorable for fast growth, such as the
+Essex and Ipswich rivers, by planting large seed of at least l½ inches
+in the spring, marketable clams of 2½ to 3 inches can be obtained in
+the fall after six months' growth. Here the clams grow only during the
+summer months, and nothing would be gained by leaving them over winter.
+In this way a crop each year can be raised on these farms. In other
+localities of slower growth it will take from eighteen to twenty-four
+months to raise a crop. The clam farmer will have to regulate the size
+of the seed and length of growth to best suit the needs of his farm.
+
+_Advantages of Clam Farming._--Clam culture possesses several
+advantages over the old free-for-all digging: (1) steadier returns; (2)
+easier work; (3) better pay; (4) more clams per man. If the clammers
+of the Commonwealth only realized these facts they would make a united
+effort toward clam culture.
+
+
+_History._
+
+I. _Early History._--The history of the Massachusetts clam industry
+began in obscurity. Even before the time of the earliest settlers the
+native Indians depended largely upon this abundant mollusk for their
+food supply, as is clearly indicated by the scattered shell heaps which
+mark their ancient camp fires. Upon the arrival of the Pilgrims, clam
+digging was incorporated among the most time-honored industries of the
+Commonwealth, and in times of want the early colonists depended largely
+upon this natural food supply. With the arrival of the colonists really
+began the first epoch of the clam fishery as an economic factor in
+this Commonwealth, a period which lasted nearly two hundred years.
+This period marked the exploitation of clam grounds merely for home
+consumption. Money was scarce, inland markets were practically unknown,
+and the importance of this shellfish was confined merely to local
+quarters.
+
+II. _Rise of the Bait Industry._--Early in the last century a growing
+demand for clams as bait for the sea fisheries became apparent.
+Clams had always been utilized for this purpose more or less, but an
+increased demand called for the development of an important industry in
+this line. Various centers of activity were established, particularly
+at Newburyport, Essex, Ipswich, Boston harbor and Chatham. The clams
+were mainly shucked, that is, removed from the shell, and shipped
+either fresh or salted in barrels to the fishermen at Gloucester,
+Boston and Provincetown. This industry opened up new fields of
+employment for many men and boys, and brought considerable ready money
+into various coast communities.
+
+III. _The Development of Inland Markets._--The consumption of clams
+for food in the coast towns continued throughout the rise and gradual
+decline of the bait industry, but the creation of inland markets did
+not begin to be an important factor until 1875. It was about this time
+that the clam came to be generally looked upon throughout the State
+as an article of food, and consequently an important industry was
+gradually evolved to meet this growing demand. This step marked the
+beginning of the extensive fishery of the present day.
+
+The mistaken policy of the average shellfish community, which
+regarded clam grounds as natural gardens of inexhaustible fertility,
+still persisted even after the fallacy of this policy had long
+proved apparent through the depletion of extensive tracts. The same
+ill-advised methods were pursued to the ultimate ruination of much
+valuable territory. All wise regard for the future was overshadowed
+by the immediate needs of the present; local legislation fostered the
+evil; State legislation was conspicuous by its absence; and, left to
+the mercy of unsystematic overdigging, these natural resources rapidly
+wasted away.
+
+The disastrous tendencies which have lurked in the ruling policy of
+the clam fishery have been shown in the rise and fall of the industry
+in certain localities. Forty years ago Duxbury and Plymouth ranked
+as the greatest clam towns of the coast. Their supply has long since
+become insignificant. Newburyport and Ipswich have become the chief
+producers of the State clam harvest; but Essex and Gloucester, in the
+same fertile regions, have greatly declined, and the industry at Rowley
+has become nearly extinct. In the Fall River district the digging of
+small seed clams for food has brought the fishery to the verge of ruin.
+The few resources of Buzzards Bay have become nearly exhausted, while
+on Cape Cod the industry has shown here and there a temporary increase,
+overshadowed by a far more extensive decline, such as at Chatham.
+Furthermore, the sewage contamination of coast waters in the harbors of
+Boston and several other large cities have closed extensive regions for
+the production of food.
+
+IV. _Attempts to develop the Industry._--Various efforts have been
+made to restrain overdigging the clam flats, by local regulations,
+particularly by "close" seasons. These attempts have been productive
+of little good. Other efforts, designed to develop extensive tracts
+made barren by wasteful methods of fishing, have been put in operation.
+These efforts have been along two independent lines: the first, an
+effort on the part of the community to seed in common flats by the
+appropriation of money for that purpose, as in the case of Wellfleet;
+the second, an attempt to arrive at the same end by leasing private
+grants to individuals, as at Essex and Plymouth. These efforts, while
+tending in the right direction, have not as yet yielded the results
+that might be wished for. Within the past three years the State has
+taken hold of the problem, and by an extensive series of experiments is
+endeavoring to devise practical means of developing the great inherent
+possibilities in this extensive industry.
+
+ CLAM PRODUCTION TABLE FOR MASSACHUSETTS, OBTAINED FROM THE REPORTS OF
+                  THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION.
+
+  =======+==========+=========+===================
+         |          |         |
+   YEAR. | Bushels. |  Value. | Price per Bushel
+         |          |         |     (Cents).
+  -------+----------+---------+-------------------
+   1880, | 158,626  | $76,195 |      41.73
+   1887, | 230,659  | 121,202 |      52.54
+   1888, | 243,777  | 127,838 |      52.44
+   1889, | 240,831  | 137,711 |      57.14
+   1892, | 191,923  | 133,529 |      69.57
+   1898, | 147,095  | 102,594 |      69.74
+   1902, | 227,941  | 157,247 |      68.98
+   1905, | 217,519  | 209,545 |      96.19
+  =======+==========+=========+===================
+
+
+_The Clam Industry._
+
+_Methods of Digging._--The ordinary method of taking clams is so simple
+as hardly to need explanation. Although simple, clam digging requires
+considerable skill, and it takes years of experience to become a good
+clammer.
+
+There are two methods of clam digging used in Massachusetts,--the
+"wet" and the "dry" digging. Wet digging is carried on when water is
+over the clam beds; dry digging, which is the common method, takes
+place when the flats are left exposed by the tides. The only places in
+Massachusetts where wet digging is carried on regularly are Eastham,
+Chatham, Swansea, and in Katama Bay, Edgartown. In the lower end of
+Katama Bay is found a submerged bed of clams which is one of the most
+productive beds of this class in Massachusetts. These submerged clams
+are taken with what is known locally as a "sea horse," which is an
+enlarged clam hoe, with prongs 12 to 14 inches long, and a strong
+wooden handle four feet in length. This handle has a belt attachment
+which is buckled around the clammer. Two men are required for this
+work. The sea horse is worked deep into the loose sand and is dragged
+along by one man, who wades in the shallow water over these submerged
+flats, while his partner follows, gathering the clams which the sea
+horse roots out. Another method of wet digging is called "churning,"
+and is based on the same principle as the above method, only the clams
+are turned out under water by long forks or hoes. This method is not
+used in Massachusetts to any extent. Excellent results are usually
+obtained from wet digging.
+
+The methods used in dry digging depend upon the nature of the soil.
+The difference lies only in the kind of digger. The clam hoe of the
+south shore, where the soil is either coarse sand or gravel, has broad
+prongs, some even being 1¼ inches across. The usual number of prongs
+is four, but occasionally three broad prongs suffice. The clam hoe of
+the north shore, often called "hooker," has four thin, sharp prongs
+and a short handle. The set of this handle is a matter of choice with
+the individual clammers, some preferring a sharp, acute angle, and
+others a right angle. This style of clam hoe is best suited for the
+hard, tenacious clam flats of the north shore. At Essex spading forks
+are used for clamming, but not as extensively as the hooker. For sand
+digging the forks are said to be better, while for mud digging the
+hooker is preferred.
+
+_Outfit of a Clammer._--The outfit of a clammer does not require much
+outlay of capital. A skiff or dory, one or two clam hoes and three or
+four clam baskets complete the list. Occasionally, as at Ipswich, where
+the clam grounds are widely scattered, power dories are used, and this
+necessitates the investment of considerable capital; but the investment
+of the average clammer does not exceed $26. Personal apparel, such as
+oilskins and boots, are not considered under this head.
+
+                            CLAMMING OUTFIT.
+
+  Skiff dory,                                  $22.00
+  Two clam diggers,                              1.50
+  Four clam baskets,                             2.00
+                                               ------
+      Total,                                   $25.50
+
+The boats most often used by the north shore clammers are called "skiff
+dories," and in construction are between a dory and a skiff. These
+boats are especially adapted for use in rivers.
+
+_Marketing._--Clams are shipped to market either in the shell or
+"shucked out." Two rules are followed by the clammers in making this
+distinction: (1) small clams, or "steamers," are shipped in the
+shell, especially during the summer months, while the large clams are
+"shucked;" (2) the fine-appearing sand clam is usually sold in the
+shell, while the unprepossessing mud clam is shucked, _i.e._, the
+shell and the external covering of the siphon or neck are removed.
+This causes on the north shore a division by locality. The Ipswich and
+Essex clams, except for a few individual orders, are mostly shipped to
+market in the shell, while the Annisquam River and Newburyport clams
+are usually shucked in the winter. Little if any shucking is done by
+the south shore clammers.
+
+Shucking almost doubles the value, as a bushel of clams, worth in the
+shell 75 cents, will furnish, when soaked, about 10 quarts of shucked
+clams, which bring about 50 cents per gallon, or a total of $1.25 when
+marketed. The shucked clams are put through a process of soaking in the
+same way the scallop "eyes" are treated before marketing. They absorb
+a sufficient quantity of fresh water, after soaking six hours, to
+increase their bulk about one-third and give a plump appearance to the
+clams.
+
+While many clammers do not soak their clams, it seems to be a universal
+tendency, wherever clams are shucked, to gain by this method. Soaking
+of any sort impairs the flavor of the clam, and for this reason such a
+practice is to be deplored, but as long as the consumer is satisfied
+to take second-rate goods, this practice will continue, and it can be
+stopped only by the united demand of the shellfish dealers.
+
+_Shipment._--Second-hand flour and sugar barrels are used for the
+shipment of clams in the shell, while kegs and butter tubs hold the
+shucked clams. In winter clams can be shipped inland without perishing;
+but in hot weather they will spoil in a few days, unless iced.
+
+_Maine Clams._--Massachusetts annually consumes many thousand barrels
+of Maine clams. If the demand of the Boston market were not partially
+met by the influx of Maine clams, the clam flats of Massachusetts would
+be subject to a greater drain.
+
+_Market._--The principal market for the clam industry of Massachusetts
+is Boston. Gloucester, Newburyport, Salem and Lynn draw part of
+the clam trade of the north shore, but the greater portion goes to
+Boston, whence it is distributed throughout the State. In recent years
+shipments have been made from the Ipswich Bay region direct to New
+York, Baltimore and Philadelphia.
+
+_Price._--The price of clams is fairly constant, varying but little
+in summer and winter. Naturally, this seems curious, when winter and
+summer clamming are compared. The production in winter is much smaller
+than in summer, which is due to (1) fewer clammers, because of the
+severe work in cold weather; (2) less working days, as the clammer
+is often unable to dig for weeks, and even months, and also cannot
+work early or late tides, as in summer. In spite of this diminution
+of supply, the winter price is practically no higher. This is due to
+a smaller demand in winter, as well as to the influx of the Maine
+clams at this season. In summer there is an increased demand for
+clams, caused by the arrival of the summer people at the seashore; and
+large quantities of this shellfish are used by hotels, cottages, etc.
+This increase in demand is enough to offset the increase in supply,
+resulting in a stationary price.
+
+The price varies as to the quality of the clams, whether soaked or
+unsoaked, small or large, good or poor looking shells, and fresh or
+stale. The average price as received by the clammer for clams in the
+shell is 75 cents per bushel; shucked clams, when soaked, 45-50 cents
+per gallon.
+
+
+_Arrangement of Towns._
+
+Owing to the peculiarities of the different localities, it has been
+impossible to satisfactorily arrange the towns alphabetically.
+Therefore, in order to present local comparisons, they have been
+arranged in geographical order, starting at the northern boundary of
+the State.
+
+
+_Salisbury._
+
+Salisbury, the most northerly town in the State, has a good clam
+territory, very similar to that of Newburyport, though much smaller in
+area.
+
+Almost all the clam ground, and practically all the very good digging,
+is comprised in a single flat, which extends along the northerly bank
+of the Merrimac for nearly 2 miles. This flat is about 900 feet wide,
+on an average, and has a total area of 216 acres. On the eastern end,
+and skirting the channel, it is sandy; but for the most part it is mud
+throughout, varying from a hard, smooth surface in the middle portion
+to a soft, scummy soil on the west.
+
+About 100 acres in the central section of this flat are covered with
+a thick set of clams, especially from 1 to 2 inches. This territory
+furnishes the bulk of the good digging, and is being constantly turned
+over and the larger clams sorted out. Roughly speaking, the main east
+half of the flat is sandy, or hard mud, with very good clamming, the
+western half softer mud, with fair or scattering clams. This is an
+exceptionally fine natural clam flat, and if properly cultivated its
+production would be immensely increased. At the eastern extremity of
+the flat a long, narrow cove extends in a general northerly direction
+into the main land. This cove, including the outer fringing bars,
+contains some 34 acres of flats, for the most part sandy and rather
+poorly productive, though no considerable area is anywhere strictly
+barren. The combined clam flat territory of the town aggregates
+250 acres, comprising 150 acres of good clamming and 100 acres of
+scattering clams; of these, 216 acres are of mud and 34 acres of sand.
+
+While the town records show 66 licensed clammers, only about 50 make
+clamming their chief occupation. The industry is carried on in much
+the same manner as at Newburyport; $625 is invested in boats and
+implements, and some 15,000 bushels of clams, aggregating $16,500, are
+annually produced.
+
+The clam industry at Salisbury is largely stationary as regards
+available territory, while the production varies considerably from year
+to year. There is little or no town legislation affecting the industry,
+except the issuing of permits by the selectmen. These permits cost 25
+cents, and are required from every clammer.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   66
+  Capital invested,                              $625
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                 15,000
+      Value,                                  $16,500
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand                                         34
+      Mud,                                        216
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      250
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                              150
+      Scattering clams,                           100
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                 $70,000
+
+
+_Newburyport._
+
+Newburyport is pre-eminently the clam town of Massachusetts. It
+produces the most clams, gives employment to the most men, and has on
+the whole the finest flats.
+
+The total clam-growing area of this town comprises about 1,080 acres;
+of this, some 800 acres are more or less productive, while the balance,
+280 acres, is practically nonproductive. Scattering clams exist
+everywhere, so there are, properly speaking, no truly barren flats.
+
+The flats of Newburyport, broad, level and continuous, are peculiarly
+adapted to clam culture. The general type of soil is mud, varying from
+a soft, sticky variety on the west coast, and also along the shores
+of Plum Island, to a firm, hard surface in the great middle section
+north of Woodbridge's Island, where clams flourish most abundantly and
+furnish the best digging within the city limits. Here nearly 100 acres
+are covered with a heavy set of 1 to 2 inch clams. Altogether there are
+some 930 acres of this mud. Much of this, especially to the west and
+south, is apparently unfavorable to clams, being soft and unwholesome,
+but even here at certain seasons clams are dug extensively.
+
+The sand flats include the shifting Hump sands that fringe the Merrimac
+channel and the Cove on Plum Island. These and other minor sections
+comprise about 150 acres. The Hump sands are quite productive. The
+other sand flats are not entirely barren, but practically unutilized.
+
+The clam industry at Newburyport furnishes employment for about 175
+men, although over 200 depend upon it for some portion of their income.
+The season lasts the year round, though on account of storms and ice
+the winter's work is rather uncertain. A good fisherman will, under
+favorable circumstances, dig several bushels of clams at a tide, though
+the ordinary man will probably not average more than a bushel and a
+half, taking the whole year into account.
+
+The outlay of capital invested is comparatively small. A flat-bottom
+boat or dory, a clam hoe or two, and three or four wire-bottom baskets,
+constitute a clammer's outfit, costing altogether perhaps $15 or $20.
+As two or more men frequently go in one boat, even this expenditure
+may be reduced. The shore property in use, consisting of from 8 to
+10 shanties, is also inconsiderable. Several power boats are used,
+however, and their added cost brings the aggregate money invested up to
+about $2,700.
+
+The flats of Newburyport are a large factor in its economic wealth.
+During 1907 they produced nearly 55,500 bushels of clams, exceeding
+$61,000 in value. Nearly two-thirds of these clams were shucked, that
+is, removed from the shell and sold by the gallon. In this form,
+usually soaked to increase their volume, they retail for about 45
+cents per gallon. As clams in the shell, sold for "steamers," etc.,
+will hardly bring more than 65 cents per bushel, the process of
+shucking nearly doubles the value to the fisherman, as a bushel of
+clams in the shell will produce from 2 to 3 gallons of soaked clams.
+The income of the average clammer will hardly exceed $350 per year, but
+a really energetic and industrious fisherman may in the same time make
+from $500 to $700, or even more. Many of the men have individual orders
+from dealers in Lynn, Haverhill and the neighboring cities, while the
+local dealers ship largely to Boston.
+
+The regulation of the industry by city ordinance is of very little
+note. Practically the only legislation pertaining to it is the law
+which requires every clammer to have a permit, but even this regulation
+is but indifferently enforced. The Newbury flats are likewise free to
+the Newburyport clammers, and part of the Newburyport production comes
+from these outside flats.
+
+The history of the clam industry at Newburyport is one of constant
+change. Twenty years ago large areas on southwest Joppa were
+practically barren; now they are quite productive. The reverse is true
+of Ball's flat on Plum Island, which, though once of great importance,
+is now almost waste. Though no serious inroads have as yet been made, a
+slow but steady decline in the industry is distinctly noticeable.
+
+       COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879 (SALISBURY AND NEWBURYPORT).
+
+  =======+============+=========+======+==========+==========
+         |            |         |      |          |
+   YEAR. | Production |  Value. | Men. | Capital. |  Price
+         | (Bushels). |         |      |          |   per
+         |            |         |      |          | Bushel.
+  =======+============+=========+======+==========+==========
+         |            |         |      |          |
+   1879, |   28,800   | $11,520 |   60 |   $750   |  $0.40
+         |            |         |      |          |
+   1907, |   70,500   |  77,500 |  241 |  3,325   |  1.10
+  =======+============+=========+======+==========+==========
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                  175
+  Capital invested,                            $2,700
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                 55,500
+      Value,                                  $61,000
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       150
+      Mud,                                        930
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                    1,080
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                              800
+      Scattering clams,                           280
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                $250,000
+
+
+_Newbury._
+
+The town of Newbury has in itself no shellfish industry, although
+there is an extensive area of suitable flats which are worked with
+equal rights by the Newburyport clammers. These flats comprise some
+360 acres, and extend along both sides of Plum Island Sound and
+Parker River. Over 100 acres of scattering clams occur, though not
+in sufficient quantities for the most part to make very profitable
+digging. The remainder, some 260 acres, though almost all suitable for
+the production of large quantities of clams, is practically barren.
+
+The principal type of soil is mud, and the mud flats comprise about
+250 acres. The flats of Parker River and those in its immediate
+neighborhood, however, are largely sand, and altogether they aggregate
+about 110 acres. Of these, "the thoroughfare" is practically the only
+one which furnishes clams in any quantity. Sections of the broad
+flats which border on Plum Island Sound produce scattering clams of
+large size. There is, however, no very good digging in town, and no
+consistent effort seems ever to have been made to utilize the great
+wealth which lies dormant in the clam flat territory. Six Newbury
+men dig intermittently in the summer, and furnish some 300 bushels,
+worth about $250, for town trade. However, this does not take into
+consideration the amount taken from these flats by the Newburyport
+clammers.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    6
+  Capital invested,                               $75
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    300
+      Value,                                     $250
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       110
+      Mud,                                        250
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      360
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                           100
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        260
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                 $40,000
+
+
+_Rowley._
+
+Rowley presents a more striking example of the decline in the shellfish
+industry than any other town in this region.
+
+Four hundred acres of good flats border Plum Island and Rowley River
+within the town limits, but of these only 20 at most are economically
+productive. Eighty acres more are not entirely barren, though
+practically worthless, while the remaining 300, though almost all well
+adapted for clam culture, are barren.
+
+The main type of soil is sand, and the sand flats, for the most part
+in Plum Island Sound, comprise some 250 acres. The remainder, 150
+acres, is mostly mud in scattered sections along the Rowley River and
+in patches on the main flats. The only really productive flats are
+the little coves and creeks of Rowley River and the Knob Reefs in
+Plum Island Sound. The Knob Reef clam grounds produce very large and
+fine clams, which lie on the lower edge of the flat and are exposed
+only a short time every tide. Knob Reefs also has the distinction of
+possessing probably the finest clam set of its size in the State, which
+would furnish abundant opportunity for restocking all the barren Rowley
+River flats, if the town authorities had taken proper measures to
+transplant this seed. As it is, this extensive set, too thick for good
+growth, is rapidly wasting away.
+
+The history of the industry is one of steady decline. Reliable evidence
+exists to show that almost all the flats of Rowley once produced clams,
+and that large areas now waste were formerly productive. That these
+immense barren areas, possessing such an enormous latent wealth, should
+be allowed to remain thus unimproved, is a most conclusive argument for
+the need of radical action. No settled attempt, however, except for a
+single closed season in 1906, has ever been made by the clammers or
+town authorities to better the conditions, or to check the decline in
+the productive territory that remains.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   15
+  Capital invested,                              $800
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                  2,000
+      Value,                                   $1,500
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       250
+      Mud,                                        150
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      400
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                               20
+      Scattering clams,                            80
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        300
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                 $60,000
+
+
+_Ipswich._
+
+Ipswich is second only to Newburyport in the production of clams,
+and has perhaps even greater possibilities of development. The
+clam territory of the two towns, while nearly equal in extent, is,
+however, markedly different in general characteristics. The flats
+of Newburyport, while few in number, are broad, continuous, and have
+a great degree of similarity throughout. The flats of Ipswich, on
+the other hand, are divided into a great number of relatively small
+sections, widely diversified in character, and scattered along an
+extensive coast line. As these flats are in many respects the most
+interesting and important of any town in the State, it seems well to
+examine them in detail.
+
+Four distinct divisions can be distinguished in the clam territory of
+this town: Ipswich River, Plum Island, Green's Creek and Roger Island,
+and Essex River flats.
+
+Taken in the order named, the Ipswich River has in itself a great
+variety of clam ground. Both sides of the river for nearly 3 miles are
+fringed with bars, mainly of mud though sandy near the mouth. Some of
+the mud flats are so soft that they are practically barren, or given up
+largely to mussel beds; while much of the sand, as, _e.g._, the main
+portion of the High Sands, is too shifting to be valuable. The larger
+part of these river flats are, however, productive.
+
+The Plum Island division comprises Lufkins, Point Peter, Appletons,
+Foresides and several other minor flats. Of these, Lufkins is very
+important. It occupies a semicircular depression on the coast of Plum
+Island, and, owing to its peculiar location, the swift current which
+flows past its outer edge makes a double eddy at both ebb and flood
+tide. These eddies sweep gently over its broad surface, and deposit a
+fine silt which has made the characteristic soil a hard, bluish clay.
+This is the only important clay flat of this region. The total area of
+Lufkins is 46 acres. The outer border to the north is mud, becoming
+soft; to the south, sandy. The portion near shore is, as has been
+stated, a clayey soil, and it is here that clams are found abundantly.
+An exceptionally good set of 1 to 2 inch clams occupies from 3 to
+4 acres of this portion. Though clams are numerous, the exceeding
+hardness of the soil makes digging rather difficult.
+
+Point Peter, or "P'int" Peter, is also an important flat, comprising
+altogether 28 acres, though about 7 acres of the outer portion extend
+far into the current, and are of so shifting and sandy a nature as to
+be practically worthless. Most of the remainder is mud, varying from
+sand and hard mud on the outside to soft mud in the creeks that lead
+into the main land. The central portion of the flat is peculiarly
+adapted to the culture of clams, however, and is very productive.
+
+Appleton's flat comprises about 6 acres of hard sand, verging into mud,
+thickly strewn with old clam shells. It lies at the mouth of Perkins
+and Pine Creeks, which run for about a mile into the main land of Plum
+Island, and contain nearly 25 acres each of fairly productive mud
+flats. Appleton's is a valuable flat, and the clams dug here are large.
+
+The Foresides is a thatch island a little over a mile in length, lying
+in the mid channel of Plum Island Sound. The flats which surround it
+on all sides are practically all sand, and comprise about 80 acres.
+The whole western side is more or less productive, though the outer
+edge, where the strong cross currents of the channel sweep over, is too
+much rippled to be suitable for clam growth. The strip of sand along
+the northern and northeastern sides, though rather narrow and limited
+in area, is productive, while most of the southeastern portion, which
+projects far into the channel, is barren and totally unadapted for soft
+clams, though bedded with sea clams. The productive sections of this
+flat are much dug, and altogether it is one of the most important of
+the Ipswich clam grounds.
+
+The west coast of Plum Island Sound, comprising the Green's Creek
+and Roger Island territories, extends from the Ipswich to the Rowley
+rivers. This division contains the bulk of the waste and barren flats
+of the town, although there is exceptionally good clamming in Stacy's
+Creek, Third Creek and the "Nutfield."
+
+The Essex River region is rather remote for most of the clammers,
+and hard to reach, but furnishes on the whole some of the very best
+digging. The three main flats of this division are the Essex beach,
+Wheeler's, and the Spit. Essex beach has a very good set, evenly
+sprinkled over the ridgy, shifting bars that skirt the channel.
+
+Wheeler's is an irregular sand bar, occupying about 77 acres. Fully
+one-half of this is very productive, and in the main portion occurs
+another thick set very similar to that on Essex beach.
+
+The Spit, mainly sand or sandy mud, lies in the three towns of Ipswich,
+Essex and Gloucester. The whole area is some 300 acres, about a third
+lying within the town of Ipswich. This whole bar is so liable to
+change that any calculations based on its precise area or location are
+decidedly unreliable. Very good digging occurs, however, in limited
+areas on the north and west sides of the Ipswich territory.
+
+These four divisions comprise the clamming territory of Ipswich, and
+aggregate 970 acres, of which 390 acres is sand and 500 mud. This also
+includes 15 acres of mussels scattered along Ipswich River, Plum Island
+and Green's Creek region, and about 10 acres of eel grass in various
+localities. Over 800 acres is more or less productive, about half being
+good clamming.
+
+About 50 regular clammers depend upon these flats for a living,
+though 136 permits were issued in 1907. Here, owing to the greater
+distances to be traversed, many power boats are used. Nearly $7,500 is
+invested in the industry, and 25,000 bushels of clams, at a valuation
+of $18,750, are annually produced. The relative decrease in price as
+compared with Newburyport is due to the fact that shucking is not so
+extensively practised here.
+
+The town laws merely require a permit from every clammer, for which
+no charge is made. Such permit is issued at the discretion of the
+selectmen, and requires of the recipient six months' residence in the
+town and two years in the State. In past years the town has made
+several by-laws for the protection of shellfish, chiefly in the nature
+of partial closed seasons; but unfortunately considerable difficulty
+has been found in enforcing these excellent laws, and the results have
+been far from satisfactory.
+
+Ipswich has jealously guarded the rights of its clam flats, and has
+protected them in every way from the invasion of outsiders, which in
+part accounts for the excellent condition of these flats, which were
+originally deeded to the Commoners by the Crown, and from them to the
+town. Ipswich is the only town in the Commonwealth which has thus
+directly received its clam flats as its own property, and naturally has
+done more to improve its natural clam resources than any other town in
+the State.
+
+The history of the industry shows little change; some few flats once
+considered worthless have been opened and utilized; others once
+productive have been dug out and allowed to become waste. On the whole,
+the industry is following the trend of the shellfisheries everywhere,
+and slowly but steadily declining.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                  136
+  Capital invested,                            $7,500
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                 25,000
+      Value,                                  $18,750
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       390
+      Mud,                                        500
+      Gravel,                                      55
+      Mussels and eel grass,                       25
+      Total,                                      970
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                              400
+      Scattering clams,                           420
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        125
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       25
+  Possible normal production,                $200,000
+
+
+_Essex._
+
+Essex, while still ranking as an important clam-producing town, has
+a very imperfect development of her shellfish resources. The total
+clam flat area comprises some 650 acres, and, though scarcely more
+than 25 acres can be considered as unfit for the growth of clams, and
+consequently barren, only a little more than half the remainder is
+at all productive, and of this probably less than 150 acres yields
+any financial return. In other words, 325 acres of good clam flat is
+allowed to remain practically barren.
+
+The main type of soil is sand, and nearly 500 acres may be properly
+classed under this head. The remaining 150 acres are mud, and are
+located in the creeks along the river and in the coves north of Hog
+Island. The productive sections are scattered for the most part along
+both sides of the Essex River, and well-developed areas are also
+found at its mouth and on the Spit. There are several good locations
+of seed clams. One section of about 25 acres occurs on the west side
+of the Spit. This is composed of 1 to 2 inch clams, running 10 to 40
+per square foot. At the mouth of the river on the north side occurs
+another set of ½-inch clams, covering about 10 acres. On the flats west
+of Cross Island is found a third set of ½ to 2 inch clams, comprising
+about 30 acres. Other smaller patches of set are scattered along the
+river almost up to its source.
+
+About 50 men derive an income from these flats. Some $1,200 is
+invested, and the annual product exceeds 15,000 bushels, valued at
+$12,750.
+
+The town of Essex has realized the importance of the clam problem, and
+has attempted through legislation to deal with it. The selectmen are
+empowered to grant to citizens of the town an area consisting of an
+acre or less on flats already barren, for the purpose of raising clams,
+and in this manner partially restock the flats. A rental of $2 is
+charged, covering a period of five years, and an additional fee of 50
+cents is required for recording. In spite of inadequate protection, the
+experiment has been conducted long enough to prove that these flats can
+be made profitable to the clammers.
+
+The history of the clam industry at Essex is one of extensive decline.
+There is every reason to believe that the greater part at least of the
+waste area was once very productive. Prof. James L. Kellogg in the
+United States Fish Commission Bulletin for 1899, says:--
+
+    We have much evidence that the clam industry in Essex has,
+    in the past, been extensive.... Much more testimony of a
+    similar character may be had to show that the flats once very
+    productive have almost entirely failed.
+
+                     COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
+
+  ======================+========+========
+                        |        |
+                        | 1879.  |  1907.
+  ----------------------+--------+--------
+  Production (bushels), |    500 |  15,000
+  Value,                | $4,500 | $12,750
+  Men,                  |     75 |      50
+  Capital,              |      - |  $1,200
+  Price (cents),        |     40 |      85
+  ======================+========+=========
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   50
+  Capital invested,                            $1,200
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                 15,000
+      Value,                                  $12,750
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       500
+      Mud,                                        125
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                       25
+      Total,                                      650
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                              150
+      Scattering clams,                           150
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        325
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       25
+  Possible normal production,                $120,000
+
+
+_Gloucester._
+
+The far-celebrated deep sea fisheries of Gloucester overshadow her
+humble shellfish industry; but within her tidal flats lie undeveloped
+resources, which if properly brought out would form no inconsiderable
+factor in her annual revenue. Even now her clam fishery attains
+considerable proportions, though by no means what it once was, or what
+it might be were suitable cultural methods employed.
+
+The main areas of clam-producing territory lie in the Annisquam River
+and in the Essex River in West Gloucester. The grounds in the Annisquam
+are the more productive. This river is some 4 miles long, and is
+bordered for the greater part of this distance with tidal flats. Of
+these the sand flats predominate, though there are large areas of mud
+and extensive beds of mussels. On the extreme head of the river, known
+as the Dumfudgeon region, dredging operations for the Gloucester canal
+have somewhat impaired the flats, but as a whole the river seems in
+every way suitable for the production of an abundant harvest of clams.
+
+The flats of West Gloucester, including a portion of the Essex Spit,
+are largely unproductive. The Spit is the only flat of any extent in
+this region which is at present of real economic value; the remaining
+flats, scattered along the south shore of the Essex River and its
+tributary creeks, are for the most part practically barren.
+
+The total area of clam flats in Gloucester approximates 550 acres. Of
+this, some 250 acres are sand, 200 mud, while there are about 100 acres
+of mussels and eel grass, which cannot be considered at all adapted for
+clam culture. Only a fraction of the whole, 75 acres, more or less, is
+good clamming; a scant 100 acres produces scattering clams; 275 acres
+are barren, though capable of producing clams; while 100 acres may
+never be made productive.
+
+Eight men dig regularly on these flats the year round, and 23 others
+work intermittently. The capital invested amounts to over $600, and
+the annual output exceeds 6,000 bushels, valued at $8,000. Most of the
+clams produced at Gloucester are shucked either for market or bait.
+
+Local legislation has no bearing on the shellfish question, and no
+effort is being made either to better conditions in the clam industry
+or to check its steady decline.
+
+The industry has fallen off greatly in the past few years. In 1875
+there were 90 regular clammers, and a man could dig 6 bushels to
+a tide, where now 8 regular and 23 intermittent clammers find it
+difficult to get from 1½ bushels to 3 bushels per tide.
+
+  COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
+  ======+============+========+======+===========+========
+  YEAR. | Production | Value. | Men. | Capital   | Price.
+        | (Bushels). |        |      | Invested. |
+  ------+------------+--------+------+-----------+--------
+  1879, |   13,978   | $5,200 |  92  |  $2,000   | $0.40
+  1907, |    6,000   |  8,000 |  31  |     600   |  1.33
+  ======+============+========+======+===========+========
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   31
+  Capital invested,                              $600
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                  6,000
+      Value,                                   $8,000
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       250
+      Mud,                                        200
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                      100
+      Total,                                      550
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                               75
+      Scattering clams,                           100
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        275
+  Waste barren area (acres),                      100
+  Possible normal production,                 $70,000
+
+
+_Manchester._
+
+Manchester has a coast line so much exposed, and consequently so small
+a territory of tidal flats, that it is not surprising to find its clam
+industry of very insignificant proportions. Affairs are in much the
+same state of apathy as at Beverly, though Manchester does not possess
+the resources of the former town, and could not, in the nature of the
+case, carry on any extensive clam business. Its facilities, however,
+poor as they are, are very imperfectly utilized; hence the present
+state of depletion, verging on absolute exhaustion.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    100
+      Value,                                     $100
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        10
+      Mud,                                         10
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       20
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                             5
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         10
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        5
+  Possible normal production,                  $2,000
+
+
+_Beverly._
+
+Beverly has practically no clam industry. The area of tidal flats,
+comprising nearly 50 acres, is at present unprofitable and nearly
+worthless. As at Swampscott, some clams still continue to be dug
+for bait and for local clam bakes, but any evidence of a systematic
+business has long ceased to exist. Thirty years ago clams were far
+more abundant, though there was never an extensive industry. The town
+authorities require no licenses and make no efforts to revive the
+industry.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    100
+      Value,                                     $100
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        30
+      Mud,                                         20
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       50
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            10
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         30
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
+  Possible normal production,                  $5,000
+
+
+_Salem._
+
+Salem has far better natural advantages for clam culture than the
+other towns in its immediate vicinity, and leads in clam production,
+though the industry is of very inferior proportions. Seven men are at
+present employed in digging the harbor flats, where the clams have
+very recently seeded in. Many of these clams, though rather small, are
+shucked, and the remainder are sold in the local markets. The entire
+value of the annual production does not exceed $200, and the capital
+invested amounts to but $75. This is rather poor showing for 100 acres
+of flats for the most part comparatively good, and capable of yielding
+$11,000 annually. The Salem clammers dig also in the Danvers River in
+the town of Danvers.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    7
+  Capital invested,                               $75
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    200
+      Value,                                     $200
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        75
+      Mud,                                         25
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      100
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                5
+      Scattering clams,                            10
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         70
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       15
+  Possible normal production,                 $11,000
+
+
+_Lynn._
+
+The city of Lynn has within its tidal flats the latent resources of
+an important industry. Its clam grounds could, if properly utilized,
+yield a great increase over their present inconsiderable return.
+No legislation on the part of the city authorities has intervened
+to improve the shellfish production or to prevent the depletion of
+valuable territory which has been allowed to gradually lapse into an
+unsanitary desert. While at low tide about 400 acres of flats spread
+over the broad harbor or border the banks of the Saugus River, but 40
+acres of this wide expanse yield any appreciable revenue. The principal
+part of the digging is done on the mud flats of the Saugus River. Here
+7 fishermen work intermittently to supply the local market during the
+summer months. There is some good territory at the mouth of the river
+toward the north, and scattering clams occur along the eastern shores,
+but the main flats of the harbor are for the most part barren.
+
+The deposit of sewage from the city drainage has undoubtedly had a
+prejudicial effect on much of this area, as the unpleasing scum which
+covers the soft, sticky mud and eel grass bears abundant witness.
+Whether measures undertaken to reclaim this lost area would in the long
+run yield profitable returns is an undecided question, but much might
+be done, by the employment of judicious cultural methods, to increase
+the yield of those flats which are properly productive. No exact
+returns of the annual clam harvest for this region are obtainable, as
+most of the output is disposed of at retail, but it cannot exceed 1,000
+bushels, and probably falls far short of that figure; $1,000, then, or
+thereabouts, represents the total monetary income from this fishery.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    7
+  Capital invested,                              $100
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                  1,000
+      Value,                                   $1,000
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        90
+      Mud,                                        300
+      Gravel,                                       5
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        5
+      Total,                                      400
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                               10
+      Scattering clams,                            30
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        160
+  Waste barren area (acres),                      200
+  Possible normal production,                 $26,000
+
+
+_Saugus._
+
+At Saugus conditions in many respects parallel those at Lynn. The clam
+grounds, while they by no means equal those of the neighboring city in
+area, are on the whole better, as they are freer from contaminating
+sewage. Of the 250 acres which comprise the normal tide flat area, only
+100 acres, or 40 per cent., can be said to be strictly barren. The
+remaining 150 acres is an undeveloped asset, as its value lies far more
+in its prospects than in its present productivity. While scattering
+clams occur throughout, no more than 25 acres can be accounted paying
+property. This remunerative territory lies chiefly in the Saugus River
+and in the vicinity of the Point of Pines. Here 10 men dig quite
+regularly, particularly in the summer, though none of them depend
+wholly upon this source of revenue for a livelihood. The annual output
+equals that of Lynn, both in amount and valuation. To these flats, with
+their undeveloped resources, local legislation gives practically no
+attention.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   10
+  Capital invested,                              $100
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                  1,000
+      Value,                                   $1,000
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       100
+      Mud,                                        150
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      250
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                               10
+      Scattering clams,                            40
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        100
+  Waste barren area (acres),                      100
+  Possible normal production,                 $22,000
+
+
+_Nahant._
+
+Although Nahant has a large area of tidal flats, it is not on the
+whole favorably located, and much that would otherwise be available is
+necessarily waste. The territory which borders the western coast is not
+barren, but most of it is not productive enough to be profitable.
+
+A few scattered sections repay the clammer for his labor, and from
+these sections perhaps 300 bushels a year are dug for home consumption.
+Four or five men are employed at intervals in the summer months, but no
+one of them depends upon this source of income for more than transient
+employment, as the entire value of the yearly harvest does not exceed
+$300. As there are nearly 250 acres of flats in Nahant, this would be a
+revenue of $1.60 per acre, on an average. However, this is not a fair
+comparison, for much of the territory apparently available is, as has
+been stated, properly waste. Nevertheless, an industry of far greater
+proportions than at present could be attained if wise legislation were
+directed to that end.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    300
+      Value,                                     $300
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        50
+      Mud,                                        100
+      Gravel,                                     100
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      250
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            50
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        150
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
+  Possible normal production,                 $25,000
+
+
+_Boston Harbor._
+
+Owing to the danger arising from sewage contamination the State Board
+of Health, on Dec. 6, 1906, requested the Department of Fisheries and
+Game to prohibit the digging of clams for market in Boston harbor.
+The region closed by this law lies to the west of an imaginary line
+running from Point Shirley through Deer Island to the northeastern end
+of Peddocks Island; thence in a southwesterly direction to the extreme
+point of Hough's Neck. This territory includes Winthrop, Chelsea,
+Charlestown, Everett, Somerville, Cambridge, Boston, East Boston,
+South Boston, Dorchester, Neponset and Quincy. For convenience all the
+prescribed territory is treated under the head of "Boston harbor."
+
+The action of the State Board of Health in closing Boston harbor was
+necessitated by a due regard for the public health, as it seemed
+inexpedient to allow clams dug from this territory and subject to
+sewage contamination to be marketed for food. Necessary as this act
+may have been, the closing of 5,000 acres of flats for the production
+of edible shellfish made valueless an important source of revenue, and
+threw a large number of clammers out of employment. Some alleviation
+of these conditions has resulted through the granting of permits to
+take shellfish for bait from the prescribed waters, thus furnishing a
+number of men with transient employment. The value of the law, however,
+is almost completely nullified, for the danger to the public health is
+actual, and not imaginary. Under present conditions it is well-nigh
+impossible to make the necessary surveillance so complete as would be
+necessary to prove that clams "dug for bait" are not used as food.
+Further, even in the digging and handling of shellfish in polluted
+waters there is positive danger of transmitting the germs by hands of
+the digger to his own mouth or to other persons.
+
+The nature of the flats permit the division of Boston harbor into three
+sections: (1) the north shore, (2) the south shore, (3) and the islands.
+
+(1) The northern coast of the harbor has extensive mud and sand flats,
+covered for the most part with eel grass or scattered mussel beds. Much
+of the surface is a variety of pebbly gravel, while but little of it
+appears to be good clam ground. The mud flats are mostly covered with a
+sewage scum which renders them unsuitable for clams. Scattering clams
+are found throughout the entire region.
+
+The immediate vicinity of Snake Island in Winthrop and the cove on
+Point Shirley furnish fairly good clamming, while clams are found in a
+greater or less degree upon the extensive flats of Winthrop harbor.
+The flats of the Mystic River, which are of a tenacious mud rather
+unwholesome in appearance, in so far as they have not been encroached
+upon for building purposes, possess scattered patches of very good
+digging, and furnish transient employment to 20 or more men. The flats
+in the Charles and Chelsea rivers likewise furnish fair clamming.
+
+(2) The south shore of the harbor is much like the north, except that
+the mud type of soil predominates. The large flats, mainly mud, are not
+entirely barren though most of the clams are found in a narrow strip
+of beach along the shore. At South Boston as well as in Dorchester Bay
+clams are found in considerable numbers, though nowhere are there any
+large areas of good clamming.
+
+(3) The islands in the harbor are fringed with pebbly beach, where
+scattering clams are usually found. Apple Island and Governor's Island
+are surrounded with quite extensive flats, which are, however, but
+sparsely productive. Much digging for bait is carried on constantly on
+these pebbly beaches.
+
+_History._--Boston harbor has been in the past a good clamming region,
+as the magnitude of its available flats has rendered possible an
+extensive production. Naturally, the closing of the harbor by the State
+Board of Health has limited the annual production of clams from this
+vicinity, as now the only legal digging is for bait. Owing to this
+partial closed season the clams are said to have been on the increase
+during the last two years. Nevertheless, before the passage of this
+act the fishery had already greatly declined. The decline of the clam
+industry has been going on for years, as even in 1879 Mr. Ernest
+Ingersoll mentions:--
+
+    In Boston harbor clams are much depleted, owing to the fact
+    that they are remorselessly dug the year through, chiefly by
+    a class of ignorant foreigners who go down the harbor for the
+    purpose. July and August are the most productive months, there
+    being a large demand for the "clam bakes" which picnic parties
+    from the cities indulge in on the various beaches. All the
+    clams got in Boston harbor are very small, because they are
+    allowed little chance to grow; in March and April they are
+    hardly worth eating.
+
+                         COMPARISON WITH 1879.
+
+                                1897.     1907.
+  Number of men,                   90       350
+  Annual production:--
+      Bushels,                 40,000     7,500
+      Value,                  $20,000    $6,000
+  Number of dories,                50         -
+  Capital invested,            $1,350    $2,250
+
+In 1879 A. Howard Clark states:--
+
+    The towns around Boston usually charge a license fee of $2 a
+    year for the privilege of taking clams. The clams are in some
+    cases bought up by small operators, who team them into the
+    city, though the diggers sometimes bring them to the city and
+    sell them to the dealers direct from their boats at the wharves.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of licenses,                             350
+  Capital invested,                            $2,250
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                  7,000
+      Value,                                   $5,500
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       500
+      Mud,                                      2,500
+      Gravel,                                   1,000
+      Mussels and eel grass,                    1,000
+      Total,                                    5,000
+  Productive area (acres):--
+  Good clamming,                                  100
+  Scattering clams,                             1,000
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        900
+  Waste barren area (acres),                    3,000
+  Possible normal production,                $330,000
+
+
+_Weymouth._
+
+Weymouth, with its two rivers, possesses an area of flats aggregating
+250 acres. The shores of Fore River are stony, but in spite of the
+hard digging clams are found in fair numbers. The shores of Back River
+are similar, except for the mud flats on the channel, which are either
+barren or but sparsely productive. A few clams are dug for bait and
+home consumption.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men                                     -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    150
+      Value,                                     $150
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                         -
+      Mud,                                        150
+      Gravel,                                      80
+      Mussels and eel grass,                       20
+      Total,                                      250
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            30
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         50
+  Waste barren area (acres),                      170
+  Possible normal production,                 $11,000
+
+
+_Hingham._
+
+Hingham has an area of tidal flats comprising nearly 650 acres. The
+characteristic soil is of two kinds: a marginal strip of pebbly beach
+extending the full length of the shore, and the broad flats of Hingham
+harbor and Weir River, with their extensive areas of mud, eel grass and
+mussels. The clamming territory is confined for the most part to this
+narrow strip fringing the shore, though scattering clams are found in
+diminished numbers on the mud flats.
+
+The shellfish industry of the town consists mostly in procuring clams,
+mussels and cockles for bait. Clams are dug to some extent for home
+consumption and for the hotels at Nantasket; but the fishery is carried
+on in a desultory manner by a few men who dig when other work fails,
+and who do not wholly depend on clamming for a livelihood.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,.                                   250
+      Value,                                     $250
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        25
+      Mud,                                        450
+      Gravel,                                     100
+      Mussels and eel grass,                       75
+  Total,                                          650
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                           100
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
+  Waste barren area (acres),                      550
+  Possible normal production,                 $20,000
+
+
+_Hull._
+
+The stony shores of Hull offer but little suitable clam area, though
+fair digging is found in the vicinity of Hog Island and in Weir River.
+The usual type of flat is a pebbly or gravel beach, while near White
+Head and Weir River there are large mud areas. Clams are dug only for
+home consumption or for bait.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    100
+      Value,                                     $100
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand                                          -
+      Mud,                                        225
+      Gravel,                                     200
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      425
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            50
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres)          50
+  Waste barren area (acres)                       325
+  Possible normal production,                 $15,000
+
+
+_Cohasset._
+
+Cohasset, though possessing sufficient suitable area to support a
+clam fishery, has no industry of any importance. The greater part
+of the tidal flats are barren, while the remainder are far from
+fertile. The region immediately about White Head and the territory
+opposite extending along Barson's beach are the most productive, while
+scattering clams are found in Little Harbor.
+
+The total acreage of available flat exceeds 100 acres. Of this, 90
+acres are wholly unproductive, and the remainder, 10 acres, is not very
+valuable. The main type of soil is sand, though areas of mud are found
+in the coves. There are no regular clammers, though many clams are dug
+by the citizens of the town for their own use. There has never been a
+clam industry worthy of the name at Cohasset, and the present state of
+apathy appears to be normal. No local regulations of any kind govern
+the fishery.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    200
+      Value,                                     $200
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        50
+      Mud,                                         50
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      100
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            10
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         40
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
+  Possible normal production,                  $6,000
+
+
+_Scituate._
+
+There is no clam industry at Scituate. The selectmen of the town have
+forbidden all exportation of clams for market, and consequently the few
+clams dug are utilized for home consumption.
+
+The possibilities of a future clam industry at this town, while not
+alluring, give indications of some promise. Occasional clams are found
+on the shores of Scituate harbor, as well as its tributary creeks. The
+main undeveloped resource lies, however, along the broad flats of the
+North River. These flats undoubtedly constitute a considerable asset in
+the communal wealth, and the action of the selectmen in maintaining a
+close season will tend to the restocking and consequent utilization of
+this territory.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    200
+      Value,                                     $200
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        50
+      Mud,                                         45
+      Gravel,                                       5
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      100
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            20
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         40
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       40
+  Possible normal production,                  $8,000
+
+
+_Marshfield._
+
+Affairs at Marshfield are in practically the same state of inactivity
+as at Scituate. The town has considerable natural advantages, since
+the North River, which formerly made a wide sweep to the south before
+emptying into the ocean, has opened a new channel within the last ten
+years, forming many acres of excellent clam ground. A close season is
+maintained, although there has been considerable discontent on the part
+of certain individuals relative to this policy of the selectmen. A
+considerable quantity of clams, probably not exceeding 200 bushels per
+annum, are dug for home consumption. There are no shipments for market.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    200
+      Value,                                     $200
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        40
+      Mud,                                         50
+      Gravel,                                      10
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      100
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            30
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         30
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       40
+  Possible normal production,                  $9,000
+
+
+_Duxbury._
+
+The clam industry at Duxbury has a peculiar interest, owing to the
+many perplexing problems which it presents. A vast extent of tidal
+flats, far exceeding in area those of any other town in the State, and
+in a measure suitable for the production of clams, lie almost wholly
+barren. The enormous territory comprised in these flats exceeds 3,500
+acres, or, roughly, 5½ square miles. This is greater than the combined
+clam area of Salisbury, Newburyport, Ipswich, Essex and Gloucester,
+which is the finest territory in the State, and produces most of the
+Massachusetts clams. Duxbury, with a greater area than all these towns,
+dug in 1907 about 700 bushels of clams,--an amount which could well
+have been produced from 2 acres of ground. An investigation into the
+history of the town shows us that this state of barrenness has not
+always existed. There was a time when Duxbury was justly celebrated for
+her shellfish, as is still shown by the allusions to Duxbury clams on
+the menus of many hotels and restaurants. The dealers at Taunton, Fall
+River and other Massachusetts cities formerly sent to Duxbury large
+orders for clams, which were always forthcoming. Now, as far as can be
+ascertained, not a single barrel is shipped out of the town from year
+to year.
+
+This transition from a state of prosperity to one of almost total
+barrenness is replete with interest, and is difficult of solution.
+Doubtless several causes may have contributed to this general decline.
+In the first place, it is evident that the Duxbury flats were never in
+so flourishing a state of production as those of the Cape Ann district.
+This assumption is amply supported by historical records, and it is
+also supplemented, at least, by the fact that a great per cent. of the
+present territory is largely unfit for the production of clams in any
+quantity. As these flats have changed scarcely at all for many years,
+is it unreasonable to suppose that they ever have been very suitable
+since the first settlement of the country?
+
+As for the historical records referred to, the weight of evidence
+everywhere tends to prove that many years ago there was a fairly large
+output of clams yearly from Duxbury. But while this output was large
+in itself, it was, in proportion to the possible area, exceedingly
+small. Mr. Ernest Ingersoll states that in 1879 there were yearly
+exported from Duxbury 5,000 bushels of clams. At that time, he says,
+the industry had declined. Clamming was then prosecuted with no such
+vigor as at the present time, for the price was low, and the demand,
+except for bait, by no means excessive. Clams had not yet come to be
+looked on as such important articles of food as at present, and the
+business of digging them as carried on then could have made little
+inroad on well-stocked flats. The great probability is that only a
+small percentage of the whole territory was ever very productive. An
+observer at the present time, viewing from an eminence the flats of
+Duxbury at low tide, could not help being struck with the singular
+appearance which they present. He would see spread out before him a
+broad expanse apparently of green meadows, with long, narrow streams of
+water winding in and out among them. These seeming meadows, stretching
+on mile after mile, broken here and there by a patch of clear sand, are
+the tidal flats of Duxbury, more than 2,700 acres of which are covered
+with a thick growth of eel grass.
+
+How many years this eel grass has covered the flats no one knows. It
+shifts somewhat, as the ice in winter sometimes plows up an immense
+surface, stripping it of its green covering. For the most part it seems
+to grow steadily year after year, until the roots, decaying stalks and
+the fine sediment which they have collected build up a spongy crust
+over the true bed of the flat. It is this spongy, clayey soil which is
+the predominant type in the eel-grass region, though a large area is
+soft mud with little patches of hard sand. It does not seem surprising
+that clams are not abundant in this soggy medium, covered with its
+thick matting of grass. Clams do exist, however, for occasionally when
+the ice in the winter storms has scraped bare a section of these flats,
+scattering large clams can be found.
+
+Whether anything can be done with these eel-grass flats on a
+sufficiently large scale to render the undertaking profitable, and
+whether they would prove good ground for clam culture if the eel grass
+were removed, is a problem. However, the sand flats free from eel grass
+comprise nearly 800 acres,--an area sufficient in itself to furnish a
+very large industry for the town. Smooth, hard and unshifting, they
+have the appearance of being in every way suitable for the production
+of an enormous amount of shellfish. Yet, barring cockles, mussels and
+razor clams, shellfish are rare on most of these flats, which, in spite
+of their inviting appearance, are practically barren.
+
+The only places where clams are dug in any quantity is along the shore.
+Here little scattered patches, remnants perhaps of the former large
+supply, repay the clammer's toil with a scant return. Little or no
+effort is made to dig them on the main flats, and few are so dug unless
+they happen to be unearthed by accident when the men are searching
+for razor clams for bait. The supply is hardly adequate for home
+consumption and the demands for bait by local fishermen.
+
+Whether all the great tidal territory of Duxbury can ever be
+reconstructed into profitable clam ground is a difficult question.
+There exist, however, no known reasons why a fishery at least as
+flourishing as that of twenty years ago could not be re-established
+and indefinitely developed. A great industry was once in evidence
+here. Outside the boggy eel-grass marshes (doubtful territory at best)
+are wide expanses of clean sand flats, suitable in every way for the
+cultivation of clams. That the ingenuity of man properly administered
+can build up an enormous industry on these sand flats alone, no
+thoughtful person can doubt, and then utilization of these great barren
+Duxbury wastes will partially, at least, be accomplished.
+
+                     COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
+
+  ======+============+=========
+  YEAR. | Production | Value.
+        | (Bushels). |
+  ------+------------+---------
+  1879, |   5,000    | $2,500
+  1907, |     700    |    600
+  ======+============+=========
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    5
+  Capital invested,                               $60
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    700
+      Value,                                     $600
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       800
+      Mud,                                          -
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                    2,700
+      Total,                                    3,500
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                5
+      Scattering clams,                            10
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        800
+  Waste barren area (acres),                    2,685
+  Possible normal production,                 $83,000
+
+
+_Kingston._
+
+The condition of the clam industry at Kingston is in many respects
+parallel to that at Duxbury. The clam flat area (some 600 acres) is
+very much smaller, but the character of the soil is essentially the
+same, consisting for the most part of clay, soft mud and eel-grass
+marshes, with a relatively small proportion of really suitable ground.
+
+The two main flats of the town are Egobert's and Gray's. Egobert's,
+the larger of the two, has an area of about 275 acres. Most of this
+is practically waste, owing to a thick growth of eel grass; but a
+triangular piece on the mid-southern section is bare. This portion of
+smooth, unshifting sand comprises about 80 acres. A few patches of
+clams are scattered along the outer edge, near the channel, but hardly
+any of these patches produce clams enough to make it profitable to dig
+them. The great bulk of this territory is entirely barren.
+
+Gray's flat is of an entirely different type. It is a long flat, with
+a fairly uniform width of about 100 yards. It runs through its entire
+length parallel to the shore, while on the other side it is separated
+from Egobert's by a 300-foot channel. Like Egobert's, it is covered
+for the most part by eel grass, but it is essentially different in
+the nature of its soil, which is mud throughout. Although the total
+area of the flat is about 115 acres, an irregular section of bare mud
+on the southeastern side, comprising 30 acres, is the only available
+clam territory. This section is composed of soft mud on the north and
+south, rather poorly suited for clam culture; but the mid section
+contains several acres of hard mud, which seems well adapted, and here
+clams are found in sufficient quantities to keep several men digging
+intermittently through the summer months.
+
+Along the shore a few clam grants have been given to individuals by
+the local authorities. These are managed with fair success, though no
+business other than that of supplying the local demand is carried on.
+The possibilities of forming a clam industry here of importance is
+evident, though through lack of available territory it could never give
+promise of such a development as might be looked for from Duxbury or
+Plymouth.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    4
+  Capital invested,                               $50
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    500
+      Value,                                     $450
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       150
+      Mud,                                          -
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                      450
+      Total,                                      600
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                5
+      Scattering clams,                             5
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        150
+  Waste barren area (acres),                      440
+  Possible normal production,                 $18,000
+
+
+_Plymouth._
+
+The clam industry at Plymouth is at a low ebb. The same problems which
+baffle progress at Duxbury and Kingston are present here with all
+their complications. The combined available territory, exceeding 1,600
+acres, save for a few unimportant sections, is wholly barren. While it
+is true that fully two-thirds of this great area is eel-grass waste,
+and in its present state of little value for the production of clams,
+there remains over 500 acres of good flats, for the most part sand
+well adapted for shellfish culture. It is certain that a flourishing
+industry has existed here in former times. From the earliest history
+of the colony, records tell of the excellent clam flats at Plymouth;
+and we learn that the Pilgrims during the darkest hours of the early
+settlement depended in large measure upon these flats for support. As
+late as 1879 Ernest Ingersoll reports an annual output of 5,000 bushels
+of clams, and states that the industry had then greatly declined. It
+appears to have gone down steadily ever since, until now it merely
+furnishes transient employment to 4 or 5 men, who dig at rather
+uncertain intervals for local markets.
+
+The best clamming, probably because the most inaccessible, is around
+Clark's Island. Scattering clams occur on Wind flat, the Oyster grant,
+and in patches along the shore. But no considerable extent of good
+clamming occurs anywhere, and the bulk of the territory is wholly
+barren.
+
+The town of Plymouth has endeavored in several ways to develop the
+industry. It has appropriated money to restock the flats, a close
+season has been tried, and an attempt made to solve the problem by the
+giving of private grants. While these grants have not always been run
+in as energetic a manner as could be desired, the experiment has proved
+conclusively that there are great possibilities in such a system. In
+short, there can be little doubt that in the proper administration
+of private grants lies the key to the solution of the problem which
+confronts this whole region. As clams were once abundant in Plymouth
+harbor, and as no apparent causes other than excessive digging appear
+to have brought about the decline, there seems to be no logical reason
+why this amount of territory (500 acres) should not yield its proper
+harvest. As for the vast extent of eel-grass flats, with all their
+undetermined possibilities, they can well afford to wait until the more
+immediate and pressing problems of the flats already available for clam
+culture have been solved.
+
+                     COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
+
+  ======+============+=========
+  YEAR. | Production | Value.
+        | (Bushels). |
+  ------+------------+---------
+  1879, |   5,000    | $2,500
+  1907, |   3,000    |  2,500
+  ======+============+=========
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    6
+  Capital invested,                               $60
+  Value of shore property,                          -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                  3,000
+      Value,                                   $2,500
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       400
+      Mud,                                        100
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                    1,100
+      Total,                                    1,600
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                               10
+      Scattering clams,                            50
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        440
+  Waste barren area (acres),                    1,100
+  Possible normal production,                 $58,000
+
+
+_Barnstable._
+
+The clam industry at Barnstable, while not so extensive as at Ipswich
+or Essex, is nevertheless of special interest. The immensely long
+coast line, stretching for many miles on both the north and south
+shores of Cape Cod, gives the town a shellfish area both in Cape Cod
+Bay and Vineyard Sound which renders it unrivalled throughout the
+State for variety of marine life and diversity of natural environment.
+These conditions, as they affect clam culture, are best suited on the
+northern or bay side of the town, where the clam industry flourishes
+more extensively, as the southern shore is almost wholly given up to
+the rival quahaug, oyster and scallop fisheries.
+
+On the northern shore a large harbor, nearly 5 miles long and about
+2 miles broad at its widest part, extends in a general westerly
+direction, ending in a vast waste of salt marshes interwoven with a
+network of creeks. Up this harbor the tides rush with great velocity,
+and when they sweep out to sea leave a broad expanse of flats, sandy
+on the north and central portions and muddy on the south. These flats
+cover an aggregate area of 400 acres, comprising 200 acres of hard sand
+and 150 acres of soft mud. Large stretches of these mud flats on the
+south are waste, and covered for the most part with eel grass. Other
+sections elsewhere are likewise waste for various causes, and are to
+be excluded as unprofitable or barren; yet the total available area
+remaining after making these deductions exceeds 350 acres. This is the
+theoretical condition,--the real condition is far otherwise: 20 acres
+at the most yield clams, and of these only 10 acres produce them in
+marketable quantities.
+
+The explanation of these conditions is interesting. In the winter
+the ice and the force of storms tear out great pieces of the tough
+marsh surf, and the tides sweep them down the harbor. Some of these
+huge masses are torn to pieces and washed away, others find lodgment
+on the broad surface of some tidal flat; these, becoming stationary,
+accumulate sediment; the grass grows upon them through the summer, and
+gradually a little island is formed. Surrounding these islands and
+oftentimes growing over their entire surface, bedded in among the roots
+of the marsh grass, we find a very thick set of clams. In short, all
+the digging of any kind is in the immediate vicinity of these islands.
+
+The deductions to be made from these facts are apparently simple. In
+the spawning season, when the microscopic clam larvæ are in their
+floating stage, they are carried here and there by the currents. Later,
+when they tend normally to settle in some fertile tract of flat, they
+are prevented from so doing by reason of the remarkable swiftness of
+the tides, which sweep strongly over the broad, smooth flats, and give
+the little clams no opportunity of lodgment. Only in the firm thatch of
+low-lying islands can they find anything to cling to, and here, with
+their slender byssus threads attached to unyielding grass or roots,
+they are able to withstand the wash of the current. Thus the clams are
+gathered in great numbers in these natural collectors, later are washed
+on the neighboring flat, and finally a little colony grows up about
+every island of this sort.
+
+That this is actually what happens is largely borne out both by
+observation and facts. It makes little difference where these islands
+are located; clams grow nearby, while all about may stretch smooth,
+hard flats, perfectly adapted for clams, yet altogether barren. In view
+of the somewhat incomplete investigations made in this region, it is
+perhaps too sweeping to point out any single factor as the sole cause
+for these waste areas; but undoubtedly the swift tides and smooth, hard
+flats, which offer no resting place for the young larvæ, constitute the
+main causes.
+
+Another odd circumstance in connection with the Barnstable clam
+industry is the local regulations which control the industry. Almost
+all digging is carried on in the winter, as a local by-law forbids the
+digging of clams in summer in any quantity exceeding 6 bushels per week
+for family use. This somewhat curious by-law is designed wholly for the
+benefit of the majority of the clammers, and to give them employment in
+that season of the year when work is most difficult to obtain. While
+interfering somewhat with summer clam bakes, the law appears to meet
+the approval of the townspeople.
+
+The south shore of Barnstable possesses many of the features of
+Buzzards Bay, and produces clams only in numbers sufficient for home
+consumption.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   25
+  Capital invested,                              $200
+  Value of shore property,                          -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    700
+      Value,                                     $550
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       200
+      Mud,                                        150
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                       50
+      Total,                                      400
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                               10
+      Scattering clams,                            10
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        330
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
+  Possible normal production,                 $39,000
+
+
+_Yarmouth._
+
+The clam industry at Yarmouth, never extensive, has steadily declined,
+until now it barely supplies the demands of home consumption.
+Barnstable bar on the northern coast twenty years ago produced clams in
+considerable quantities, but the soil was never well adapted for this
+shellfish. Scattering clams are now found there, but the grounds are
+very much exposed, and cannot properly rank as clam-producing area.
+Sea clams abound there at certain seasons, and furnish a transient
+business; also razor clams, which are used extensively for bait.
+
+The best clam territory is in Mill Creek, on the south shore of the
+town. Scattered patches of clams also occur along the shore of Bass
+River, but the whole area really available does not exceed 50 acres,
+and this is not at all well improved. There are no regular clammers,
+but intermittent digging produces about 600 bushels of clams annually,
+which are used either for home consumption or for bait.
+
+No effort has been made on the part of the town authorities to better
+conditions, although the advisability of giving clam grants, at least
+on the northern or bay side, has been discussed. No permits are
+required, and local legislation does not in any way concern itself with
+the clam industry.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    5
+  Capital invested,                               $40
+  Value of shore property,                          -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    600
+      Value,                                     $500
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        25
+      Mud,                                         15
+      Gravel,                                      10
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       50
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                5
+      Scattering clams,                            10
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         25
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
+  Possible normal production,                  $6,000
+
+
+_Orleans._
+
+Orleans is one of the few towns in the State which shows an advance in
+the clam industry. This is largely due to an increased production on
+the rich flats of Nauset harbor, as the remaining available territory
+in the town is declining in value. The output of 1907 is an increase of
+nearly 40 per cent. over the yield of the previous year, which shows an
+encouraging development.
+
+The clam flat area of the town is divided into four rather distinct
+divisions, three on the east or Atlantic side and one on the Bay or
+western side. The grounds which have been dug for the longest time and
+yielded uniformly the best results lie in the waters of Town Cove. Here
+a strip of gravelly sand and mud about 30 feet wide extends along the
+shores of this cove for 2 or 3 miles. Clams are scattered throughout
+this strip, and are dug constantly.
+
+The second division includes the bars of Nauset harbor, which at
+present furnish the best digging in town. The increased value of the
+town's industry is largely due to the recent development of these
+flats. Clams have seeded in abundantly during the past two or three
+years, and now furnish very good digging.
+
+The third section comprises that portion of the clam flat area
+bordering the coast of Pleasant Bay which crosses the town boundaries
+on the southeast. Here clams are rather scarce, though dug
+occasionally. This section is economically the least important of the
+four.
+
+The fourth section extends along the western coast, on a belt of sand
+bars well out in Cape Cod Bay. Clams are found on a strip about a
+quarter of a mile in width, and lying over half a mile from shore. This
+is a very exposed location. Billingsgate Point, projecting out from
+the Wellfleet coast, offers some protection from northwest winds, and
+the hills of the Cape break the force of the easterly gales; but the
+full force of storms from the west and southwest sweeps these bars, and
+would seem to render them unsuitable for the growth of clams. Clams are
+here, however, in considerable numbers, though not so numerous as three
+or four years ago, and are dug to some extent.
+
+The greater part of the digging is done by intermittent clammers, who
+obtain perhaps 2½ bushels per day. No permits are required, as there
+are no town by-laws regulating the industry.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   30
+  Capital invested,                              $200
+  Value of shore property,                          -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                  3,000
+      Value,                                   $3,000
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       125
+      Mud,                                         50
+      Gravel,                                      20
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        5
+      Total,                                      200
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                               25
+      Scattering clams,                            50
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         75
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
+  Possible normal production,                 $27,000
+
+
+_Eastham._
+
+The town of Eastham is a sparsely settled community, and the clam
+fishery, while not large, plays a rather important part in its business
+activity. Six men depend quite largely upon it for a livelihood, while
+some 30 others dig intermittently through the summer. The same peculiar
+condition as at Orleans exists on the western coast. Here far from
+shore clams are found in considerable numbers on the shifting bars. The
+main source of supply, however, comes from the productive sand flats of
+Nauset harbor.
+
+These flats have seeded in only in the past two or three years, but
+they have already shown latent possibilities of a future increase. In
+the so-called "Salt Pond" 2 men are employed nearly the year round in
+digging clams under water by a method of "churning," locally known as
+"rootling."
+
+The total available area in Eastham is about 200 acres. More than half
+of this is sand, which includes almost all the good digging, while the
+mud flats are interspersed with stretches of gravel and scattering
+patches of eel grass.
+
+The same abuses which have nearly ruined the Swansea fishery have begun
+here. Small seed clams are exported in considerable quantities to
+supply the summer demand of the New Bedford and Fall River districts.
+While this system has not yet made its ravages apparent, a glance
+at the Swansea report will serve to convince the most casual reader
+that unless some steps are taken to check this evil, the practical
+annihilation of the Eastham clam industry must follow. As it is, local
+legislation seems powerless to cope with the problem, and no laws of
+any kind relating to the clam fishery are in force.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   36
+  Capital invested,                              $250
+  Value of shore property,                         --
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                  4,000
+      Value,                                   $4,000
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       100
+      Mud,                                         50
+      Gravel,                                      30
+      Mussels and eel grass,                       20
+      Total,                                      200
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                               25
+      Scattering clams,                            50
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        100
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       25
+  Possible normal production,                 $30,000
+
+
+_Wellfleet._
+
+Although possessing extensive flats, Wellfleet produces at present a
+relatively small amount of clams. The inhabitants realize that these
+flats are capable of producing a large harvest of clams if properly
+planted, and that in this way an extensive industry can be developed,
+and have undertaken to restock the flats, appropriating in 1906 for
+this purpose the sum of $1,000.
+
+At Billingsgate Island there are fair clam flats, but they are not
+easily accessible, as they lie at a distance of 5 miles from town.
+Clams can also be obtained in more or less abundance in the thatch
+which borders the flats of Blackfish Creek, Herring River and Duck
+Creek. A few clams are scattered over the flats of Blackfish Creek,
+particularly toward the head of the creek. Two patches of clams
+covering perhaps an acre are on the flats in front of the town: one
+in the stone and gravel east of Commercial wharf; the other, a more
+extensive area, just west of Mercantile wharf.
+
+Wellfleet possesses many acres of flats which, though now barren, are
+capable of excellent production if properly planted. Wellfleet flats
+extend from Duck Creek to Herring River and from Herring River along
+the shores of Great Island for a distance of 4½ miles, and cover an
+area of 400 acres. The Great Island flats are not especially adapted
+for clams, and only parts of these can ever be successfully cultivated,
+while possibly all the area between Duck Creek and Herring River can be
+reclaimed. South Wellfleet flats, which comprise an area of 200 acres,
+are much poorer flats, consisting for the most part of mud and shifting
+sand. Only the firmer portions, about 50 acres, can be made productive
+by planting with clams.
+
+At Wellfleet the soft clam fishery can hardly be styled an industry.
+In the winter a few men go clamming when there is nothing else to do.
+The majority prefer razor clamming, which is a considerable winter
+industry, owing to the demand for this bait at Provincetown. Three
+men clam during the summer, doing practically all their digging at
+Billingsgate, while 8 others are in this work during the winter.
+
+The flats of Wellfleet were never very productive, but formerly were
+capable of furnishing a far greater production than at present. This
+decline is only accounted for by overdigging, which has brought about
+the present scarcity.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   11
+  Capital invested,                              $300
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    800
+      Value,                                     $640
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       450
+      Mud,                                          5
+      Gravel,                                     150
+      Mussels and eel grass,                       --
+      Total,                                      605
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                3
+      Scattering clams,                            12
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        250
+  Waste barren area (acres),                      340
+  Possible normal production,                 $28,000
+
+
+_Truro._
+
+The clam flats at Truro are confined principally to the Pamet River. At
+the mouth of this river near the head of the harbor bar is a sand flat
+comprising several acres, where the bulk of the clams are produced. In
+South Truro, Stony Bar and other similar patches of rocky beach are
+fairly well bedded with clams. Scattering clams are found over the
+shifting bars which skirt the main land on the bay side, but nowhere
+are clams sufficiently abundant to warrant any serious attempt at
+exportation. Fifteen to twenty years ago clams were everywhere much
+more abundant in this region than now, and in those days some market
+digging was carried on. At present the needs of the home market are
+with difficulty supplied from the local production, and 100 bushels per
+year would cover all clams dug both for food and bait. No effort has at
+any time been made by the town authorities to increase the industry,
+though the clam fishery, at least in the sheltered coves of Pamet
+River, is not without possibilities of development.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    1
+  Capital invested,                                $2
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                     50
+      Value,                                      $60
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        50
+      Mud,                                         --
+      Gravel,                                      --
+      Mussels and eel grass,                       --
+      Total,                                       50
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                1
+      Scattering clams,                             2
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         47
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       --
+  Possible normal production,                  $5,000
+
+
+_Provincetown._
+
+For the last five years the flats of Provincetown have produced only a
+small amount of clams. Wherever clams have set in abundance they have
+been quickly dug by fishermen for bait, thus checking their natural
+propagation.
+
+Clams are found in the drains among the thatch beds on the southwest
+side of the harbor and in Race Run, while a considerable set is
+scattered between the wharves of the town. All the extensive flats at
+the southwest end of the harbor are entirely barren of clams, owing
+chiefly to the shifting nature of the sand, although on certain parts
+of these, especially near the thatch, clams would grow if planted. As
+it is, the shifting sand makes it impossible for the young clams to set
+on this area.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    5
+  Capital invested,                               $15
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    400
+      Value,                                     $320
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       400
+      Mud,                                          -
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      400
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                3
+      Scattering clams,                             3
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        200
+  Waste barren area (acres),                      194
+  Possible normal production,                 $21,000
+
+
+_Chatham._
+
+Chatham can no longer be considered as the best clam-producing town of
+southern Massachusetts. In 1879 Chatham produced a greater quantity
+of soft clams than all the rest of the Cape; to-day all has changed,
+and the annual output is far less than several other towns of the Cape
+district.
+
+The town of Chatham is situated in the southeastern portion of Cape
+Cod, and includes that part which is commonly called the "elbow" of the
+Cape. It is surrounded on the north, east and south sides by the ocean,
+while on the south the peninsula known as Monomoy Island extends for 9
+miles.
+
+The clamming territory of Chatham is situated in Stage harbor, Pleasant
+Bay and at Monomoy Point.
+
+In Stage harbor clams are found along the sides of the Mill Pond,
+comprising possibly an acre, and in the eastern end of the harbor
+toward the dike, where about 3 acres of flats are thickly set.
+
+An extended area of sand flats are found in Pleasant Bay. But small
+parts of this area furnish good clamming, and the Common Flats on the
+inside of Monomoy Island, where once there were acres of good clams,
+now lie entirely barren except for a small patch of set just north of
+Brant Island, comprising about 1/5 of an acre. Here are about 100 acres
+of barren flats which only need planting to be made productive.
+
+The commercial clam fishery, of the town is carried on at Monomoy
+Point, where 5 acres of the best clamming in Massachusetts is found.
+The Powder Hole flats, formed of coarse, clean sand, are thickly set
+with clams of all sizes, and furnish excellent digging. A good clammer
+can obtain from 5 to 6 bushels per tide from these flats.
+
+Clams are dug at Chatham during the fishing season chiefly for bait.
+Such digging lasts through the fall and winter. In the summer, clams
+are dug only for food, as no cod fishing is conducted in the warm
+months. From 10 to 15 men were engaged in clamming during the summer
+of 1907, travelling from Chatham to Monomoy Point in power or sail
+dories. Practically all the clams dug came from the Powder Hole flats
+at Monomoy Point. These were purchased at Chatham wharf by fish firms
+at the price of $2 per barrel.
+
+The winter clam fishery of Chatham was once an important industry,
+which started in 1875 when clams were in great demand as fish bait. The
+following table shows how this industry has declined:--
+
+  =============================+=========+=========
+                               |  1879.  |   1907.
+  -----------------------------+---------+---------
+  Number of men,               |     150 |     10
+  Annual production (bushels), |  35,000 |  1,500
+  Value of production,         | $12,250 | $1,200
+  Price per bushel (cents),    |      35 |     80
+  Capital invested,            |  $2,000 |   $400
+  =============================+=========+=========
+
+Owing to the large amount of clams dug by fishing vessels, the
+following restrictions were incorporated in 1881 as a State law, which
+reads as follows:--
+
+    No fisherman or any other person shall take from the towns of
+    Chatham and Nantucket any shellfish, for bait or other use,
+    except clams and a shellfish commonly known by the name of
+    horse feet, and no quantity exceeding seven bushels of clams,
+    including shells or one hundred of said horse feet shall be
+    taken in one week for each vessel or craft, nor in any case
+    without a permit being first obtained from the selectmen of the
+    town.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   10
+  Capital invested,                              $400
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                  1,500
+      Value,                                   $1,200
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       330
+      Mud,                                         10
+      Gravel,                                      20
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      360
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                               10
+      Scattering clams,                            50
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        300
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                 $44,000
+
+
+_Harwich._
+
+The town of Harwich possesses but little clam area. A few clams are
+obtainable on the shores of Pleasant Bay and Mud Creek in limited
+localities, while in the southern waters of the town there is some
+digging in Wychmere harbor and in Herring River. The total area of clam
+flats is not more than 1½ acres.
+
+There are no regular clammers engaged in the business, all the clams
+dug being used only for home consumption.
+
+In 1905 there was a town law restricting the digging in Wychmere
+harbor, except for bait, to one day in the week.
+
+COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
+
+  ========+============+==========+======
+   YEAR.  | Production |   Value. | Men.
+          | (Bushels). |          |
+  --------+------------+----------+------
+   1879,  |   1,125    |   $400   |  15
+   1907,  |     100    |    100   |   -
+  ========+============+==========+======
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    100
+      Value,                                      $80
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        10
+      Mud,                                         10
+      Gravel,                                      10
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       30
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                1
+      Scattering clams,                             5
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         10
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       14
+  Possible normal production,                  $2,400
+
+
+_Dennis._
+
+As the town of Dennis has mutual fishery rights with the town of
+Yarmouth, the clam flats of Bass River, which lie between the towns,
+are free to any inhabitant of Dennis. A few clams are also dug in Swan
+Pond River.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                     50
+      Value,                                      $45
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        25
+      Mud,                                         15
+      Gravel,                                      10
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       50
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                1
+      Scattering clams,                             4
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         30
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       15
+  Possible normal production,                  $4,200
+
+
+_Mashpee._
+
+The clam fishery at Mashpee is of hardly sufficient proportions to
+rank as an industry. The shores of the Popponesset River furnish
+perhaps favorable conditions for the growth of this shellfish, but
+the available territory is small, not exceeding 50 acres, and of this
+only a small percentage, comprising scattered patches of gravel-mud,
+produces clams in any abundance.
+
+No effort is made at exportation for market, and under the present
+circumstances it is doubtful if a greater yield than that required to
+supply home consumption could be expected. No effort is made on the
+part of local legislation to control the industry or foster it in any
+way.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    2
+  Capital invested,                               $20
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                     50
+      Value,                                      $45
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        20
+      Mud,                                          5
+      Gravel,                                      20
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        5
+      Total,                                       50
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                2
+      Scattering clams,                             8
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         30
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
+  Possible normal production,                  $5,400
+
+
+_Buzzards Bay._
+
+The section of Massachusetts bordering the shores of Buzzards Bay
+supports a flourishing quahaug, oyster and scallop fishery, capable of
+great development. The clam industry, however, never very extensive,
+is of very slight significance at present, and can never attain the
+same degree of importance as the other shellfisheries, owing to the
+limited area available for clams. To those familiar with the harbors
+of Newburyport and Duxbury and their vast tidal flats with their
+latent possibilities, the shores of Buzzards Bay present indeed a
+notable contrast. Bluff and hilly for the most part, and frequently
+rocky, nowhere do they show extensive flats suitable for clam culture.
+That clams grow wherever opportunity permits is evident, for they
+are found on gravelly stretches or among rocks all along the coast,
+except in those localities openly exposed to the full force of the
+sea. But allowing for all possible favorable features, the lack of any
+considerable territory is a disadvantage that will forever act as a
+barrier to any expansion. Falmouth and Dartmouth on the east and west
+sides of Buzzards Bay respectively differ materially from the remaining
+towns of the district, in the fact that the characteristic soil of
+their clam grounds is sand; while the other towns have little in the
+shape of available territory except gravel stretches along the shores
+of coves, small areas of mud, and the rocky beaches of points and
+headlands. The yearly output hardly anywhere suffices for the needs of
+home consumption. Nowhere is any attempt at exportation possible. The
+business, such as it is, is carried on in a very intermittent fashion,
+chiefly in the summer, with but a small investment of capital.
+
+Special local regulation seems to remain aloof from the problem of
+insuring a future clam supply. That the combined area of all the towns
+of Buzzards Bay does not equal that of a single town in the Cape Ann
+district is an undeniable truth; but the fact nevertheless remains
+that an industry far more considerable than exists at present could be
+supported, and it is truly to the interest of the towns of this region
+to make the best possible use of their limited advantages.
+
+
+_Falmouth._
+
+Falmouth has a long coast line not only on Buzzards Bay but also on
+Vineyard Sound. The flats at North and West Falmouth on the bay side
+are similar to those of Wareham and Bourne, though there are several
+small patches of quite good digging. On the southern shore there
+are clams scattered along the coasts of the various indentations,
+particularly at Waquoit Bay.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    200
+      Value,                                     $175
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        40
+      Mud,                                          5
+      Gravel,                                       5
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       50
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                2
+      Scattering clams,                             8
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         40
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                  $6,400
+
+
+_Bourne._
+
+The clam industry at Bourne is practically extinct. Scarcely any
+clamming is carried on by the inhabitants of the town, even for their
+own use, as clams have become so scattering that it hardly pays to dig
+them. The territory is much the same in extent and general character as
+that of Wareham, but it has been over-dug to a greater degree, and has
+become nearly barren.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    100
+      Value,                                     $100
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                         5
+      Mud,                                          5
+      Gravel,                                      30
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       40
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            30
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
+  Possible normal production,                  $6,000
+
+
+_Wareham._
+
+Wareham leads the towns of Buzzards Bay in the production of clams,
+although its annual output is only 600 bushels. This clearly shows the
+low ebb to which the industry has fallen in this region.
+
+There are no true tide flats in Wareham, but the total area of the
+mud-gravel and rocky bottom between high and low water mark where
+scattering clams are found is nearly 100 acres. There are no regular
+fishermen, but some half dozen quahaugers dig clams from time to time,
+chiefly during the summer, to supply the home market.
+
+The industry, such as it is, appears to be about stationary at present,
+though in production it has declined notably during the last twenty
+years. The town officials have attempted no measures to revive the
+failing fishery, and no town laws affect it in any way.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    6
+  Capital invested,                              $100
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    800
+      Value,                                     $800
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        15
+      Mud,                                         10
+      Gravel,                                      75
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      100
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            50
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
+  Possible normal production,                 $10,000
+
+
+_Marion._
+
+The wealthy summer residents at Marion create a demand for clams at
+a very substantial price. In spite of the increased price, there is
+little inducement to engage in this industry as a livelihood, and only
+1 man digs steadily through the summer months, though intermittent
+digging is done by others to supply the local market.
+
+The best clamming is on the east coast of Great Neck and in Wing's
+Cove. These grounds are difficult of access, and consequently have not
+been so much overworked as the nearer shores of Ram's Island, Allan's
+Point and Blankinship's Cove. The total area does not exceed 10 acres,
+and this for the most part is very poor territory; while the clams
+coming from these rock and gravel beaches are not of very good quality,
+the shells being usually gnarled and crooked.
+
+There is no town legislation relating to this industry, and though it
+is becoming of less consequence every year, nothing is done to revive
+it.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    1
+  Capital invested,                               $15
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    100
+      Value,                                     $100
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                         -
+      Mud,                                          -
+      Gravel,                                      10
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       10
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            10
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                  $2,000
+
+
+_Mattapoisett._
+
+The coast of Mattapoisett, more open and exposed than that of
+Fairhaven, does not offer equal advantages to the cultivation of
+clams. A similar strip of gravel-mud or sand occurs along the more
+sheltered portions of the coast, and wherever an indentation in the
+mainland offers shelter clams may be found, though never in sufficient
+quantities to make digging profitable. There is really no industry at
+all; the few clams that are dug go for home trade or are used as bait,
+and the prospects of any decided improvement appear to be slight.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    1
+  Capital invested,                               $15
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    100
+      Value,                                     $100
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                         -
+      Mud,                                          5
+      Gravel,                                       5
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       10
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            10
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                  $2,000
+
+
+_Fairhaven._
+
+The clam industry at Fairhaven suffers from the unsanitary condition
+of the flats, though in a lesser degree than at New Bedford. The
+finest clam grounds of this town lie in the proscribed district of the
+Acushnet River, and handling or eating shellfish from this area is a
+positive menace to the public health.
+
+A strip of gravel-mud about 100 feet in average width fringes the
+shores of Priest's Cove, and this strip furnishes at present the best
+digging. Scattered patches of clams occur along the indentations of
+Sconticut Neck, around West Island and along the coast of Little
+Bay. No men are regularly employed in digging clams, though a rather
+inefficient attempt is made at times to supply the local demand.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    100
+      Value,                                     $100
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                         -
+      Mud,                                         25
+      Gravel,                                      25
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       50
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            25
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         25
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                  $7,500
+
+
+_New Bedford._
+
+The clam industry at New Bedford was never of any great importance,
+but the unwise methods of sewage disposal of the city, whereby the
+effluent enters the harbor in close proximity to the clam flats,
+renders the taking of shellfish a positive menace to the public health.
+The action of the State Board of Health in closing the Acushnet River
+and Clark's Cove to the clam digger virtually annihilated the remnant
+of the industry. Now practically all the available territory of the
+city is proscribed, and no clams are allowed to be taken from this
+area except for use as bait. Licenses are also required to take clams
+even for bait from this proscribed territory. Three hundred and twenty
+of these licenses have been issued since the passage of the act in
+1904. The annual yield of clams for this purpose cannot be accurately
+ascertained, but probably does not exceed 250 bushels. No important
+clam industry would ever have been possible at New Bedford, under any
+circumstances, but the slight possibilities which once existed have
+been swept away and can never return under the present conditions,
+though shellfish grown in this region could, if suitable legislation
+were enacted, be transplanted to a sanitary environment, where in a
+month all danger of spreading typhoid germs would be avoided.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Licenses for bait,                              320
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels (for bait),                         300
+      Value,                                     $225
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                         5
+      Mud,                                          5
+      Gravel,                                      15
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       25
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            15
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
+  Possible normal production,                  $3,000
+
+
+_Dartmouth._
+
+The town of Dartmouth possesses a wide expanse of territory, but the
+actual amount of available clam ground is not as large as it would
+appear at first sight. Clams are found in more or less abundance at the
+following places: (1) Rickerson's Point (2/3 acre); (2) Apponagansett
+River (6 acres); (3) Apponagansett harbor (1 acre); (4) Nonquit (1/10
+acre); (5) Round Hill Point (1/5 acre); (6) Salter's Point (3/4 acre);
+(7) Smith's Neck (3/5 acre); (8) Little River (7-1/2 acres); (9)
+Slocum's River (6 acres); comprising a total of 23 acres. The best
+clamming is obtained on the flats of Little and Slocum's rivers. In
+Apponagansett River clams are dug in the summer for the Padanaram clam
+bakes.
+
+A town by-law placing a closed season on Slocum's River was in
+force during the years 1904 and 1905. In 1906 Dartmouth, by a State
+law, required permits for clamming. These permits are issued by the
+selectmen free of charge.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    4
+  Capital invested,                               $50
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    200
+      Value,                                     $160
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                        15
+      Mud,                                         10
+      Gravel,                                       5
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       30
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                5
+      Scattering clams,                            15
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
+  Possible normal production,                  $5,000
+
+
+_The Fall River District (Narragansett Bay)._
+
+The section of country bordering on Narragansett Bay and the Rhode
+Island line comprises a territory remote from the other clam-producing
+districts of the State, and possessing many characteristics not found
+in any other locality. Six towns of this region enjoy the privileges
+of a clam industry, situated as they are on the shores of Mt. Hope
+Bay and its tributary streams, the Cole, Lee and Taunton rivers.
+Beginning with the most westerly and taking them in order, these towns
+comprise Swansea, Somerset, Dighton, Berkley, Freetown and Fall River.
+These towns differ only in extent of resources or development of the
+industry, while the general nature of the clam flats and the methods
+employed in carrying on the business are essentially alike for all.
+The area in this region suitable for clam culture possesses some of
+the distinguishing features of the typical north shore flats, some
+of the Buzzards Bay variety and some peculiar to itself. There are
+scarcely any sand flats, and the prevailing type of soil is mud, as at
+Newburyport, or gravel, as in Buzzards Bay; while the greater part of
+the clam supply comes from a large and rather indefinite area, which is
+not properly tide flat at all, but lies continuously submerged.
+
+The methods employed in carrying on this industry include both wet and
+dry digging. On the tide flats the clams are dug as elsewhere on the
+south shore, with hoes or the common digger. Where, however, clams
+are dug in 2 or 3 feet of water, as is most frequently the case, an
+ordinary long-handled shovel and wire basket are employed. The soil
+containing the clams is shoveled into the baskets, and then the clams
+are sifted out under water. Several years ago an attempt was made
+to dig clams by machinery. An enterprising oysterman spent several
+hundred dollars in constructing a machine which was designed to farm
+the under-water districts more quickly and successfully than could be
+done by hand. The device had some of the principles of a suction pump,
+and theoretically the clams on the submerged flats could be washed out
+from the soil and collected in a receptacle. The machine worked well
+enough in extracting the clams from the mud, but failed completely
+when it came to collecting them. In short, after a thorough trial it
+was pronounced a failure and had to be abandoned.
+
+The main peculiarity of this region, and a far more important one
+than the type of soil or the methods of digging, is the nature of the
+clams which are produced. The inadequate territory and the constantly
+increasing demands of the Fall River markets have led to abuses which
+have had a most disastrous effect on the clam industry, and unless
+checked, and soon, these abuses will certainly cause its complete
+annihilation. The abuses in question are the universal custom of
+digging small seed clams for food. So importunate have the markets of
+Fall River and the vicinity become, that when the supply of suitable
+clams proves inadequate they demand and will gladly take "anything with
+a shell on," as the dealers say, so that it is no uncommon sight to see
+exposed for sale in the city markets clams of only 1 inch in length.
+This deplorable condition is fostered by the custom of digging under
+water, for the fine mesh of the woven-wire baskets retains even the
+smallest clams, which are saved for market.
+
+No quicker or surer way of destroying the industry completely could
+have been devised than this method of digging seed clams for food. One
+barrel of these clams would produce 10 to 15 barrels of marketable
+clams if left for one year under favorable circumstances. Thus, when
+a clammer digs 1 barrel of these clams he is in reality destroying 10
+or more barrels. This is truly reaping the "seed" before it has had
+any time to mature the proper harvest. Also, these "seed" clams are so
+immature that in many cases they have not spawned, and thus the clammer
+by destroying the clams in this manner damages irrevocably all chances
+of restocking the flats.
+
+From the inherent difficulties of the problem, however, local
+regulation seems powerless to cope with the evil. The short-sighted
+clammers, while they know that these methods, if pursued very far,
+will ultimately destroy the industry, seem willing, nevertheless,
+to sacrifice the future for the present. The other clammers are
+inevitably brought into line on this mistaken policy, as they cannot
+but argue that if a few will persist in exploiting a natural resource
+it is the right of every man to have an equal chance, and take his
+share of the proceeds as long as they last. Another potent factor in
+this wastefulness is the irresponsible foreign element of the mill
+districts, who dig clams for their own use, large or small, with entire
+indifference. It might perhaps prove unjust and difficult to enforce
+laws preventing individuals digging "seed" clams for their own use; but
+legislation could possibly be enacted preventing the sale of such seed
+in the public market. This would strike a blow at the abuse sufficient
+to rob it of its worst features. The most casual glance at the facts
+in the case prove that there is a pressing need for some legislative
+action. The history of the clam industry in this region is one of
+steady and rapid decline. Any clammer of the vicinity is willing to
+acknowledge that conditions at present are in a very unsatisfactory
+state. The output of clams has greatly diminished, both in the
+consensus of opinion of those interested in the business, and also
+according to statistical figures. Furthermore, the end of the industry,
+as far as any economic importance is concerned, is plainly in sight,
+and at the present rate of destruction cannot long be delayed. It would
+seem that here was a striking example of the need of prompt and wise
+legislation for the protection and development of an industry which has
+made large profits for the community, and might yield still greater
+returns if properly regulated.
+
+The towns of this region can never compete with the towns of the
+Newburyport district in the production of clams, for the reason that
+they have by no means an equal acreage of suitable flats. The Taunton
+River is also a considerable factor, as its contaminated waters impair
+the quality of clams grown along its shores. There remains, however,
+a considerable extent of suitable territory which might yield a large
+product if rightly controlled, and this territory, with its inherent
+possibilities depleted to the verge of exhaustion by unwise and
+wasteful methods, it is for the interest of the Commonwealth to protect
+and improve.
+
+
+_Swansea._
+
+Swansea, the most western town of this district, is by far the
+most favorably located, and has the greatest possibilities of clam
+production. Situated on the northern shore of Mt. Hope Bay, and
+containing the majority of the flats in the Cole and Lee rivers, it
+possesses a greater available territory free from the contaminating
+influences of the Taunton River than any other town in this region.
+
+Altogether, 200 acres comprise the possibly available clam area of this
+town. The best of this area is located in Cole's River, and includes
+Long Beach flat, the best flat of the district. Situated on the east
+shore of the river just below the railroad bridge, this flat stretches
+south in a broad triangle comprising some 20 acres of smooth, semihard
+mud. Over the main flat is sprinkled a very thick set of ½ inch to 1
+inch clams, interspersed with some of larger growth. While this is
+the best flat, other flats extend along both shores far up the river
+until the clams become too "fresh" to be very good. Flats also occur
+in the Lee River, and there is a large and rather indeterminate amount
+of under-water territory. The total area suitable for culture is not
+far from 150 acres; of this, about 20 acres are gravel and the rest
+practically all mud.
+
+No permits are necessary to dig clams on tidal flats, but permits are
+required to "churn" clams under water. Twenty of these permits were
+issued last year. Usually in digging under water two men work together,
+one shovelling the mud into the wire baskets and the other sifting out
+the clams. About 75 per cent. of the clams produced come from these
+under-water areas, as the tide flats are for the most part nearly
+exhausted.
+
+The season lasts all the year round, though most of the clams are dug
+in the summer time. Of late years it has become increasingly hard for a
+man to earn a living by clamming, as only 1 to 1½ bushels now comprise
+an average day's work under the most favorable circumstances. Many of
+the clammers are leaving the business and seeking a livelihood in other
+employments.
+
+The history of the industry is one of marked decline. The most
+conservative clammer estimates that at the present rate the passing of
+five years will witness the complete annihilation of the industry.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                   25
+  Capital invested,                              $250
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                  5,000
+      Value,                                   $5,000
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       100
+      Mud,                                        100
+      Gravel,                                       -
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      200
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                               20
+      Scattering clams,                            30
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        100
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
+  Possible normal production,                 $24,000
+
+
+_Somerset._
+
+Somerset, the next town in order, joins Swansea on the east and
+extends several miles up the left bank of the Taunton River. Its flats
+on the south and west, particularly in the Lee River, produce some
+clams, though the industry is practically run out. The total clam area
+comprises about 75 acres. This is mostly mud, though gravel stretches
+along the shore aggregate perhaps 10 acres. The development of latent
+possibilities in this territory is largely curtailed by the disastrous
+effects of the Taunton River upon the clams. This water, contaminated
+by the manufacturing plants of Taunton, makes the clams grown in the
+northern part of the town of inferior taste and quality.
+
+Six licenses, costing $1 apiece, were issued last year for "churning"
+clams. No permits other than these are required.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                     50
+      Value,                                      $50
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                         -
+      Mud,                                         25
+      Gravel,                                      25
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       50
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            10
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         20
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       20
+  Possible normal production,                  $4,000
+
+
+_Dighton._
+
+Dighton has a very limited area of clam flat, comprising only about 10
+acres. Clams extend but little beyond the southern boundary of the town
+on the Taunton River and about ¾ mile up the Segregansett River on the
+west. Practically no business is made of clamming by the citizens of
+the town except for local consumption. About 40 bushels were "churned"
+last year by outsiders. No permits are issued.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                     40
+      Value,                                      $40
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                         -
+      Mud,                                          5
+      Gravel,                                       5
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       10
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                             2
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          8
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                  $1,200
+
+
+_Berkley._
+
+Berkley, on the right bank of the Taunton River, opposite Dighton, has
+a very similar clam territory both in extent and characteristics. But
+little use is made of the clam except for bait, as the river water
+renders them very unsatisfactory as food.
+
+There is practically no industry, and there never could be any of
+importance, owing to the very limited area and the contamination of the
+waters.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                     25
+      Value,                                      $25
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                         -
+      Mud,                                          5
+      Gravel,                                       5
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       10
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                             4
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          6
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                  $1,400
+
+
+_Freetown._
+
+Freetown, joining Berkley on the south near the Fall River line,
+possesses a number of clam flats, aggregating 25 acres. Very little
+business is carried on, although conditions are better than in Berkley
+or Dighton. The clams, too, are of better quality, being freer from
+the disagreeable flavor of clams grown farther up the river. The
+possibilities for clam culture in this town are not attractive, but the
+present conditions can be vastly improved.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    100
+      Value,                                     $100
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                         -
+      Mud,                                         10
+      Gravel,                                      15
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       25
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            15
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),          -
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       10
+  Possible normal production,                  $3,000
+
+
+_Fall River._
+
+Fall River has no clam territory on the south, owing to the wharves
+and other obstructions. On the more open waters of the north towards
+Freetown there is an extent of clam ground occupying about 25 acres.
+The foreign element in the city dig here for food, and some clams are
+likewise dug for bait, but the industry on the whole is of little
+consequence.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    -
+  Capital invested,                                 -
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    100
+      Value,                                      $75
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                         -
+      Mud,                                         20
+      Gravel,                                       5
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                       25
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                -
+      Scattering clams,                            10
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         15
+  Waste barren area (acres),                        -
+  Possible normal production,                  $3,500
+
+
+_Nantucket._
+
+At present Nantucket does not possess a clam industry of any
+importance. Years ago it is claimed that clams were abundant, and that
+quantities were dug for food or for bait. Now the reverse is true, and
+the fisherman often finds it difficult to procure clams even for bait.
+Indeed, Nantucket furnishes an excellent illustration of the decline of
+the clam industry.
+
+Practically all the flats of Nantucket are shore flats _i.e._, narrow
+flats along the shores of the harbor and on the sides of the creeks.
+Thus the area, though extending for many miles, is not great, and
+the clam industry of the island, though capable of development,
+nevertheless can never assume the importance of the quahaug and the
+scallop fisheries. In Nantucket harbor clams are found in the creeks,
+and particularly in Polpis harbor, although scattering clams are found
+all along the south shore of the harbor. A few clams are found on the
+north side in Coatou Creek and in First and Second Bend. The flats in
+Nantucket harbor are all coarse sand or a fine gravel, except in the
+creeks, where they become muddy. On the eastern and southern sides
+clams are found in scattering quantities in Maddequet harbor, on the
+north side of Tuckernuck and in the cove on the south side of Muskeget.
+
+COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
+
+  =============================+=================+=================
+            PRODUCTION.        |     1879.       |       1907.
+  -----------------------------+-----------------+-----------------
+  Bushels,                     |     2,253       |        400
+  Value,                       |      $872       |       $350
+  =============================+=================+=================
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    4
+  Capital invested,                               $40
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                    400
+      Value,                                     $350
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       150
+      Mud,                                         25
+      Gravel,                                      25
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      200
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                                5
+      Scattering clams,                            15
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),        130
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       50
+  Possible normal production,                 $18,000
+
+
+_Edgartown._
+
+Although Edgartown possesses 200 acres of clam flats, it is not in a
+true sense a clam-producing town. The reason for this small production
+is due to the nature of the flats, which are mostly under water at
+low tide, making clamming difficult. Naturally Edgartown devotes its
+energies to the more profitable quahaug and scallop fisheries.
+
+The clam flats of the town are situated along the shores of Cape Poge
+Pond and in the lower part of Katama Bay, where many acres of flats are
+continually submerged. The shore flats are of small area, owing to the
+light rise and fall of the tide, less than 3 feet at this part of the
+coast.
+
+(1) _Cape Poge Pond._--Scattering clams are found all along the shore
+flats, except for a ¾-mile strip on the west side. The soil is of a
+coarse sand or gravel.
+
+(2) _Katama Bay._--The best clam flats of the town are situated in
+Katama Bay, and extend over a considerable territory. These flats,
+consisting of a coarse, sandy soil, lie continually submerged. Here the
+clams are dug by means of a "sea horse." This "animal" is nothing more
+than an elongated clam hoe with a belt attachment, whereby the clammer
+can "churn" out the clams at a depth of 2 to 3 feet.
+
+The clam industry of Edgartown has fallen off considerably since 1879.
+However, the clammers say that it has improved during the last fifteen
+years. The following comparison is made between the production of 1879
+and 1907:--
+
+                     COMPARISON OF 1907 WITH 1879.
+
+  =========+============+============+============+=============
+    YEAR.  | Production | Production | Production | Value of
+           |  for Food  |  for Bait  | (Bushels). | Production.
+           | (Bushels). | (Bushels). |            |
+  ---------+------------+------------+------------+-------------
+  1879,    |   1,000    |   3,000    |   4,000    |   $1,570
+  1907,    |     625    |     575    |   1,200    |    1,000
+  =========+============+============+============+=============
+
+The general shellfish regulations which govern the other shellfisheries
+of the town apply to the clam fishery; but the industry has never been
+considered important enough to need special legislation, and but slight
+attention has been given to it.
+
+                          SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY.
+
+  Number of men,                                    7
+  Capital invested,                               $50
+  Production, 1907:--
+      Bushels,                                  1,200
+      Value,                                   $1,000
+  Total area (acres):--
+      Sand,                                       150
+      Mud,                                          -
+      Gravel,                                      50
+      Mussels and eel grass,                        -
+      Total,                                      200
+  Productive area (acres):--
+      Good clamming,                               20
+      Scattering clams,                           100
+  Barren area possibly productive (acres),         50
+  Waste barren area (acres),                       30
+  Possible normal production,                 $33,000
+
+In the opinion of many, doubtless, this report may appear unduly
+lengthy, and to include many seemingly trivial facts and unnecessary
+repetitions. To the trained observer, however, it seems of the greatest
+importance in dealing with such a practical and important problem to
+place on record all facts and opinions which may become of value, and
+to emphasize by frequent repetitions certain fundamental facts.
+
+                        Respectfully submitted,
+
+                                                          D. L. BELDING.
+
+The preceding report is intended to be a reliable statement of
+facts, and suggestions for consideration. On such a basis of facts
+the future policy of developing the shellfisheries must be based. It
+is the purpose of the Commissioners on Fisheries and Game to hold
+a series of public hearings in the different sections of the State
+for the purpose of giving personal expositions of the shellfish
+conditions and possibilities, and of giving a better opportunity for
+exchanging, discussing and weighing opinions. Meantime, in considering
+the conditions of the shellfisheries of Massachusetts, and the laws
+necessary to improve these conditions, the following points are of
+importance.
+
+The present shellfish laws are based upon the principle of "public"
+fisheries, and were made at times and at places where there was such
+a superabundance that the natural increase was sufficient to meet
+the market demands. Artificial cultivation was unnecessary. The
+fundamental laws were made in the colonial days. Since then the demand
+for shellfish as food has enormously increased, and for many years the
+annual natural increase has been entirely inadequate to meet these
+demands. We have outgrown the conditions which the original conception
+of that law covered. Under parallel conditions it has been found
+necessary to sell or lease the public lands, in order that the yield of
+food may be increased by cultivation under the immediate direction and
+responsibility of individual citizens, and under protection of State
+and national laws. When it was learned that the yield of a cultivated
+oyster bed far exceeded the natural product both in quantity and
+quality, the oyster laws were so modified that an important industry
+was built up, until to-day practically the entire oyster yield of
+Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut is from cultivated beds,
+and the total product is many times the total catch from the natural
+beds in their palmiest days. To-day not only is it necessary to so
+modify the oyster laws as to increase the opportunities for better
+utilizing our bays and estuaries for oyster growing on a more extensive
+scale than is done at present, but also for developing similar methods
+of growing clams and quahaugs, and perhaps also scallops. The tidal
+flats must, as well as the deeper waters, be made to produce food and
+money by securing a larger yield per acre, and by the utilization of
+thousands of acres which are now practically idle, but which either are
+now adapted for growing shellfish or can readily be made so.
+
+Our present shellfish laws are a heterogeneous, conflicting patchwork,
+devised to meet temporary and local conditions, utterly inadequate
+to-day to permit the fishermen to secure a just return for their labor,
+and completely sacrificing the public interests. In many cases the
+responsible tax-paying citizen cannot find a place to dig a family
+supply of clams or quahaugs, neither can the industrious native
+fisherman get a fair day's pay for his labor.
+
+An entirely new code of shellfish laws is necessary, based upon the
+general principles (1) that in selling the shores the State reserved
+the right of fishing as "far as the tide doth ebb and flow," and (2)
+that the State may now lease these fishing rights under such conditions
+and restrictions as to secure to every citizen so desiring and so
+deserving an opportunity to cultivate such a definite area as may meet
+his needs and powers. Experience has proved conclusively that it is
+a correct economic principle for the State to give a secure title to
+certain carefully defined lands to a capable man, and to say: "This
+land is yours. You may raise potatoes, corn, hay or anything you
+choose. Every plant, fruit or tree growing on this property is yours.
+You have become responsible for its right and proper use. You have full
+and complete rights in this property, and can develop it by investing
+your labor and your money according to your own judgment, and the State
+will protect you in these rights as long as you do not interfere with
+the rights of other persons." Equally so it is an indubitable economic
+fact that the landowner finds it more profitable to plant or transplant
+corn, potatoes, grass, strawberries, etc., rather than to depend upon
+the natural methods and yield. Similarly, it is equally logical for the
+State to give to the fisherman equal opportunities with the farmer. The
+State should guarantee the tenure of the fisherman in his definitely
+bounded shellfish garden, and should protect his interests and the
+property on that garden as securely as if it were potatoes or corn,
+and should, so far as possible, guard him from local jealousy or the
+effects of petty politics so long as he continues wisely to improve
+his grant in conformity to the spirit and letter of laws which are
+found by experience to give the greatest good to the greatest number.
+
+Further, the State should protect the fishermen and the consumers of
+shellfish by defining the areas which from a sanitary point of view
+are (1) totally unsuitable for shellfish cultivation; (2) those where
+shellfish may be grown but not eaten; and, finally, (3) definite areas
+from which alone shellfish may be sold for food. Provide suitable
+penalties for sale of shellfish which have not been kept for the
+required time (at least thirty days) in sanitary surroundings before
+going to market. The entire question of pollution of streams and
+estuaries must be carefully considered in view of the public rights
+and of the commercial interests of the fishermen. Further, the laws
+must be so carefully drawn that the respective rights and interests of
+individual fishermen, shore owners, summer cottagers and the transient
+public at the seashore are completely safeguarded against the dangers
+of predatory wealth monopolizing the opportunities for cultivating
+shellfish in the waters and the tidal flats.
+
+The situation is extremely complicated on account of the diverse
+conditions and the numerous conflicting interests, oystermen,
+quahaugers, clammers and scallopers, native and alien fishermen, owners
+of shore property, town and State rights, local interests and petty
+politics, and careful judicial consideration is necessary not alone
+as to the substance of the necessary laws, but upon the methods of
+administering these laws.
+
+                        Respectfully submitted,
+
+                                                         G. W. FIELD.
+                                                         J. W. DELANO.
+                                                         G. H. GARFIELD.
+
+FOOTNOTES:
+
+[17] Licenses.
+
+[18] Licences for bait.
+
+[19] Licenses.
+
+[20] Statistics of the number of men engaged were unobtainable.
+
+
+
+
+INDEX.
+
+INDEX.
+
+  Barnstable:--
+    Clam industry, 207-209
+    Oyster industry, 147-149
+    Quahaug industry, 52, 53
+    Scallop industry, 96-98
+
+  Berkley:--
+    Clam industry, 229, 230
+    Oyster industry, 156-158
+
+  Beverly, clam industry, 192
+
+  Boston harbor, clam industry, 196-198
+
+  Bourne:--
+    Clam industry, 220
+    Oyster industry, 153, 154
+    Quahaug industry, 53, 54
+    Scallop industry, 98, 99
+
+  Brewster, scallop industry, 99
+
+  Buzzard's Bay district:--
+    Clam industry, 219
+    Oyster industry, 150-152
+
+
+  Capital, 36
+
+  Chatham:--
+    Clam industry, 215, 216
+    Oyster industry, 144-146
+    Quahaug industry, 55, 56
+    Scallop industry, 99-101
+
+  Clam:--
+    Decline, 165, 166
+    Distribution, 159
+    Farming, 167-176
+    Growth, 171-173
+    History in Massachusetts, 176-178
+    Industry in Massachusetts, 178-180
+    Production for Massachusetts since 1880, 178
+    Remedy for decline, 167
+    Seed, 174
+    Statistics of industry in Massachusetts, 161-164
+
+  Cohasset, clam industry, 200
+
+
+  Dartmouth:--
+    Clam industry, 224, 225
+    Quahaug industry, 56
+    Scallop industry, 103
+
+  Dennis:--
+    Clam industry, 217, 218
+    Oyster industry, 146, 147
+    Quahaug industry, 56
+    Scallop industry, 101-103
+
+  Dighton:--
+    Clam industry, 229
+    Oyster industry, 156-158
+    Duxbury, clam industry, 202-204
+
+  Eastham:--
+    Clam industry, 211, 212
+    Oyster industry, 144
+    Quahaug industry, 56,57
+    Scallop industry, 103
+
+  Edgartown:--
+    Clam industry, 232, 233
+    Quahaug industry, 58-60
+    Scallop industry, 103-105
+
+  Essex, clam industry, 188-190
+
+
+  Fairhaven:--
+    Clam industry, 223
+    Quahaug industry, 60, 61
+    Scallop industry, 105, 106
+
+  Fall River, clam industry, 231
+
+  Fall River district:--
+    Clam industry, 225-227
+    Oyster industry, 156-158
+    Scallop industry, 106
+
+  Falmouth:--
+    Clam industry, 219, 220
+    Oyster industry, 149, 150
+    Quahaug industry, 61, 62
+    Scallop industry, 106
+
+  Fishing rights of the public, 26
+
+  Food value of shellfish, 92
+
+  Freetown:--
+    Clam industry, 230
+    Oyster industry, 156-158
+
+
+  Gloucester, clam industry, 190, 191
+
+
+  Harwich:--
+    Clam industry, 217
+    Oyster industry, 146
+    Quahaug industry, 62, 63
+    Scallop industry, 106, 107
+
+  Hingham, clam industry, 199
+
+  Hull, clam industry, 199, 200
+
+
+  Ipswich, clam industry, 185-188
+
+
+  Kingston, clam industry, 205, 206
+
+
+  Laws:--
+    Oyster, 127-132
+    Quahaug, 50, 51
+    Scallop, 92, 93
+    Shellfish, 25-30
+
+  Lynn, clam industry, 193, 194
+
+
+  Manchester, clam industry, 191, 192
+
+  Marion:--
+    Clam industry, 221, 222
+    Oyster industry, 156
+    Quahaug industry, 63, 64
+    Scallop industry, 107, 108
+
+  Marshfield, clam industry, 201, 202
+
+  Mashpee:--
+    Clam industry, 218
+    Oyster industry, 149
+    Quahaug industry, 64, 65
+    Scallop industry, 108
+
+  Mattapoisett:--
+    Clam industry, 222
+    Quahaug industry, 65, 66
+    Scallop industry, 108, 109
+
+  Methods of work, 16
+    Clam, 160, 161
+    Oyster, 117, 118
+    Quahaug, 38
+    Scallop, 81
+
+  Monopoly, 36
+
+
+  Nahant, clam industry, 195, 196
+
+  Nantucket:--
+    Clam industry, 231, 232
+    Oyster industry, 158, 159
+    Quahaug industry, 66-69
+    Scallop industry, 109-111
+
+  Narragansett Bay:--
+    Clam industry, 225-227
+    Oyster industry, 156-158
+
+  New Bedford:--
+    Clam industry, 223, 224
+    Quahaug industry, 69, 70
+    Scallop industry, 111-113
+
+  Newbury, clam industry, 184, 185
+
+  Newburyport, clam industry, 182, 183
+
+
+  Orleans:--
+    Clam industry, 210, 211
+    Oyster industry, 144
+    Quahaug industry, 70-72
+    Scallop industry, 113
+
+  Overfishing, 23
+
+  Oyster:--
+    Enemies, 155
+    Grants, 119
+    Natural beds, 119-123
+    Statistics, 136-138
+    Spat collecting, 133, 134
+
+  Oystermen v. quahaugers, 152
+
+
+  Plymouth, clam industry, 206, 207
+
+  Pollution, water, 23-25, 236
+
+  Protection, 26, 27
+
+  Provincetown:--
+    Clam industry, 214, 215
+    Quahaug industry, 72
+    Scallop industry, 113
+
+
+  Quahaug:--
+    Decline, 38-40
+    Distribution, 36, 37
+    Farming, 40-43
+    Growth, 42
+    History in Massachusetts, 49, 50
+    Industry, 43-49
+    Rakes, 44, 45
+    Spat collecting, 43
+    Statistics, 51
+
+  Quahaugers v. oystermen, 152
+
+
+  Resources, unimproved, 19
+
+  Salem, clam industry, 193
+
+  Salisbury, clam industry, 180-182
+
+  Sanitary conditions, 236
+
+  Saugus, clam industry, 194, 195
+
+  Scallop:--
+    Decline, 82-84
+    Distribution, 80
+    Dredges, 86-88
+    "Eye," 88
+    History in Massachusetts, 93, 94
+    Improvements, 84
+    Industry, 85-91
+    Maine, 90
+    Market, 90
+    Openers, 88
+    Outfit, 90, 91
+    "Pusher," 85
+    Season, 91
+    Shanties, 88
+    Soaking, 89, 90
+    Statistics, 95
+
+  Scituate, clam industry, 201
+
+  Sectional jealousy, 31
+
+  Shellfisheries:--
+    Abuses, 25-33
+    Decline, 20-25
+    Development, 19
+    Production since 1879, 20
+    Remedy, 33-35
+    Statistics, 19
+
+  Somerset:--
+    Clam industry, 228, 229
+    Oyster industry, 156-158
+
+  Statistical summaries:--
+    Clam industry, 161-164
+    Oyster industry, 136-138
+    Quahaug industry, 51
+    Scallop industry, 95
+    Shellfish industry, 19
+
+  Swansea:--
+    Clam industry, 227, 228
+    Oyster industry, 156-158
+    Quahaug industry, 72
+
+
+  Tisbury, scallop industry, 113
+
+  Town jealousy, 31
+
+  Truro:--
+    Clam industry, 213, 214
+    Quahaug industry, 72
+
+
+  Wareham:--
+    Clam industry, 221
+    Oyster industry, 154-156
+    Quahaug industry, 72-74
+    Scallop industry, 114, 115
+
+  Waste of competition, 31
+
+  Wastefulness, historical, 17-19
+
+  Wellfleet:--
+    Clam industry, 212, 213
+    Oyster industry, 138-143
+    Quahaug industry, 74-79
+    Scallop industry, 115
+
+  Weymouth, clam industry, 198
+
+
+  Yarmouth:--
+    Clam industry, 209, 210
+    Oyster industry, 146, 147
+    Quahaug industry, 79, 80
+    Scallop industry, 115, 116
+
+[Illustration: The above map of the coast line of Massachusetts, with
+its numbered sections, furnishes an index to the following series of
+shellfish areas.]
+
+[Illustration: The above characters, as used on the following maps,
+indicate the position and relative quantities of the various shellfish
+in their respective localities. No attempt is made to give the relative
+abundance of scallops and oysters, while the present productive value
+of the different clam and quahaug areas is indicated by different
+standards of marking.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 1.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 2.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 3.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 4.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 5.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 6.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 7.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 8.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 9.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 10.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 11.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 12.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 13.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 14.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 15.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 16.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 17.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 18.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 19.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 20.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 21.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 22.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 23.]
+
+[Illustration: Map 24.]
+
+[Illustration: =The Scallop Pusher.=--This implement consists of a
+wooden pole, from 8 to 9 feet long, attached to a rectangular iron
+framework, 3 by 1½ feet, fitted with a netting bag, 3 feet in depth.
+The scalloper, wading in the shallow water, gathers the scallops from
+the flats by shoving the pusher among the eel grass. The photograph
+shows the correct position of the pusher in operation. Only a small
+part of the pole is shown.]
+
+[Illustration: =The Box Scallop Dredge.=--This dredge consists of a
+rectangular framework, 27 by 12 inches, with an oval-shaped iron bar
+extending backward as a support for the netting bag, which is attached
+to the rectangular frame. To the sides of this frame is joined a heavy
+iron chain about 4 feet long, to which the drag rope is fastened. This
+style of dredge is used only at Chatham and the neighboring towns of
+Cape Cod.]
+
+[Illustration: =Scallop Dredge=,--"=The Scraper.="--This implement
+has the form of a triangular iron framework, with a curve of nearly
+90° at the base, to form the bowl of the dredge. On the upper side a
+raised cross bar connects the two arms, while at the bottom a strip
+of iron 2 inches wide extends across the dredge. This narrow strip
+acts as a scraping blade, and is set at an angle so as to dig into the
+soil. The top of the net is fastened to the cross bar and the lower
+part to the blade. The usual dimensions of the dredge are: arms, 2½
+feet; upper cross bar, 2 feet; blade, 2½ feet. The net varies in size,
+usually running from 2 to 3 feet in length and holding between 1 and
+2 bushels. Additional weights can be put on the cross bar when the
+scalloper desires the dredge to "scrape" deeper. A wooden bar 2 feet
+long buoys the net. The scraper used at Nantucket has the entire net
+made of twine, whereas in other localities the lower part consists of
+interwoven iron rings.]
+
+[Illustration: =The Oyster Dredge.=--This is the type of oyster dredge
+used on the large gasolene boats. The photograph was taken on board the
+oyster boat of Mr. James Monahan of Wareham. The dredge consists of a
+net of woven iron rings attached to an iron framework. From each corner
+of the framework rods extend, converging at a point some feet away,
+where the drag rope is attached. The blade, resting horizontally on the
+surface, is armed with large teeth which rake the oysters into the bag.
+When this bag, which holds from 8 to 15 bushels, is full, the dredge is
+raised by a gasolene hoist.]
+
+[Illustration: =The Basket Quahaug Rake.=--This style of basket rake
+is used at Edgartown and Nantucket. The whole rake is made of iron,
+no netting being required, as thin iron wires 1/3 of an inch apart
+encircle lengthwise the entire basket, preventing the escape of any
+marketable quahaugs, while at the same time allowing mud and sand to
+wash out. This rake has 16 steel teeth, 1½ inches long, fitted at
+intervals of 1 inch on the scraping bar. The depth of the basket is
+about 8 inches. Short poles not exceeding 30 feet in length are used,
+as the raking is carried on in water which does not exceed 25 feet in
+depth. Only the iron framework of the rake is shown.]
+
+[Illustration: =The Claw Quahaug Rake.=--This rake varies greatly in
+size and length. Its use is chiefly confined to Nantucket. The general
+style has a handle 6 feet long, while the iron part, in the form of a
+claw or talon, with prongs 1 inch apart, is 10 inches wide. A heavier
+rake, as here shown, is sometimes used in the deeper water.]
+
+[Illustration: =The Scallop Rake.=--The use of this rake is confined
+almost exclusively to the town of Chatham. Both scallops and quahaugs
+can be taken with it. The bowl is formed by a curve of the prongs,
+which are held together by two long cross bars at the top and bottom
+of the basket, while the ends are enclosed by short strips of iron.
+Handles from 15 to 20 feet long are generally used with this rake.]
+
+[Illustration: =Rowley Reef Clam Set.=--This photograph shows the
+surface of Rowley Reef, one of the flats of Plum Island Sound. In the
+summer of 1906 a heavy set of clams was found on this flat, averaging
+1,500 to the square foot of surface. These rapidly diminished, and one
+year later, Aug. 27, 1907, when this photograph was taken, the clams
+numbered about 400 to the square foot. This area furnished an excellent
+illustration of the great destruction of natural clam set. Only 5 per
+cent. of these clams reached maturity, and the remaining 95 per cent.,
+destroyed by natural agencies, could have been saved if proper measures
+had been taken. At least 100 acres of the barren flats of Rowley could
+have been planted with the "seed" from this flat, and after two years
+the crop would have been worth $30,000. The present shellfish laws of
+the Commonwealth are alone to blame for this waste. The clam hoe shown
+in the foreground is the typical digger or "hooker" of the North Shore
+clammer.]
+
+[Illustration: =Rowley Reef.=--This photograph, taken on the same date
+as the preceding, shows another section of the reef, where the clam set
+has been torn up and destroyed by horse-shoe crabs and cockles.]
+
+[Illustration: =Rowley Reef.=--A photograph, natural size, of a thickly
+set part of the same flat. The broken shells on top show clams which
+have been crowded out of the sand and destroyed. In this way nature
+regulates the number of clams in a given area.]
+
+[Illustration: =Castle Neck Flat= (=Essex River=).--A scene at low
+tide, Aug. 28, 1907, showing the area turned over by two clammers in
+one hour. At this date there was a heavy set of small clams on this
+flat.]
+
+[Illustration: =Plymouth Harbor.=--This photograph was taken at low
+tide, from the boat house of Mr. Frank Cole. In the foreground are a
+few of the experimental clam beds of the Massachusetts department of
+fisheries and game. Note the large tracts of eel grass covering the
+flats.]
+
+[Illustration: =Cole's Clam Grant.=--This photograph shows a portion
+of the grant leased to Mr. Frank Cole by the town of Kingston for
+the propagation of clams. Several of the experimental beds of the
+Massachusetts department of fisheries and game were situated on this
+grant.]
+
+[Illustration: =Clam Spat Box.=--This box was suspended from a raft
+during the summer of 1907. The small clams which were caught in it are
+heaped before the box. These clams vary in size from ½ to 2 inches in
+length, showing that the spawning season is at least of two months'
+duration. The spat box was put down May 15 and taken up October 15.
+Note the barnacles, silver shells (_Anomia_), etc., on the box and
+rope.]
+
+[Illustration: =A Clam Shanty.=--The shanty of Samuel Kilbourn, an
+experienced Ipswich clammer. The large heap of shells is the result of
+six weeks of steady digging. Numerous shanties of this sort are used
+for "shucking out" clams when marketed by the gallon. This photograph
+also shows the clam sifter which was used in obtaining the small "seed"
+clams from Rowley Reef for the experimental beds.]
+
+[Illustration: =Taking up One of the Clam Gardens of the Massachusetts
+Department of Fisheries and Game.=--The bed was planted Nov. 15, 1905,
+in Essex River, on a sand flat locally known as "Newfoundland." When
+the bed was planted the flat was considered barren, as it produced
+practically no clams. The photograph was obtained Nov. 15, 1907, when
+the bed was taken up, and shows the clammers at work. Note the heaps of
+marketable clams which were taken from the bed.]
+
+[Illustration: =Yield in Two Years of the Garden shown in the Preceding
+Photograph.=--Note the amount of clams planted, compared with the
+marketable clams taken out. The size of the bed was 1/100 of an acre.
+The clams had increased in size so that 8 quarts were obtained for
+every quart planted. This shows what could be done with many barren
+flats if individuals had the privilege of cultivating clam farms.]
+
+[Illustration: =The Winkle or Cockle= (=Lunatia heros and
+duplicata=).--An enemy of the clam, which it destroys by boring a hole
+through the shell and sucking out the contents.]
+
+[Illustration: =Clam Growth.=--This photograph gives a comparison
+between the growth of small and large clams from a single bed under the
+same natural conditions. The large clam shows a much slower growth than
+the small. Both clams were notched when planted on the "Spit" in Essex
+River, April 18, 1907. They were dug Aug. 28, 1907.]
+
+[Illustration: =Soft-shelled Clam= (=Mya arenaria=).--This large
+clam shell, measuring 5¾ inches in length, was found on Grey's Flat,
+Kingston. Where the flat has been worn away by erosion the ground is
+white with thousands of these shells in an upright position in the
+soil, showing that sudden destruction had overtaken them at some time
+in the past.]
+
+[Illustration: =Quahaugs from an Experimental Bed at Monomoy Point,
+showing Two Years' Growth.=--The two notches or file marks on the
+shells indicate the growth per year. The photograph is two-thirds life
+size. These quahaugs have shown rapid growth, having gained nearly 1
+inch a year in length, which is the best growth thus far found in any
+of the experimental beds.]
+
+[Illustration: =Gathering "Seed" Oysters in the Weweantit River,
+Wareham, May 6, 1908.=--The natural beds of the town of Wareham had
+been closed for seven years, and on this date were opened for the
+period of one week for the inhabitants of the town to gather "seed"
+oysters, the photograph was taken on the opening day, and shows the
+oystermen at work tonging the "seed" oysters. In the foreground is a
+loaded skiff, ready to have its contents estimated by the inspector,
+who declares the number of bushels. The tongers pay the town 10 cents
+per bushel for the privilege of gathering the oysters, and sell them
+for 35 cents per bushel to the planters, thus realizing a profit of 25
+cents.]
+
+[Illustration: =Typical Steam Dredger.=--The oyster boat of Mr. James
+Monahan of Wareham, showing oyster dredge and hoist. The large cans
+aboard the boat contain young flatfish from the Woods Hole Hatchery of
+the United States Fish Commission. Mr. Monahan is distributing these in
+Wareham river.]
+
+[Illustration: =Typical Oyster Schooner.=--Oyster schooner loaded with
+1,935 bushels of Wareham "seed" for L. Dodge, Providence River. This
+"seed" was taken in May, 1908, from the natural oyster bed in the
+Agawam River, which had been closed for the past three years.]
+
+
+
+
+
+    Transcriber's Notes:
+
+
+    Simple spelling, grammar, and typographical errors were
+    silently corrected.
+
+    Anachronistic and non-standard spellings retained as printed.
+
+    P. 92 added "(All values expressed as per cent.)" in lieu of
+    repeating per-cent. comment in every column header.
+
+    Italics markup is enclosed in _underscores_.
+
+    Bold markup is enclosed in =equals=.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of A Report upon the Mollusk Fisheries of
+Massachusetts, by Commissioners on Fisheries and Game
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 48195 ***
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-<pre>
-
-The Project Gutenberg EBook of A Report upon the Mollusk Fisheries of
-Massachusetts, by Commissioners on Fisheries and Game
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
-other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of
-the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
-www.gutenberg.org.  If you are not located in the United States, you'll have
-to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook.
-
-Title: A Report upon the Mollusk Fisheries of Massachusetts
-
-Author: Commissioners on Fisheries and Game
-
-Release Date: February 8, 2015 [EBook #48195]
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: ASCII
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK REPORT--MOLLUSK FISHERIES MASSACHUSETTS ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by Richard Tonsing, Sandra Eder and the Online
-Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
-file was produced from images generously made available
-by The Internet Archive)
-
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-
-
-</pre>
-
-
-<div class="tnotes covernote">
-  <p>The cover image was created by the transcriber and is placed in the public domain.</p>
-</div>
-
-<div class="titlepage">
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[Pg 1]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-
-
-
-<h1><span class="xlarge">The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.<br />
-
-A REPORT<br /></span>
-<span class="small">UPON</span><br />
-<span class="smcap">The Mollusk Fisheries</span><br />
-<span class="small">OF</span><br />
-MASSACHUSETTS.</h1>
-
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 498px;">
-<img src="images/signet.jpg" width="498" height="667" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="large">BOSTON:<br />
-WRIGHT &amp; POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,<br /></span>
-<span class="smcap">18 Post Office Square</span>.<br />
-1909.</p>
-</div>
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Approved by<br />
-The State Board of Publication.</span>
-</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[Pg 2]</a></span></p>
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-
-
-
-<h2><a name="The_Commonwealth_of_Massachusetts" id="The_Commonwealth_of_Massachusetts">The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.</a></h2>
-
-
-<p class="right">
-<span class="smcap">Commissioners on Fisheries and Game,<br />
-State House, Boston</span>, Jan. 15, 1909.</p>
-
-<p>
-<i>To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives.</i><br />
-</p>
-
-<p>We herewith transmit a special report upon the mollusk
-fisheries of Massachusetts, as ordered by chapter 49, Resolves
-of 1905, relative to scallops; chapter 73, Resolves of 1905,
-relative to oysters; chapter 78, Resolves of 1905, relative to
-quahaugs; and chapter 93, Resolves of 1905, relative to clams.</p>
-
-<p class="center">Respectfully submitted,
-</p>
-
-<p class="right">
-G. W. FIELD,<br />
-<i>Chairman</i>.<br />
-</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span></p>
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-<h2>CONTENTS</h2>
-<p>
-
-<!-- Autogenerated TOC. Modify or delete as required. -->
-
-<a href="#The_Commonwealth_of_Massachusetts"><span class="smcap">The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.</span></a><br />
-<a href="#REPORT_ON_THE_MOLLUSK_FISHERIES_OF"><span class="smcap">Report on the Mollusk Fisheries of Massachusetts.</span></a><br />
-<a href="#Introduction"><span class="smcap">Introduction.</span></a><br />
-<a href="#THE_SHELLFISHERIES_OF_MASSACHUSETTS_THEIR"><span class="smcap">The Shellfisheries of Massachusetts: Their Present Condition and Extent.</span></a><br />
-<a href="#Quahaug_Venus_mercenaria"><span class="smcap">Quahaug</span> (<i>Venus mercenaria</i>).</a><br />
-<a href="#Scallop_Pecten_irradians"><span class="smcap">Scallop</span> (<i>Pecten irradians</i>).</a><br />
-<a href="#Oyster_Ostrea_Virginiana"><span class="smcap">Oyster</span> (<i>Ostrea Virginiana</i>).</a><br />
-<a href="#Clam_Mya_arenaria"><span class="smcap">Clam</span> (<i>Mya arenaria</i>).</a><br />
-<a href="#INDEX"><span class="smcap">Index.</span></a><br />
-<a href="#Transcribers_Notes"><span class="smcap">Transcriber's Notes</span></a><br />
-
-<!-- End Autogenerated TOC. -->
-
-</p>
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-
-
-
-<p class="ph1"><a name="REPORT_ON_THE_MOLLUSK_FISHERIES_OF" id="REPORT_ON_THE_MOLLUSK_FISHERIES_OF">REPORT ON THE MOLLUSK FISHERIES OF
-MASSACHUSETTS.</a></p>
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-
-
-
-<h2><a name="Introduction" id="Introduction"><span class="smcap">Introduction.</span></a></h2>
-
-
-<p>The general plan of the work was outlined by the chairman
-of the Commission on Fisheries and Game, who has given attention
-to such details as checking up scientific data, editing,
-revising, and confirming results, reports, etc. The work has
-been under the direct charge and personal supervision of the
-biologist to the commission, Mr. D. L. Belding. The able
-services of Prof. J. L. Kellogg of Williams College were early
-enlisted, and many valuable results which we are able to offer
-are the direct outcome of the practical application of the
-minute details discovered by Professor Kellogg in his careful
-study and original investigations of the anatomy and life histories
-of the lamellibranch mollusks.</p>
-
-<p>Of the other workers who, under the direction of Mr. Belding,
-have contributed directly, special mention should be made of
-Mr. J. R. Stevenson of Williams College, W. G. Vinal of Harvard
-University, F. C. Lane of Boston University, A. A. Perkins
-of Ipswich and C. L. Savery of Marion. Those who
-have for a briefer time been identified with the work are R.
-L. Buffum, W. H. Gates and K. B. Coulter of Williams College,
-and Anson Handy of Harvard University.</p>
-
-<p>In addition to the results here given, much valuable knowledge
-has been acquired, particularly upon the life histories of
-the scallop and of the quahaug, and the practical application of
-this knowledge to the pursuit of sea farming. It is hoped
-that the commission will later be enabled to publish these results.</p>
-
-<p>The present report is limited to a statement of the condition
-of the shellfish in each section of our coast, and to consideration
-of practical methods for securing increased opportunities<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span>
-for food and livelihood by better utilization of naturally productive
-lands under water. Since the chief purpose of legislative
-action under which this work was undertaken was to
-ascertain how the best economic results could be secured, we
-have thought it wise to embody the results of our investigation
-in a plan which is suggested as a basis for appropriate legislation
-for making possible a suitable system of shellfish cultivation
-similar to that which already exists in Rhode Island, Connecticut
-and many other coast States, and which has been carried
-on for more than two thousand years on the shores of the
-Mediterranean Sea.</p>
-
-<p>The following tentative outlines are offered, and it is intended
-to subject each topic to an unprejudiced examination
-and discussion:&mdash;</p>
-
-
-<h3><span class="smcap">A Proposed System of Culture for the Tidal Flats and
-Waters of Massachusetts.</span></h3>
-
-<p><i>The Purpose.</i>&mdash;The proposed system of shellfish culture
-aims to develop the latent wealth of the tidal waters, to increase
-the output of tidal flats already productive, and to make
-possible the reclamation of large portions of the waste shore
-areas of our Commonwealth. It is further designed to foster
-dependent and allied industries; to extend the shellfish market,
-both wholesale and retail; to multiply opportunities for the
-transient visitors and shore cottagers to fish for clams and
-quahaugs for family use, and to ensure fishermen a reliable
-source of bait supply; to increase the earnings of the shore
-fishermen, and to furnish work to thousands of unemployed;
-to increase the value of shore property; to add to the taxable
-property of the shore towns and cities of the State; to secure
-to all the citizens of the State a proper return from an unutilized
-State asset; to furnish the consuming public with a greater
-quantity of sea food of guaranteed purity; and in every way,
-both in the utilization of present and in the creation of new
-resources to build up and develop the fast-declining shellfish
-industries of the Commonwealth.</p>
-
-<p><i>Private v. Public Ownership of Tidal Flats.</i>&mdash;The first difficulty
-confronting this proposed system is the too frequently
-accepted fallacy that all lands between the tide marks now are<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span>
-and should be held in common by the inhabitants of the shore
-communities, to the exclusion of citizens from other sections
-of the State,&mdash;an assumption which is directly contrary to
-the more ancient law, supported by decisions of the highest
-courts, that the right of taking shellfish is a public right, freely
-open to any inhabitant of the State. Such unwarranted assumption
-of exclusive rights in the shellfisheries by individuals,
-corporations or towns sacrifices the rights of the majority.
-The disastrous effect of this policy is plainly demonstrated in
-the history of the rise and decline of the shellfisheries of Massachusetts.</p>
-
-<p>Secondly, this fallacious assumption is contrary to the fundamental
-principles of all economic doctrines. It may be safely
-affirmed that the individual ownership of property has proved
-not only a success but even is a necessary condition of progress,
-and has in fact at length become the foundation of all society.
-It inevitably follows that if the system is justifiable in the case
-of farm lands it is equally justifiable in the case of the tidal
-flats, for the same principle is involved in each. It is therefore
-fair to assume that if private ownership of farm land has
-proved to be for the best interests of human progress, so private
-ownership of the tidal flats will also be a benefit to the public.</p>
-
-<p>It is not our purpose to discuss the underlying principle involved
-in private ownership of property,&mdash;it is simply our
-purpose to call attention to two facts: (1) if individual control
-of real estate is just, private ownership of tidal flats and waters
-is likewise just; (2) that individual control of such areas is
-the only practical system yet devised capable of checking the
-alarming decline in the shellfisheries and of developing them
-to a normal state of productiveness, and rendering unnecessary
-an annually increasing mass of restrictive legislation.</p>
-
-<p><i>The Present System.</i>&mdash;The present system of controlling
-the shellfisheries is based on the communal ownership of the
-tidal flats. Ownership by the Commonwealth has degenerated
-into a system of town control, whereby every coast community
-has entire jurisdiction over its shellfisheries, to the practical
-exclusion of citizens of all other towns. Thus at the present
-time the mollusk fisheries of Massachusetts are divided into a
-number of separate and disorganized units, which are incapable<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span>
-of working together for the best interests of the towns or of the
-public. This communistic system is distinctly unsound, and
-is in direct opposition to the principles of social and economic
-development. The man who advocates keeping farm lands untilled
-and in common, for the sake of the few wild blackberries
-they might produce, would be considered mentally unbalanced;
-but it is precisely this system which holds sway over our relatively
-richer sea gardens. With no thought of seed time, but
-only of harvest, the fertile tidal flats are yearly divested of their
-fast-decreasing output by reckless and ruthless exploitation,
-and valuable territories when once exhausted are allowed to
-become barren. All hopes for the morrow are sacrificed to
-the clamorous demands of the present. The more the supply
-decreases, the more insistent becomes the demand; and the
-greater the demand, the more relentless grows the campaign of
-spoliation. The entire shore front of the Commonwealth is
-scoured and combed by irresponsible aliens and by exemplars
-of the "submerged tenth" who are now but despoilers, but who
-if opportunity were present might become cultivators of the
-flats rather than devastators. The thoughtful fisherman, who
-would control the industry in a measure, is under present conditions
-overruled by his selfish or short-sighted fellow workers,
-and is of necessity forced to join their ranks by the clinching
-argument that if the shellfisheries are to be ruined anyway, he
-might as well have his share as long as they last. The theory
-of public ownership of shellfisheries has been weighed in the
-balance and found wanting. The necessity for some radical
-change in the present system is becoming more and more apparent,
-and a system of private control, with certain modifications,
-is the logical result.</p>
-
-<p><i>Need of Reform.</i>&mdash;The shellfish supply of Massachusetts
-is steadily declining. So extensive is this decline that it is
-unnecessary to mention the abundant proofs of almost complete
-exhaustion in certain localities and of failing output in
-others. While the apparent cause of this decrease is overfishing
-and unsystematic digging, the real cause can be readily
-traced to the present defective system of town control, which
-has made possible, through inefficiency and neglect, the deplorable
-condition of this important industry. Unless the de<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span>cline
-is at once checked, within a very few years our valuable
-shellfisheries will be exhausted to the point of commercial extinction.
-The legislation of former years, essentially restrictive
-and prohibitory in character, has unfortunately been constructed
-on a false economic basis. Its aim has been to protect
-these industries by restricting the demand rather than by
-increasing the supply. What the future requires is not merely
-protective or restrictive legislation, but rather constructive laws
-for developing the shellfisheries. The system of shellfish culture
-here presented appears to be the only practical method
-for improving the condition of these industries in such a way
-as to protect all vested interests of both private and public
-rights, and at the same time to make possible adequate utilization
-of the natural productive capacity.</p>
-
-<p>In brief, the proposed system of shellfish culture is based
-upon a system of leases to individuals. These leases should be
-divided into two classes: (1) those covering the territory between
-the tide lines, and consisting of small areas, from 1
-to 2 acres; (2) the territory below low-water mark, comprised
-of two classes of grants, which differ only in size and distance
-from the shore,&mdash;the smaller (<i>a</i>), from 1 to 5 acres, to include
-the shore waters, small bays and inlets, and the larger (<i>b</i>), of
-unrestricted size, to be given in the deeper and more exposed
-waters. The owners of all grants shall be permitted to plant and
-grow all species of shellfish, and shall have exclusive control
-of the fisheries area covered by such lease. The large and more
-exposed grants, which cannot be economically worked without
-considerable capital, should be available for companies; while
-the smaller holdings, for which but small capital is required, are
-restricted to the use of the individual shore fishermen. For
-the tidal flats and shore waters but one-half of the whole territory
-in any one township shall be leased, the other half still
-remaining public property.</p>
-
-<p><i>Success of this System.</i>&mdash;The system of private control by
-leased grants is by no means a new and untried theory. In
-actual operation for many years in this and other States, in
-spite of lack of protection and other drawbacks which would
-be eliminated from a perfected system, it has proved an unqualified
-success. The rapid depletion and even extermination<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span>
-of the native oyster beds necessitated legislative consideration,
-and for years the oyster industry above and below low-water
-mark in this and other States has been dealt with by a similar
-system. The plan here suggested would be but a direct extension
-of a well-tested principle towards the cultivation of
-other species of mollusks. The financial value to the fishermen
-of such a step has been proved beyond all question in this
-State during the past three years by the demonstrations of the
-Massachusetts department of fisheries and game. These experiments
-have proved that tidal flats, with small outlay of
-capital and labor, will yield, acre for acre, a far more valuable
-harvest than any upland garden.</p>
-
-<p>This system has the further element of success by being
-based on individual effort, in contrast to the present communal
-regulation of shellfisheries. In all business individual initiative
-and effort furnish the keynote of success, and the future
-wellfare of the shellfisheries depends upon the application of
-this principle.</p>
-
-<p>Nature cannot without the aid and co-operation of man repair
-the ill-advised, untimely and exhaustive inroads made in
-her resources. This is shown in the thousands of acres of good
-farm lands made unproductive by unwise treatment, and by
-the wasteful destruction of our forests. It is as strikingly
-shown in the decline of our shellfisheries. The fisherman exhausts
-the wealth of the flats by destroying both young and
-adults, and returns nothing. The result is decrease and ultimate
-extermination. The farmer prepares his land carefully
-and intelligently, plants his seed and in due time reaps a harvest.
-If the fisherman could have similar rights over the
-tidal areas, he could with far less labor and capital and with
-far greater certainty year by year reap a continuous harvest
-at all seasons. The success of the leasing system in other
-States, notably Louisiana, Rhode Island and others, is definite
-and conspicuous.</p>
-
-<p><i>The Obstacles to this Proposed System.</i>&mdash;Before the proposed
-system of titles to shellfish ground can be put in actual
-operation, it is absolutely necessary to have all rights and special
-privileges pertaining to shore areas revested in State control
-by repeal of certain laws. In this centralization of author<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span>ity
-four main factors must be carefully considered: (1) communal
-rights to fisheries in tidal areas, as in the colonial beach
-law of 1641-47; (2) the theory, practice and results of town
-supervision and control; (3) the rights of riparian owners;
-(4) the rights of the fishermen and of all other inhabitants
-of the State. So important are all four that it is necessary to
-discuss each in turn.</p>
-
-<p>(1) <i>Communal Fishery Rights of the Public.</i>&mdash;The fundamental
-principle upon which the shellfish laws of the State
-are founded is the so-called beach or free fishing right of the
-public. While in other States shore property extends only to
-mean high water, in Massachusetts, Maine and Virginia, the
-earliest States to enact colonial laws, the riparian property holders
-own to mean low-water mark. But by specific exception
-and according to further provisions of this same ancient law
-the right of fishing (which includes the shellfisheries) below
-high-water mark is free to any inhabitant of the Commonwealth.
-The act reads as follows:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Section 2.</span> Every inhabitant who is an householder shall have free
-fishing and fowling in any great ponds, bays, coves and rivers, so far
-as the sea ebbs and flows within the precincts of the town where they
-dwell, unless the freemen of the same town or the General Court have
-otherwise appropriated them.</p></div>
-
-<p>It is necessary that some change be made in this law, which
-at present offers no protection to the planters. Its repeal is
-by no means necessary, as the matter can be adjusted by merely
-adding "except for the taking of mollusks from the areas set
-apart and leased for the cultivation of mollusks."</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>Results of Town Administration of Mollusk Fisheries.</i>&mdash;All
-authority to control mollusk privileges was originally vested
-in the State. The towns, as the ancient statutes will show, derived
-this authority from the higher State authority, developed
-their systems of local regulations or by-laws only with the
-State permission, and even now they enjoy the fruits of these
-concessions solely with the active consent of the Legislature.
-Thus the State has ever been, and is at present, the source of
-town control. The towns have no rights of supervision and control
-over shellfisheries except as derived from the General Court.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span>
-The State gave them this authority in the beginning. It follows,
-therefore, that the Legislature can withdraw this delegated
-authority at any time when it is convinced that it is for
-the benefit of the State so to do. To those few who are directly
-profiting at the expense of the many, this resumption of authority
-by the State may seem at first sight a high-handed proceeding,
-but a brief survey of the facts will prove it to be justly
-warranted and eminently desirable. The present system of
-town control has had a sufficient trial. It is in its very essentials
-an un-business-like proceeding. A large number of towns
-acting in this matter as disorganized units working independently
-of one another could not in the nature of things evolve
-any co-ordinated and unified system which would be to the
-advantage of all. The problems involved are too complicated,
-requiring both broad and special knowledge, which cannot be
-acquired in a short term of experience. Lastly, the temptations
-of local politics have been found to be too insistent to
-guarantee completely fair allotment of valuable privileges.</p>
-
-<p>The Legislature has not only acted unwisely in allowing the
-towns in this respect thus to mismanage their affairs, but it
-has not fulfilled its duty to the Commonwealth as a whole. The
-Legislature has unwittingly delegated valuable sources of wealth
-and revenue, the fruits of which should have been enjoyed at
-least in some degree, directly or indirectly, by all citizens of
-the Commonwealth alike as well as by those of the coast towns.
-Many of the coast cities and towns have dealt with this opportunity
-very unwisely, and few have developed or even maintained
-unimpaired this extremely valuable asset of the State.
-It cannot be too strongly emphasized that such important sources
-of wealth as the shellfisheries are not the property of the coast
-towns alone; they are the property of the whole Commonwealth,
-and the whole Commonwealth should share in these benefits.
-In allowing these valuable resources to be mismanaged and
-dissipated by the shore towns, the Legislature has done a great
-injury to all the inland communities, and, indeed, even to those
-very coast towns for whose benefit such legislation was enacted.
-The Legislature was not justified, in the first place, in granting
-jurisdiction over these important industries belonging
-equally to the whole Commonwealth and to the coast towns.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span>
-It was but an experiment. Inasmuch as these towns have
-grossly mismanaged the trust placed in them, the Legislature
-is doubly under the obligation to take advantage of the knowledge
-gained by this experimental delegation of the State authority
-to cities and towns. The completely obvious obligation
-of the Legislature is to remove what is either tacitly or frankly
-acknowledged by many city and town authorities to be an impossible
-burden upon the city or town, and to restore to State
-officers the general administrative control and supervision of
-the public rights in the shellfisheries.</p>
-
-<p>(3) <i>Riparian Ownership does not include Exclusive Fishing
-Rights.</i>&mdash;The third objection is that in the assumption of
-State control is involved the much-discussed and vaguely understood
-question of riparian ownership. To make plain the
-conditions relative to the fisheries, including the shellfisheries
-on the tidal flats, it should be borne in mind that in only four
-States, Virginia and Maryland, Massachusetts and Maine, does
-the title of the riparian owner extend to low-water mark, but
-in these States the right of fishing, fowling and boating are
-specifically mentioned as not included in the title. Under the
-existing laws owners of seashore property in Massachusetts
-possess certain rights (though perhaps not in all cases clearly
-defined) over the tidal areas within 100 rods of the mean high-water
-mark. As the proposed system of shellfish grants deals
-with this territory between high and low water marks, it is
-necessary to see in what manner, if any, the rights at present
-possessed by riparian owners would be impaired by the leasing
-of certain rights of fishing. While the riparian owner has in
-a measure authority over the territory which borders his upland,
-there are certain specific limitations to this authority.
-He does not have exclusive rights of hunting, boating and fishing
-between the tide lines on his own property, but participates
-in these rights equally with every citizen of this Commonwealth.
-The courts have distinctly held that shellfish are fish, and that
-a man may fish&mdash;<i>i.e.</i>, dig clams&mdash;on the tidal flats adjoining
-the shore without the consent of the riparian owner.</p>
-
-<p>(4) <i>Rights of the Fishermen and of All Citizens.</i>&mdash;The
-fishermen as a class are best located to benefit most from an
-opportunity to lease exclusive fishing rights, whether they chance<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span>
-to be riparian owners or not, though every other citizen of this
-Commonwealth who so desired would not be excluded from an
-opportunity to secure a similar lease. The personnel of the
-fisher class has vastly changed in the past decade. There are
-to-day two distinct types: The permanent resident, usually native
-born, bound to a definite locality by ties of home and kin
-and of long association,&mdash;a most useful type of citizen. Contrasted
-with this is the other, a more rapidly increasing class,&mdash;foreign
-born, unnaturalized, nomadic, a humble soldier of fortune,
-a hanger-on in the outskirts of urban civilization, eking
-out an existence by selling or eating the shellfish from the public
-fishing grounds. Too ignorant to appreciate the importance
-of sanitary precaution, the alien clammer haunts the
-proscribed territory polluted by sewage, and does much to keep
-the dangerous typhoid germ in active circulation in the community.</p>
-
-<p>The public mollusk fisheries only foster such types of non-producers,
-and prevent them from becoming desirable citizens.
-The best class of fishermen and citizens has no advantage over
-the worst, but is practically compelled to engage in the same
-sort of petty buccaneering and wilfully destructive digging, in
-order to prevent that portion and privilege of fishing which the
-law says shall belong to every householder and freeman of the
-Commonwealth from being appropriated by these humble freebooters,
-who are at once the annoyance, the terror and the despair
-of cottagers and shore dwellers.</p>
-
-<p>All these conditions would be almost completely corrected
-by the lease of the flats to individuals, thus removing from the
-fishermen stultifying competition and compelling these irresponsible
-wandering aliens to acquire definite location. But
-most particularly a system of leasing would permit each person
-to profit according to his industry, perseverance, thrift and
-foresight.</p>
-
-<p><i>The Grants.</i>&mdash;As previously stated, the grants should be
-made into two divisions: (1) including suitable areas between
-the high and low water marks; (2) territory below mean low-water
-mark. The privilege of planting and growing all shellfish
-should be given for both classes of grants. Class 1
-would be primarily for the planting of clams, with additional<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span>
-rights over oysters and quahaugs; class 2 would be primarily
-for the planting of quahaugs and oysters, with possible rights
-over clams and scallops.</p>
-
-<p>The grants should be leased for a limited period of years,
-with the privilege of renewal provided the owner had fulfilled
-the stipulated requirements of the lease. In order, however,
-that these leases should not degenerate into deeds, to be handed
-down from father to son, it might be necessary to assign a
-maximum time limit during which a man might remain in
-control of any particular lease. This would be merely fair
-play to all concerned, for it would not be just to allow one man
-to monopolize a particularly fine piece of property, while his
-equally deserving neighbor had land of far less productive value.
-In connection with this clause should follow some provisions
-for payment of the value of improvements. Should there be
-more than one claimant for lease of any particular area, some
-principle of selection, such as priority of application, highest
-bid, etc., should be established.</p>
-
-<p>That there may be no holding of grants for purposes other
-than those stipulated in the agreement, there should be a certain
-cultural standard of excellence to be decided upon relative
-to the use made of the granted areas. A clause of this kind
-is necessary in order to keep the system in a proper state of
-efficiency, and to insure the development of the shellfish industries.</p>
-
-<p>All taxes on the capital invested in these grants and taxes
-upon the income should go to the town in which the leasehold
-is situated. In addition, there should be a just and equable
-revenue assessed by the State on every grant, as rent for the
-same. This rent should be apportioned according to a fixed
-scale in determining the relative values of the grants, and
-should be paid annually, under penalty of forfeiture. The
-revenue might be divided into two parts: one part to go to
-the State department having the control of the shellfisheries, for
-the maintenance of a survey, control and protection of property
-on leased areas, and other work; the second part to go to the
-town treasury of the community in which the grant is located,
-to be expended under the direction and control of responsible
-State officials in restocking barren flats and otherwise develop<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span>ing
-the shellfish upon its unleased territory which is open for
-free public use.</p>
-
-<p><i>Grants to be Nontransferable.</i>&mdash;These grants, while designed
-for the use of all citizens of the Commonwealth, should
-be made especially available for the poor man with little capital.
-In order to assure the poor man of the enjoyment of his
-privilege, it is necessary to guard against the possibility of undue
-monopolization. Leases must, therefore, be strictly nontransferable.
-Neither should areas be rented to another individual
-under any consideration whatever. Every grant must
-be for the benefit of its individual owner. He should be at
-liberty to hire laborers to assist him in working his grant, but
-not to transfer it in any way. Any attempt on his part to do
-so should not only immediately result in the forfeiture of his
-grant, but should also subject him to a heavy penalty.</p>
-
-<p><i>Survey.</i>&mdash;In order to guard against confusion and to maintain
-an orderly system, an accurate survey of all granted areas
-should be made. The ranges of every grant should be determined
-and recorded. The plots should be numbered and properly
-staked or buoyed, and a record of the same, giving the
-name of the owner, yearly rental and value, should be kept on
-file at the proper town and State offices. The same system
-which is now in operation in the oyster industry of other
-States should be applied to all the mollusk fisheries of Massachusetts.</p>
-
-<p><i>Administration.</i>&mdash;The department of the State government
-under whose jurisdiction this system of leases may come should
-be indued with full authority, properly defined, to supervise
-the grants, furnish them with adequate protection by the employment
-of State or town police, oversee the survey, allot the
-grants, and to exercise such other powers as may be necessary
-to develop the system, remedy its defects and strengthen its
-efficiency.</p>
-
-<p><i>Protection of Property and of the Rights granted by the
-Lease.</i>&mdash;No system of shellfish grants is possible without absolute
-protection. The lessee must be permitted to cultivate
-his grant free from outside interference, and thus, with reasonably
-good fortune, he can enjoy the fruits of his labors. This
-protection, which is the greatest and most vital need of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span>
-entire system, and the foundation upon which depends its whole
-success, must be insured by proper legislation rigorously enforced,
-and accompanied by severe penalties.</p>
-
-<p><i>Leasing of the Grants.</i>&mdash;Every citizen of the Commonwealth
-is entitled to participate in this system, but for obvious reasons
-an inhabitant of any coast town should be given first choice of
-grants within the boundary of his particular town. The first
-grants might be given by allotment, but after the system had
-become well established, they could be issued in the order of
-their application.</p>
-
-<p><i>Water Pollution.</i>&mdash;The sanitary condition of the marketed
-shellfish taken from contaminated waters is not only at present
-to some extent endangering the public health, but is placing an
-undeserved stigma upon a most reputable and valuable source
-of food supply for the public. The public should demand laws
-closing, after proper scientific investigation, these polluted
-areas, and conferring the power to thoroughly enforce such
-laws. The danger arising from contamination should be reduced
-to a minimum by prescribing some definite regulations
-for transferring shellfish from these polluted waters to places
-free from contamination, where the shellfish may in brief season
-be rendered fit for the market.</p>
-
-<p>It should be unlawful to use any brand, label or other device
-for designation, intended to give the impression that certain
-oysters offered for sale were grown at specified places, <i>e.g.</i>, Cotuit,
-Wellfleet, Wareham, etc., unless such oysters were actually
-planted, grown or cultivated within the towns or waters
-designated, for a period of at least three months immediately
-previous to the date of marketing. Furthermore, there should
-be appointed proper inspectors, whose duties would be to guarantee
-by certificates, labels and stamps the purity of shellfish
-placed upon the market, and likewise have the power of enforcing
-severe penalties on violators.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span></p>
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-
-
-
-<h2><a name="THE_SHELLFISHERIES_OF_MASSACHUSETTS_THEIR" id="THE_SHELLFISHERIES_OF_MASSACHUSETTS_THEIR">THE SHELLFISHERIES OF MASSACHUSETTS: THEIR
-PRESENT CONDITION AND EXTENT.</a></h2>
-
-
-<p class="center">By <span class="smcap">D. L. Belding</span>, assisted by <span class="smcap">F. C. Lane</span>.
-</p>
-
-<p>
-<span class="smcap">Dr. George W. Field</span>, <i>Chairman, Commission on Fisheries and Game</i>.<br />
-</p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Sir</span>:&mdash;I herewith submit the following report upon the present
-extent and condition of the shellfish industries of Massachusetts. The
-following biological survey was made in connection with the work done
-under chapters 49, 73, 78 and 93, Resolves of 1905, and chapter 74,
-Resolves of 1906. The statistics and survey records which furnish the
-basis of the report were obtained by D. L. Belding and F. C. Lane.</p>
-
-<p class="center">Respectfully submitted,
-</p>
-
-<p class="right"><span class="smcap">David L. Belding</span>,<br />
-<i>Biologist</i>.</p>
-
-
-<h3><span class="smcap">Introduction.</span></h3>
-
-<p>When money was first appropriated in 1905 for a three-year investigation
-of the life, habits and methods of culture of the clam, quahaug,
-oyster and scallop, provision was made for a survey of the present
-productive and nonproductive areas suitable for the cultivation of these
-four shellfish. The following report embodies the results of this survey.</p>
-
-<p><i>A. Method of Work.</i>&mdash;In making this survey two objects were in
-view, which permit the grouping of the work under two main heads:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(1) A survey of the productive and nonproductive shellfish areas
-of the State was undertaken, showing by charts the location, extent and
-abundance of each of the four shellfish, as well as the biological conditions
-of the waters and soils of the areas along the entire coast which
-could be made more productive under proper cultural methods. Wherever
-possible, information as to the production of certain areas was
-obtained from the shellfishermen as a supplement to the survey work.</p>
-
-<p>(2) Statistical records of the four shellfish industries were formulated,
-showing their value and extent as regards (<i>a</i>) production, (<i>b</i>)
-capital invested, (<i>c</i>) men employed. Data for these records were obtained
-from town records, from market reports and from the dealers
-and shellfishermen, both by personal interviews and by tabulated forms
-of printed questions. Owing to the present chaotic condition of the
-shellfisheries, it has been impossible to obtain absolutely exact data.
-The statistics that have been obtained are to all purposes correct, and
-are the most exact figures ever published on the subject.</p>
-
-<p><i>B. Value of the Survey.</i>&mdash;Before any reform measures of practical
-value can be advanced, accurate and comprehensive knowledge of
-the present shellfish situation in Massachusetts is absolutely essential.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span>
-Up to this time there have been only vague and inaccurate conjectures
-as to the value of the shellfisheries, and even the fisherman, outside
-his own district, has little knowledge of their extent and their economic
-possibilities. The consumer has far less knowledge. For the first time
-this problem of the Massachusetts shellfisheries has been approached
-from the point of view of the economic biologist. This survey is intended
-to present a concise yet detailed account of the present status of
-the shellfisheries of Massachusetts, and is therefore the first step
-towards the preservation of our shellfisheries by providing a workable
-basis for the restocking of the barren and unproductive areas. It is
-hoped that it will be of interest both to the fishermen and consumers.</p>
-
-<p><i>C. Presentation of the Report.</i>&mdash;The first part of the report presents
-the general results of the survey, <i>i.e.</i>, the present condition of the
-shellfisheries, while the second part deals directly with details of the
-survey. The report is divided into four parts, each shellfish being considered
-separately. Under each is grouped (1) the industry as a whole;
-(2) a statistical summary of the industry for the whole State; (3) the
-towns of the State and their individual industries. A series of charts
-showing the shellfish areas of the State makes clear the description of
-the survey.</p>
-
-<p><i>Geographical Situation.</i>&mdash;The peculiar geographical situation of
-Massachusetts renders possible the production of the four edible
-shellfish&mdash;clam, oyster, quahaug and scallop,&mdash;in great abundance.
-Cape Cod forms the dividing line between the northern and the southern
-fauna, which furnish the coast of Massachusetts with a diversity of
-molluscan life. Zo&ouml;logically, the Massachusetts coast is the point where
-the habitats of the northern (the soft clam, <i>Mya arenaria</i>) and the
-southern clam (the quahaug, hard clam or little neck, <i>Venus mercenaria</i>)
-overlap. Nature has favored Massachusetts with a coast indented
-with bays, estuaries and inlets which are especially adapted for the
-growth of marine food mollusks.</p>
-
-<p><i>Former Natural Abundance.</i>&mdash;If we compare the natural shellfish
-areas of to-day with those of former years, we find a great change.
-All four shellfish formerly throve in large numbers in the numerous
-bays and indentations of our coast line. The area between tide marks
-was formerly inhabited by quantities of soft clams, and the muddy
-patches just below low-water mark produced great numbers of quahaugs.
-In the estuaries were extensive natural oyster beds. On our
-shoals it was possible to gather many thousand bushels of scallops.
-Now thousands of acres once productive lie barren, and we have but
-a remnant of the former abundant yield.</p>
-
-<p><i>Historical Wastefulness.</i>&mdash;History tells us that the Pilgrims at
-Plymouth "sucked the abundance of the seas" and found health and
-wealth. But between the lines of history we can read a tale of wastefulness
-and prodigality with hardly a parallel, and to-day we find the
-natural heritage of the shellfisheries almost totally wasted through
-the careless indifference of our forefathers. Prof. James L. Kellogg, in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span>
-the introduction to his "Notes on Marine Food Mollusks of Louisiana,"
-gives the following excellent account of the exploiting of natural resources:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>As one looks over the record of the settling of this country, and notes
-how a continent was reclaimed from a state of nature, he can hardly fail
-to be impressed with the reckless wastefulness of his ancestors in their use
-of the treasures which nature, through eons of time, had been collecting.
-In thousands of cases, natural resources, which, carefully conserved, would
-have provided comfort and even luxury for generations of men, have been
-dissipated and destroyed with no substantial benefit to any one. They scattered
-our inheritance. Such knowledge dulls a feeling of gratitude that may
-be due to them for their many beneficent acts,&mdash;though the truth probably
-is that few of them ever had a thought of their descendants. Men
-seldom seem to have a weighty sense of responsibility toward others than
-those who immediately follow them. The history of the prodigality of our
-ancestors since their occupation of this great continent has not fully been
-written,&mdash;and it should be, in such a way that the present generation
-might know it; for sometimes it seems as if the present generation were as
-criminally careless of the natural resources that remain to it as were any
-of those that are gone. Perhaps it is hardly that. We have learned some
-wisdom from the past, because our attention has recently been drawn to the
-fact of the annihilation of several former sources of subsistence. Rapidly
-in America, in recent years, the struggle to obtain support for a family has
-become more severe to the wage earner. In thirty years the increasing
-fierceness of competition has resulted in a revolution of business methods.
-In every profession and in every line of business only the most capable are
-able to obtain what the mediocre received for their honest labor in the last
-generation.</p>
-
-<p>But it is easier to condemn the past for its failures than to recognize
-and condemn those of our own generation. The average man really has a
-blind and unreasoning faith in his own time, and to laud only its successes
-is to be applauded as an optimist. In the present stage of our
-national life we certainly have no room for the pessimist, who is merely a
-dyspeptic faultfinder; nor for the optimist, who blinds his eyes to our faults
-and mistakes, and so fails to read their priceless lessons. Instead, our intelligence,
-as a race, has reached that degree of development which should
-give it the courage to consider "things as they are."</p>
-
-<p>Considering things as they are, we must admit that we are not realizing
-our obligations to future generations in many of the ways in which we are
-misusing our natural resources. This waste is often deliberate, though usually
-due to the notion that nature's supplies, especially of living organisms,
-are limitless. The waste of 70 or 80 per cent, in lumbering the Oregon
-"big trees," and the clean sweep of the Louisiana pine, now in progress, is
-deliberately calculated destruction for present gain,&mdash;and the future may
-take care of itself. In making millionaires of a very few men, most of
-whom are still living, a large part of the lower peninsula of Michigan was
-made a hopeless desert. To "cut and come again" is not a part of the
-moral codes of such men. It seems to mean sacrifice; and yet they are woefully
-mistaken, even in that.</p>
-
-<p>But most often, no doubt, the extinction of useful animals and plants,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span>
-that we have so often witnessed, has been due to the ignorant assumption
-that, under any circumstances, the supply would last forever. This idea
-seems especially to prevail concerning marine food animals. The fact that
-the sea is vast might naturally give the impression that its inhabitants are
-numberless.... But when a natural food supply nears complete annihilation,
-men begin to think of the necessity of a method of artificial culture.<a name="FNanchor_1_1" id="FNanchor_1_1"></a><a href="#Footnote_1_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a></p></div>
-
-<p><i>Present Unimproved Resources.</i>&mdash;In spite of the wastefulness of
-former generations, many areas can again be made to produce the
-normal yield if proper and adequate measures are promptly taken to
-restore to the flats, estuaries and bays of Massachusetts their normal
-productive capacity. In spite of the fact that some of the natural beds
-have entirely disappeared, either "fished out" or buried under the
-d&eacute;bris of civilization, and others are in imminent danger of becoming
-exhausted, Massachusetts still possesses a sufficient natural supply to
-restock most of these barren areas.</p>
-
-<p><i>Possibilities of Development.</i>&mdash;Opportunities for development
-are alluring. The shellfisheries could be increased, in these days of rapid
-transit and marketing facilities, into industries which would furnish
-steady employment for thousands of men and women, both directly
-and indirectly, resulting in a product valued at a minimum of $3,000,000
-annually, with possibilities of indefinite expansion. At present the idea
-of marine farming attracts popular attention. The conditions are
-parallel to agriculture, except that in the case of marine farming the
-crops are more certain,&mdash;<i>i.e.</i>, are not subject to so many fatalities.
-The experiments of the Department of Fisheries and Game for the
-past three years have proved that cultivation of shellfish offers great
-inducements and profit to both individuals and towns. When the present
-waste areas are again made productive, the value of the annual
-catch should be increased tenfold.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Statistical Summary of the Shellfisheries for 1907.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th rowspan="2"><span class="smcap">Name of Mollusk.</span></th>
-    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Production.</span></th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Area in Acres.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Capital invested.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Men employed.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Clam,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">153,865</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$150,440</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,111</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$18,142</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,361</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Oyster,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">161,182</td>
-    <td class="tdr">176,142</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">268,702</td>
-    <td class="tdr">159</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaug,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">144,044</td>
-    <td class="tdr">194,687</td>
-    <td class="tdr">28,090</td>
-    <td class="tdr">94,260</td>
-    <td class="tdr">745</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Scallop,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">103,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">164,436</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30,900</td>
-    <td class="tdr">121,753</td>
-    <td class="tdr">647</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">562,091</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$685,705</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">66,501</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$502,857</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">2,912</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>In the above table the areas for the scallop, clam and quahaug are
-only approximate. The scallop and quahaug fisheries cover nearly the
-same areas, and employ to a great extent the same men and capital.</p>
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span></p>
-<p class="center"><i>Annual Yields (in Bushels) of the Shellfisheries of Massachusetts since
-1879, from United States Fish Commission Reports.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th><span class="smcap">Year.</span></th>
-    <th>Clam.</th>
-    <th>Quahaug.</th>
-    <th>Oyster.</th>
-    <th>Scallop.</th>
-    <th>Totals.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">158,621</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11,050</td>
-    <td class="tdr">36,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10,542</td>
-    <td class="tdr">216,218</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1887,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">230,659</td>
-    <td class="tdr">35,540</td>
-    <td class="tdr">43,183</td>
-    <td class="tdr">41,964</td>
-    <td class="tdr">351,346</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1888,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">243,777</td>
-    <td class="tdr">26,165</td>
-    <td class="tdr">45,631</td>
-    <td class="tdr">26,168</td>
-    <td class="tdr">341,741</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1898,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">147,095</td>
-    <td class="tdr">63,817</td>
-    <td class="tdr">101,225</td>
-    <td class="tdr">128,863</td>
-    <td class="tdr">441,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1902,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">227,941</td>
-    <td class="tdr">106,818</td>
-    <td class="tdr">103,386</td>
-    <td class="tdr">66,150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">504,295</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1905,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">217,519</td>
-    <td class="tdr">166,526</td>
-    <td class="tdr">112,580</td>
-    <td class="tdr">43,872</td>
-    <td class="tdr">540,497</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1907,<a name="FNanchor_2_2" id="FNanchor_2_2"></a><a href="#Footnote_2_2" class="fnanchor">[2]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">153,865</td>
-    <td class="tdr">144,044</td>
-    <td class="tdr">161,182</td>
-    <td class="tdr">103,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">562,091</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>Massachusetts fishermen to-day receive an annual income of $685,705
-from the shellfisheries, which approximately cover a productive area
-of 40,000 acres. Under the present methods of production, the average
-value per acre is only $17; each acre, if properly farmed, should furnish
-an annual production of at least $100, or six times the present
-yield. The shellfish areas of Massachusetts which are at present
-utilized are giving almost a minimum production, instead of the enormous
-yield which they are capable of furnishing. All that is necessary
-to procure the maximum yield is the application of systematic cultural
-methods, instead of relying on an impoverished natural supply. Not
-only are the productive areas furnishing far less than they are capable
-of producing, but also Massachusetts possesses 6,000 acres of barren
-flats, which should become, under the proper cultural methods, as valuable
-as the productive areas. (This has been experimentally demonstrated
-by the commission.) While it is possible to develop, through
-cultural methods, these latent natural resources, it will take years to
-bring them to a high degree of development. It can be partially accomplished,
-at least, in the next few years, and the present production increased
-several times, <i>as nature responds to the slightest intelligent
-effort of man, and gives large returns</i>.</p>
-
-
-<h3><span class="smcap">Decline of the Shellfisheries.</span></h3>
-
-<p><i>A. Is there a Decline?</i></p>
-
-<p>(1) So obvious is the general decline of the shellfisheries that almost
-every one is aware, through the increasing prices and difficulty of supplying
-the demand, that the natural supply is becoming exhausted.</p>
-
-<p>(2) Statistical figures of the shellfish production not only show a decline,
-but conceal a rapid diminution of the supply.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>(3) Production statistics alone should never be taken as typifying
-the real conditions of an industry, as such figures are often extremely
-deceiving. For instance:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(4) The increased prices, stimulated by an increasing demand, have
-caused a greater number of men, equipped with the best modern implements,
-to swell the production by overworking shellfish areas which
-in reality are not one-fourth so productive as they were ten years ago.</p>
-
-<p>While the general decline of the shellfisheries is a matter of public
-knowledge, specific illustrations of this decline have been lacking. The
-present report calls attention to actual facts as proofs of the decline
-of each shellfishery, by a comparison of the present conditions in various
-localities with the conditions of 1879. The only past record of
-Massachusetts shellfisheries of any importance is found in the report
-of the United States Fish Commission for 1883, and, although this is
-very limited, it is sufficient to furnish many examples of the extinction
-or decline of the shellfisheries in certain localities.</p>
-
-<p>In a general consideration of the shellfisheries, it is noticeable that in
-certain localities the extinction of the industry has been total, in others
-only partial, while others have remained unchanged or have even improved.
-This last class is found either where the natural advantages
-are so great that the resources have not been exploited, or where men
-have, through wise laws and cultural methods (as in the oyster industry),
-preserved and built up the shellfisheries.</p>
-
-<p><i>1879</i> v. <i>1907</i>.&mdash;In comparing the present condition of the shellfisheries
-with that of 1879, it will be seen that many changes have taken
-place. Even twenty-five years ago inroads were being made upon the
-natural supply; from that time to the present can be traced a steady
-decline. During the past five years the production has been augmented
-by additional men, who have entered into the business under the attraction
-of higher prices, and the extension of the quahaug and oyster
-fisheries. Though the annual catch is greater, a disproportionately
-greater amount of time, labor and capital is required to secure an
-equal quantity of shellfish.</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td></td>
-    <th>1907.</th>
-    <th>1879.</th>
-    <th>Gain.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production (bushels),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">562,991</td>
-    <td class="tdr">264,818</td>
-    <td class="tdr">297,273</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,912</td>
-    <td class="tdr">910</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,092</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$502,857</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$165,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$337,857</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">66,501</td>
-    <td class="tdr">66,501</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>The following instances illustrate specific decline in the various natural
-shellfisheries:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(1) Oyster industry, natural beds: Wareham, Marion, Bourne, Wellfleet,
-Charles River.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>(2) Sea clam industry: Dennis, Chatham, Nantucket.</p>
-
-<p>(3) Scallop industry: Buzzards Bay and north side of Cape Cod
-(Barnstable).</p>
-
-<p>(4) Clam industry: Essex, Plymouth, Duxbury, Buzzards Bay, Annisquam,
-Wellfleet, Nantucket.</p>
-
-<p>(5) Quahaug industry: Chatham, Buzzards Bay, Fall River district.</p>
-
-<p>These are only a few of the more prominent cases. Similar cases will
-be found all along the coast of Massachusetts, and no one can deny
-that the natural supply is rapidly becoming exhausted, and that methods
-are needed to increase the production, or at least to save the little that
-remains.</p>
-
-<p><i>B. Causes of the Decline.</i></p>
-
-<p>I. <i>An Increasing Demand.</i>&mdash;The indirect cause of the decline of the
-shellfisheries is the increased demand. To-day more shellfish are consumed
-than ever before, and the demand is much greater each succeeding
-year. It is an economic principle that there must be an equilibrium between
-supply and demand. If the demand is increasing, either the supply
-has to increase to meet the demand, or the price of the commodity
-goes up and a new equilibrium is established. The supply must equal
-the demand of the market. This increasing demand has worked havoc
-with the shellfisheries. There was a time when the natural supply was
-of such abundance that the moderate demand of those early days could
-be met without injury to the fishery. Soon this limit was passed, and
-with a steadily increasing demand came a corresponding drain on the
-natural resources, which little by little started a decline, the result of
-which is to-day apparent.</p>
-
-<p>The ill-advised policy of the past has been to check the demand by
-various devices, such as closed seasons, limited daily production, etc.
-These not only have proved without benefit to the fisherman, but also
-have hurt the consumer by the increased price. The demand can be
-checked by raising the price, but this tends towards a class distinction
-between the rich and the poor. The poor man should be able to enjoy
-"the bounties of the sea" as well as the rich. The policy of the future
-should be not to check the demand, but rather to increase the supply.</p>
-
-<p>Several causes contribute to this demand, which has unlimited possibilities
-of expansion:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(1) The popularity of shellfish as an article of diet is steadily increasing,
-not merely for its nutritive value, but for variety and change
-in diet. Fashionable fads, <i>i.e.</i>, the "little neck" of the restaurants and
-hotels, contribute to the popularity of these shellfish.</p>
-
-<p>(2) In the present age, transportation facilities and cold storage
-make possible shipments to all parts of the United States, and continually
-widen the market for sea foods.</p>
-
-<p>(3) The influx of summer people to the seashore not only causes an
-additional summer demand, but also widens the popular knowledge of
-these edible mollusks.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>(4) Advertising and more attractive methods of preserving and
-selling sea food by the dealers still further increase the demand.</p>
-
-<p>II. <i>Overfishing.</i>&mdash;The immediate and direct cause of the decline is
-<i>overfishing</i>. Increased demand causes a severe drain upon the shellfish
-beds, which soon leads to <i>over</i>fishing. It is not merely the hard working
-of the beds, but the continuous unmethodical and indiscriminate fishing
-which has caused the total extermination of once flourishing beds in certain
-localities. Under present methods a bed is worked until all its
-natural recuperatory power is exhausted, and then it is thrust aside as
-worthless, a barren area. Prof. Jacob Reighard, in "Methods of
-Plankton Investigation in their Relation to Practical Problems,"<a name="FNanchor_3_3" id="FNanchor_3_3"></a><a href="#Footnote_3_3" class="fnanchor">[3]</a> aptly
-sums up the situation in his opening paragraph:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>In this country the fisherman as a rule continues to fish in any locality
-until fishing in that locality has become unprofitable. He then moves his
-operations to new waters until these in turn are exhausted. He is apt to
-look upon each new body of water as inexhaustible, and rarely has occasion
-to ask himself whether it is possible to determine in advance the amount of
-fish that he may annually take from the water without soon depleting it.</p></div>
-
-<p>In this way the shellfish beds have become exhausted through the indifference
-and lack of knowledge on the part of the fishing public. In
-colonial days the resources of the shellfisheries were apparently inexhaustible.
-The conviction that man could ever exhaust the resources
-of nature took firm hold of the Puritan mind, and even in the present
-generation many still cling to this illogical doctrine, although proof to
-the contrary can be seen on all sides. This idea has caused great harm
-to the shellfisheries, stimulating men to wreck certain localities by overfishing.</p>
-
-<p>III. <i>Pollution of Harbors and Estuaries and the Ill Effects upon
-Public Health through the Shellfisheries.</i>&mdash;The unscientific disposal of
-sewage, sludge, garbage and factory waste may tend to rapidly fill up
-the harbor channels, as well as the areas where the currents are not so
-rapid.</p>
-
-<p>Competent authorities scout the idea that Boston harbor is at present
-filling up to any considerable degree with sewage sludge, but the problem
-must be met in the not distant future. This sewage sludge upon
-entering salt or brackish water precipitates much more rapidly than in
-fresh water or upon land, and becomes relatively insoluble, hence the
-accumulation in harbors, <i>e.g.</i>, Boston and New Bedford harbors and
-the estuaries of the Merrimac, Taunton and other rivers. This sludge,
-instead of undergoing the normal rapid oxidation and nitrification, as it
-does when exposed to the air on land, undergoes in the sea water a
-series of changes, mainly putrefactive, which results in the production
-of chemical substances which in solution may (1) drive away the fish<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span>
-which in incredible quantities formerly resorted to that place; (2)
-impair the vitality and even kill whatever fish spawn or fry may be
-present; (3) check the growth of or completely destroy the microscopic
-plants and animals which serve as food for the young fish and shellfish;
-(4) by developing areas of oily film floating upon the surface of the
-water, enormous numbers of the surface-swimming larv&aelig; of clams,
-quahaugs, scallops, oysters, mussels and other marine animals may be
-destroyed annually. But most serious of all is the fact that all the
-edible mollusks, notably the clam, quahaug, oyster and mussel, act as
-living filters, whose function is to remove from the water the bacteria
-and other microscopic plants and animals. Most of these microscopic
-organisms serve as food for the mollusk; and in instances where the mollusk
-is eaten raw or imperfectly cooked, man is liable to infection, if the
-bacillus of typhoid fever or other disease chances to be present in the
-mollusk. Though the chance of such infection is remote, it is nevertheless
-actually operative. Many typhoid epidemics in this country and
-abroad have been found to be directly referable to shellfish from sewage-polluted
-waters. For these reasons approximately 1,500 acres in
-Boston harbor and 700 acres in New Bedford harbor have become unsuitable
-for the growth of shellfish; and the State Board of Health,
-after investigation, decided that clams, oysters and quahaugs found
-within these areas are likely to be the direct cause of a dangerous epidemic
-of typhoid. For this reason the taking of these shellfish for any
-purpose was very properly prohibited; but at the last session of the
-Legislature a bill was passed which permitted the taking of such shellfish
-for bait, upon securing permits from the Board of Health, and providing
-heavy penalties for both buying and selling. As a matter of fact,
-however, it is well-nigh impracticable to properly enforce this law, for
-the reason that it is possible only in very rare instances to keep any one
-lot of clams known to have been dug under these conditions under surveillance
-from the time of digging until they are placed upon the hook
-as bait. Complete prevention of the <i>taking</i> of such shellfish is the only
-method by which the public health can be properly safeguarded. Even
-though in our opinion the annual financial loss to the public from the
-destruction of this public fishery by the dumping of city sewage into the
-water is not less than $400,000, the public health is of greater
-consequence, and should not be jeopardized, as is the fact under present
-conditions. Until such a time as the public realize that economic disposal
-of sewage must take place on land rather than in water, laws
-absolutely preventing any contact with the infected shellfish should be
-enforced without exception. In instances like these it is greatly to be
-deplored that but rarely under our system of government can legislation,
-which the best knowledge and common-sense demand for the public
-weal, be passed in its adequate and beneficial entirety, but is so frequently
-emasculated in the selfish interests of a few persons.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>IV. <i>Natural Agencies.</i>&mdash;The above causes are given as they are
-obviously important, but by no means are they to be considered the only
-reasons. Geographic and climatic changes often explain the extinction
-of shellfish in certain localities.</p>
-
-
-<h3><span class="smcap">The Present Abuses of the Shellfisheries.</span></h3>
-
-<p>Not only has this survey shown by specific examples the alarming but
-actual decline of the natural shellfish supply (in spite of deceptive production
-statistics), but it has brought to light numerous evils of various
-kinds. These abuses have developed gradually with the rise of the
-shellfisheries, until at the present day they cannot be overlooked or considered
-unimportant. So closely are these connected with the present
-status of our shellfishery that upon their abolition depends its future
-success or failure. Some need immediate attention; others will require
-attention later. After a thorough and competent investigation, remedies
-for the correction of each evil should be applied.</p>
-
-<p>In the future Massachusetts will have to utilize all her wealth of
-natural resources, to keep her leading position among the other States
-of the Union. To do this she should turn to her sea fisheries,
-which have in the past made her rich, and hold forth prospects of
-greater wealth in the future. Untold possibilities of wealth rest with
-her shellfisheries, if obsolete methods and traditions can be cast aside.
-In any age of progress the ancient and worthless must be buried beneath
-the ruins of the past, while the newer and better take their place.
-There is no more flagrant example of obsolete methods and traditions
-holding in check the development of an industry than with the shellfisheries,
-and it is time that Massachusetts realized these limitations.</p>
-
-<p>The shellfisheries of Massachusetts are in a chaotic state, both legally
-and economically. The finest natural facilities are wasted, and thousands
-of acres of profitable flats are allowed to lie barren merely for a
-lack of initiative on the part of the general public. This chaotic and
-unproductive state will exist until both the consumer and the fishermen
-alike understand the true condition of affairs, and realize that in the
-bays, estuaries and flats of Massachusetts lies as much or more wealth,
-acre for acre, as in the most productive market gardens.</p>
-
-<p>In Rhode Island the clam and scallop fisheries have almost disappeared.
-Five or ten years from now the shellfisheries of Massachusetts
-will be in a similar condition, and beyond remedy. Now is the time for
-reform. The solution of the problem is simple. Shellfish farming is the
-only possible way in which Massachusetts can restore her natural supply
-to its former abundance.</p>
-
-<p>I. <i>The Shellfish Laws.</i>&mdash;The first evils which demand attention are
-the existing shellfish laws. While these are supposed to wisely regulate
-the shellfisheries, in reality they do more harm than good, and are
-direct obstacles to any movement toward improving the natural re<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span>sources.
-Before Massachusetts can take any steps toward cultivating
-her unproductive shellfish areas, it will be necessary to modify the worst
-of these laws.</p>
-
-<p><i>A. Fishery Rights of the Public.</i>&mdash;The fundamental principle
-upon which the shellfish laws of the State are founded is the so-called
-beach or free fishing rights of the public. While in other States property
-extends only to mean high water, in Massachusetts the property
-holders own to extreme low-water mark. Nevertheless, according to
-further provisions of this ancient law, the right of fishing (which includes
-the shellfisheries) below high-water mark is free to any inhabitant
-of the Commonwealth.</p>
-
-<p>(1) <i>Origin.</i>&mdash;The first authentic record of this law is found under
-an act of Massachusetts, in 1641-47, by which every householder was
-allowed "free fishing and fowling" in any of the great ponds, bays,
-coves and rivers, as far "as the sea ebbs and flows," in their respective
-towns, unless "the freemen" or the General Court "had otherwise
-appropriated them." From this date the shellfisheries were declared
-to be forever the property of the whole people, <i>i.e.</i>, the State, and have
-been for a long period open to any inhabitant of the State who wished
-to dig the shellfish for food or for bait.</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>Early Benefits.</i>&mdash;In the early days, when the natural supply
-was apparently inexhaustible and practically the entire population resided
-on or near the seacoast, it was just that all people should have
-common rights to the shore fisheries. As long as the natural supply
-was more than sufficient for the demand, no law could have been better
-adapted for the public good.</p>
-
-<p>(3) <i>Present Inadequacy.</i>&mdash;Two hundred and fifty years have passed
-since this law was first made. The condition of the shellfisheries has
-changed. No longer do the flats of Massachusetts yield the enormous
-harvest of former years, but lie barren and unproductive. The law
-which once was a benefit to all has now become antiquated, and incapable
-of meeting the new conditions.</p>
-
-<p>(4) <i>Evil Effects.</i>&mdash;If this law were merely antiquated, it could be
-laid aside unnoticed. On the contrary, as applied to the present conditions
-of the shellfisheries it not only checks any advancement, but
-works positive harm. From the mistaken comprehension of the so-called
-beach rights of the people, the general public throughout the State is
-forced to pay an exorbitant price for sea food, and the enterprising
-fishermen are deprived of a more profitable livelihood. The present
-law discriminates against the progressive majority of fishermen in
-order to benefit a small unprogressive element.</p>
-
-<p>(5) <i>Protection.</i>&mdash;If shellfish farming is ever to be put on a paying
-basis, it is essential that the planter have absolute <i>protection</i>. No man
-is willing to invest capital and labor when protection cannot be guaranteed.
-What good does it do a man to plant a hundred bushels of
-clams, if the next person has a legal right to dig them? Since the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span>
-law absolutely refuses any protection to the shellfish culturist, Massachusetts
-can never restock her barren flats and re-establish her shellfisheries
-until this law is modified to meet the changed conditions.</p>
-
-<p>(6) <i>Who are the Objectors?</i> Objectors to any new system are always
-found, and are not lacking in the case of shellfish culture. These
-would immediately raise the cry that the public is being deprived of
-its rights. To-day the public has fewer rights than ever. The present
-law causes class distinctions, and a few are benefited at the expense of
-the public. The industrious fisherman suffers because a few of the
-worthless, unenterprising class, who have no energy, do not wish others
-to succeed where they cannot. In every seacoast town in Massachusetts
-the more enlightened fishermen see clearly that the only way to preserve
-the shellfisheries is to <i>cultivate the barren areas</i>.</p>
-
-<p>Hon. B. F. Wood, in his report of the shellfisheries of New York, in
-1906, clearly states the case.<a name="FNanchor_4_4" id="FNanchor_4_4"></a><a href="#Footnote_4_4" class="fnanchor">[4]</a></p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>There is, unfortunately, in some of the towns and villages upon our coast
-an unprogressive element, composed of those who prefer to reap where they
-have not sown; who rely upon what they term their "natural right" to rake
-where they may choose in the public waters. They deplete, but do not build
-up. They think because it may be possible to go out upon the waters for a
-few hours in the twenty-four (when the tide serves) and dig a half peck of
-shellfish, that it is sufficient reason why such lands should not be leased by
-the State to private planters. It might as well be said that it is wrong for
-the government to grant homestead farms to settlers, because a few blackberries
-might be plucked upon the lands by any who cared to look for them.</p></div>
-
-<p>The following is taken from the report of the Massachusetts Commissioners
-on Fisheries and Game for 1906:<a name="FNanchor_5_5" id="FNanchor_5_5"></a><a href="#Footnote_5_5" class="fnanchor">[5]</a>&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>There are at least four distinct classes within our Commonwealth, each
-of which either derive direct benefits from the mollusk fisheries of our
-coast, or are indirectly benefited by the products of the flats:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(1) The general public,&mdash;the consumers, who ultimately pay the cost,
-who may either buy the joint product of the labor and capital invested
-in taking and distributing the shellfish from either natural or artificial
-beds, or who may dig shellfish for food or bait purposes for their own
-or family use.</p>
-
-<p>(2) The capitalist, who seeks a productive investment for money or
-brains, or both. Under present laws, such are practically restricted to
-<i>distribution</i> of shellfish, except in the case of the oyster, where capital may
-be employed for <i>production</i> as well,&mdash;an obvious advantage both to capital
-and to the public.</p>
-
-<p>(3) The fishermen, who, either as a permanent or temporary vocation,
-market the natural yield of the waters; or, as in the case of the shellfisheries,
-may with a little capital increase the natural yield and availability by
-cultivating an area of the tidal flats after the manner of a garden.</p>
-<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span>
-<p>(4) The owners of the land adjacent to the flats, who are under the present
-laws often subjected to loss or annoyance, or even positive discomfort,
-by inability to safeguard their proper rights to a certain degree of freedom
-from intruders and from damage to bathing or boating facilities, which
-constitute a definite portion of the value of shore property.</p>
-
-<p>All of these classes would be directly benefited by just laws, which would
-encourage and safeguard all well-advised projects for artificial cultivation
-of the tidal flats, and would deal justly and intelligently with the various
-coincident and conflicting rights of the fishermen, owners of shore property,
-bathers and other seekers of pleasure, recreation or profit, boatmen,
-and all others who hold public and private rights and concessions.</p>
-
-<p>That any one class should claim exclusive "natural valid rights," over
-any other class, to the shellfish products of the shores, which the law states
-expressly are the property of "the people," is as absurd as to claim that any
-class had exclusive natural rights to wild strawberries, raspberries, cranberries
-or other wild fruits, and that therefore the land upon which these
-grew could not be used for the purpose of increasing the yield of these
-fruits. This becomes the more absurd from the fact that the wild fruits
-pass to the owner of the title of the land, while the shellfish are specifically
-exempted, and remain the property of the public.</p>
-
-<p>The class most benefited by improved laws would be the fishermen, who
-would profit by better wages through the increased quantity of shellfish they
-could dig per hour, by a better market and by better prices, for the reason
-that the control of the output would secure regularity of supply. Moreover,
-when the market was unfavorable the shellfish could be kept in the
-beds with a reasonable certainty of finding them there when wanted, and
-with the added advantage of an increased volume by growth during the
-interval, together with the avoidance of cold-storage charges. Thus the diggers
-could be certain of securing a supply at almost any stage of the
-tide and in all but the most inclement weather, through a knowledge of
-"where to dig;" moreover, there would be a complete elimination of the
-reasoning which is now so prolific of ill feelings and so wasteful of the
-shellfish, viz., the incentive of "getting there ahead of the other fellow."</p></div>
-
-<p><i>B.</i> All the shellfish laws should be revised, to secure a unity and
-clearness which should render graft, unfairness and avoidable economic
-loss impossible, and be replaced with a code of fair, intelligent
-and forceful laws, which would not only permit the advancement of the
-shellfish industry through the individual efforts of the progressive shellfishermen,
-but also protect the rights of the general public.</p>
-
-<p><i>C.</i> The majority of the shellfish laws of the State are enacted by
-the individual towns. In 1880 the State first officially granted to each
-town the exclusive right to control and regulate its own shellfisheries,
-as provided under section 68 of chapter 91 of the Public Statutes. This
-was slightly modified by the Acts of 1889 and 1892 to read as follows
-(now section 85 of chapter 91 of the Revised Laws):&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Section 85.</span> The mayor and aldermen of cities and the selectmen of
-towns, if so instructed by their cities and towns, may, except as provided in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span>
-the two preceding sections, control, regulate or prohibit the taking of eels,
-clams, quahaugs and scallops within the same; and may grant permits prescribing
-the times and methods of taking eels and such shellfish within such
-cities and towns and make such other regulations in regard to said fisheries
-as they may deem expedient. But an inhabitant of the commonwealth, without
-such permit, may take eels and the shellfish above-named for his own
-family use from the waters of his own or any other city or town, and may
-take from the waters of his own city or town any of such shellfish for bait,
-not exceeding three bushels, including shells, in any one day, subject to the
-general rules of the mayor and aldermen and selectmen, respectively, as to
-the times and methods of taking such fish. The provisions of this section
-shall not authorize the taking of fish in violation of the provisions of sections
-forty-four and forty-five. Whoever takes any eels or any of said
-shellfish without such permit, and in violation of the provisions of this section,
-shall forfeit not less than three nor more than fifty dollars.</p></div>
-
-<p>Responsibility has thus been transferred from the State to the towns,
-and they alone, through their incompetence and neglect, are to blame
-for the decline of the shellfisheries. The town laws are miniature copies
-of the worst features of the State laws. While a few towns have succeeded
-in enacting fairly good laws, the majority have either passed no
-shellfish regulations at all, or made matters worse by unintelligent and
-harmful laws. It is time that a unified system of competent by-laws
-were enacted and enforced in every town.</p>
-
-<p>The ill-advised features which characterize the present town laws are
-numerous, and are best considered under the following headings:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(1) <i>Unintelligent Laws.</i>&mdash;One of the worst features of our town
-shellfish laws is their extreme unfitness. Numerous laws which are absolutely
-useless for the regulation and improvement of these industries
-have been made by towns, through men who knew nothing about the
-shellfisheries. These laws were made without any regard for the practical
-or biological conditions underlying the shellfish industry. It is to
-be expected that laws from such a source would often be ill-advised
-and unintelligent, but under the present system it cannot be avoided.
-Until sufficient knowledge of the habits and growth of shellfish is acquired
-by the authorities of State and town, Massachusetts can never
-expect to have intelligent and profitable shellfish laws. While the majority
-of these unintelligent laws do no harm, there are some that work
-hardship to the fishermen and are an injury to the shellfisheries.</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>Unfairness; Town Politics.</i>&mdash;Town politics offers many chances
-for unscrupulous discrimination in the shellfish laws. Here we find one
-class of fishermen benefiting by legislation at the expense of the other,
-as in the case of the quahaugers <i>v.</i> oystermen. In one town the oystermen
-will have the upper hand; in another, the quahaugers. In every
-case there is unfair discrimination, and a resultant financial loss to
-both parties. The waters of Massachusetts are large enough for both<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span>
-industries, and every man should have a "square deal," which is frequently
-lacking under the present r&eacute;gime.</p>
-
-<p>Besides party discrimination, there is discrimination against certain
-individuals, as illustrated in giving oyster grants. Town politics plays a
-distressing part here. Favoritism is repeatedly shown, and unfairness
-results. All this shows the unpopularity and impracticability of such
-regulations and the method of making them.</p>
-
-<p>(3) <i>Present Chaotic State.</i>&mdash;The present town laws are in a chaotic
-condition, which it is almost impossible to simplify. No one knows
-the laws, there is merely a vague impression that such have existed.
-Even the selectmen themselves, often new to the office and unacquainted
-with the shellfisheries, know little about the accumulated shellfish laws
-of the past years, and find it impossible to comprehend them. The only
-remedy is to wipe out all the old and replace them with unified new
-laws.</p>
-
-<p>(4) <i>Unsystematic Laws.</i>&mdash;The present laws are unsystematized.
-Each town has its own methods, good and bad, and the result is a
-heterogeneous mixture. Often there are two or three laws where one
-would definitely serve. To do absolute justice there should be a definite
-system, with laws elastic enough to satisfy the needs of all.</p>
-
-<p>(5) <i>Nonenforcement.</i>&mdash;The worst feature of allowing town control of
-the shellfisheries is the nonenforcement of the laws already passed. We
-find in many towns that good by-laws have been made, but from inattention
-and lack of money these have never been enforced and have
-become practically nonexistent. The 1&frac12;-inch quahaug law of several
-towns is an instance of this. In but one town in the State, Edgartown,
-is any effort made to enforce this excellent town by-law, although several
-of the other towns have passed the same. The proper enforcement
-of laws is as important as the making, as a law might as well not be
-made if not properly enforced. The only way that this can be remedied
-is either to take the control completely out of the hands of the town, or
-else have a supervisory body which would force the town to look after
-violators.</p>
-
-<p>Besides the town by-laws there are other evils which result from the
-present system of town control.</p>
-
-<p>II. <i>Lack of Protection in Oyster Industry.</i>&mdash;In no case is the management
-by towns more inefficient and confusing than in the case of
-the oyster industry. As this subject will be taken up in the oyster report
-which follows, it is only necessary here to state that there is great
-need of a proper survey of grants, fair laws, systematic methods, etc.
-Protection is necessary for the success of any industry, and is especially
-needed for the oyster industry. The oyster industry of Massachusetts
-will never become important until adequate protection is guaranteed to
-the planters. Under the present system, uncertainty rather than protection
-is the result.</p>
-
-<p>III. <i>Town Jealousy.</i>&mdash;The evil of town jealousy, whereby one<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span>
-town forbids its shellfisheries to the inhabitant of neighboring towns,
-is to-day an important factor. It is fair that a town which improves
-its own shellfisheries should not be interfered with by a town which
-has allowed its shellfisheries to decline. While this is true perhaps
-of the clam, quahaug and oyster, it does not hold true of the scallop.
-The result of this close-fisted policy has resulted in the past in a great
-loss in the scallop industry. The town law in regard to scallops is all
-wrong. The scallop fisheries should be open to all the State, and no
-one town should "hog the fishing," and leave thousands of bushels to
-die from their dog-in-the-manger attitude.</p>
-
-<p>IV. <i>Sectional Jealousy.</i>&mdash;Another evil, which in the past has been
-prominent, but is becoming less and less as the years go by, is the
-jealousy of the north shore <i>v.</i> the south shore, Cape Cod <i>v.</i> Cape Ann.
-In the past this has been a stumbling block against any advance, as any
-plan initiated on the south shore would be opposed from sheer prejudice
-by the north shore representatives, and <i>vice versa</i>. The cry of "entering
-wedge" has been raised again and again whenever any bill was introduced
-for the good of the shellfisheries by either party. Merely for
-political reasons good legislation has been defeated. However, the last
-few years have shown a decided change. The jealous feeling has in a
-large measure subsided; the shellfisheries need intelligent consideration,
-and all parties realize that united effort is necessary to insure the future
-of these industries.</p>
-
-<p>V. <i>Quahaugers</i> v. <i>Oystermen</i>.&mdash;On the south shore the worst evil
-which at present exists is the interclass rivalry between the quahaugers
-and oystermen. This has caused much harm to both parties, through
-expensive lawsuits, economic loss, uncertainty of a livelihood, as well as
-retarding the proper development of both industries.</p>
-
-<p>VI. <i>Waste of Competition.</i>&mdash;At the present day the utilization of
-waste products in all industries is becoming more and more important.
-In this age material which was considered useless by our forefathers
-is made to play its part in the economic world. Through science industrial
-waste of competition is being gradually reduced to a minimum,
-although in any business which deals with perishable commodities, such
-as fish, fruit, etc., there is bound to be a certain amount of loss.</p>
-
-<p>Under the present system the shellfisheries suffer from the effects of
-waste resulting from competition. Both the fisherman and the consumer
-feel the effects of this, in different ways,&mdash;the fisherman through
-poor market returns, the consumer through poor service. As long as
-the shellfisheries are free to all, there is bound to be that scramble to
-get ahead of "the other fellow," which not only results in the destructive
-waste of the actual catch, but also causes a "glutted" market,
-which gives a low return to the fisherman. Thousands of dollars are
-thus lost each year by the fishermen, who are forced to keep shipping
-their shellfish, often to perish in the market, merely because the present
-system invites ruthless competition. The fishermen in this respect alone<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span>
-should be the first to desire a new system, which would give to each a
-shellfish farm and the privilege of selecting his market.</p>
-
-<p>VII. At the present moment there are two evils which demand
-attention, and which can be lessened by the passage of two simple
-laws:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(1) During the past three years many thousands of bushels of
-quahaugs under 1&frac12; inches have been shipped out of the State, merely
-passing into the hands of New York oystermen, who replanted, reaping
-in one year a harvest of at least five bushels to every one "bedded."
-Through the inactivity of town control, the incentive to get ahead of
-the other fellow and the ignorance that they are wasting their own
-substance have caused many quahaugers in the past to do this at many
-places.</p>
-
-<p>The 1&frac12;-inch quahaug law has been for years a law for many towns
-in the State. It has been practically a dead letter in all but Edgartown,
-where it is enforced thoroughly. There should be a State law restricting
-the size of the quahaugs taken.</p>
-
-<p>(2) The enforcement of a 1&frac12;-inch clam law, especially in the towns
-of Fall River and Swansea, where the digging has reduced the clams
-to a small size, likewise deserves immediate attention.</p>
-
-<p>All the present evils have each contributed their share toward the
-ruin of the shellfisheries, and can be best summed up under one head,
-<i>i.e.</i>, the abuse of nature. All the above evils have either directly or
-indirectly worked towards this end. This "abuse of nature" has resulted
-in several ways: (1) indiscriminate fishing, restricted by no laws,
-augmented by unwise laws; (2) overfishing in certain localities until
-the supply is exhausted, as, among other instances, with the Essex
-clam flats and the natural oyster beds of the Weweantit River; (3)
-exploiting and wasting the natural resources, so that nature cannot
-repair the inroads. Nature cannot cope with despoiling man,&mdash;man
-must assist nature.</p>
-
-<p>In the past there has been much feeling, especially among the clammers
-of the north shore, against the Fish and Game Commission. It
-therefore is necessary to correct a mistaken impression, which has
-arisen among the clammers, that "the State is going to take the clam
-flats away from us." This idea is on the face of it absurd. The Massachusetts
-Fish and Game Commission is seeking only to have this question
-solved in such a manner as to yield the most satisfactory results for
-the public good. At the present time it would be highly undesirable to
-take the complete control of the shellfisheries from any town, as long as
-that town shows itself capable of regulating them wisely. At the present
-day but few towns show any signs of this. What is necessary and
-desirable is to have an intelligent supervisory body, with power to compel
-each town to take proper care of its shellfisheries. It is advisable
-that there be a central power, co-operating with the town control in all<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span>
-matters pertaining to the shellfisheries, whether it be regulations or the
-restocking of barren areas. A board of arbitration, a committee of
-appeal for any grievance under the town control, and a commission
-that would act for the interests of the whole State, are what is most
-desirable at the present time. Such an arrangement would not be
-changing radically the present system of town control, but it would
-free it from its existing evils, place it on a firm and just basis, and give
-the shellfisheries a chance for improvement.</p>
-
-
-<h3><span class="smcap">The Fisherman and Laws.</span></h3>
-
-<p>The fisherman of to-day, though nominally his own master, is in
-reality subject to the demands of the market. To gain a living he is
-forced to work in all kinds of weather, at cold, disagreeable work.
-Under the present system he is oppressed by useless special town laws,
-which merely increase his daily labors without benefiting the fishery in
-the least. A few good laws only are necessary for the shellfisheries. It
-is time that the fisherman, one of the great factors in the commercial
-supremacy of Massachusetts, should be freed from all unnecessary
-burdens through a new system of satisfactory laws.</p>
-
-
-<h3><span class="smcap">The Remedy.</span></h3>
-
-<p>In spite of all the existing evils of the town shellfisheries, the outlook
-is far from hopeless. To-day the shellfisheries of Massachusetts, owing
-to great natural resources, are as good or better than those of any
-other coast States, and only await development under proper methods
-to ensure a bright future. The Commissioners on Fisheries and Game
-can only point the way of reform; the result lies in the hands of the
-intelligent voters of this Commonwealth, whose action decides the
-future success or failure of the shellfisheries. It should be the object
-of every thinking voter, whether he be fisherman or consumer, to see
-that the right action be taken in regard to the shellfisheries.</p>
-
-<p>As shown in the preceding pages of this report, the attempted remedy
-has been based upon the false economic basis of attempting to check
-the demand by prohibiting digging for certain periods (closed seasons),
-limiting the amount to be legally dug by any one person, etc. It would
-be quite as logical for a town or city to prohibit by by-laws the use or
-digging of potatoes or any other food crop, when the supply was short,
-rather than to attempt to <i>increase</i> the supply. An increasing demand
-cannot be checked by any such ill-advised measures, but can be met only
-by a corresponding increase in the natural production. The only remedy
-that can be applied successfully is shellfish culture, which means
-the utilizing of thousands of acres of barren shore area for the planting
-of farms which will furnish harvests of shellfish. In this way the
-latent potentialities of nature, which it is criminal to neglect, will be
-utilized for the good of the entire population of the State.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span></p>
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-
-<p>We learn from the dictionaries that a farm is defined to be a tract of
-land under one control, devoted to agriculture, etc.; and that agriculture is
-the cultivation of the soil for food products or other useful or valuable
-growths. All this is very familiar knowledge, as applied to the dry land;
-but that there may fairly be brought within these definitions the operations
-of an industry in which lands covered by the salt waters of our bays and
-harbors are tilled, cultivated, raked, harrowed and planted with seedling
-bivalves, and harvests of a valuable product garnered, constituting a superb
-food for the masses, is less familiar, and to many may seem quite astonishing.
-It is within a comparatively few years that this unique style of farming
-has had its growth and development, until now many thousands of acres
-of land under water have been carefully surveyed, and the boundaries
-marked by buoys and stakes.<a name="FNanchor_6_6" id="FNanchor_6_6"></a><a href="#Footnote_6_6" class="fnanchor">[6]</a></p></div>
-
-<p>To bring the shellfisheries of Massachusetts to their maximum production
-will take years, but within five years the production can be
-nearly doubled, if work in the right direction is begun at once. Patience
-will be required to overcome the obstacles which must be met,
-and the change must necessarily be gradual.</p>
-
-<p>Every year the difficulties of reform increase. Owing to a steadily
-increasing demand, the natural supply is becoming smaller, and consequently
-the difficulty of increasing it becomes so much the harder.
-Soon the line of possibility will be crossed, and the shellfisheries will
-become an industry of the past. A few shellfish will always remain,
-but as an important industry, the shellfisheries, if no remedy is applied,
-in twenty-five years will be commercially extinct. While there is
-still time, let action be taken.</p>
-
-<p>The utilization of the barren shellfish areas, wise laws, good regulations
-and systematic methods of culture are necessary, in order to
-obtain the maximum production from these sea farms. The sea farm
-possesses one advantage over the ordinary farm,&mdash;the soil never becomes
-exhausted, as the shellfish derive their sustenance from the
-water, utilizing indirectly the waste nitrates of the land. To do this it
-is necessary that shellfish culture be at once begun, either by individuals
-or by towns.</p>
-
-<p>Three methods of shellfish culture offer ways of approach towards
-the utilization of the waste areas:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(1) To leave the matter wholly in the hands of the town. This is
-the poorest way, as has been shown in the past. Unless the town officials
-were well informed about the shellfisheries, it would be an absurd
-farce to entrust the future of this important industry wholly in their
-hands.</p>
-
-<p>(2) Place all power with the State, instead of with the town.
-Have a unified and simplified system, whereby shellfish farms and
-grants can be leased by the individuals. This plan, much better than<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span>
-the first, and possibly the final solution, is, however, not practical of
-application to the existing conditions. Later, when these conditions
-are removed, it may prove the best solution of the problem.</p>
-
-<p>(3) The present system of town control to remain. The appointment
-of the Fish and Game Commission, or a similar commission, to
-have complete advisory power over the towns, and power to force each
-town to properly protect its shellfish. A State law would be passed,
-legalizing grants to individuals and dividing the flats into two equal
-parts,&mdash;public and private. The leasing of grants would be in the
-hands of the town authorities, but subject to appeal for any grievance
-to the Fish and Game Commission.</p>
-
-<p>In the chapter relating to each shellfish will be given the practical
-methods of cultivation for reclaiming the waste areas. These methods
-have been proved by the experimental work of this commission, the
-results of which may be published in a subsequent scientific report upon
-the shellfish. The commission has definitely shown that shellfish culture
-in Massachusetts is a possibility, and, moreover, a remunerative possibility.</p>
-
-
-<h3><span class="smcap">Who Would Benefit?</span></h3>
-
-<p>(1) Under the proposed system of practical shellfish culture, many
-classes of people would be benefited. The person who would be primarily
-benefited is the fisherman. In the following ways the condition of
-the industrious fisherman would be bettered: (<i>a</i>) his work would be
-steady, not uncertain; (<i>b</i>) he would know his exact annual income, and
-could govern his living expenses accordingly; (<i>c</i>) he would receive more
-money, with less hardship; (<i>d</i>) he would ensure steady market returns,
-which under the present system are very uncertain; (e) he would be his
-own master, and not forced to work for poor pay, under the stress of
-wasteful competition.</p>
-
-<p>(2) The shellfisheries are not for any particular class, but should benefit
-all, and any improvement in the industry affects all people. A second
-class would also be benefited by an increase in the shellfish
-industries. This class can be divided into two groups: (<i>a</i>) those directly
-influenced; (<i>b</i>) those indirectly. In the first group are the middlemen,&mdash;dealers.
-By an increased trade, more firms enter the business, more
-men are hired, etc. Comprising the second group are teamsters, coopers,
-shop owners, sailors, transportation lines,&mdash;an indefinite list, which
-would be indirectly benefited by an increase in the shellfish industry.</p>
-
-<p>(3) Thirdly, the consumer would receive the benefit of improved
-quality of goods, reasonable prices, etc. Through increased transportation
-facilities the inland consumer would have the pleasure of
-partaking of sea food, and what were once the luxuries of the rich could
-be had by all.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span></p>
-
-
-<h3><span class="smcap">Capital.</span></h3>
-
-<p>Capital is needed for the best success of any business. In a broad
-sense, the tools, implements, etc., of the shellfisherman are capital. In
-the future, if the shellfisheries are to become a great industry, money
-as working capital is indispensable. Blind objection to the employment
-of capital on the part of the fishermen works against the best
-interests of the shellfisheries.</p>
-
-
-<h3><span class="smcap">Shellfish Monopoly.</span></h3>
-
-<p>For years the fishermen have feared that the shellfisheries would fall
-into the hands of a few companies or trusts, and the individual fisherman
-thereby lose his independence. As the present age tends toward
-the formation of monopolies in all business, the fears of the fishermen
-are not altogether groundless in this respect; nevertheless, while there
-are certain chances of monopoly in the shellfisheries, these chances are
-very small. In the first place, a monopoly of a raw edible product,
-such as shellfish, is hardly possible. Never can it be possible for any
-one company to control all or the majority of a shellfish supply, which
-possesses unlimited possibilities of expansion.</p>
-
-<p>Secondly, there are but two ways in which a monopoly of the shellfisheries
-can be obtained: one is the control of the market by buying
-up all the shellfish,&mdash;a thing far easier under the present conditions;
-the other, by buying through contract the rights of the individual
-planters. The success of such an enterprise would depend wholly
-upon the personnel of the shellfishermen, and such a result could never
-become possible if each shellfisherman would refuse to sell his rights.</p>
-
-
-<h3><span class="smcap">Summary.</span></h3>
-
-<p>This survey has shown (1) that the shellfisheries have declined (an
-established fact); (2) that the causes of the decline are overfishing
-and unwise laws; (3) that the remedy is, not to check the demand, as
-has been previously attempted, but to increase the production by the
-utilization of vast areas of barren flats, which have been experimentally
-proved capable of yielding a great harvest; (4) that the present
-chaotic laws render this impossible; (5) that there is a need of reform,
-or else the shellfisheries will soon disappear; (6) that the first step is
-the removal of these laws to permit the application of proper cultural
-methods.</p>
-
-<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_1_1" id="Footnote_1_1"></a><a href="#FNanchor_1_1"><span class="label">[1]</span></a> Gulf Biologic Station, Cameron, La., Bulletin No. 3, 1905.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_2_2" id="Footnote_2_2"></a><a href="#FNanchor_2_2"><span class="label">[2]</span></a> Returns of Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Game.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_3_3" id="Footnote_3_3"></a><a href="#FNanchor_3_3"><span class="label">[3]</span></a> United States Fish Commission Pamphlet, 1898.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_4_4" id="Footnote_4_4"></a><a href="#FNanchor_4_4"><span class="label">[4]</span></a> New York Shellfish Report, p. 7.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_5_5" id="Footnote_5_5"></a><a href="#FNanchor_5_5"><span class="label">[5]</span></a> Report on the Shellfisheries, pp. 33-35.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_6_6" id="Footnote_6_6"></a><a href="#FNanchor_6_6"><span class="label">[6]</span></a> Forest, Fish and Game Commission Bulletin, Shellfish Culture in New York, 1905. By
-B. Frank Wood.</p></div></div>
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-
-
-
-<h2><a name="Quahaug_Venus_mercenaria" id="Quahaug_Venus_mercenaria"><span class="smcap">Quahaug</span> (<i>Venus mercenaria</i>).</a></h2>
-
-
-<p>Inhabiting common waters with the scallop, the northern range of
-the quahaug (the hard-shell clam or "little neck") in Massachusetts is
-Plymouth. Commercially it is found both on the north and south
-side of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay, the principal fisheries
-being at Wellfleet, Orleans, Edgartown, Nantucket and in Buzzards Bay.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The quahaug, while essentially a southern and warm-water form,
-being found in the United States along the Atlantic seacoast as far
-south as the Gulf of Mexico, practically reaches its northern range in
-Massachusetts. In a few sheltered bays on the Maine coast quahaugs
-are sometimes found, but in small quantities. However, at Prince
-Edward Island there is said to be an abundance.</p>
-
-<p>Along the coast of Massachusetts north of Boston very few quahaugs
-are found, although they were formerly taken near Salem. The black
-quahaug (<i>Cyprina islandica</i>), so called from its dark epidermis, is often
-caught in the trawls, but this is a deep-sea form, and by no means a
-true quahaug. In Essex and Ipswich rivers and on Plum Island experimental
-beds have shown that quahaugs grow in these waters, but no
-spawn has yet been noticed, though ripe eggs were developed in the
-planted quahaugs. Owing to the swift currents, which carry the
-spawn perhaps for miles, it is impossible to determine accurately
-whether any set has taken place.</p>
-
-<p>During the past three years, as outlined by chapter 78, Resolves of
-1905, the Fish and Game Commission has conducted a series of experiments
-upon the quahaug, designated to furnish sufficient data concerning
-the growth of this mollusk under a variety of conditions, to demonstrate
-the possibilities and value of practical quahaug farming. The results of
-these investigations upon the life, habits and culture of the quahaug
-are to be published in a later scientific report. It is necessary here to
-say that all statements in this report concerning the growth and culture
-of quahaugs have been proved by experiments, the results of which are
-on file at the office of the department of fisheries and game.</p>
-
-<p>It is the object of this report to present both to the fishermen and
-consumers (1) actual statistical figures of the industry of the State for
-1907; (2) a biological survey of the quahauging areas, outlined by
-maps and descriptions; (3) a description of the industry. This survey
-should furnish a basis for determining any decline or advance in the
-quahaug industry of the future, as well as affording comparison with
-the United States Fish Commission survey of 1879, made by Ernest
-Ingersoll.</p>
-
-<p>Massachusetts, situated at the northern limit of the quahaug industry
-of the United States, is handicapped in comparison with other States,
-as only the southern waters of the State are given to this industry.
-Nevertheless, though possessing only a partial industry, Massachusetts
-ranks the fourth State in quahaug production, according to the 1906
-report of the United States Fish Commission.</p>
-
-<p>The same natural conditions which suit so well the shallow-water
-scallop are also adapted to the growth of the quahaug. In nearly all
-the sheltered bays, inlets and rivers of the southern coast of Massachusetts
-the quahaug can be found in varying abundance. Technically,
-there is more territory which admits the possibility of quahaug growth
-than of any other shellfish. The bathymetric range of the quahaug<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span>
-is extensive, as the quahaug is raked in all depths of water up to 50
-feet. In spite of the vast territory nature has provided for the quahaug
-in the waters of Massachusetts, the commercial fishery is found only
-in small parts of this large area. Scattered quahaugs are found over
-the rest of the area, but in paying quantities only in limited places.</p>
-
-<p>The possibilities of developing this great natural tract of quahaug
-ground are especially alluring,&mdash;far more so than any of the other
-shellfisheries. The quahaug has a greater area, greater possible expansion
-and a more profitable market. Nature has equipped southern
-Massachusetts with numerous bays with remarkable facilities for the
-production of quahaugs; it only remains for man to make the most of
-these.</p>
-
-<p><i>Method of Work.</i>&mdash;The method of work used in preparing this portion
-of the report varied but little from that relating to the other shellfish,
-though several features made it harder to obtain accurate information.
-There is a more general obscurity about the history of the quahaug
-than about any of the other shellfish, even though the quahaug industry
-is commercially the youngest of all. This is due, perhaps, to the gradual
-rise of the industry through the discovery of new territory. The only
-historical record obtainable is E. Ingersoll's report on the quahaug, in
-1879, in which he deals briefly with the industry in Massachusetts.
-Town records help but little in determining the history of the industry,
-as only of late years have the towns required the taking of permits.</p>
-
-<p>In making the biological survey, the difficulty arises of defining what
-constitutes quahaug ground, since scattering quahaugs are found over
-vast territories, but only limited areas are commercially productive. The
-estimates of the quahaugers, both historically and in regard to production
-and areas, are often erroneous and vary greatly. By the use of
-market reports, express shipments, estimates of dealers, estimates of
-several reliable quahaugers, and all methods at our command, the facts
-of the industry were compiled and errors eliminated as far as possible.
-The home consumption is hard to determine, and is merely an estimate.
-The area of the quahaug territory was plotted on the map, and
-calculations made from the plots. Whenever personal inspection was
-not possible, as in Falmouth, the estimates of several quahaugers were
-taken.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Results.</i></h3>
-
-<p>1. <i>Is the Quahaug Fishery declining?</i>&mdash;The decline of the quahaug
-fishery is well recognized. Even the production figures, which, when
-stimulated by high prices, usually give a deceptive appearance of prosperity
-to a declining industry, since more men enter the fishery, show
-a decline in the last few years. When such a point is reached,&mdash;when,
-in spite of higher prices and more men, the annual production
-becomes less and less,&mdash;not many years will pass before the industry
-will collapse completely.</p>
-
-<p>Increased prices show either an increase in demand or a falling off<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span>
-of the supply. Both are perhaps true of the quahaug industry. The
-demand, especially for "little necks," has been steadily on the increase,
-and a broad inland market is gradually opening, since the quahaug is
-capable of long transportation without perishing. So the increased
-prices are a sign of the diminution of the supply, as well as of an increased
-demand, the indeterminable factor being what ratio the one bears
-to the other.</p>
-
-<p>The only way to determine accurately the decline in the natural supply
-is to compare the amount the average quahauger could dig ten or
-twenty years ago with the amount dug to-day. Even this comparison
-is unfair, as the better rakes, improved methods, etc., of the present
-time tend to increase the daily yield of the quahauger.</p>
-
-<p>This decline can best be shown by taking special localities:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(1) <i>Buzzards Bay.</i>&mdash;The quahaug industry in Buzzards Bay has
-shown a great decline in the past ten to twenty years, and the industry
-is now at a low ebb, especially in the towns of Marion and Mattapoisett.
-Wareham, Bourne and Fairhaven still manage to ship about
-27,000 bushels annually, employing over 200 men; but this is hardly up
-to their former standard. To-day at Wareham the daily catch per man
-is one-fifth of what it was twenty years ago; in 1887 a man could dig
-5 bushels to a catch of 1 bushel now. Buzzards Bay perhaps has shown
-the greatest quahaug decline.</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>South Side of Cape Cod.</i>&mdash;While not so marked a decline has
-taken place as in Buzzards Bay, every quahauger agrees that the industry
-is gradually failing. In Bass River, at Hyannis, and in Chatham,
-there is a marked decrease, while at Cotuit and Osterville the
-industry has remained stationary.</p>
-
-<p>(3) <i>North Side of Cape Cod.</i>&mdash;The best quahaug fishery of Massachusetts,
-except at Edgartown, is found on the north side of Cape Cod,
-in the towns of Wellfleet, Eastham and Orleans. These three towns
-give an annual yield of 75,000 bushels. Only about fifteen years old
-commercially, the industry has passed its prime and is on the decline.
-This decline is shown both by production figures and by the gradual
-moving to deeper water. As the quahaugs were thinned out in shallow
-water, the fishermen moved farther and farther out, using long rakes,
-until 60-foot rakes are now used at a depth of 50 feet. Probably the
-60-foot limit will never be exceeded, unless a method of dredging is
-devised; and it will be only a question of years when the industry will
-become extinct.</p>
-
-<p>(4) <i>Nantucket.</i>&mdash;The industry here has generally declined, though
-in the last few years there has been a slight increase in production.</p>
-
-<p>(5) <i>Edgartown.</i>&mdash;The quahaug industry at Edgartown has declined
-little, if any, while the fishery has been carried on for many years. The
-natural resources have not been seriously impaired, owing to the efficient
-town management; and Edgartown can be congratulated on being
-the only town in the State that can boast of a protected industry.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>Although the quahaug industry has not openly shown the tendency
-to decline that the soft clam has manifested in southern Massachusetts,
-the danger is nevertheless very great, and the disaster would be far
-worse. The fishermen of Cape Cod realize that the clam industry has
-practically gone; but they are blind to the fact that a far more important
-one&mdash;the quahaug industry&mdash;is in as grave danger, and only
-when it is too late will they wake to a realization of the situation.</p>
-
-<p>The clam industry on Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay will never assume
-the importance it possesses on the north shore, owing to lack of extensive
-flats. Rather the quahaug industry is the main shellfish industry
-of the south shore, as it is more valuable, more important, and capable
-of vast expansion. The development of the quahaug industry should
-bring many hundred thousand dollars to Cape Cod.</p>
-
-<p>II. <i>Causes of the Decline.</i>&mdash;The direct cause is overfishing. The
-quahaug is hardy, little harmed by climatic changes, and has but few
-natural enemies. Man alone has caused the decline of the natural
-supply. Not satisfied with taking the mediums and large quahaugs,
-but spurred on by the high prices offered for the "little neck," the
-quahaug fisherman has cleaned up everything he can get, and the natural
-supply has suffered greatly. If the market demands the capture of the
-"little neck," it is necessary to leave the large quahaugs as "spawners."
-At the present time, by the capture of both the industry is being ruined.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>The Remedy.</i>&mdash;<i>Quahaug Farming.</i></h3>
-
-<p>There is only <i>one way</i> in which the present decline can be checked,
-and that is, to increase the natural supply by cultural methods to meet
-the demands of the market. The only way to accomplish this increase
-is to plant and raise quahaugs,&mdash;in fact, have a system of <i>quahaug
-farming</i> for the whole south shore of Massachusetts. In considering
-quahaug farming, many questions naturally arise: (1) Is quahaug
-farming an established fact, or a mere theory? (2) Possibilities of
-quahaug farming. (3) What is the growth of the quahaug, and how
-long does it take to raise a crop? (4) What is the value of a quahaug
-farm? (5) What benefits would the quahaug industry receive from
-such a system?</p>
-
-<p>(1) <i>Quahaug Farming an Established Fact,&mdash;not a Theory.</i>&mdash;It is
-not the object of this report to go into a scientific treatise upon experiments
-in quahaug culture. For the past three years the Commission
-on Fisheries and Game has been conducting experiments upon the
-growth and culture of quahaugs, the results of which will be published
-in a subsequent report. These experiments have shown that quahaug
-farming is no theory, but an established fact, and that, if taken up, it
-will make the quahaug fishery the most important shellfish industry
-of the State. These experiments, consisting of small beds one one-thousandth
-of an acre in area, were located at different places along
-the coast. Various conditions in regard to food, current, tide, soil, etc.,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span>
-were tested. The results from nearly every bed were excellent, and
-showed the ease of culture and the great profit which would result if
-larger areas were thus worked.</p>
-
-<p>The results obtained from the experiments of the commission alone
-are sufficient to prove the practicability of quahaug farming, even if
-there were no other proofs. As it is, there have been many tests made
-by the oystermen, both outside and inside the State. Some years ago
-the oystermen near New York realized the possibilities of raising quahaugs
-on their oyster grants, and to-day Massachusetts ships many
-barrels of "seed" quahaugs out of the State to these far-sighted business
-men, who reap large returns by replanting these small "little
-necks." The Massachusetts oystermen have not been slow to realize
-the large returns afforded by quahaug culture, and some have planted
-many bushels of the "seed," thus turning their grants into partial
-quahaug farms. These men have proved that this style of farming is
-practical, and that as a money-making proposition the quahaug is far
-ahead of the oyster.</p>
-
-<p>As affairs exist to-day in Massachusetts, a few men alone have the
-privilege of raising quahaugs, while the rest stand idle. Theoretically
-and legally, no one has the right to plant and raise quahaugs in the
-State; but practically and secretly it is done with great success. Who
-can blame the oysterman for raising quahaugs with his oysters, in
-view of the fast-declining quahaug industry? Rather by so doing he
-is helping perpetuate the natural supply. The objection to this present
-system of secret quahaug farming is its unfairness. A few men
-are enjoying the privileges that many others should likewise enjoy.
-There is plenty of room, and quahaug farming might as well be carried
-on openly, to the benefit of all.</p>
-
-<p>While the oystermen have made a move toward general quahaug farming,
-and have shown the great possibilities that this system possesses,
-the quahaugers have also exhibited a tendency in a similar direction.
-The originators of the town law in Eastham, Orleans and Wellfleet,
-which provides for the leasing of 5,625 square feet of flat for bedding
-the catch, and thus makes possible the advantage of a favorable market,
-probably did not imagine that this was the first great step on the part
-of the quahaugers towards shellfish farming. The success of this scheme
-has here opened the eyes of the intelligent quahaugers to the even
-better possibilities of quahaug culture, and any well-devised scheme
-of shellfish farming will be favorably received.</p>
-
-<p>The main impulse that makes people turn to quahaug culture is the
-steady decline of the industry, especially during the last few years. In
-the previous pages of this report there have been shown: (1) the
-actuality of the decline; (2) the causes of this decline. The proof of
-the decline is so generally apparent that it has created a popular demand
-for a fair system of quahaug farming, to check the diminution
-of the present supply.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>Possibilities of Quahaug Farming.</i>&mdash;The quahaug has a wide
-range; it is found in all depths of water, from high tide line to sixty
-feet, and in various kinds of mud and sand bottom. This natural
-adaptability gives the quahaug a wider area than any other shellfish,
-as it will live in nearly any bottom, although the rate of growth depends
-essentially upon its location in respect to current. This permits
-the utilization of vast areas which to-day are unproductive, and which
-can all be made into profitable quahaug farms. Quahaugs will grow
-on thousands of acres of flats, such as the Common Flats of Chatham,
-if they are planted. There are indefinite possibilities of expansion in
-quahaug farming through the reclamation of this unproductive sea
-bottom.</p>
-
-<p>(3) <i>Rate of Growth of Quahaug.</i>&mdash;The rate of growth of the quahaug
-varies greatly in regard to its location in respect to the current.
-The quahaugs which have the better current or circulation of water
-show the faster growth. The fastest growth recorded by the experiments
-of the Department on Fisheries and Game was a gain of 1 inch
-a year; <i>i.e.</i>, 1&frac12;-inch quahaugs attained in one year a length of 2&frac12;
-inches. The average growth is between &frac12; and &frac34; inch a year, or a
-yield of 3 to 5 bushels for every bushel planted, or the return in one
-year of $4 for every $1 invested. In the more favorable localities there
-would be the enormous gain of $8 for every dollar invested. All this
-can be done in six months, as the quahaug grows only during the six
-summer months. The above figures are taken from experiments which
-have been conducted on Cape Cod, in Buzzards Bay and at Nantucket.</p>
-
-<p>(4) <i>Value of a Quahaug Farm.</i>&mdash;An acre of "little-neck" quahaugs
-has a high market value. A conservative estimate of 10 per square foot
-gives the yield in one year of 2&frac12;-inch quahaugs as 600 bushels per
-acre; This means that 120 bushels of 1&frac34;-inch quahaugs were planted
-to the acre. The price paid for the same would be $600, at the high
-price of $5 per bushel. The price received for the same, at $3 per
-bushel, would bring $1,800, or a gain of $3 for every $1 invested. This
-is a conservative estimate on all sides. Quahaugs could be planted
-two or three times as thick, seed might be purchased for less money,
-more money might be received for private shipments, and faster growth
-can be obtained. The only labor necessary is gathering the quahaugs
-for market. The quahaug farm requires no such care as the agricultural
-farm, and offers far more profit.</p>
-
-<p>(5) <i>Advantage of Quahaug Culture.</i>&mdash;The quahaug is the most
-remunerative of any of our shellfish. It possesses several advantages
-over the oyster: (1) it is hardier,&mdash;less influenced by climatic conditions;
-(2) it has fewer enemies, as it lies protected under the sand;
-(3) it possesses a market the whole year; (4) there is more money
-for the planter in raising "little necks" than in raising oysters. If
-oyster culture has succeeded in Massachusetts, there is no question that,
-given a proper chance, quahaug culture can be put on a firm basis, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span>
-made the leading shellfish industry of Massachusetts. The value of
-the present quahaug industry lies chiefly in the production of "little
-necks." Under a cultural system of quahaug farms, this could be made
-a specialty. Old quahaugs would be kept as "seeders," and "little
-necks" alone raised for the market. The advantage of furnishing
-"little necks" of uniform size would lead to increased prices; steady
-customers would be obtained and certainty of production guaranteed.
-All the advantages lie with quahaug farming, as opposed to the present
-method of "free-for-all" digging.</p>
-
-<p>The quahaug industry of the future, if put on a cultural basis, will not
-only check the decline of a valuable industry, but will increase the present
-production many fold. A far larger supply, work for more men
-and better prices for the consumer will result.</p>
-
-<p>(6) <i>Spat Collecting.</i>&mdash;The main obstacle that stands in the way of
-permanent quahaug culture is a lack of sufficient young "seed" quahaugs.
-While several heavy sets have been recorded, the "seed"
-quahaugs are never found in vast quantities, as are the young of the
-soft clam (<i>Mya arenaria</i>). The set of quahaugs is usually scattering
-and slight. A method of spat collecting, <i>i.e.</i>, catching the spawn and
-raising the small quahaugs, is alone necessary for the complete success
-of quahaug culture. While nothing of practical importance has yet
-been found, indications are favorable that some means will be devised
-in the next few years, and that quantities of young quahaugs can be
-raised. Experiments have already shown that as many as 75 can be
-caught per square foot in box spat collectors; but a more practical
-method than this must be found to make the business profitable.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>The Quahaug Industry.</i></h3>
-
-<p><i>Methods of Capture.</i>&mdash;Several methods of taking quahaugs are in
-vogue in Massachusetts, some simple and primitive, others more advanced
-and complex, but all modifications of simple raking or digging.
-These methods have arisen with the development of the industry, and
-record the historical changes in the quahaug fishery, as each new fishery
-or separate locality demands some modification of the usual methods.</p>
-
-<p>(1) "<i>Treading.</i>"&mdash;The early settlers in Massachusetts quickly
-learned from the Indians the primitive method of "treading" quahaugs,
-which required no implements except the hands and feet. The "treader"
-catches the quahaug by wading about in the water, feeling for them
-with his toes in the soft mud, and then picking them up by hand. Nowhere
-in Massachusetts is it used as a method of commercial fishery.</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>Tidal Flat Fishery.</i>&mdash;Often quahaugs are found on the exposed
-tidal flats, where they can sometimes be taken by hand, but more often
-with ordinary clam hoes or short rakes. Owing to the scarcity of quahaugs
-between the tide lines, this method does not pay for market fishing,
-and is only resorted to by people who dig for home consumption.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>(3) <i>Tonging.</i>&mdash;In most parts of Buzzards Bay and in a few places
-on Cape Cod quahaugs are taken with <i>oyster tongs</i>. This method is
-applicable only in water less than 12 feet deep, as the longest tongs
-measure but 16 feet. Four sizes of tongs are used, 8, 10, 12 and 16
-feet in length. Tonging is carried on in the small coves and inlets,
-where there is little if any rough water. A muddy bottom is usually
-preferable, as a firm, hard soil increases the labor of manipulating
-the tongs, which are used in the same manner as in tonging oysters.</p>
-
-<p>(4) <i>Raking.</i>&mdash;The most universal method of taking quahaugs is with
-rakes. This method is used in every quahaug locality in Massachusetts,
-each town having its special kind of rake. Four main types of rakes
-can be recognized:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(<i>a</i>) <i>The Digger.</i>&mdash;In some localities, chiefly in Buzzards Bay, the
-ordinary potato digger or rake, having four or five long, thin prongs, is
-used. Usually it has a back of wire netting, which holds the quahaugs
-when caught by the prongs. As the digger has a short handle of 5
-feet, it can be used only in shallow water, where the quahauger, wading
-in the water, turns out the quahaugs with this narrow rake. This method
-yields but a scanty return, and is more often used for home consumption
-than for market.</p>
-
-<p>(<i>b</i>) <i>The Garden Rake.</i>&mdash;The ordinary garden rake, equipped with
-a basket back of wire netting, is in more general use in shallow water,
-either by wading or from a boat, as it has the advantage of being wider
-than the potato digger.</p>
-
-<p>(<i>c</i>) <i>The Claw Rake.</i>&mdash;This type of rake varies in size, width and
-length of handle. It is used chiefly at Nantucket. The usual style has a
-handle 6 feet long, while the iron part in the form of a claw or talon
-is 10 inches wide, with prongs 1 inch apart. Heavier rakes with longer
-handles are sometimes used for deep water, but for shallow water the
-usual form is the short-claw rake.</p>
-
-<p>(<i>d</i>) <i>The Basket Rake.</i>-The greater part of the quahaug production
-is taken from deep water, with the basket rake. These rakes have handles
-running from 23 to 65 feet in length, according to the depth of
-water over the beds. Where the water is of various depths, several
-detachable handles of various lengths are used. At the end of these long
-handles is a small cross-piece, similar to the cross-piece of a lawn mower;
-this enables the quahauger to obtain a strong pull when raking. The
-handles are made of strong wood, and are very thin and flexible, not
-exceeding 1&frac12; inches in diameter. The price of these handles varies
-according to the length, but the average price is about $2. As the long
-handles break very easily, great care must be taken in raking.</p>
-
-<p>Three forms of the basket rake are used in Massachusetts. These
-rakes vary greatly in form and size, and it is merely a question of
-opinion which variety is the best, as all are made on the same general
-principle,&mdash;a curved, basket-shaped body, the bottom edge of which
-is set with thin steel teeth.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span></p>
-
-<p><i>The Wellfleet and Chatham Rake.</i>&mdash;This rake is perhaps the most
-generally used for all deep-water quahauging on Cape Cod, and finds
-favor with all. It consists of an iron framework, forming a curved
-bowl, the under edge of which is set with thin steel teeth varying
-in length from 2 to 4 inches, though usually 2&frac12;-inch teeth are the
-favorite. Formerly these teeth were made of iron, but owing to the
-rapid wear it was found necessary to make them of steel. Over
-the bowl of this rake, which is strengthened by side and cross pieces
-of iron, is fitted a twine net, which, like the net of a scallop dredge,
-drags behind the framework. An average rake has from 19 to 21
-teeth, and weighs from 15 to 20 pounds.</p>
-
-<p><i>Edgartown Basket Rake.</i>&mdash;The basket rake used at Edgartown and
-Nantucket is lighter and somewhat smaller than the Wellfleet rake.
-The whole rake, except the teeth, is made of iron. No netting is required,
-as thin iron wires 1/3 inch apart encircle lengthwise the whole
-basket, preventing the escape of any marketable quahaug, and at the
-same time allowing the mud to wash out. This rake has 16 steel teeth,
-1&frac12; inches long, fitted at intervals of 1 inch in the bottom scraping bar,
-which is 16 inches long; the depth of the basket is about 8 inches. Much
-shorter poles, not exceeding 30 feet in length, are used with this rake,
-and the whole rake is much lighter. The price of this rake is $7.50,
-while the poles cost $1.50.</p>
-
-<p>The third form of basket rake is a cross between the basket and
-claw rakes. This rake is used both at Nantucket and on Cape Cod, but
-is not so popular as the other types. The basket is formed by the curve
-of the prongs, which are held together by two long cross-bars at the top
-and bottom of the basket, while the ends are enclosed by short strips
-of iron. This rake exemplifies the transition stage between the claw
-and basket types, indicating that the basket form was derived from the
-former. Handles 20 to 30 feet long are generally used with these rakes.</p>
-
-<p><i>Shallow v. Deep Water Quahauging.</i>&mdash;Two kinds of quahauging
-are found in Massachusetts,&mdash;the deep and the shallow water fisheries.
-This arbitrary distinction also permits a division of localities in regard
-to the principal methods of fishing. Although in all localities there
-exists more or less shallow-water fishing, the main quahaug industry of
-several towns is the deep-water fishery. In all the Buzzards Bay towns
-except Fairhaven and New Bedford the shallow-water fishery prevails;
-this is also true of the south side of Cape Cod. On the north side of
-Cape Cod the opposite is true, as the quahauging at Wellfleet, Eastham,
-Orleans and Brewster is practically all deep-water fishing. At Edgartown
-and Nantucket, although there is considerable shallow-water digging,
-the deep-water fishery is the more important.</p>
-
-<p>The deep-water fishery is vastly more productive than the shallow-water
-industry, furnishing annually 118,500 bushels, compared to
-23,227 bushels, or more than 5 times as much. The deep-water fishery,
-<i>i.e.</i>, the basket-rake fishery, is the main quahaug fishery of the State,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span>
-and each year it is increasing, because of the opening of new beds.
-On the other hand, the shallow-water grounds are rapidly becoming
-barren from overfishing.</p>
-
-<p>The deep-water quahauging is harder work, requires considerable
-capital but has fewer working days. Naturally the earnings from this
-fishery should surpass those of the shallow-water industry. The deep-water
-quahauger averages from $5 to $8 for a working day, while the
-shallow-water fisherman earns only from $2 to $3 per day.</p>
-
-<p><i>Deep-water Quahauging.</i>&mdash;Both power and sail boats are used in
-deep-water quahauging, though power is gradually replacing the old
-method of sailing, because of its increased efficiency and saving of time.
-When the quahaug grounds are reached, the boat is anchored at both
-bow and stern, one continuous rope connecting both anchors, which are
-from 500 to 600 feet apart, in such a way that the bow of the boat is
-always headed against the tide. A sufficient amount of slack is required
-for the proper handling of the boat, which can be moved along this
-anchor "road" as on a cable, and a large territory raked. The rake
-is lowered from the bow of the boat, the length of the handle being
-regulated by the depth of the water, and the teeth worked into the sandy
-or muddy bottom. The quahauger then takes firm hold of the cross-piece
-at the end of the handle, and works the rake back to the stern of
-the boat, where it is hauled in and the contents dumped on the culling
-board or picked out of the net. In hauling in the net the rake is turned
-so that the opening is on top, and the mud and sand is washed out before
-it is taken on board. The long pole passes across the boat and
-extends into the water on the opposite side when the rake is hauled in.
-This process is repeated until the immediate locality becomes unprofitable,
-when the boat is shifted along the cable.</p>
-
-<p>The usual time for quahauging is from half ebb to half flood tide,
-thus avoiding the extra labor of high-water raking. Deep-water raking
-is especially hard labor, and six hours constitute a good day's work.</p>
-
-<p><i>Boats.</i>&mdash;Nearly all kinds of boats are utilized in the quahaug fishery,
-and are of all values, from the $10 second-hand skiff to the 38-foot
-power seine boat, which costs $1,500. The shallow-water industry requires
-but little invested capital. Dories and skiffs are the principal
-boats, costing from $10 to $25. Occasionally a sail or power boat
-may be used in this fishery. The deep-water industry requires larger and
-stronger boats. These are either power or sail boats, often auxiliary
-"cats," and their value runs anywhere from $150 to $1,500. The
-average price for the sail boats is $250, while the power boats are
-assessed at $350. At Orleans several large power seine boats, valued at
-about $1,500, are used in the quahaug fishery. These seine boats are
-30 to 38 feet over all, have low double cabins, and are run by 8 to 12
-horse-power gasolene engines. The ordinary power boats have gasolene
-engines from 2 to 6 horse-power. In this way each method of
-quahauging has its own boats, which are adapted for its needs.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span></p>
-
-<p><i>Dredging.</i>&mdash;So far as known, dredging is never used in quahauging
-in Massachusetts, although it is sometimes used on sea-clam beds. It has
-been tried, but without success, chiefly because of the uneven nature of
-the bottom. The invention of a suitable dredge is necessary, and there
-can be little doubt that in the future, if this difficulty is overcome,
-dredging will be used in the quahaug fishery. In 1879 Mr. Ernest
-Ingersoll reports in Rhode Island the use of a quahaug dredge similar
-in structure to our rake. Evidently this form was never especially
-successful, possibly because these dredges could not be dragged by
-sail boats.</p>
-
-<p><i>Outfit of a Quahauger.</i>&mdash;The implements and boats used in quahauging
-have already been mentioned. The outfit of the average
-quahauger in each fishery is here summarized:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Deep-water Quahauging.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Boat,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">2 rakes,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">3 poles,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td></td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$326</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Shallow-water Quahauging.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Boat,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Tongs or rakes,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Baskets,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td></td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$25</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p><i>Season.</i>&mdash;The quahaug fishery is essentially a summer fishery, and
-little if any is done during the winter. The season in Massachusetts
-lasts for seven months, usually starting the last of March or the first
-of April, and ending about the first of November. The opening of the
-spring season varies several weeks, owing to the severity of the weather;
-and the same is true of the closing of the season.</p>
-
-<p>As a rule, the Buzzards Bay industry, where digging is done in the
-shallow waters of protected bays and coves, using short rakes and tongs,
-has a longer season than the quahaug industry of Cape Cod, where the
-fishery is carried on in deep and open waters. With the former, the
-cold work and hardship alone force the quahaugers to stop fishing, a
-long time after storms and rough weather have brought the latter industry
-to an end.</p>
-
-<p>The actual working days of the deep-water quahauger number hardly
-over 100 per season, while those of the shallow-water fishermen easily
-outnumber 150. The deep-water quahauger's daily earnings are two or
-three times the daily wages of the shallow-water quahauger, but the
-additional number of working days in part make up this difference.</p>
-
-<p>The quahaug season can be divided arbitrarily into three parts: (1)
-spring; (2) summer; (3) fall. The spring season lasts from April 1
-to June 15, the summer season from June 15 to September 15, and the
-fall season from September 15 to November 1. These seasons are
-marked by an increase in the number of quahaugers in the spring and
-fall. The men who do summer boating quahaug in the spring before the
-summer people arrive, and in the fall after the summer season is over.
-The opening of the scallop season, in towns that are fortunate enough
-to possess both industries, marks the closing of the quahaug season.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span>
-These two industries join so well, scalloping in the winter and quahauging
-in the summer, that a shellfisherman has work practically all
-the year.</p>
-
-<p><i>The Principal Markets.</i>&mdash;The principal markets for the sale of
-Massachusetts quahaugs are Boston and New York. In 1879 the Boston
-market, according to Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, sold comparatively few. At
-the present time the Boston market disposes of many thousand bushels
-annually, but nevertheless the greater part of the Massachusetts quahaugs
-are shipped to New York. This, again, is due to the better market
-prices offered by that city. Besides passing through these two main
-channels, quahaugs are shipped direct from the coast dealers to various
-parts of the country, especially the middle west. This last method
-seems to be on the increase, and the future may see a large portion of
-the quahaug trade carried on by direct inland shipments.</p>
-
-<p><i>Shipment.</i>&mdash;Quahaugs are shipped either in second-hand sugar or
-flour barrels or in bushel bags. The latter method is fast gaining popularity
-with the quahaugers and dealers, owing to its cheapness, and is
-now steadily used in some localities. When quahaugs are shipped in
-barrels, holes are made in the bottom and sides of the barrel, to allow
-free circulation of air and to let the water out, while burlap is used
-instead of wooden heads.</p>
-
-<p>"<i>Culls.</i>"&mdash;Several culls are made for the market. These vary in
-number in different localities and with different firms, but essentially
-are modifications of the three "culls" made by the quahaugers: (1)
-"little necks;" (2) "sharps;" (3) "blunts." The divisions made by
-the firm of A. D. Davis &amp; Co. of Wellfleet are as follows: (1) "little
-necks," small, 1&frac12;-2&frac14; inches; large, 2&frac14;-3 inches; (2) medium
-"sharps," 3-3&frac34; inches; (3) large "sharps," 3&frac34; inches up; (4) small
-"blunts;" (5) large "blunts."</p>
-
-<p><i>Price.</i>&mdash;The prices received by the quahaugers are small, compared
-with the retail prices. "Little necks" fetch from $2.50 to $4 per bushel,
-sharps and small blunts from $1.10 to $2, and large blunts from 80
-cents to $1.50, according to the season, fall and spring prices necessarily
-being higher than in summer. The price depends wholly upon the
-supply in the market, and varies greatly, although the "little necks"
-are fairly constant, as the demand for these small quahaugs is very
-great. To what excess the demand for "little necks" has reached can
-best be illustrated by a comparison between the price of $3 paid to the
-quahauger per bushel, and the actual price, $50, paid for the same by
-the consumer in the hotel restaurants.</p>
-
-<p><i>Bedding Quahaugs for Market.</i>&mdash;By town laws in Orleans, Eastham
-and Wellfleet, each quahauger may, upon application, secure from the
-selectmen a license, giving him not more than 75 feet square of tidal
-flat upon which to bed his catch of quahaugs. While no positive protection
-is guaranteed, public opinion recognizes the right of each man
-to his leased area, and this alone affords sufficient protection for the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span>
-success of this communal effort, which is the first step by the people
-toward quahaug farming.</p>
-
-<p>The quahauger needs only to spread his catch on the surface, and
-within two tides the quahaugs will have buried themselves in the sand.
-Here they will remain, with no danger of moving away, as the quahaug
-moves but little. The quahauger loses nothing by this replanting, as
-not only do the quahaugs remain in a healthy condition, but even grow
-in their new environment.</p>
-
-<p>The result of this communal attempt at quahaug culture is beneficial.
-While the market price for "little necks" is almost always steady, the
-price of the larger quahaugs fluctuates considerably, and the market
-often becomes "glutted." This would naturally result in a severe loss
-to the quahauger if he were forced to keep shipping at a low price. As
-it is, the fortunate quahauger who possesses such a grant merely replants
-his daily catch until the market prices rise to their proper level.
-An additional advantage is gained by the quahauger, who at the end of
-the season has his grant well stocked, as higher prices are then offered.
-As many as 1,000 barrels are often held this way at the end of the
-season.</p>
-
-<p><i>Food Value.</i>&mdash;See food value table in scallop report.</p>
-
-<p><i>Uses.</i>&mdash;Besides its many uses as a food, raw, cooked and canned, the
-quahaug is of little importance in Massachusetts.</p>
-
-<p>(1) For bait the soft clam (<i>Mya arenaria</i>) is generally preferred,
-and but few quahaugs are used for this purpose.</p>
-
-<p>(2) The shell was once prized by the Indians for their wampum; now
-it is occasionally used for ornamental purposes.</p>
-
-<p>(3) Oystermen use it for cultch when they can get nothing better;
-though more fragile shells are usually preferred, so that the masses of
-oyster "set" can be easily broken apart.</p>
-
-<p>(4) Shell roads are occasionally made from quahaug shells. Possibly
-lime could be profitably obtained.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>History of Quahaug Industry in Massachusetts.</i></h3>
-
-<p>South of Plymouth harbor quahaugs have always been plentiful along
-the shores of Cape Cod, Buzzards Bay and the islands of Nantucket and
-Martha's Vineyard. Frequent shell heaps show that the Indians were
-accustomed to use this mollusk as a food, and even indulged in an occasional
-clam bake. Colonial records show us that the early colonists
-were not slow in learning to "tread out" this mollusk from the mud
-flats. The shells of the quahaug were much prized by the Indians for
-wampum beads, because of their purplish color.</p>
-
-<p>Although reckoned inferior by many to the soft clam (<i>Mya arenaria</i>),
-the quahaug was dug for home consumption for years in Massachusetts,
-and but little attempt was made to put it on the market. The commercial
-quahaug fishery started on Cape Cod, about the first of the
-nineteenth century, growing in extent until about 1860. From 1860<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span>
-to 1890 the production remained about constant. The production in
-1879 for Massachusetts, as given by A. Howard Clark, totaled 11,050
-bushels, valued at $5,525. It is only in the last fifteen to twenty years
-that the actual development of the quahaug fishery has taken place.
-The present production of Massachusetts is 144,044 bushels, valued
-at $194,687. To the popular demand for the "little neck" can be
-attributed the rapid development of the quahaug industry during the
-last ten years. This development has furnished employment for hundreds
-of men, and has given the quahaug an important value as a sea
-food. What it will lead to is easily seen. The maximum production
-was passed a few years ago, constant overfishing caused by an excessive
-demand is destroying the natural supply, and there will in a few
-years be practically no commercial fishery, unless measures are taken
-to increase the natural supply. Quahaug farming offers the best solution
-at the present time, and gives promise of permanent success.</p>
-
-<p>The following statistics, taken from the United States Fish Commission
-reports, show the rapidity of the development of the quahaug
-fishery:&mdash;</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th><span class="smcap">Date.</span></th>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-    <th>Price (Cents).</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11,050</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,525</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50.0</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1887,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">35,540</td>
-    <td class="tdr">21,363</td>
-    <td class="tdr">60.0</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1888,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">26,165</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14,822</td>
-    <td class="tdr">56.5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1898,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">63,817</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50,724</td>
-    <td class="tdr">79.5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1902,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">106,818</td>
-    <td class="tdr">131,139</td>
-    <td class="tdr">124.0</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1905,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">166,526</td>
-    <td class="tdr">288,987</td>
-    <td class="tdr">155.0</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>Not only has there been an increase in production, but also an increase
-in price, as can be seen from the above table, which shows that
-the price has more than doubled between 1888 and 1902. This increase
-in price has alone supported a declining fishery in many towns, making
-it still profitable for quahaugers to keep in the business, in spite of a
-much smaller catch. The advance in price is due both to the natural
-rise in the value of food products during the past twenty-five years and
-also to the popular demand for the "little neck," or small quahaug.</p>
-
-<p><i>State Laws.</i>&mdash;There are no State laws governing the quahaug fishery,
-except the regulations of the State Board of Health in regard to sewage
-pollution in Acushnet River and Boston Harbor.</p>
-
-<p><i>Town Laws.</i>&mdash;Regulation of the quahaug fishery was given to each
-town by the State under the general shellfish act of 1880; the industry
-is therefore entirely governed under the by-laws of the town.</p>
-
-<p>An interesting comparison can be made between the quahaug regulations
-of the different towns. Good, useless and harmful laws exist
-side by side. One town will pass excellent regulations, and enforce
-them; another town will make the same, but never trouble to see that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span>
-they are observed. Edgartown enforces the 1&frac12;-inch quahaug law;
-Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet have the same law, but fail to enforce
-it. Many towns allow the small seed quahaugs to be caught and
-shipped out of the State, thus losing $4 to every $1 gained. These
-towns refuse to make any regulation, such as a simple size limit,
-which would remedy this matter, and have no thought for the future of
-their quahaug industry. All that can be said is that the quahaug laws
-are the best of the town shellfish regulations, and that is but faint
-praise.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Statistics of the Quahaug Fishery.</i></h3>
-
-<p>In the following table the towns are arranged in alphabetical order,
-and the list includes only those towns which now possess a commercial
-quahaug fishery. In giving the number of men, both transient and
-regular quahaugers are included. In estimating the capital invested,
-the boats, implements, shanties and gear of the quahauger are alone
-considered, and personal apparel, such as oilskins, boots, etc., are not
-taken into account. The value of the production for each town is based
-upon what the quahaugers receive for their quahaugs, and not the price
-they bring in the market. The area of quahaug territory given for
-each town includes all ground where quahaugs are found, both thick
-beds and scattering quahaugs.</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th rowspan="2"><span class="smcap">Town.</span></th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Number of Men.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Capital invested.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Number of Boats.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2" class="br">Number of Dories and Skiffs.</th>
-    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">1907 Production.</span></th>
-    <th rowspan="2" class="bl">Area in Acres.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Value of Yield per Acre.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barnstable,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$850</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,700</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">950</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3.95</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Bourne,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">46</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">46</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5,400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8,400</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.36</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Chatham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,750</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">6,700</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dennis,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">950</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4.75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Eastham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">4,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.87</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Edgartown,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">70</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">42</td>
-    <td class="tdr">18</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">20,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">32,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">17.77</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Fairhaven,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">115</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">15,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">16,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">3,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5.50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Falmouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">115</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.29</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Harwich,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,550</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25.50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Marion,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">19</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">19</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Mashpee,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">70</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">285</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.71</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Mattapoisett,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">28</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">28</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">750</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Nantucket,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">48</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,750</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">6,294</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8,487</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5,290</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.60</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Orleans,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">33,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">41,350</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">27.56</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Wareham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">6,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8.08</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Wellfleet,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">145</td>
-    <td class="tdr">27,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">33,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">41,350</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">16.54</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Yarmouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">240</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td rowspan="0" class="tdc">Totals,</td>
-    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bt">745</td>
-    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bt">94,260</td>
-    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bt">250</td>
-    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bt">378</td>
-    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bl bt">144,044</td>
-    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bt">194,687</td>
-    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bl bt">28,090</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">Average</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">$6.93</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Barnstable.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Barnstable, with its extensive bays both on the north or bay side
-and on the south or Vineyard Sound side, offers great possibilities for
-quahaug production. Although the quahaug ranks, in productive value,
-the third shellfish industry of Barnstable, the natural resources permit
-an expansion under cultural methods which would place the quahaug
-ahead of the oyster, which at the present time is the leading shellfish
-industry of the town.</p>
-
-<p>In Barnstable harbor, on the north coast of the town, a few quahaugs
-are found scattered in isolated patches. (See Map No. 9.) These are
-relatively of small importance commercially, and no regular fishery is
-carried on. In the future the vast barren flats of this harbor may be
-made productive of quahaugs as well as clams, although at present the
-total area of quahaug grounds is hardly 5 acres.</p>
-
-<p>The greater part of the quahaug industry of Barnstable is conducted
-on the south shore of the township, which is especially adapted, with
-its coves and inlets, for the successful growth of this shellfish. The
-principal fishery is in Cotuit harbor and West Bay, and is chiefly shared
-by the villages of Osterville, Marston's Mills and Cotuit, which lie on
-the east, north and west sides, respectively, of the bay.</p>
-
-<p>While the greater part of Cotuit harbor is taken up by oyster grants,
-there are certain parts, though limited in area, which are set aside for
-quahauging. The principal area for quahauging is the flat which runs
-along Oyster Island. This was originally an oyster grant taken out
-by Wendell Nickerson, and thrown open to quahaugers to protect the
-quahaug interests from the oyster planters. This territory, which comprises
-70 acres, is mostly hard sand. Directly west in the center of
-the harbor lies a strip of 80 acres of mud and eel grass, where both
-quahaugs and scallops abound. The depth of water on quahauging
-grounds varies from 1 to 14 feet.</p>
-
-<p>Scattering quahaugs are found also in Osterville harbor, West Bay,
-Popponesset River and East Bay. This bottom is practically all sand,
-and comprises a total of 1,650 acres. This cannot all be considered
-good quahaug ground, although quahaugs can occasionally be found.</p>
-
-<p>At Hyannis the quahaug grounds are confined to Lewis Bay, where
-they cover an area of 800 acres. The quahaugs lie in scattered patches
-over this area, but in no place is there especially good quahauging.
-The bottom is hard, usually sandy, with patches of eel grass, while
-the average depth of water is hardly more than 6 feet.</p>
-
-<p>In Osterville Bay about 20 men, in Lewis Bay about 5, using the
-same number of dories, make a business of quahauging in the summer
-months. Three styles of implements are used: (1) oyster tongs, varying
-from 8 to 16 feet, according to the depth of water; (2) large
-basket rakes, with 30-foot handles; (3) ordinary garden rakes, with
-wire basket, for shallow-water digging.</p>
-
-<p>At Cotuit the quahaugs run one-third "little necks," one-third<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span>
-mediums and one-third large. Here several men, using long-handled
-rakes, make from $3 to $5 per day in favorable weather. The markets
-are principally New York and Boston, where the quahaugs are shipped,
-mostly in sacks, which is a cheaper and better way than shipment in
-barrels. Here the quahaug season lasts from April 1 to November 1,
-most of the work being done in the summer, when the oyster business
-is at a standstill.</p>
-
-<p>There are no town laws governing the quahaug fishery, other than
-forbidding a non-resident of the town the right of quahauging; and
-no licenses are required.</p>
-
-<p>No records of the history of the quahaug industry at Barnstable
-can be found. A. Howard Clark in 1879 makes the following brief
-statement, which is the only record obtainable:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>Both soft clams and quahaugs are found in the harbor [Osterville harbor],
-but no considerable fishing for them is carried on.</p></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">950</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$350</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,700</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,700</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,700</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Bourne.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The town of Bourne was formerly included in the town of Sandwich,
-and many old laws relating to shellfish, such as oyster regulation
-in Barlow River, were enacted by the town of Sandwich. Situated at
-the head of Buzzards Bay, and separated from the adjacent town of
-Wareham by Cohasset Narrows, Bourne has many advantages for
-a profitable quahaug industry. It possesses nearly twice as much quahaug
-territory as Wareham, but, as most of this lies unproductive,
-has a smaller annual output. The territory includes over 2,500 acres of
-ground, most of which consists of flats of mud, sand and eel grass,
-covered with shallow water. It is very sparsely set with quahaugs.
-Outside the oyster grants practically the entire stretch of coast from<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span>
-Buttermilk Bay to Wings Neck is quahauging ground, as can be seen
-on Map No. 17. Other quahaug grounds lie between Basset's Island,
-Scraggy Neck and Handy's Point. It is our opinion that this large
-territory, which to-day yields on the average less than $3.50 per acre,
-in the future, under cultivation, can be made to yield an average of
-$100 per acre, thereby bringing into the town of Bourne a yearly
-income of at least $250,000, and furnishing labor for hundreds of men.</p>
-
-<p>About 46 men are engaged in the quahaug fishery of Bourne, using
-the same number of skiffs and dories, which represent approximately
-an investment of $875. The fishery lasts usually seven months during
-the summer, April 1 to November 1, while the winter digging is of
-small account. Practically all the digging is done in comparatively
-shallow water, with short-handled rakes or tongs. Rather more than
-a third of the quahaugs appear to be "little necks," while the mediums
-constitute one-tenth of the total catch. "Blunts" are of little consequence.</p>
-
-<p>The selectmen issue permits for the taking of quahaugs and clams.
-In 1906, 46 permits were issued, entitling the holder to 10 bushels
-of clams and 10 bushels of quahaugs per week.</p>
-
-<p>There is little to be said concerning the history of the Bourne quahaug
-industry, as no early records exist. Its development has been similar
-to that of the industries of the other Buzzards Bay towns. During
-the last few years the Bourne fishery, unlike most of the towns on
-Buzzards Bay, has shown signs of increasing. This is not due, however,
-to any increase in the natural supply, but to the decline of the
-oyster industry, which gives more opportunity to the quahaugers. The
-same antagonistic feeling that is prevalent in Wareham exists here
-between the oystermen and quahaugers.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">46</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">46</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$875</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$125</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$8,400</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Chatham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Chatham is favorably situated in regard to the quahaug fishery, as
-this shellfish is found in the waters on the north and south sides of
-the town. The grounds are extensive, covering about 2,000 acres,
-the greater part of which consists of the vast area south of the town
-known as the "Common Flats."</p>
-
-<p>The quahauging grounds are in four localities: (1) Pleasant Bay;
-(2) Mill Pond; (3) Stage Harbor; (4) Common Flats.</p>
-
-<p>(1) Part of the waters of Pleasant Bay belong to the town of
-Chatham. In an arm of this bay, known as Crows Pond, the best
-Pleasant Bay fishery is carried on in water varying from 6 to 16 feet
-in depth.</p>
-
-<p>(2) An excellent "little neck" fishery is carried on in the upper
-part of the Mill Pond, in comparatively shallow water, comprising
-an area of 3 acres. On these bars in 1905 there was a very heavy set of
-small quahaugs, which were rapidly taken up before they had a chance
-to attain to a fair size.</p>
-
-<p>(3) Quahaugs are raked on the west side of Stage Harbor in 5
-to 15 feet of water, in an area of 4 acres of muddy bottom.</p>
-
-<p>(4) The Common Flats comprise 1,700 acres, and are covered at
-low tide by a depth of only 1 to 2 feet of water. Quahaugs are found
-throughout this territory in scattering quantities, but practically all
-is good quahaug ground except the shifting outer part of the flat.
-The soil varies from a pure sand to a sandy mud, and in parts is
-thickly covered with eel grass, which makes raking hard. This area
-offers one of the best opportunities for successful quahaug planting in
-the State. The area is large, seed can be obtained easily and quahaugs
-grow well in this locality. If it were not for the lack of protection,
-Chatham could establish one of the best quahaug industries in the State
-by leasing out the Common Flats for planting purposes.</p>
-
-<p>Quahaugs are taken at Chatham only with rakes. In the deep water
-in Crows Pond and in Stage Harbor basket rakes are used; but in the
-shallow water on the Common Flats and in the Mill Pond the usual
-implement is an ordinary garden rake, with wire netting basket. Handles
-from 20 to 25 feet in length are used with the basket rakes.</p>
-
-<p>The quahaug industry has existed in Chatham for the past twelve
-years.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$350</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$400<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span></td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:-</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$4,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,700</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$10,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Dartmouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The quahaug industry of Dartmouth is of little consequence. In
-1907, 320 permits were granted, mostly to New Bedford fishermen for
-"bait."</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Dennis.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The quahauging grounds of Dennis are practically all in Bass River,
-where Dennis has equal fishery rights with Yarmouth. The area of
-these grounds is 200 acres, with a maximum depth of 6 feet of water
-over the beds. The history of the industry is the same as that of
-Yarmouth, as the two industries are closely associated, and a similar
-decline has resulted. The laws for both towns are the same.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men (transient),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$950</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Eastham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Eastham is similar to Orleans in situation, possessing a good coast
-line on both the east and west, which affords excellent opportunities
-for the quahaug fishery.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>On the west or bay side are extensive beds of quahaugs, for the
-most part blunts, extending into deep water for nearly 3 miles. This
-quahauging territory comprises about 4,000 acres, which is open to the
-quahaugers of both Wellfleet and Orleans. While scattering quahaugs
-are found over approximately all this territory, the fishery is conducted
-in only certain definite places.</p>
-
-<p>In Nauset harbor on the east side during the season of 1906 numerous
-beds of "little necks," about the 1&frac12;-inch size, were discovered. It is
-thought that these came from the spawn of certain quahaugs which the
-life savers were accustomed to bed in the harbor for their own use.
-These quahaugs were torn up and scattered by the ice during a severe
-winter, and in this way the nucleus of a new fishery was formed. Two
-men who discovered the best of these beds cleared $60 in one week.</p>
-
-<p>On the west coast of the town 25 men commonly dig with long-handled
-rakes. These fishermen work at quahauging about 100 days in
-the year, and average from 5 to 6 bushels per day. Power boats are
-used for the most part, although the boats are not so large or expensive
-as those of the Orleans fishermen, for the Eastham quahauger digs in
-the more sheltered waters of Wellfleet Bay.</p>
-
-<p>The production for 1906 was 10,000 bushels, but this does not give
-the true yield of the Eastham flats, as the Wellfleet and Orleans fishermen
-rake to a great extent in Eastham waters, and so many more
-bushels are actually taken within the town limits.</p>
-
-<p>The town laws of Eastham are the same as those of Wellfleet. (See
-Wellfleet.) The history of the Eastham quahaug industry is so closely
-connected with that of Orleans and Wellfleet that no additional features
-require mention.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$7,375</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$625</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">9,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$9,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$11,500</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Edgartown.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The finest "little neck" fishery in Massachusetts is found in Katama
-Bay, in the town of Edgartown. Two-fifths of the entire catch are
-"little necks." The most productive grounds are situated in the lower
-part of Katama Bay, while quahaugs are also found in Edgartown
-harbor and in Cape Poge Pond, the total area of these localities comprising
-1,800 acres.</p>
-
-<p>The fishing is mostly done from power dories or sail boats with
-basket rakes. Poles from 20 to 25 feet long are used, as the water over
-the beds is less than 20 feet deep. Some quahaugs are taken in the
-shallow water with small claw rakes. The catch is shipped to the New
-York and Boston markets.</p>
-
-<p>The quahaug industry of Edgartown is the best-regulated shellfish
-industry in Massachusetts. If excellent care had not been taken of the
-"little neck" fishery of Katama Bay by enforcing a size limit of 1&frac12;
-inches, through the employment of a special shellfish warden, the quahaug
-fishery of Edgartown would have been ruined long ago by the
-exportation of small "seed" quahaugs. To-day the number of small
-quahaugs which are returned to the water greatly exceeds the amount
-of marketable quahaugs taken. This is the only case in Massachusetts
-where the quahaug fishery, by careful regulations of the town, has
-maintained an undiminished supply. If other towns had taken similar
-care of their quahaug fisheries in the past, the general decline of the
-industry in this State would never have become so serious.</p>
-
-<p>The following is a copy of the shellfish permit, which every Edgartown
-quahauger is required to take out, at the cost of $2, before he
-can rake quahaugs for market. Any man over sixty years old obtains
-his permit free. This permit should serve as a model for other towns.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Shellfish Permit.</span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Town of Edgartown, Selectmen's Office,</span> 190_.
-</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>In consideration of having received from ____ of Edgartown the
-sum of $2, permission is hereby granted to him to take from any of the
-waters of this town daily, between sunrise and sunset, twenty-five bushels of
-scallops or clams, including shells, and four bushels, including shells, of
-quahaugs; of these four bushels, not more than two bushels are to be of the
-size known as "little necks."</p>
-
-<p>The acceptance of this permit constitutes an agreement by the holder
-thereof that he will, and that any other person who for the time being has
-or shall have in his custody or possession any building, boat, barrel, box, tub,
-crate or other vessel or receptacle containing or suitable for or capable of
-containing shellfish, and belonging to or under the control of the holder
-of this permit, shall, at any time or place when requested so to do by either
-of said selectmen or by their authorized agent, or by any constable or fish
-warden of said town, or by any other officer authorized to enforce the laws
-relating to shellfish or shellfisheries in said town, open any such building,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span>
-boat, barrel, box, tub, crate or other vessel or receptacle, and fully expose
-to them or either of them the contents thereof for inspection; and if the
-holder of this permit or such other person as aforesaid, when so requested,
-refuses or neglects so to do, said selectmen may revoke this permit or suspend
-the same for any stated time, at their discretion.</p>
-
-<p>The holder of this permit is subject to the regulations for the taking of
-eels and shellfish as made and posted by the selectmen, and also to any
-additional regulations which said board may hereafter make and publish.</p>
-
-<p>If the person having this permit for the taking of shellfish violates any
-law of the Commonwealth or any regulation now or hereafter made by said
-selectmen, relating to shellfish or shellfisheries in said town, said selectmen
-may revoke said permit, or suspend the same for any stated time at their
-discretion.</p>
-
-<p>No person is allowed by law to take from the waters of said town, or to
-sell or offer for sale, or to have in his possession, any "little neck" clams
-or quahaugs measuring less than one and one-half inches across the widest
-part. Any person violating this provision of law is liable to a fine of not less
-than ten nor more than one hundred dollars.</p>
-
-<p>This permit will expire April 1, 190&nbsp;, unless sooner revoked.</p></div>
-
-<p class="right"><i>Selectmen of Edgartown.</i></p>
-
-<p>Ernest Ingersoll in 1879 makes the following statement concerning
-the quahaug fishery of Martha's Vineyard:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>Martha's Vineyard used to be bordered by good quahaug ground, but I am
-not aware that many are caught there now. In an old book I find the following
-allusion to it: "The poquau (<i>Venus mercenaria</i>) is found in Old
-Town Harbor, at Cape Poge, and in Menemsha Pond: great quantities are
-exported."</p></div>
-
-<p>A. Howard Clark in 1879 says:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>Soft clams and quahaugs are abundant in the harbor, and are used by the
-fishermen for bait.... Three hundred bushels of quahaugs and sea clams,
-valued at $150, were taken during the year 1879.</p></div>
-
-<p>If such were the conditions in 1879, the industry has had a great
-development. To-day Edgartown is one of the best quahaug towns
-of the State, and produces the finest "little necks." Comparing the
-production figures of 1879 and 1907, a great increase is noted:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production, 1879.</i></p>
-
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$150</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<p class="center"><i>Production, 1907.</i></p>
-
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$32,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">70</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">42</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$10,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">18</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$450</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,050</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$20,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$12,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$32,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Fairhaven.</i></h3>
-
-<p>At Fairhaven the quahaug industry is of considerable importance,
-and the output from this town alone is nearly half the entire production
-of Buzzards Bay.</p>
-
-<p>Some 3,000 acres are more or less bedded with quahaugs. Of this,
-probably not more than one-tenth is very productive. The best
-quahauging is in Acushnet River, where digging for market has been
-forbidden because of sewage pollution (see New Bedford), and in
-Priests Cove as far as Sconticut Neck. In these grounds "little necks"
-are numerous. The grounds around West Island and Long Island, once
-very productive, are now largely dug out. Little Bay and the east
-coast of Sconticut Neck are fairly productive, while the west coast
-yields only a small amount. Most of the quahaugs now dug come
-from the deep water west-southwest of Sconticut Neck. Here, with
-rakes having handles from 40 to 60 feet long, the quahaugers dig
-in water 7 fathoms or more in depth. The quahaugs, mostly large
-sharps, are in bluish mud or sticky bottom, and are all large. A number
-of blunts are found with these large sharps. In the Acushnet River,
-owing to the enforced closed season, there are a large number of "little
-necks."</p>
-
-<p>About 115 men are employed now in quahauging. Before the Acushnet
-River was closed by law, over twice that number are reported to
-have been engaged in the business. Six power boats and five cat boats,
-besides a considerable number of skiffs and dories, are used in the
-fishery.</p>
-
-<p>No permits are required for ordinary quahauging except in the pre<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span>scribed
-territory of Acushnet River, where permits to catch a certain
-amount for bait are given as in New Bedford.</p>
-
-<p>The production for 1879, as given by A. Howard Clark in "The
-Fisheries of Massachusetts," was 3,000 bushels, which is just one-fifth
-of the present production. The supply of quahaugs has decreased the
-last few years, though new territory is constantly being opened up,
-as the quahaugers go out further into the deeper water. The increased
-price, however, probably more than counterbalances the decline in
-production.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">115</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,600</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$900</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$14,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$16,500</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Falmouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>There is practically no quahaug industry in Falmouth. Hardly 100
-bushels are dug annually, and those only for home consumption. A
-few quahaugs are perhaps shipped by the oystermen.</p>
-
-<p>This town, with its numerous inlets, bays and brackish water ponds,
-offers perhaps as fine an opportunity for shellfish culture, especially
-for quahaugs, as exists in Massachusetts. There is no reason why
-the water of Waquoit Bay and the other brackish ponds should not
-produce a great supply of quahaugs, if properly worked.</p>
-
-<p>Quahaugs are found mostly in scattering quantities over a large area
-in Waquoit Bay and in small quantities on the north and west side
-of Great Pond, comprising a total of nearly 400 acres. Not all this
-ground, which is the greater part mud, is capable of producing quahaugs,
-but many parts could produce good harvests. On the bay
-side of the town small patches of good quahaugs are found at North
-Falmouth, Squeteague Pond, West Falmouth harbor on the southeast
-side, and a few are found in Hadley harbor, Naushon. These, together<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span>
-with the small patches in Great Pond, comprise about 1 acre of good
-quahaug ground, and are mostly dug by summer people.</p>
-
-<p>In the past twenty-five years there has been a great decline in the
-quahaug industry, especially in Waquoit Bay, which to-day barely produces
-50 bushels. A. Howard Clark states, in 1879:<a name="FNanchor_7_7" id="FNanchor_7_7"></a><a href="#Footnote_7_7" class="fnanchor">[7]</a>&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>Quahaugs are plenty in Waquoit Bay, and are gathered and eaten by the
-villagers, but none are shipped. It is estimated that about 500 bushels of
-quahaugs are annually consumed by the people of Falmouth town.</p></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of dories,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">90</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$90</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$115</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Harwich.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The quahaug fishery of the town of Harwich is carried on in that
-part of Pleasant Bay which lies within the town limits. In the
-southern waters of the town, on the Sound side, scattering quahaugs
-are found in certain localities, but are not of any commercial importance.
-The most important of those localities are off Dean's Creek
-and in Herring River, where quahaugs are dug for home consumption.</p>
-
-<p>Harwich shares with Chatham and Orleans the quahaug fishery of
-Pleasant Bay, but has a more limited territory, as only a small portion
-of Pleasant Bay lies within the town limits. Practically all this territory,
-comprising 100 acres, is quahauging ground, though the commercial
-quahauging is prosecuted over an area of 10 acres only. Scattering
-quahaugs are found over an area of 100 acres.</p>
-
-<p>As the waters of Pleasant Bay are sheltered, the fishing is all done
-from dories, with basket rakes having 20 to 25 foot poles. The depth
-of water over the quahaug beds is from 6 to 16 feet.</p>
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span></p>
-<p>In regard to the quahaug fishery in Pleasant Bay, Mr. Warren J.
-Nickerson of East Harwich, who has been acquainted with the industry
-for many years, says:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>Pleasant Bay is and has been a very valuable quahaug ground. Some
-fifty years ago there were shipped in vessels to New Haven and other places
-13,000 bushels in one year from its waters. Since then there has been more
-or less taken from these waters by fishermen from the towns of Orleans,
-Chatham and Harwich. During the last few years there have been 25 regular
-fishermen and perhaps 12 transient. Probably 8,000 bushels a year for
-the last five years would be a fair estimate of the catch. Thirty per cent
-of these were "little necks."</p></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">700</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,550</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Marion.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The town of Marion, situated on the western side of Buzzards Bay,
-possesses a spacious harbor, the waters of which furnish excellent quahaug
-grounds.</p>
-
-<p>This territory, comprising a total of 400 acres, is chiefly confined to
-Marion harbor, running in a narrow strip parallel to the shore from
-Aucoot Cove all along the coast to Planting Island. Almost all the
-head of the harbor and all of Blankinship's and Planting Island Cove
-is quahaug area. Small grounds are also found at Wing's Cove and
-in the Weweantit River.</p>
-
-<p>The town law requires each year the possession of a permit costing
-$1 before a person is entitled to dig quahaugs for sale. Nineteen of
-these licenses were issued in 1906, but not more than 2 or 3 of these
-went to men who depend upon quahauging for a living. The remaining
-16 engage in the fishery to a greater or lesser extent in the
-summer season.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The annual production for 1906 was 800 bushels, valued at $1,500,
-as about half were "little necks." Mediums are not numerous, and are
-bought by the quahaug dealers at $1.25 per bushel and sold by them
-at so much per hundred.</p>
-
-<p>In Marion the quahaug industry once flourished to a marked degree,
-but at present is very much on the decline. The coves, which once were
-bedded with "little necks" and quahaugs, are now nearly exhausted.
-No reasons exist for this condition of affairs, so far as known, except
-overdigging. Gradually for many years the supply has perceptibly
-declined, until now it is at a very low ebb. Where a thousand barrels
-were formerly produced, it is doubtful if a thousand bushels are now
-dug during the entire season, and the overworked beds are becoming
-each year more depleted. A. Howard Clark, in his report on the
-fisheries of Marion, estimates the quahaug production in 1880 as 2,000
-bushels. The yield for 1906 is only 800 bushels, which shows an alarming
-decline in production. If once the waters of Marion could produce
-a large amount of quahaugs, there is no reason why they cannot again
-be made to produce the same, or more.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">19</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">19</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,500</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Mashpee.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The quahaug industry at Mashpee is at a low ebb. Natural facilities
-are favorable, but a lack of initiative on the part of the inhabitants
-causes a small production. The best grounds are found in Popponessett
-Bay and River, where a territory of 200 acres includes several
-oyster grants which are worked but little. On the east side of Waquoit
-Bay scattering quahaugs are found in Mashpee waters.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>There are 3 regular and 4 intermittent quahaugers, with an invested
-capital of $70, who are obliged by the town laws to have a permit costing
-$1. The quahaug industry of the town has remained about the
-same for the last twenty-five years, and now a good quahauger can
-scarcely average 1&frac12; to 2 bushels per day.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$20</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$60</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">225</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$225</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$285</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Mattapoisett.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The town of Mattapoisett, situated to the west of Marion, receives
-but little income from her shellfisheries, as the waters are for the most
-part too open and exposed for shellfish culture. The quahaug fishery
-is the most important shellfish industry of the town, but even this,
-when compared with the quahaug fishery of other towns, is rather unimportant,
-as most of the suitable territory is nonproductive.</p>
-
-<p>Quahaugs are very unevenly distributed over 800 acres. The best
-quahaugs are found in Aucoot Cove and at Brants. In the main harbor
-quahaugs are found, though scattering, as indicated on the map.</p>
-
-<p>No licenses or permits are required of the 28 men and boys who add
-to their income from time to time by quahauging. Most of these depend
-on other sources of employment for their main support. The
-industry as a whole is gradually declining, as overfishing has made it
-impossible for the natural supply to perpetuate itself.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">28</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span></td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">28</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$425</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$75</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,500</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Nantucket.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The quahaug industry of Nantucket ranks second to the main shellfish
-industry, the scallop fishery, and brings annually about $8,000 to
-the island. Nantucket is especially adapted for quahaugs, as Nantucket
-harbor, Maddequet harbor and the Island of Tuckernuck possess
-extensive territory. In spite of these natural advantages, which are
-as fine as any in the State, Nantucket produces only 6,000 bushels
-annually, whereas her resources, under proper cultural methods, warrant
-an annual production exceeding even that of Wellfleet, which is
-at present shipping 33,000 bushels.</p>
-
-<p>The quahauging territory of Nantucket is divided into three sections:
-(1) Nantucket harbor; (2) Maddequet harbor; and (3) Tuckernuck.</p>
-
-<p>In Nantucket harbor quahaugs are found over an area of 2,290 acres,
-both scattering and in thick patches. The principal areas are situated
-as follows:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(1) Near the town between Monomoy Heights and the wharves is
-a territory of 240 acres. In the deep water directly out from the
-wharves there has been good quahauging although the bed was discovered
-only a few years ago.</p>
-
-<p>(2) On the east side of the harbor, between Abram's Point and Pocomo
-Head, including Polpis harbor, are extensive grounds, comprising
-about 900 acres, of scattering quahaugs.</p>
-
-<p>(3) On the opposite side of the harbor lies a strip of quahaug territory
-of 250 acres, which extends between Third Point and Bass Point.</p>
-
-<p>(4) At the head of the harbor on both sides quahaugs are found over
-an area of 900 acres.</p>
-
-<p>Maddequet harbor on the western end of the island has approximately
-300 acres suitable for quahaugs, running from Broad Creek to
-Eel Point.</p>
-
-<p>On the eastern end of Tuckernuck Island is a bed of quahaugs covering
-about 200 acres; while on the west side, between Muskeget and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span>
-Tuckernuck, is a large area of 2,500 acres, which is more or less productive.
-The Tuckernuck fishery is largely "little necks," and it is from
-here that the shipment of small "seed" quahaugs has been made.</p>
-
-<p>In the spring and fall men who have been boatmen during the summer
-work at quahauging. While 48 men work irregularly, about 18
-men are engaged in the fishery during the entire summer, though probably
-never more than 30 are raking at any one time.</p>
-
-<p>The production in 1906, from April I to November I, was 2,159
-barrels, or 6,477 bushels; value, $7,557.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Production, 1907.<a name="FNanchor_8_8" id="FNanchor_8_8"></a><a href="#Footnote_8_8" class="fnanchor">[8]</a></span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Production, 1907">
-  <tr>
-    <th rowspan="2">MONTHS.</th>
-    <th colspan="4">QUAHAUGS.</th>
-    <th colspan="4" class="bl">"LITTLE NECKS."</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <th> Barrels.</th>
-    <th> Average price per Barrel.</th>
-    <th> Bushels.</th>
-    <th> Value.</th>
-    <th class="bl"> Barrels.</th>
-    <th> Average price per Barrel.</th>
-    <th> Bushels.</th>
-    <th> Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>April</td>
-    <td class="tdr">138</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3.50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">414</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$483</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">--</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>May</td>
-    <td class="tdr">257</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">771</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,028</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$14.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$56</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>June</td>
-    <td class="tdr">460</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,380</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,840</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">13</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">39</td>
-    <td class="tdr">182</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>July</td>
-    <td class="tdr">355</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,065</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,060</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">33</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">90</td>
-    <td class="tdr">462</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>August</td>
-    <td class="tdr">312</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">936</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,092</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">60</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>September</td>
-    <td class="tdr">302</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.42</td>
-    <td class="tdr">906</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,032</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">22</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">66</td>
-    <td class="tdr">220</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>October</td>
-    <td class="tdr">123</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">369</td>
-    <td class="tdr">492</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">9</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">27</td>
-    <td class="tdr">90</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>November</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">--</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td> Total</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">1,997</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$3.60</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">5,991</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$7,177</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt bl">101</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$12.97</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">303</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$1,310</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks"</td>
-    <td class="tdr">101</td>
-    <td rowspan="2"></td>
-    <td class="tdr">303</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,310</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td> Grand total</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">2,098</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">6,294</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$8,487</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>The month of June shows the largest production, as the summer
-people do not arrive in any numbers until July. The men who do
-the summer boating are engaged in the quahaug fishery during this
-month, naturally increasing the production.</p>
-
-<p>The principal method is raking from a boat or dory with a long-handled
-basket rake, very similar in form to the rake used on Cape
-Cod. The second method, applicable only in shallow water, employs
-the use of a claw rake with a much shorter handle. The quahauger uses
-this rake in the shallow water, where he can wade at low tide. The
-largest claw rakes are often wider than the basket rakes, and are much
-cheaper.</p>
-
-<p>At Nantucket about 5 per cent. of the entire catch is "little necks,"
-which are found mostly at Tuckernuck. The quahauger usually makes
-three culls of his catch: (1) "little necks"; (2) medium; (3) large.
-A few blunts are obtained. The quahaugs are shipped chiefly to New<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span>
-York and Boston markets, either directly by the quahaugers or through
-Nantucket firms.</p>
-
-<p>The boats used in the industry, numbering 24 sail, 6 power and 10
-single dories, and approximating $6,150 in value, are in a way transitory
-capital, and are used in the winter for scalloping and other fishing.
-Nevertheless, it is necessary to class them as capital used in the quahaug
-fishery.</p>
-
-<p>No special town laws are made for the regulation of the Nantucket
-quahaug fishery, although at any time by vote of the town suitable
-regulations and by-laws can be made.</p>
-
-<p>Quahaugs have probably always been abundant at Nantucket, as over
-fifty years ago they were reported as plentiful. It is only of late years
-that the fishery has assumed any great importance, when the increasing
-prices, especially for the "little necks," made it profitable for men to
-enter the business. As it is, many men now quahaug only when they
-have nothing else to do.</p>
-
-<p>From the statistics of the United States Fish Commission for 1879
-we find that the annual catch for that year amounted to 150 bushels,
-valued at $75. As a striking contrast to this, the present production
-of 6,294 bushels, valued at $8,487, shows the great development of the
-fishery, which has been caused by more men entering the business, the
-opening up of new beds, such as the "little neck" beds of Tuckernuck,
-and the improved methods of raking in the deep water.</p>
-
-<p>It is rather difficult to state definitely, from lack of past statistical
-figures, whether Nantucket industry is declining or improving. Between
-1879 and 1906 no records are obtainable. The production figures for
-1906 show 6,477 bushels, as compared with 6,144 bushels in 1907.
-Whether there was merely a sudden temporary increase in the supply
-by the opening up of new beds in 1906, or whether there is a steady
-decline, can only be determined by the production of future years.
-Many indications point to the latter, in spite of the assurance of the
-quahaugers that 1907 was a good season, because of high market prices.</p>
-
-<p>The last few years have witnessed a change in the quahaug fishery,&mdash;a
-realization that there is more money in planting and raising quahaugs
-than in oyster culture. The out-of-State oystermen, especially
-in New York, have been the first to realize this, and have been
-buying, at the rate of $4 to $5 per bushel, all the small quahaugs they
-can procure, merely replanting, to reap the following year a yield of
-3 to 6 bushels for every bushel planted.</p>
-
-<p>Under the stimulus of the high prices offered, many bushels of small
-quahaugs have been shipped from the town, which thus lost what the
-planters gained. There is much feeling against such a practice, but
-so far nothing has been done by the town to stop this shipping of
-"seed" quahaugs. As the town has full control of its shellfisheries,
-it has only to pass a simple law allowing no quahaugs under 2 inches<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span>
-to be taken, and see that it is properly enforced. Such a matter should
-be attended to at once, as not only is the actual value of the catch
-diminished, but the industry is seriously impaired by the capture of
-these small quahaugs before they can spawn.</p>
-
-<p>The only other way to remedy this difficulty is to grant licenses allowing
-the replanting of these small quahaugs on the barren parts of the
-harbor until they have obtained a proper size. The results obtained
-from the experiments of the commission in Polpis harbor show that quahaugs
-will grow rapidly when thus replanted in suitable places, and
-that a gain of &frac12; to &frac34; of an inch, or 3 to 6 bushels for every bushel
-bedded, can be obtained during the six summer months (May to
-November).</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,290</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">48</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$350</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of gear,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$600</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">303</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,310</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,991</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$7,177</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,294</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$8,487</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>New Bedford.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The quahaug industry of New Bedford was practically annihilated
-by the law of 1905, which closed the Acushnet River and Clark's Cove
-to both clammer and quahauger. Good beds of quahaugs, particularly
-"little necks," exist in both these waters, but can be taken only for
-bait. As several sewers run into the Acushnet River, and the public
-health was endangered by the consumption as food of the quahaugs
-taken from the river and the waters near its mouth, nearly 400 acres of
-quahaug territory were closed by the State Board of Health. What
-little available territory there is outside the prescribed area, off Clark's
-Point, is free to all.</p>
-
-<p>A license is required to dig quahaugs for bait in this territory, and
-such is issued free of charge. The maximum amount permitted to be
-dug is 2 bushels per week of clams or quahaugs, or of both. Some<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span>
-320 permits have been issued since the law was passed, in 1905. Eleven
-of these have been since revoked for unlawful conduct on the part of
-the possessors. For the first offence the license is merely revoked, for
-the second a fine of $10, and for the third $100 is imposed.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Orleans.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Although Orleans is well represented by all four main types of shellfish,
-the quahaug fishery is the leading industry of the town. A favorable
-coast line, fronting on the west the waters of Cape Cod Bay and
-bounded on the east by Pleasant Bay, provides excellent facilities for
-the quahaug fishery.</p>
-
-<p>The main quahauging territory is in Cape Cod Bay. While the west
-coast of Orleans is only about a mile long, the privileges which allow
-the citizens of Orleans free fishing in Eastham waters, according to
-the act of incorporation in 1792, "whereby the benefits of the shellfishery
-were to be mutually shared," opens up an extensive tract of
-quahaug territory, from 2 to 3 miles in width, extending north as far
-as Billingsgate Island and the Wellfleet line. The actual Orleans quahaug
-territory consists only of 1,000 acres, which furnish but poor
-quahauging, while the water is several fathoms deep.</p>
-
-<p>On the east side an entirely different condition prevails. Here in
-the waters of Pleasant Bay is a bed of quahaugs which, though
-worked for a long time, is still in excellent condition. The proportion
-of "little necks" is larger than on the west side, running about one-half
-the entire catch; neither is the water as deep here, rarely having
-a greater depth than 12 feet, and by no means as rough as the more
-exposed waters of Cape Cod Bay. The quahauging grounds here comprise
-500 acres.</p>
-
-<p>Although there are 1,500 acres of quahaug territory in the town of
-Orleans, only a small part of this is commercially productive, and the
-larger part of the fishery is carried on in Eastham waters.</p>
-
-<p>The possession of two entirely different quahaug grounds, one on the
-east, the other on the west coast, makes practically two different industries,
-each of which will have to be considered separately.</p>
-
-<p>(1) <i>Cape Cod Bay Industry.</i>&mdash;In Cape Cod Bay 50 men rake quahaugs
-whenever the weather will permit. Owing to the great depth of
-water, the work is difficult, requiring rakes with handles often 60 feet
-long. Two men generally go in one boat, the usual type being an
-elongated dory, some 30 to 32 feet over all, carrying from 4 to 12 horse-power
-gasolene engines. These boats are built to stand rough weather,
-and cost from $700 to $1,000 apiece. Thirty boats are employed in this
-business in the bay.</p>
-
-<p>The quahauger averages perhaps 100 working days in a year, as in
-a strong wind and choppy sea it is impossible to rake in the deep water.
-A good fisherman expects to rake from 2 to 3 barrels of quahaugs a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span>
-day. Five to ten years ago as many as 15 barrels were dug in a day by
-one man, but this is impossible now. Even as it is, the profits are large.
-The best quahauger in Orleans cleared in 1906 over $1,600, while several
-others made nearly $1,400. As at Wellfleet, the Orleans quahaugers
-receive licenses to replant their quahaugs along the shore, and it is customary
-to thus keep them until the New York or Boston markets offer
-suitable prices. Nearly two-thirds of these deep-water quahaugs are
-blunts, and perhaps one-tenth of the catch is "little necks."</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>Pleasant Bay Industry.</i>&mdash;About 25 men dig here from ordinary
-dories, using short rakes and tongs. The average wages are $2 to
-$3 per day, which is considerably less than the high wages of the Cape
-Cod Bay fishery; but many more days can be utilized during the year,
-while the work is much easier and the necessary outlay of capital is
-slight. Here the quahaugs run about one-half "little necks," and the
-proportion of blunts is small.</p>
-
-<p>Little evidence of decline can be seen in Pleasant Bay, where the
-bed of quahaugs, although raked for a long time, still shows few signs
-of decrease. On the Cape Cod Bay side the reverse is true, and the
-supply is gradually diminishing.</p>
-
-<p>The same town laws for regulation of the quahaug fishery apply
-for Wellfleet, Eastham and Orleans. (See Wellfleet.)</p>
-
-<p>The main historical features of the quahaug industry at Orleans have
-been similar to Wellfleet, the industry lying practically dormant until
-1894, when it rapidly reached its present production. Unfortunately,
-but little data can be obtained for comparison of the industry of 1879
-with 1907. Ernest Ingersoll reports, in 1879:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>At Orleans, some few men who go mackereling in summer stay at home
-and dig clams in winter, getting perhaps 50 barrels of quahaugs among
-others, which are peddled in the town.</p></div>
-
-<p>Comparing the two years by table, we find:&mdash;</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td></td>
-    <th>1879.</th>
-    <th>1907.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Annual production,</td>
-    <td>150 bushels,</td>
-    <td>33,000 bushels.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of production,</td>
-    <td>$82.50,</td>
-    <td>$41,350.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td>A few,</td>
-    <td>75.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Location, quahaug beds,</td>
-    <td>Pleasant Bay,</td>
-    <td>Cape Cod Bay and Pleasant Bay.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Market,</td>
-    <td>Home consumption,</td>
-    <td>New York and Boston.</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td></td>
-    <th>Cape Cod Bay.</th>
-    <th>Pleasant Bay.</th>
-    <th>Total.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$23,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$23,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdc"><i>Production.</i></td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,700</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,700</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$6,750</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$7,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$13,750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">24,300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">27,300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$24,300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$27,600</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">27,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">33,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$31,050</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$10,300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$41,350</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Provincetown.</i></h3>
-
-<p>No commercial quahaug fishery is carried on at Provincetown. A
-few quahaugs, chiefly "little necks," are found in the tide pools among
-the thatch on the northwestern side of the harbor.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Swansea.</i></h3>
-
-<p>A quahaug fishery existed in Swansea until three years ago. Since
-that time there has been no commercial fishery, though a few quahaugs
-are still dug for home consumption.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Truro.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Occasionally a few scattering quahaugs are found on the bars, which
-extend out one-quarter of a mile from shore on the bay side. No
-quahaug fishery is carried on.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Wareham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The town of Wareham, situated on the northeast side of Buzzards
-Bay and separated from the adjoining town of Bourne by Cohasset
-Narrows, has a coast line indented with numerous small inlets, bays
-and rivers, which afford excellent opportunities for the growth of the
-quahaug. The villages of Onset, Wareham and part of Buzzards Bay
-enjoy the privileges of this fishery.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>Quahaugs are found over practically the entire territory, and comprise
-a total area of about 1,300 acres. Although much of this area
-is barren, the commercial fishery is maintained by small isolated beds
-which occur here and there.</p>
-
-<p>The two principal centers of the industry are in the Wareham River
-and in Onset Bay. At Onset the whole bay, except the oyster grants,
-as included between the southeast end of Mashnee Island and Peters
-Neck, is used for quahauging. A few quahaugs are found in Broad
-Cove, and fair digging is obtained in Buttermilk Bay and Cohasset
-Narrows. The Wareham River, outside the oyster grants, and a narrow
-shore strip from Weweantit River to Tempe's Knob, comprise the
-rest of the territory. In Onset Channel a fine bed exists in deep water,
-2 to 4 fathoms, but the ground is so hard that not much digging is
-done.</p>
-
-<p>It will be seen from the map that practically 75 per cent. of the
-quahaug territory is taken up by oyster grants, especially in the Wareham
-River and Onset Bay. Town sentiment is in a chaotic state over
-the oyster and quahaug deadlock, and much friction naturally exists
-between the opposing factions, the quahaugers and oystermen. The
-struggle between these two parties was at its height several years ago,
-and the enmity still continues, though not so openly, owing to the decline
-of the quahaug industry. Rightly managed, affairs ought to be so
-arranged that prosperity might be brought to both factions; but town
-customs and town laws, poorly enforced at the best, are hardly able
-to cope with this evil, which has resulted in much expense legally and
-financially to both parties, and both industries are badly crippled in
-consequence,&mdash;the oyster industry by lack of protection and the quahaug
-industry by loss of grounds. It is hoped that in the future suitable
-arrangements can be made for both industries, and that the quahaug
-industry, which is at present declining, can be put on an equal footing
-with the oyster industry, by granting licenses to plant and grow quahaugs.</p>
-
-<p>Most of the digging is done with garden rakes, potato diggers or
-by hand. Some tongs are used, but few if any long-handled basket
-rakes, since the digging is chiefly confined to the shallow water, not
-more than 10 feet deep, except in Onset Channel, where it ranges from
-12 to 24 feet.</p>
-
-<p>No information or statistical records of the quahaug fishery of Wareham
-can be obtained, and it is therefore impossible to draw any comparison
-between the present industry and the industry of twenty-five
-years ago.</p>
-
-<p>The decline of the quahaug fishery in Wareham is an established
-fact. The production of 6,000 bushels for 1906 is far less than the
-production of five years ago. Since 1901 the output has steadily declined,
-and where the quahauger once was able to rake 5 bushels at a
-tide, to-day he can rake scarcely 1 bushel in the same time. It is only<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span>
-a question of a few years when the natural supply will be completely
-exterminated. The only salvation of the industry in Wareham is to
-increase the natural supply by quahaug farming.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$7,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$10,500</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Wellfleet.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The town of Wellfleet possesses the finest quahaug industry in Massachusetts.
-More men are engaged in the business and the annual production
-is larger than that of any other town of the State.</p>
-
-<p>In colonial days the towns of Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet were
-incorporated as one town,&mdash;the town of Eastham. In 1763 an act
-was passed incorporating the North Precinct of Eastham into a district
-by the name of Wellfleet, "Reserving to the inhabitants of said town
-the privileges by them heretofore enjoyed of all ways to and of erecting
-houses on the beaches and islands for the convenience of the fishery
-of all kinds, and of anchorage and of landing all goods or wares at
-any of their common landing places in any of the harbors of said
-Eastham in like manner as they might have done if this act had never
-been made and passed." By this act were created the two independent
-towns of Eastham and Wellfleet, which held in common all fisheries,
-thus giving the mutual right of the shellfisheries to both towns.</p>
-
-<p>In 1797 another act of incorporation, separating Orleans from Eastham,
-was enacted, which provided that the benefits of the shellfisheries
-of these two towns were to be mutually enjoyed.</p>
-
-<p>The result of these two acts was to give Eastham and Wellfleet and
-at the same time Eastham and Orleans mutual rights of the shellfishery,
-but forbidding mutual shellfisheries between Wellfleet and Orleans.
-While this may seem to give theoretically the advantage to Eastham,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span>
-actually the town gains nothing in the quahaug fishery, as Orleans has
-practically no productive grounds on the bay side, and the Orleans
-quahaugers fish in the Eastham waters.</p>
-
-<p>The quahaug territory of Wellfleet comprises about 2,500 acres, and
-approximately takes up all the harbor, wherever there are no oyster
-grants, running from the "Deep Hole" between Great Island and Indian
-Neck southward to the Eastham line. Outside of these limits a
-few quahaugs are found on the flats of Duck Creek and along the shore
-flats of the town. They are more abundant on the north side of Egg
-Island, where they are taken in shallow water with ordinary hand
-rakes. The best quahauging is found in the channel extending from an
-imaginary line between Lieutenant's Island and Great Beach Hill south
-to Billingsgate. The greatest depth at low tide is 4&frac12; fathoms and the
-general average is about 3 fathoms. In this channel are found most
-of the "little necks," small blunts and small sharps.</p>
-
-<p>Outside of the oyster grants, quahaugs are found south of Great
-Island, north of Billingsgate Island on the west side of the harbor, on
-Lieutenant's Island bar and at the mouth of Blackfish Creek. A few
-quahaugs, both sharps and blunts, are raked with 25-foot rakes in the
-shallow water 6 to 8 feet near the beach, usually on a sandy bottom.</p>
-
-<p>The principal market for Wellfleet quahaugs is New York, though
-many are sent to Boston and other parts of the country, even to the
-middle west. Quahaugs have been shipped from Wellfleet to Milwaukee
-and arrived in good condition after ten days.</p>
-
-<p>The annual production is 33,000 bushels, one-sixth of these, 5,500
-bushels, being "little necks." There were 140 men engaged in the
-fishery in 1906, and 145 permits were granted in 1907. The average
-yield for a day's raking is 4 bushels, although an exceptional quahauger
-can sometimes rake 7 bushels.</p>
-
-<p>Practically all the raking is done in deep water, with rakes the
-handles of which are often 47 feet long. Each quahauger has a set of
-handles of various lengths for different depths of water. Both power
-boats and "cats" are used here in quahauging, the power boats possessing
-considerable advantage over the sail boat. Thirty-eight power boats
-and 62 sail boats, both single and double manned, are used at Wellfleet.</p>
-
-<p>At present there is every indication of a declining fishery. Until
-the last three years the industry has been steadily on the increase since
-1894. The maximum production was reached a few years ago, and the
-industry is slowly on the decline, unless the opening up of new beds
-gives it a fresh start. Unfortunately, all the quahaugers do not realize
-the possibility of this seemingly inexhaustible supply giving out, and
-believe it will continue forever; but any one can see that it is impossible
-for the natural supply to continue when such inroads are yearly
-made, and that it is only a question of time when the best business
-asset of the town will become extinct.</p>
-
-<p>For years there has been an antagonistic feeling between the qua<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span>haugers
-and the oystermen, due to the conflicting interests of these
-industries. Although the quahaug territory has been narrowed down
-by the giving of oyster grants in the harbor, the quahaug fishery has not
-suffered severely, as the poorer quahaug grounds were alone granted,
-with the idea that more money could be made by using these for oyster
-culture. Although these grants were laid out in good faith, injustice in
-many instances has been done the quahaug industry; but on the whole
-the change has been for the benefit of the town. In the broad waters of
-Wellfleet harbor there is room for both industries, and there is no reason
-why both should not prosper if wisely regulated, without the intervention
-of town politics. At present this antagonism has hurt the
-interests of both, and it is manifestly unfair that either should drive
-the other out while there is room for both to prosper.</p>
-
-<p>Wellfleet is the only town that can boast of a quahaug club. This
-club was formed in 1904, and had an enrollment of practically all the
-quahaugers.</p>
-
-<p>Permits are required of every man engaged in the quahaug fishery.
-These cost $1 apiece, and are granted on application to any one who
-has been a resident of the town for six months. These permits are to
-be obtained each year, on or before May 1, after which date an additional
-charge of 50 cents is made for collecting. No person without a
-regular permit is allowed to catch quahaugs for market. Permits were
-first issued in 1904.</p>
-
-<p>Section 2 of chapter 269 of the Acts of 1904 is as follows:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Section 2.</span> No inhabitant of said towns shall sell or offer for sale little
-neck clams or quahaugs which measure less than one and one-half inches
-across the widest part, and no person shall in any of said towns sell or offer
-for sale little neck clams or quahaugs which measure less than one and
-one-half inches across the widest part.</p></div>
-
-<p>This excellent law was passed for the towns of Eastham, Orleans
-and Wellfleet, but has never been enforced. Although enacted and
-technically lived up to, no measures are made for its enforcement, which
-would necessitate a shellfish inspector. This furnishes an example of
-the nonenforcement of one of the few good town laws.</p>
-
-<p>Section 4 of chapter 269 of the Acts of 1904 is as follows:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Section 4.</span> The selectmen of the said towns may, in their respective
-towns, grant licenses or permits for such periods, not exceeding two years,
-and under such conditions as they may deem proper, not however covering
-more than seventy-five feet square in area, to any inhabitants of the town
-to bed quahaugs in any waters, flats and creeks within the town at any
-place where there is no natural quahaug bed, not impairing the private
-rights of any person or materially obstructing any navigable waters. It
-shall be unlawful for any person, except the licensee and his agents, to take
-any quahaugs in or remove them from the territory covered by any such
-license.</p></div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The above should receive well-deserved praise, as it is one of the
-most useful town laws ever enacted in Massachusetts. Each quahauger
-is thus enabled to stake off a little plot 75 feet square on the flats,
-whereon he can bed his catch whenever the market price is too low for
-shipment. This not only makes steadier work for the quahaugers, since
-a dull market does not stop digging, as before, but also enables him
-to obtain a better price for his quahaugs, and he is not forced to lose
-through the wastes of competition.</p>
-
-<p>Quahaugs have always been abundant at Wellfleet. Forty years ago
-about 15 men were engaged in the business, and shipped their catch to
-Boston by packet boats, quahaugs then wholesaling at 50 cents per
-bushel.</p>
-
-<p>In 1879 (report of the United States Fish Commission) Ernest Ingersoll
-gives the following account of the quahaug industry at Wellfleet,
-which furnishes such an excellent comparison with the present industry
-that it is given here:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>The early productiveness of Cape Cod is shown by the presence of numerous
-shellfish heaps, particularly in Wellfleet and Barnstable harbors, filled
-up by the Indians, and consisting almost wholly of the shells of this mollusk.
-Though in greatly depleted numbers, the quahaug still survives along
-the inside of the Cape, and at Wellfleet has been raked from early times
-by the settlers. Mr. F. W. True contributes some notes on this place, from
-which I learn that the quahaug fishery as a business there dates from the
-beginning of the nineteenth century. It grew in extent until 1863, and
-from that time until 1868 the trade was at its height, since when it has
-diminished year by year, owing to lack of good market rather than failure
-of the supply. Between 1863 and 1869 the average catch each year was
-not less than 2,500 bushels. Of this amount a comparatively small part
-was consumed at Wellfleet, and the rest were shipped to Boston, Provincetown,
-Salem, Newport, Manchester and a few other New England ports.
-From 1870 to 1876 the quantity of quahaugs taken per year decreased from
-2,500 bushels to 1,800 bushels, and this latter amount has remained constant
-to the present year. Of the total catch in 1878, fully one-half, or 900
-bushels, was consumed in Wellfleet, and the remaining 900 bushels were
-shipped to Boston and other neighboring towns. For three years, beginning
-with 1876, 75 bushels of quahaugs have been annually shipped to New
-York City.</p>
-
-<p>Quahaugs are found in all parts of Wellfleet Bay except in a small spot
-near the wharves, called the "Deep Hole," and a similar one on the west
-side of the bay. Both of these places are covered with a thick, soft mud.
-It is not usual, however, to fish in parts of the bay where the average depth
-at low water exceeds 8 feet. Most of the raking is done on the western side.
-In ordinary years, quahaug raking is begun the last of March and continues
-until the first of October. As a general thing, no raking is done
-through the winter months, although in some years a small amount has been
-done through holes cut in the ice. The fishermen rake about four tides per
-week, beginning at half-ebb and raking to half-flood. The boats used are
-either cat boats or yawls rigged with two sails. Each boat carries 1 man.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span>
-The rake employed at Wellfleet is described by Mr. True as similar in form
-to an oyster rake, but made of steel instead of iron. In former days this
-instrument was of iron, the tips of the teeth only being of steel. An
-average rake has seventeen teeth, and weighs about 12 pounds. The handle
-or tail is of wood, and is about 23 feet long. The baskets in which the
-quahaugs are collected and measured are of ordinary manufacture, and hold
-about a bushel each; and the whole outfit of a quahaug fisherman does
-not cost over $150, and the total amount of capital invested in apparatus
-at the present time in Wellfleet does not exceed $800. This amount is
-about evenly divided between 5 men, none of whom are engaged in this
-fishery more than a part of their time.</p>
-
-<p>Quahaugs are sent to market always in the shell, and packed in second-hand
-flour or sugar barrels. The wholesale price of quahaugs for many years
-averaged 60 cents per bushel, but in 1879 it fell to 55 cents. One dollar
-and seventy-five cents is the average wholesale price per barrel. Quahaugs
-retail in Wellfleet at 80 cents per bushel. The usual method of transportation
-is by packet, at a cost of 25 cents per barrel.<a name="FNanchor_9_9" id="FNanchor_9_9"></a><a href="#Footnote_9_9" class="fnanchor">[9]</a></p></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1879 With 1907.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td></td>
-    <th>1879.</th>
-    <th>1907.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Annual production,</td>
-    <td>1,800,</td>
-    <td>33,000.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Annual value,</td>
-    <td>$990,</td>
-    <td>$41,250.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Average price per bushel,</td>
-    <td>55 cents,</td>
-    <td>$1.25.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td>5,</td>
-    <td>145.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital,</td>
-    <td>$800,</td>
-    <td>$25,950.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Market,</td>
-    <td>Boston and New York,</td>
-    <td>New York, Boston, and other cities.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Season,</td>
-    <td>April 1 to October 1,</td>
-    <td>April 1 to October 1.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Boats,</td>
-    <td>5 sail boats,</td>
-    <td>100 boats, one-third power, two-thirds sail.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Deepest water,</td>
-    <td>8 feet,</td>
-    <td>40 feet.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Longest rake,</td>
-    <td>23 feet,</td>
-    <td>47 feet.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Best quahaug beds,</td>
-    <td>West side of harbor,</td>
-    <td>Channel.</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>From the account of Mr. Ingersoll the above table has been formulated,
-showing the vast increase in the quahaug business of Wellfleet
-since 1879, as well as certain changes in the industry. This by no means
-proves that the quahaug industry is on the increase; it merely shows
-that it has taken a tremendous development since 1879, and the fact
-that the quahaug industry of Wellfleet has passed its maximum production
-a few years ago and is now on the decline should not be overlooked
-in consulting this table, which otherwise would give an erroneous
-impression. The changing of the quahaug grounds from shallow to
-deeper water alone is a sign of the decline of the industry. The quahaug
-industry has developed to its present extent only since 1894, and is<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span>
-comparatively recent. By the opening of the great beds of "little
-necks" and quahaugs in the channel and deep water the industry
-suddenly became important.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">145</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">38</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$14,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">62</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$10,300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,200</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$13,850</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">27,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$27,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">33,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$41,350</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Yarmouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The quahaug grounds, which lie mostly in Bass River, are free to
-the inhabitants of Dennis and Yarmouth, as these two towns have common
-fishery rights. Quahaugs are found in four localities: (1) Bass
-River; (2) Mill Creek; (3) Barnstable Bar on the north shore; and
-(4) Lewis Bay. The total area is 1,000 acres, which includes all grounds
-where there are any quahaugs, as there are now no thick beds. The
-average depth of water over the quahaug grounds is 4 feet.</p>
-
-<p>The town law governing the quahaug fishery reads thus:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>All persons other than the inhabitants of the towns of Dennis and Yarmouth
-are prohibited from taking clams and quahaugs from the shores and
-waters of the town of Yarmouth. Inhabitants of the Commonwealth not
-residents of Dennis and Yarmouth may obtain permits of the selectmen to
-take sufficient quantity of said shellfish for their family use.</p></div>
-
-<p>The history of the quahaug industry of Yarmouth is one of decline.
-The industry has existed for fifteen years, starting in 1892. Mr. Edgar
-N. Baker, who has been interested in the business ever since it started,
-says:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>In the last ten years it is safe to say that the catch has fallen off fully
-75 per cent., and nothing but the constant advance in prices and lack of
-profitable employment has prompted men to give their attention to this
-method of obtaining their "bread and butter." The most conservative
-estimate would not put it below 50 per cent.</p></div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men (transient),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$140</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$4,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_7_7" id="Footnote_7_7"></a><a href="#FNanchor_7_7"><span class="label">[7]</span></a> "The Fisheries of Massachusetts," United States Fish Commission Report, Section II.,
-p. 253.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_8_8" id="Footnote_8_8"></a><a href="#FNanchor_8_8"><span class="label">[8]</span></a> Returns of Special Agent Wm. C. Dunham.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_9_9" id="Footnote_9_9"></a><a href="#FNanchor_9_9"><span class="label">[9]</span></a> "The Oyster, Scallop, Clam, Mussel and Abalone Industries," by Ernest Ingersoll.
-United States Fish Commission Report, Section V., Vol. 2, p. 603.</p></div></div>
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-
-
-
-<h2><a name="Scallop_Pecten_irradians" id="Scallop_Pecten_irradians"><span class="smcap">Scallop</span> (<i>Pecten irradians</i>).</a></h2>
-
-
-<p>The common shallow-water scallop is unknown commercially on the
-north shore, occurring only south of Boston. It is usually found in
-abundance along the southern shore of Cape Cod, in Buzzards Bay,
-and about the islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard.</p>
-
-<p>For the past three years investigations in regard to its growth, habits
-and culture have been carried on by the Commissioners on Fisheries
-and Game. These investigations are now practically completed. In
-another report the whole life history of this bivalve will be given, showing
-the application of this scientific study to the existing conditions of
-the industry.</p>
-
-<p>The scallop fishery in Massachusetts is only a partial industry, as
-it does not concern the whole coast line, but merely the Vineyard Sound
-and Buzzards Bay shore. Compared with other States, the production
-of Massachusetts is favorable, New York alone exceeding it in output.
-The southern coast of Massachusetts is especially adapted for this
-shellfish. Its bays, sheltered harbors and inlets afford excellent ground
-for the scallop, which requires protection against the heavy seas. Thousands
-of acres of eel-grass flats from 1 to 60 feet under water were
-formerly covered by beds of scallops, and in parts are still thickly set.
-While the extent of the scalloping area is large, only portions are ever
-productive at any one time. A set may be in one part this year, and the
-next year's spawn may catch in a different place. Thus, while all the
-ground is suitable for scallops, only a small part is in productive
-operation each year.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>While the possibilities of future development are not as alluring as
-in the other shellfisheries, yet much can be done to assist nature and
-help preserve the supply. Wise laws and well-directed efforts can save
-many bushels of the young scallops which yearly die on the exposed
-flats where they have set in unfavorable places.</p>
-
-<p><i>Scope of the Report.</i>&mdash;The object of this report is to present certain
-information concerning the scallop industry which will be of use to the
-scallop fishermen, and of interest to the general public and the consumers.
-While the scallop is well known as an article of food, the
-majority of people know little about the animal. It will therefore be
-necessary in the following report to give brief descriptions of the various
-methods used in the capture of this bivalve, in order to make clear
-the more technical portions.</p>
-
-<p>The first part of the report considers the general results of the survey,
-the history of the industry, the scallop laws, the methods of scalloping
-and the statistics of the industry. The second part gives a more
-detailed description, the following points being considered under each
-town: (1) survey; (2) statistics of industry; (3) town laws; (4)
-history.</p>
-
-<p><i>Methods of Work.</i>&mdash;Several difficulties stand in the way of procuring
-exact information concerning the scallop industry, especially in regard
-to historical data which should show the improvement or decline
-of the fishery. The town records are incomplete, lost, or furnish but
-slight information. Little has been written about this industry, and
-we were thus forced to rely upon the scallopers for information concerning
-the history and former production of each town. Fortunately,
-the scallop industry is of recent origin (thirty years), and the information
-is very nearly correct. By the use of town records, market
-reports, records of express shipments, personal surveys and estimates
-by the various scallopers, and by all other methods at our command, the
-facts of the last few years have been obtained in an approximately
-correct form.</p>
-
-<p>The area of the scallop territory was obtained by personal inspection
-and calculated by plottings on the maps. In designating the area suitable
-for scallops in any town by a certain number of acres or by plottings
-on the map, it does not mean that scallops are found each year
-over all this territory. Allowances must be made for the uncertainty
-of the scallop supply. Some years there will be no scallops; in other
-years, plenty. Even when scallops are plentiful, they rarely cover the
-whole territory, but are found only in certain parts in different years.
-The designation of an area as scallop territory means that scallops have
-been found in the past over this territory, and that the natural conditions
-of the territory appear favorable for scallops.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span></p>
-
-
-<h3><i>The Decline.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The most important questions which first come to mind when considering
-the scallop industry of to-day are these three: (1) Has there
-been any decline in the industry? If so, how extensive? (2) What
-are the causes of the decline? (3) How can the fishery be improved?</p>
-
-<p>I. <i>Extent of the Decline.</i>&mdash;There is no question but that the industry
-as a whole has declined. This decline has made itself manifest,
-especially in certain localities, <i>e.g.</i>, Buzzards Bay, where until
-1907 the entire fishery, except at New Bedford and Fairhaven, had
-been totally extinct for the past seven years.</p>
-
-<p>Along the south side of Cape Cod, at Edgartown and Nantucket,
-the supply has on the average remained the same. Of course there is
-varying abundance each year, but as a whole the industry in these localities
-can hardly be said to have declined.</p>
-
-<p>On the other hand, on the north side of Cape Cod we find a marked
-decline. A scallop fishery no longer exists at Plymouth, Barnstable
-harbor, Wellfleet and Provincetown, though twenty-five years ago these
-places boasted of a valuable industry.</p>
-
-<p>So we have to-day in Massachusetts three localities, two of which
-show a marked decline in the scallop fishery, while the other shows
-some improvement. Of the two depleted areas, the one (north of the
-Cape) may never revive the industry; the other (Buzzards Bay) gives
-indications that the industry can once more be put on a very profitable
-footing. The only thing necessary is perpetual precaution on the part
-of the fishermen, in order to prevent this decline. Massachusetts must
-not allow the industry to become extinct, as in Rhode Island.</p>
-
-<p>II. <i>Causes of the Decline.</i>&mdash;The causes of the decline of this industry
-can be grouped under three heads: (1) natural enemies; (2)
-overfishing by man; (3) adverse physical conditions.</p>
-
-<p>The natural enemy of the scallop which works the greatest mischief
-is the starfish, or "five finger," as it is often called. The starfish
-destroys the scallop in the same manner as it attacks the oyster. The
-decline of the scallop fishery in Buzzards Bay is attributed by the
-fishermen to the inroads of this pest. Undoubtedly the starfish was the
-chief apparent cause, since, according to report, dredges full of starfish
-could be hauled up. In other localities in Massachusetts the starfish
-has not been so plentiful.</p>
-
-<p>While the main cause of the decline of the natural clam, quahaug and
-oyster beds is overfishing by man, the decline of the scallop fishery
-cannot be so considered. The scallop has a short life, hardly 25 per
-cent. passing the two-year limit; so it does no harm to capture the
-marketable scallops which are over sixteen months old, as the scallop
-spawns when one year old, and dies a natural death usually before it
-reaches a second spawning season. When only old scallops are taken,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span>
-as is generally the case, it is probably <i>impossible</i> for man to exterminate
-the scallops by <i>overfishing</i>. Unfortunately, in certain localities in the
-past there has been a large capture of the "seed" scallop, viz., the
-scallop less than one year old, which has not spawned. This has worked
-the ruin of the scalloping in these localities. The capture of the
-spawners for another year merely makes the next year's set so much
-smaller, and causes a rapid decline.</p>
-
-<p>As a rule, it is hardly profitable to catch the "seed" scallop, owing
-to its small size. But a direct relation can be established between a high
-market price and the capture of seed. When the market price is high
-and scallops scarce, it becomes profitable to catch the young "seed."
-The present scallop law now defines a "seed" scallop, and forbids its
-capture. By protecting the "seed" scallop the State has done all that
-at present appears expedient to insure the future of the industry; the
-rest lies in the hands of the towns.</p>
-
-<p>So, while the scallop has declined in certain localities, and the decline
-has been hastened by unwise capture of the "seed" scallop, the main
-decline of the fishery cannot be attributed to wholesale overfishing, as
-it is impossible to overfish if only the old scallops (over one year old)
-are taken; for, unlike most other animals, the scallop usually breeds
-but once, and its natural period of life is unusually brief. These
-scallops, if not taken, will die, and prove a total loss; so every fisherman
-should bear in mind that, as long as the "seed" scallops are protected,
-severe fishing of large scallops is not likely to injure the future
-scallop industry.</p>
-
-<p>The principal causes of the decline of the fishery, besides the inroads
-of man, are best termed "adverse physical conditions." Severe winters,
-storms, anchor frost, etc., work destruction upon the hapless scallop.
-The "infant mortality" is especially great.</p>
-
-<p>As the scallop dies before reaching its second birthday, only one set
-of scallops spawn in any one season. There are never two generations
-of scallops spawning at one time. I quote from Ernest Ingersoll in
-this connection:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>This represents a case where the generations follow one another so rapidly
-that there are never two ranks, or generations, in condition to reproduce
-their kind at once, except in rare individual instances, since all, or nearly
-all, of the old ones die before the young ones have grown old enough to
-spawn. If such a state of affairs exists, of course any sudden catastrophe,
-such as a great and cold storm during the winter, or the covering of the
-water where they lie for a long period with a sheet of ice, happening
-to kill all the tender young (and old ones, too, often) in a particular district,
-will exterminate the breed there; since, even if the older and tougher
-ones survive this shock, they will not live long enough, or at any rate,
-will be unable to spawn again, and so start a new generation.<a name="FNanchor_10_10" id="FNanchor_10_10"></a><a href="#Footnote_10_10" class="fnanchor">[10]</a></p></div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The set of young scallops is abundant in shallow water upon the
-eel-grass flats, which often, as is the case of the Common Flats at
-Chatham, are exposed at extremely low tides. A severe winter often
-kills off all the "seed" thus exposed. In this case no spawn is obtained
-the following summer, causing the suppression of the scallop
-fishery in that locality for at least a few years, and possibly its permanent
-extinction.</p>
-
-<p>III. <i>Improvement; restocking Barren Areas.</i>&mdash;The scallop industry,
-unlike the clam and quahaug, offers but little inducement to private
-enterprise. For successful private culture small bays or coves would
-be needed, and suitable areas are very scarce. The scallop offers better
-opportunity for communal culture, <i>i.e.</i>, by towns.</p>
-
-<p>There is but one way now known of artificial propagation for the
-scallop industry, and that is by transplanting in the fall the abundant
-set from the exposed places to the deeper water before the seed is killed
-by the winter. It is merely assisting nature by preventing a natural
-loss, and in no sense can properly be termed propagation. It is merely
-a preventive, and money used in this way to preserve the scallops is
-well expended. Usually the set is abundant, and can be transferred
-in large numbers. This is the only practical method now known of
-increasing our scallop supply, though it is hoped in the future that
-other methods may be devised.</p>
-
-<p>In connection with the above comes the question, if we can thus
-preserve scallops doomed to destruction, will it not be profitable to
-transplant scallops to places where the scalloping has been exterminated
-by various causes, and by means of these "seeders" furnish succeeding
-generations which may populate the barren areas? This plan is practical
-and feasible, and should be given due consideration. Why should
-not scallops be transplanted to our Buzzards Bay harbors, to again
-restock these areas? Often the attempt might fail, but there is bound
-to be success if there is perseverance. The best time to plant these
-scallops is in the fall, as a double service will be given: (1) preservation
-from destruction of the seed scallops; (2) furnishing spawn and
-young in the barren locality. Ingersoll speaks of the restocking of
-Oyster Bay in 1880:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>In the spring of 1880 eel grass came into the bay, bringing young scallops
-[the eel grass carries the scallops attached to it by the thread-like
-byssus]; thus the abundance of that year was accounted for, though there
-had not been a crop before in that bay since 1874.</p></div>
-
-<p>If such a restocking can be accomplished by nature, it can be done
-with more certain effect with man's assistance.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span></p>
-
-
-<h3><i>The Industry.</i></h3>
-
-<p>I. <i>The Methods.</i>&mdash;The methods of scalloping follow the historical
-rise of the fishery. As the industry grew more and more important,
-improvements became necessary in the methods of capture, and thus,
-parallel with the development of the industry, we can trace a corresponding
-development in the implements used in the capture of the
-scallop.</p>
-
-<p>(<i>a</i>) <i>Gathering by Hand.</i>&mdash;When the scallop was first used as an
-article of food, the primitive method of gathering this bivalve by hand
-was used. This method still exists on the flats of Brewster, and often
-in other localities after heavy gales wagons can be driven to the beach
-and loaded with the scallops which have been blown ashore.</p>
-
-<p>(<i>b</i>) <i>Scoop Nets.</i>&mdash;This hand method was not rapid enough for the
-enterprising scallopers, and the next step in the industry was the use
-of scoop nets, about 8 inches in diameter, by which the scallops could
-be picked up in the water. These nets were attached to poles of various
-lengths, suitable to the depth of water. "This method," writes
-Ingersoll, "was speedily condemned, however, because it could be
-employed only where scallops are a foot thick and inches in length,
-as one fisherman expressed it."</p>
-
-<p>(<i>c</i>) <i>The Pusher.</i>&mdash;The next invention was the so-called "pusher."
-The "pusher" consists of a wooden pole from 8 to 9 feet long, attached
-to a rectangular iron frame 3 by 1&frac12; feet, upon which is fitted
-a netting bag 3 feet in depth. The scalloper, wading on the flats
-at low tide, gathers the scallops by shoving the "pusher" among the
-eel grass. When the bag is full, the contents are emptied into the dory
-and the process repeated. The scallopers who use the "pusher" go
-in dories, which are taken to the various parts of the scalloping ground
-and moved whenever the immediate locality is exhausted. This method
-is in use to-day, but is applicable only to shallow flats, and can be
-worked only at low tide, where dredging is impossible. It is hard
-work, and not as profitable as the better method of dredging. This
-method of scalloping is used chiefly at Chatham, Dennis and Yarmouth;
-occasionally it is used at Nantucket and other towns.</p>
-
-<p>(<i>d</i>) <i>Dredging.</i>&mdash;The greater part of the scallop catch is taken by
-dredging, which is the most universal as well as the most profitable
-method. The dredge, commonly pronounced "drudge," consists of
-an iron framework about 3 by 1&frac12; feet, with a netting bag attached,
-which will hold from one to two bushels of scallops. Cat boats, carrying
-from 6 to 10 dredges, are used for this method of scalloping. These
-boats, with several "reefs," cross the scallop grounds pulling the
-dredges, which hold the boat steady in her course. A single run with
-all the dredges overboard is called a "drift." The contents of all
-the dredges is said to be the result or catch of the "drift."</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>When the dredges are hauled in they are emptied on what is known
-as a culling board. This board runs the width of the boat, projecting
-slightly on both sides. It is 3 feet wide, and has a guide 3 inches
-high along each side, leaving the ends open. The scallops are then
-separated from the rubbish, such as seaweed, shells, mud, etc., while
-the refuse and seed scallops are thrown overboard by merely pushing
-them off the end of the board. Each catch is culled out while the dredges
-are being pulled along on the back "drift," and the board is again
-clear for the next catch. The culled scallops are first put in buckets
-and later transferred either to bushel bags or dumped into the cockpit
-of the boat.</p>
-
-<p>Two men are usually required to tend from 6 to 8 dredges in a large
-cat boat, but often one man alone does all the work. This seems to
-be confined to localities, as at Nantucket nearly all the cat boats have
-two men. At Edgartown the reverse is true, one man to the boat,
-though in power dredging two men are always used.</p>
-
-<p>Several styles of dredges are used in scalloping, as each locality has
-its own special kind, which is best adapted to the scalloping bottom
-of that region. Four different styles are used in Massachusetts, two of
-which permit a subdivision, making in all six different forms. Each
-of these dredges is said by the scallopers using them to be the best;
-but for all-round work the "scraper" seems the most popular.</p>
-
-<p>(1) <i>The Chatham or Box Dredge.</i>&mdash;As this dredge was first used in
-Chatham, the name of the town was given to it, to distinguish it from
-the other styles. At the present time its use is confined to Chatham and
-the neighboring towns of the Cape. With the exception of a very few
-used at Nantucket, it is not found elsewhere in Massachusetts.</p>
-
-<p>The style of the box dredge is peculiar, consisting of a rectangular
-framework, 27 by 12 inches, of flat iron 1 by &frac14; inches, with an oval-shaped
-iron bar extending back as a support for the netting bag, which
-is attached to the rectangular frame. To the side of the rectangular
-frame is attached a heavy iron chain about 4 feet long, to which is
-fastened the drag rope.</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>The Scraper.</i>&mdash;As can be seen by the illustration, this style
-of dredge consists of a rigid iron frame of triangular shape, which
-has a curve of nearly 90&deg; at the base, to form the bowl of the dredge.
-Above, a raised cross bar connects the two arms, while at the bottom
-of the dredge a strip of iron 2 inches wide extends from arm to arm.
-This strip acts as a scraping blade, and is set at an angle so as to dig
-into the bottom. The top of the net is fastened to the raised cross bar
-and the lower part to the blade.</p>
-
-<p>The usual dimensions of the dredge are: arms, 2&frac12; feet; upper
-cross bar, 2 feet; blade, 2&frac12; feet. The net varies in size, usually
-holding about a bushel of scallops, and running from 2 to 3 feet in
-length. Additional weights can be put on the cross bar when the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span>
-scalloper desires the dredge to scrape deeper. A wooden bar, 2 feet
-long, buoys the net.</p>
-
-<p>Two styles of this dredge are in use. At Nantucket the whole net
-is made of twine, while at Edgartown and in Buzzards Bay the lower
-part of the net is formed of a netting of iron rings, the upper half
-of the net being twine. The iron rings are supposed to stand the wear
-better than the twine netting. This difference seems to be merely a
-matter of local choice. The "scraper" is perhaps the dredge most
-generally used, as, no matter what style is in use, a scalloper generally
-has a few "scrapers" among his dredges.</p>
-
-<p>(3) <i>The "Slider."</i>&mdash;The principle of the "slider" is the reverse
-of the "scraper," as the blade is set either level or with an upward
-incline, so the dredge can slide over the bottom. This dredge is used
-on rough bottom and in places where there is little eel-grass. In some
-dredges the blade is rigid, but in the majority the blade hangs loose.</p>
-
-<p>The "slider" used at Edgartown differs from the "scraper" by having
-perfectly straight arms and no curved bowl, the blade being
-fastened to the arms in a hook-and-eye fashion. The dimensions of
-this dredge are the same as those of the "scraper," although occasionally
-smaller dredges are found.</p>
-
-<p>(4) <i>The "Roller" Dredge.</i>&mdash;This style of dredge is used only in the
-town of Mattapoisett, where the scallopers claim it is the most successful.
-The dredge is suitable for scalloping over rough ground, as the
-blade of the dredge is merely a line of leads, which roll over the surface
-of the ground gathering in the scallops.</p>
-
-<p>The dredge consists of an oval iron frame, 32 by 20 inches, which
-acts as the arms, and is attached to another iron frame, 32 by 3 inches.
-The blade of the dredge consists of a thin rope with attached leads.
-The net is made wholly of twine, and is about 2&frac12; feet long.</p>
-
-<p><i>Scalloping with Power Boats.</i>&mdash;The season of 1907 has witnessed
-in Massachusetts the first use of auxiliary power in the scallop fishery.
-At Edgartown the main part of the scalloping is now done by power,
-which, in spite of the additional expense of 5 gallons of gasolene per
-day, gives a proportionately larger catch of scallops. The Edgartown
-scallopers claim that their daily catch, using power, is from one-third
-to one-half better than under the old method of dredging by sail. Not
-only can they scallop when the wind is too light or too heavy for successful
-scalloping by sail, but more "drifts" can be made in the same
-time. A slight disadvantage of scalloping with power is the necessity
-of having two men, as the steering of the power boat demands much
-closer attention than the sail boat, which is practically held to a fixed
-course by the dredges. A power boat for scalloping possesses only the
-disadvantage of additional cost; but it is only necessary to look forward
-a few years, when expedition rather than cheapness will be in demand,
-to a partial revolution in the present methods of scalloping, whereby<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span>
-the auxiliary cat boat will take the place of the sail boat in the scallop
-fishery.</p>
-
-<p>II. <i>Preparing the Scallop for Market.</i> (1) <i>The "Eye."</i>&mdash;The
-edible part of the scallop is the large adductor muscle. The rest of
-the animal is thrown away, though in certain localities it is used as
-fish bait and in others for fertilizer. Why the whole of the animal
-is not eaten is hard to say. Undoubtedly all is good, but popular
-prejudice, which molds opinion, has decreed that it is bad, so it is
-not used as food. This is perhaps due to the highly pigmented and
-colored portions of the animal. Nevertheless, there is a decided possibility
-that in the future we shall eat the entire scallop, as well as the
-luscious adductor muscle.</p>
-
-<p>The adductor muscle is called by the dealers and fishermen the "eye,"
-a name given perhaps from its important position in the animal, and
-its appearance. The color of the "eye," which has a cylindrical form,
-is a yellowish white.</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>The Shanties.</i>&mdash;The catch of scallops is carried to the shanty
-of the fisherman, and there opened. These shanties are usually grouped
-on the dock, so the catch can be readily transferred. Inside of these
-shanties, usually 20 by 10 feet or larger, we find a large bench 3
-to 3&frac12; feet wide, running the length of the shanty, and a little more
-than waist high. On these benches the scallops are dumped from the
-baskets or bags, and pass through the hands of the openers. Under
-the bench are barrels for the shells and refuse.</p>
-
-<p>(3) <i>The Openers.</i>&mdash;The openers are usually men and boys, though
-occasionally a few women try their hand at the work. Of late years
-there has been a difficulty in obtaining sufficient openers, and the scallopers
-often are forced to open their own scallops. The openers are
-paid from 20 to 30 cents per gallon, according to the size of the
-scallops. One bushel of average scallops will open 2&frac12; to 3 quarts
-of "eyes." An opener can often open 8 to 10 gallons in a day, making
-an excellent day's work. The price now paid is more than double that
-paid in 1880, which was 12&frac12; cents per gallon. Some openers are
-especially rapid, and their deft movements cause a continual dropping
-of shells in the barrel and "eyes" in the gallon measure.</p>
-
-<p>(4) <i>Method of opening the Scallop.</i>&mdash;The opening of a scallop requires
-three movements. A flat piece of steel with a sharp but rounded
-end, inserted in a wooden handle, answers for a knife. The scallop
-is taken by a right-handed opener in the palm of the left hand, the
-hinge line farthest away from the body, the scallop in its natural resting
-position, the right or smooth valve down. The knife is inserted
-between the valves on the right-hand side. An upward turn with a cutting
-motion is given, severing the "eye" from the upper valve, while
-a flirt at the same moment throws back the upper shell. The second
-motion tears the soft rim and visceral mass of the scallop and casts
-it into the barrel, leaving the "eye" standing clear. A third move<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span>ment
-separates the "eye" from the shell and casts it into a gallon
-measure. Frequently the last two movements are slightly different.
-The faster openers at the second motion merely tear off enough of the
-rim to allow the separation of the "eye" from the shell, and on the
-third movement cast the "eye" in the measure, while the shell with
-its adhering soft parts is thrown into the refuse barrel. These last
-two motions can hardly be separated, so quickly are they accomplished.</p>
-
-<p>(5) <i>"Soaking."</i>&mdash;The "eye" is then usually put through the following
-course of treatment before marketing; the treatment is what
-is familiarly known as "soaking." It has been noticed that whenever
-salt water products are allowed to soak in fresh water, an increase
-of bulk is found. This is due to a change, called osmosis, which causes
-the swelling of the tissues. The "eye" can be increased, by the process
-of osmosis, to a gain of more than one-third its natural size; that is,
-4&frac12; gallons of scallop "eyes" can be increased to 7 gallons by judicious
-"feeding" with fresh water. Also, a change has taken place in the
-scallops after a few hours' soaking. No longer do we find the poor
-yellow-colored small "eye" of the freshly opened scallop, but a beautiful
-white, plump "eye," which at once tempts the purchaser. While
-these changes have added to the salable properties of the scallop by
-beautifying its appearance and increasing its size, the scallop has lost
-much of its sweet flavor and freshness.</p>
-
-<p>Practically every scallop sold in the markets or shipped from any
-scalloping center is soaked, as the "soaking," if not already done by
-the fishermen, is administered by the retail dealers. There are scallopers
-who are ready to ship the unsoaked scallops at a proportionate price
-the moment the market demands them; but the consumer, through ignorance,
-demands the large, nice-appearing "eyes," and thus unwittingly
-favors the practice. However, as long as pure water is used and other
-sanitary precautions taken, no actual harm may arise from soaking
-scallops.</p>
-
-<p>Two methods of swelling scallops are in use. When the scallops
-are shipped in kegs, which usually contain 7 gallons, the following
-method is applied: 4&frac12; to 5 gallons of "eyes" are placed in each keg,
-and are allowed to stand over night in fresh water; in the morning
-before shipment more water is added and the keg closed, and by the
-time of arrival to the New York or Boston market the scallops have
-increased to the full amount of 7 gallons.</p>
-
-<p>The second method of "soaking" is slightly more elaborate. The
-eyes are spread evenly in shallow wooden sinks 5 by 3 feet, with just
-enough fresh water to cover them, and left over night. In the morning
-a milky fluid is drawn off, and the "soaked" scallops are packed for
-market in kegs or butter tubs.</p>
-
-<p>(6) <i>Shipment.</i>&mdash;The kegs in which the scallops are shipped cost
-30 cents apiece, and contain about 7 gallons. A full keg is known
-as a "package." The butter tubs are less expensive, but hold only<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span>
-4 to 5 gallons. Indeed, anything which will hold scallops for shipment
-is used to send them to market.</p>
-
-<p>When the scallops get to the market they are strained and weighed,
-9 pounds being considered the weight of a gallon of meats. In this
-way about 6 gallons are realized from every 7-gallon keg. With the
-improved methods of modern times scallops can be shipped far west
-or be held for months in cold storage, for which purpose unsoaked
-scallops are required. Certain firms have tried this method of keeping
-the catch until prices were high, but it has not been especially successful.</p>
-
-<p>(7) <i>Market.</i>&mdash;One of the greatest trials to the scallop fisherman
-is the uncertainty of market returns when shipping. He does not
-know the price he is to receive; and, as the price depends on the supply
-on the market, he may receive high wages or he may get scarcely anything.
-The wholesale market alone can regulate the price, and the
-fisherman is powerless. While this is hard on the scalloper, it does
-not appear that at the present time anything can be done to remedy
-the uncertainty of return. The scallop returns from the New York
-market are usually higher than from the Boston market. The result
-of this has been to give New York each year the greater part of the
-scallop trade, and practically all the Nantucket and Edgartown scallops
-are shipped to New York.</p>
-
-<p>Either from a feeling of loyalty, or because the market returns are
-sooner forwarded, or because the express charges are less, Cape Cod
-still ships to the Boston market, in spite of the better prices offered
-in New York. Why so many Cape scallopers should continue to ship
-to Boston, and resist the attractions of better prices, is impossible to
-determine, and appears to be only a question of custom.</p>
-
-<p>(8) <i>The Price.</i>&mdash;The price of scallops varies with the supply. The
-demand is fairly constant, showing a slight but decided increase each
-year. On the other hand, the supply is irregular, some years scallops
-being plentiful, in other years scarce.</p>
-
-<p><i>The Maine or Deep-sea Scallop.</i>&mdash;In the Boston market the shallow-water
-scallop has a formidable rival in the giant scallop of the Maine
-coast, which is nearly twice as large. Nevertheless, the Cape scallop
-maintains its superiority and still leads its larger brother in popular
-favor, wholesaling at 50 to 70 cents more a gallon. There is no doubt
-that this competition has had a tendency to lower the price of the Cape
-scallop, possibly accounting for the higher market price in New York.</p>
-
-<p><i>Outfit of a Scalloper.</i>&mdash;While we have traced the scallop from its
-capture among the eel-grass to its final disposition, we have not considered
-the equipment of the scalloper. The average capital invested
-in the business can best be summed up under these two heads,&mdash;the
-boat fisherman and the dory fisherman.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><i>Boat Fisherman.</i></p>
-
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Boat,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$500.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dory,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Six dredges,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Rope and gear,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Culling board,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Incidentals,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Shanty,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$625.00</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<p class="center"><i>Dory Fisherman.</i></p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dory,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$20.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Oars,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Pusher,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Shanty,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$49.00</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>III. <i>The Scallop Season.</i>&mdash;There is considerable diversity of opinion
-among the scallopers as to when the scallop season should open.
-Some advocate November 1 as the opening date, instead of October 1,
-as the present law reads; and many arguments are put forth by both
-sides.</p>
-
-<p>The class of fishermen who desire November 1 are those who are
-engaged in other fishing during the month of October, and either have
-to give it up or lose the first month of scalloping. Naturally, they wish
-a change, putting forth the additional argument of better prices if
-the season begins later. The scalloper who is not engaged in other
-fishing of course desires the law to remain as it is at the present time,
-claiming that the better weather of October gives easier work, more
-working days, and allows no chance of loss if the winter is severe.</p>
-
-<p>Under the present law, the town can regulate the opening of its
-season to suit the demands of the market and the desire of the inhabitants.
-This does away with the necessity of any State law on this
-point, which, under the present system of town control, would be
-inadvisable.</p>
-
-<p>The general opinion of the fishermen is in favor of the present date,
-October 1. As nearly as could be determined, about 75 per cent. favor
-October 1 and 25 per cent. November 1. This sentiment is divided by
-localities, as more men were in favor of November 1 at Nantucket
-and Edgartown than on Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay, where very few
-favored a change.</p>
-
-<p>IV. <i>The Utilization of Waste.</i>&mdash;While it seems an enormous waste
-that out of a bushel of scallops only 2&frac12; to 3 quarts of edible meats
-are obtained, it is not all absolute loss. Oyster growers buy the shells
-for cultch to catch the oyster seed, paying from 3 to 5 cents per bushel.
-Other uses are found, such as ornaments and in making shell roads.
-The refuse is used for fish bait, and often barrels of it are salted for
-this purpose. It is also used in some places for manure for agricultural
-purposes.</p>
-
-<p>In the last year a new use for scallop shells has developed. Similar
-to the souvenir postal card, scallop shells bound together with ribbon<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span>
-and containing miniature photographic views have been put on the
-market. Three firms near Boston make a business of this, and use only
-the lower or bright valve of the scallop. Certain scallopers furnish
-these scallop shells, cleaned of meat, at the rate of $6 per barrel; and,
-though it takes considerable time to separate the shells when opening,
-the excellent price makes this new industry pay. The question of the
-future is to find new and more important uses for our waste sea products.
-Some day what is now waste in the scallop industry may be
-utilized for the benefit of the public.</p>
-
-<p>V. <i>Food Value.</i>&mdash;As a food the scallop stands ahead of all the
-other shellfish, containing much more nourishment than the oyster. The
-following figures are from the tables of Professor Atwater, rearranged
-by C. F. Langworthy:<a name="FNanchor_11_11" id="FNanchor_11_11"></a><a href="#Footnote_11_11" class="fnanchor">[11]</a>&mdash;</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Food Value">
-  <tr>
-    <td></td>
-    <th>Refuse, Bone, Skin, etc. (Per Cent.).</th>
-    <th>Salt (Per Cent.).</th>
-    <th>Water (Per Cent.).</th>
-    <th>Protein (Per Cent.).</th>
-    <th>Fat (Per Cent.).</th>
-    <th>Car&shy;bo&shy;hy&shy;drates (Per Cent.).</th>
-    <th>Mineral Matter (Per Cent.).</th>
-    <th>Total Nutrients (Per Cent.).</th>
-    <th>Fuel Value per Pound (Per Cent.).</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Oysters, solids,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">88.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6.1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.9</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11.7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">235</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Oysters, in shell,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">82.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15.4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.2</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.6</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Oysters, canned,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">85.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7.4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.9</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14.7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Scallops,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">80.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14.7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.2</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">19.7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">345</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Soft clams, in shell,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">43.6</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">48.4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4.8</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.6</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8.0</td>
-    <td class="tdr">135</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Soft clams, canned,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">84.5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">9.0</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.9</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15.5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">275</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs, removed from shell,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">80.8</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10.6</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5.2</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">19.2</td>
-    <td class="tdr">340</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs, in shell,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">68.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">27.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.9</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4.4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">65</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Quahaugs, canned,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">83.0</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10.4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.8</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.0</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.8</td>
-    <td class="tdr">17.0</td>
-    <td class="tdr">285</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Mussels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">49.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">42.7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4.4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.0</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8.0</td>
-    <td class="tdr">140</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>General average of mollusks (exclusive of canned).</td>
-    <td class="tdr">60.2</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">34.0</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.2</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">.9</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5.8</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<h3><i>The Laws.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The State laws regulating the fishery were made for the benefit of
-the industry and for the preservation of the "seed" scallop, which
-is the only requirement necessary for insuring the future supply.</p>
-
-<p>Each town has charge over its scallop fishery, under the general
-shellfish act of 1880, which entrusted all regulation of the shellfisheries
-to the selectmen of the towns. The town laws governing the scallop
-fishery are by far the most satisfactory of the shellfish laws of the
-towns. Although in many respects beneficial, they have certain disadvantages.</p>
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span></p>
-<p>The main disadvantage of the town laws is found in the jealousy
-of neighboring towns. One town may make a law to oppose another
-town, and will often injure its own interests thereby. In this connection
-the condition at Dennis, during the winter of 1904-05, was an instance.
-As scallops were remarkably abundant, the town made by-laws intended
-to exclude from its scallop fisheries the residents of other towns.
-At the close of the scalloping season, when the ice came, the scallops
-were still abundant. The inhabitants of the town thought they could
-get the rest next season. They did not know that the scallop does not
-live two years. The next year not a single scallop of that set was to
-be found; they had died. If other scallopers had been allowed to
-go there, thousands of dollars could have been saved, and many scallopers
-given employment. This one case illustrates the disadvantages
-of town jealousy; and Dennis is by no means to blame, as it merely
-protected itself against the similar restrictions of neighboring Cape
-Cod towns.</p>
-
-<p>The town laws which benefit the scallop industry are made each year
-according to the condition of the industry. Edgartown and Nantucket
-have perhaps the best-governed scallop industries. Laws requiring
-licenses, regulating the opening of the season and restricting at proper
-times the catch, so as to get the best market prices instead of overstocking
-the market when the prices are low, are to be recommended
-on account of their benefit to the scallopers.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>History.</i></h3>
-
-<p>In considering the rise of a fishing industry, it is often difficult to
-state exactly the year when the industry started, as there are differences
-of opinion as to how large a fishery should be before it could be justly
-considered an industry. The scallop fishery has existed for years, but
-did not become an established industry of the State before the year
-1872. At that time there was hardly any demand for scallops, and the
-catch was with difficulty marketed. Since then the market demand
-for the scallop has steadily increased, until the supply can hardly meet
-the popular demand. It seems almost incredible that the scallop as
-an article of food should once have been scorned and practically unknown.</p>
-
-<p>During the years of 1876 and 1877 the industry took a sudden spurt.
-At this time the introduction of the dredge on Cape Cod revolutionized
-the industry, and made it possible to open up the deep-water fields.
-The industry on Cape Cod first started at Hyannis, where a number
-of men entered the new business; and for several years the production
-increased rapidly, with the opening of new territories and improved
-methods of capture. While the natural supply has remained the same
-or declined in certain localities, as has been shown in a previous part
-of this report, the value of the industry, in regard to the number of
-men engaged and capital invested, has steadily increased.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Scallop Production for Massachusetts.<a name="FNanchor_12_12" id="FNanchor_12_12"></a><a href="#Footnote_12_12" class="fnanchor">[12]</a></span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th><span class="smcap">Year.</span></th>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-    <th>Gallons.</th>
-    <th>Price per Gallon.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10,542</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,514</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7,028</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$0.50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1887,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">41,964</td>
-    <td class="tdr">38,933</td>
-    <td class="tdr">27,976</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.39</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1888,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">26,168</td>
-    <td class="tdr">43,202</td>
-    <td class="tdr">17,446</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.48</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1898,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">128,863</td>
-    <td class="tdr">85,383</td>
-    <td class="tdr">85,908</td>
-    <td class="tdr">0.99</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1902,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">66,150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">89,982</td>
-    <td class="tdr">44,100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.04</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1905,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">43,872</td>
-    <td class="tdr">98,712</td>
-    <td class="tdr">29,248</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3.37&frac12;</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>These figures show that the price of scallops varies greatly, dependent
-largely upon the amount caught that season; also that there
-has been, in spite of the irregularity of the catch, a gradual rise in
-prices since 1879, due to a more extensive market.</p>
-
-<p>In considering the scallop industry the following points should be
-noted: (1) It has been necessary to record as scallop area any grounds
-where scallops have ever been found, in spite of the fact that only
-a portion of this total area is in any one year productive. (2) The
-boats engaged in the scallop fishery are but transitory capital, which
-is utilized, outside of the scallop season, in other fisheries. (3) The
-quahaug and scallop fisheries in many towns supplement each other,
-as the same men and boats are engaged in both industries. (4) The
-length of the season varies in the different localities. In New Bedford
-and Fairhaven the scallops are mostly caught in a few weeks, as many
-boats enter the business temporarily. This necessarily gives an excess
-of invested capital and a small production. In these two towns the
-number of scallop licenses are recorded as showing the number of men
-engaged in the fishery, while as a fact but a small part of these are
-steadily engaged in the industry.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span></p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th rowspan="2">TOWN.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2" class="br">Number of Men.</th>
-    <th colspan="2" class="br smcap">Boats.</th>
-    <th colspan="2" class="br smcap">Extra Dories.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2" class="br">Value of Gear.</th>
-    <th colspan="2" class="br smcap">Production 1907-08.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Area of Grounds (Acres).</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <th>Number.</th>
-    <th class="br">Value.</th>
-    <th>Number.</th>
-    <th class="br">Value.</th>
-    <th>Gallons.</th>
-    <th class="br">Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barnstable</td>
-    <td class="tdr">39</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">23</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$8,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">$575</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,530</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,004</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Bourne</td>
-    <td class="tdr">38</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">12,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15,720</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Chatham</td>
-    <td class="tdr">107</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">35</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10,650</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">61</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,430</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,185</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">34,615</td>
-    <td class="tdr">45,345</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dennis</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">9</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,230</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">9</td>
-    <td class="tdr">180</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">368</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,950</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,865</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Edgartown</td>
-    <td class="tdr">39</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">26</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">550</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">17,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">22,270</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Fairhaven</td>
-    <td class="tdr">73<a name="FNanchor_13_13" id="FNanchor_13_13"></a><a href="#Footnote_13_13" class="fnanchor">[13]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,703</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Harwich</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,350</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">280</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,170</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,843</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">3,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Marion</td>
-    <td class="tdr">44</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">16</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,300</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">24</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">580</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">7,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">9,170</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Mattapoisett</td>
-    <td class="tdr">22</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">19</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,900</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">760</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,550</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Nantucket</td>
-    <td class="tdr">99</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">47</td>
-    <td class="tdr">13,250</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">700</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">20,245</td>
-    <td class="tdr">26,539</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">4,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>New Bedford</td>
-    <td class="tdr">38<a href="#Footnote_13_13" class="fnanchor">[13]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">600</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">700</td>
-    <td class="tdr">917</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Tisbury</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">8</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">6</td>
-    <td class="tdr">90</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">3,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,930</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Wareham</td>
-    <td class="tdr">45</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">36</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10,800</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,300</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">13,100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Yarmouth</td>
-    <td class="tdr">41</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,750</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">475</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">8,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10,480</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">647</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl bt">341</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$108,730</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl bt">130</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$2,650</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl bt">$10,373</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl bt">125,510</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$164,436</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl bt">30,900</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Barnstable.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The principal scalloping grounds of the town of Barnstable are
-found in Hyannis bay and at Cotuit. Scallops are said to have once
-been abundant in Barnstable harbor, on the north side of Cape Cod.
-At the present day the scallop is unknown commercially in this locality,
-and few are found on the sand flats of the harbor. A. Howard
-Clark, in his report on the fisheries of Massachusetts, in 1880, makes
-the following statement concerning this industry in Barnstable harbor:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>Scallops are abundant along the shores of the harbor, and in 1876 a
-party of men from Hyannis established themselves here for the purpose
-of gathering them. In 1877 the price of scallops declined very greatly,
-forcing these men to abandon their enterprise. The fishery was continued,
-however, by two men of Barnstable. In the winter of 1877-78 the latter
-shipped 40 half-barrels of "eyes," and during the winter of 1878-79 only
-6 half-barrels. They were sent to Boston and New York.</p></div>
-
-<p>This furnishes a concrete example of the extinction of the productive
-scallop beds in certain localities. The chances are that a severe
-winter or other adverse physical conditions killed all the scallops in
-the harbor, and rendered impossible any future supply. Although
-Barnstable harbor, with its swift tides, is not suitable for scallops in
-all parts, yet there are certain localities where they should thrive. In
-no way is it visionary or impossible that by the proper transplanting
-of young scallops from the waters on the south side of the Cape, these
-"seeders" might furnish other generations of scallops, and revive an
-extinct industry. At any rate, the chances for success in this line look
-favorable, and should be carefully considered.</p>
-
-<p><i>Hyannis.</i>&mdash;Although the scallop industry on the north coast of the
-town is extinct, it still flourishes as of old on the south coast. The
-bulk of the business is carried on here, and nearly all the shipments
-are made from this town. The scallop territory comprises 2,700 acres,
-in the following localities: (1) Lewis Bay; (2) near Squaw's Island;
-(3) Hyannisport harbor; and (4) the shore waters. At Hyannisport
-small scallops are taken with "pushers" in the shallow water, while
-large scallops are taken by dredging in the other three localities. Scallops
-are found in different parts and in varying abundance each year.
-Practically all this territory as outlined on the map is suitable for
-scallops.</p>
-
-<p>Two methods of scalloping are in use at Hyannis: (1) the hand
-"pusher," used in shallow water, especially in the harbor at Hyannisport;
-(2) dredging. These two methods cover different territories, and
-it is possible that one year scallops may be found only on the flats
-where it was impossible to dredge with a boat, and another year be
-all in the deep water where the "pusher" cannot be used. However,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span>
-in most years both methods are in use. The dredge most commonly
-used is the "scraper," although the Chatham style is found here. Six
-to nine are carried by each boat.</p>
-
-<p>Hyannis claims the distinction of shipping the first Cape Cod scallops
-to market. This was in 1874, and was the start of a considerable industry
-which employed 80 men. There has been more or less scalloping
-ever since that time. Ernest Ingersoll, in his report on the scallop
-fishery of the United States, in 1880, says in reference to scallop fishing
-at Hyannis from 1876 to 1878:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>The most northerly locality at which such a fishery exists, as far as I
-am informed, is at Hyannis, Mass., and during the winter of 1877 many
-persons of all ages and conditions were employed in it there. One firm
-fitted up a large house expressly for the business, and employed a large
-number of openers. Skiffs, cat-rigged yawl boats, dories and punts, 200
-in number, and of every size, shape, form and color, were used; most
-of them were flat bottomed, shaped like a flatiron, and therefore very
-"tender" when afloat. Each boat carried two dredges, locally termed
-"drags." In that year, according to Mr. F. W. True, each of the 200 boats
-averaged 120 bushels, or 100 gallons, during the season, which would give
-a total of 24,000 bushels, or 20,000 gallons for the fleet. The scallops were
-sent to New York and also to Boston, and an average price of $5 per half-barrel
-was received. In 1876 the price was $7, and in 1878 only $3.50.
-Further inquiries show that this spurt at Hyannis had no precedent, and
-has completely died away, so that at present there is no catch there, or at
-least no shipments.</p></div>
-
-<p>The 1904-05 fishery was very successful, while the season of 1905-06
-proved the reverse. The production for 1905-06 was 1,350 gallons,
-valued at $3,200; while the 1906-07 season furnished 1,000 gallons,
-worth $2,000. The following notes, made in November, 1905, give the
-situation of the industry for that year:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>The scalloping areas this season have been at Squaw's Island and in
-Lewis Bay, the first locality furnishing the better fishing. By the middle
-of November both areas were practically exhausted and the season over.
-The production to November 12 was 900 gallons. After that time the
-shipments to the Boston and New York markets were small and irregular,
-in spite of the high price of $3 to $3.50 per gallon.</p>
-
-<p><i>Cotuit.</i>&mdash;In the report of Mr. Ingersoll we find no mention of scalloping
-at Cotuit. Either there was none in 1879, or it was too small
-to be of any importance. To-day the scalloping is of slight importance,
-and practically all is used for home trade. Undoubtedly there has been
-but little change in the past twenty-five years. Side by side with the
-pigmy scallop industry has grown the oyster industry, which has made
-Cotuit famous. Undoubtedly the latter has sapped the strength of the
-former by encroaching on its area; but it has always been for the best
-interests of the people, as the oyster industry here is far more valuable
-than the scallop fishery.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The grounds of Cotuit are quite small, extending over an irregular
-strip of 100 acres. The bottom is mostly muddy, and covered with
-patches of eel grass. All the rest of the bay, where the bottom is more
-suited for oyster culture, is taken up by grants. This scalloping area,
-although small, is free to the scallopers of Osterville, Cotuit, Marston's
-Mills and Hyannis, and even where heavily set it is soon fished out.</p>
-
-<p>In the years previous to 1904-05 exceptionally fine scalloping had
-been reported by the fishermen. The season of 1904-05 was exceptionally
-poor, and in 1905-06 hardly any scallops were obtainable. In
-1907 scalloping began October 1, and by December 15 all the boats
-were hauled up, as the scallops became too scarce for profitable fishing.
-Dredging is the only important method employed in the Cotuit fishery,
-although a few scallops were picked up on the flats.</p>
-
-<p>A town law forbidding the capture of scallops for market before
-December 1 was passed in 1899. This, nevertheless, permitted any resident
-of Barnstable, between October 1 and December 1, to catch scallops
-for his family use, and for this reason could never be strictly enforced.
-In 1907 this law was repealed, as many believed that it was detrimental
-rather than helpful to the Cotuit interests, as it gave the Hyannis
-scallopers, after they had fished for two months in Hyannis Bay, the
-cream of the Cotuit fishery.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th rowspan="2">TOWN.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Number of Men.</th>
-    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Boats.</span></th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Value of Gear.</th>
-    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Production</span>, 1907-08.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-    <th>Number.</th>
-    <th>Gallons.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Hyannis,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">16</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,130</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,480</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Hyannisport,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">131</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Cotuit,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">9</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8</td>
-    <td class="tdr">175</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">393</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">39</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$8,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">23</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$575</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">1,530</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$2,004</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Bourne.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The villages of Buzzards Bay, Monument Beach and Cataumet share
-the scallop fishery of the town of Bourne, and have had during 1907-08
-a successful season for the first time in eight years.</p>
-
-<p>The available scallop territory of the town covers approximately
-3,000 acres, extending from Buttermilk Bay along the whole coast of
-the town to Cataumet.</p>
-
-<p>The fishing is mostly done by dredging with cat boats, carrying from
-six to ten dredges per boat, although a few scallopers dredge with power.
-The dredges are generally of the "scraper" type, with the chain bottom,
-similar to the dredges used at Edgartown. The scallopers both
-open their own catch and hire openers to assist them. Thirty boats,
-8 carrying 2 men, and 22 with 1 man, totalling 38 men, are employed
-in the scallop fishery.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The industry lasted until Jan. 1, 1908, when the boats were hauled
-up for winter. The total estimate for the season is 20,000 bushels, or
-12,000 gallons (unsoaked), valued at $15,720. The largest daily catch
-recorded for one boat was 72 bushels.</p>
-
-<p>The principal market is New York, though part of the catch is sent
-to New Bedford. The price varied from $1.15 to $3 per gallon. The
-scallopers claim that they do not soak the scallops, as the "eye" is large
-enough to sell well without increasing its size. Undoubtedly soaking
-is done to some extent. The scallops are large, opening about 3&frac12;
-quarts per bushel.</p>
-
-<p>Twelve hundred dollars are invested in gear and $15,000 in boats,
-which vary from $300 to $1,300 in value.</p>
-
-<p>Licenses costing $1 are required by the selectmen of every scalloper.</p>
-
-<p>Here again we find the old tale of the decline of a once prosperous
-industry, and new enthusiasm in the success of the 1907-08 season.
-The 1906-07 season was an improvement over the previous one, when
-eight licenses were issued, allowing a maximum of 1,605 bushels to be
-taken. In previous years no licenses were given, as there were no
-scallops.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Brewster.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Scalloping at Brewster can hardly be called an industry. Here the
-primitive method of picking up the scallops on the exposed flats at
-low tide is alone used. The scallops are washed by the heavy seas on
-the flats, and can be gathered by men, women and children when the
-tide goes down. Somewhere in the deeper water is a bed of scallops,
-but in 1905 no one had been able to locate it. In 1905 only one man
-made a business of gathering and shipping these scallops. He averaged
-2 bushels per tide, going down with a team and carting them to his
-house, where he opened them. All shipments were made to Boston,
-at an average price of $1.75 to $2. The people pick up many for home
-use.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Chatham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The town of Chatham, situated at the elbow of Cape Cod, possesses
-abundant facilities for all the shore fisheries. For the past twenty-five
-years the scallop fishery has held almost equal rank with the lobster
-and cod fisheries, for which Chatham is noted, and has in many years
-furnished employment when other fishing had failed.</p>
-
-<p>Scallops are found only in the southern waters of the town. Between
-Inward Point and Harding's Beach many acres of eel-grass flats, sheltered
-from the open ocean by Monomoy Island, furnish excellent
-grounds for scallops. The entire area of these grounds is approximately
-2,000 acres, although this whole territory is never completely stocked
-in any one year. During the season of 1907-08 the following places
-constituted the scalloping grounds:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>(1) Island Flats in Stage Harbor, on the east side of the channel,
-opposite Harding's Beach, furnished a number of scallops, which<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span>
-were rapidly caught the first of the season, as these flats were near the
-town. Here the water is not more than 1&frac12; to 2 feet deep at low tide,
-and thick eel grass covers the greater part except near the channel.
-The first of the season a man could obtain 8 bushels per day, but later
-a catch of 2 bushels was considered good.</p>
-
-<p>(2) Directly south of Harding's Beach lies John Perry's flat, commonly
-known as "Jerry's," where there has been good scalloping for
-many years.</p>
-
-<p>(3) The western half of the Common Flats furnished the best scalloping
-in 1907-08, as the scallops, though small (6 pecks to a gallon),
-were plentiful. These flats run nearly dry on low course tides, and
-are covered with eel grass. Nearly every year there is a heavy set of
-scallop seed, which, because of the exposed nature of the flats, is
-wholly or partially destroyed. The entire set was destroyed in the winter
-of 1904-05, while 30 per cent. was lost in 1906-07.</p>
-
-<p>(4) On the flats just south of Inward Point was another bed of
-scallops.</p>
-
-<p>(5) In the bend north of Inward Point scallops were plentiful.</p>
-
-<p>(6) On the northwest edge of the Common Flats scallops can be
-dredged over an area of 160 acres at a depth of 5 fathoms. These
-are of good size, opening 3&frac12; quarts to the bushel.</p>
-
-<p>Two methods of obtaining scallops are employed: (1) by the use
-of the "pusher;" and (2) by dredging. As the "pusher" is used on
-the flats at low water where the boats cannot sail, the boat man possesses
-the advantage of "pushing" at low tide and dredging at high
-water. Sixty per cent. of the scallopers at Chatham go in dories and
-use "pushers," as the Common Flats afford excellent opportunity for
-this sort of fishing; the remaining 40 per cent. scallop in boats, using
-"pushers" to a limited extent. Four to six box dredges are used for
-each boat, the smaller boats carrying four, the larger six.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">107</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dory men ("pushers"),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">62</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Boat men (dredgers),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">45</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">35</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Single-manned,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">26</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Double-manned,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">9</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$10,650</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">61</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,430</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of scallop gear for dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">135</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of scallop gear for boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,050</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total value of scallop gear,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,185</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>Last season 34,615 gallons, valued at $45,345, were shipped to Boston
-and New York. Shipments are made in butter tubs, containing 4 to
-6 gallons each.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The larger scallops in the deep water are from 2&frac12; to 2&frac34; inches in
-length, taking 5 pecks to open a gallon of "eyes." On the flats are
-smaller scallops, from 2 to 2&frac14; inches in length, of which 6&frac12; pecks are
-required to make a gallon. About 4,000 gallons were bought in Chatham
-by two dealers, paying $1.30 per gallon; the rest were shipped to
-Boston and New York by the individual scallopers, shipments being
-made semiweekly to New York. The scallops were shipped in butter
-tubs containing from 4 to 6 gallons, on which the express charges were:
-to New York, 65 cents; to Boston, 35 cents. The 1907-08 production
-was 20,000 gallons, valued at $40,000.</p>
-
-<p>In 1905-06 practically all the catch were "seed" scallops of the
-set of 1905; only about 5 per cent. of the catch were scallops of the
-1904 set. Owing to the exceptional cod fishing, only 15 men made a
-business of scalloping, going mostly one man to a boat, and averaging
-3&frac12; bushels per day after the scalloping "struck in," Dec. 1, 1905. The
-high prices alone made it profitable to catch these small scallops, which
-gave only 3 pints of "eyes" to a bushel of shells,&mdash;just one-half the
-amount yielded by a bushel of large scallops. The fishermen were all
-from South and West Chatham. The entire catch was estimated at
-2,800 gallons.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Dennis.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The scallop grounds of Dennis and Yarmouth are common property
-for the inhabitants of both towns, while other towns are excluded from
-the fishery. The West Dennis scallopers fish mostly on the Yarmouth
-flats at the mouth of Parker River, and between Bass and Parker rivers
-on the shore flats. There is also scalloping along the shore on the
-Dennis grounds. These grounds are for the "pushers." Dredging is
-carried on at Dennisport, and the boats cover a wide territory at some
-distance from the shore. The town possesses a large area, which either
-has scattering scallops or is well stocked one year and barren the next.
-Nearly 2,250 acres of available territory is included in the waters of
-the town. The flats, which are of sand with thick or scattering eel
-grass, according to the locality, afford a good bottom for scallops.
-Were it not for the eel grass, the scallops would perish by being washed
-on the shore by southerly winds.</p>
-
-<p>Thirty men make a business of scalloping in the town of Dennis, 22
-from Dennisport and 8 from West Dennis. At Dennisport scalloping
-is practically all done by dredging, while at West Dennis scallops are
-all taken by the use of "pushers." At Dennisport 9 boats, 3 sail and
-6 cat boats, with power, carrying 18 men, are employed in the business.
-Here also are 4 dory scallopers. At West Dennis the scallopers go
-mostly in pairs, using only 5 dories.</p>
-
-<p>The dredges used at Dennisport are similar to the Chatham dredge.
-At Dennisport the scallopers open the scallops and also employ openers,
-while at West Dennis the scallopers do the entire work.</p>
-
-<p>In 1907-08 the production was 2,950 gallons, valued at $3,865. Scal<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span>lops
-were shipped to the New York and Boston markets, although the
-greater part of the catch went to New York.</p>
-
-<p>The scallops taken at Dennisport are large, opening 3 quarts to
-the bushel. At West Dennis, where the fishing is done in the shallow
-water, the scallops are somewhat smaller, yielding only 2&frac12; quarts to
-the bushel.</p>
-
-<p>During the month of November large quantities of scallops were
-blown ashore at Dennisport, and it is said that as many as 72 bushels
-were gathered by one man in a day.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sail,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,230</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Power,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">180</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$4,410</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of gear:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Boat,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">350</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dory,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">18</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$368</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>Permits are required for scalloping, but are issued free of charge
-by the selectmen. Dennis and Yarmouth have common scallop fishery
-rights, the town scallop regulation reading as follows:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>All persons other than the inhabitants of the towns of Dennis and Yarmouth
-are prohibited from taking scallops from the shores and waters of
-the town of Yarmouth excepting for their family use, and in no case without
-a permit.</p></div>
-
-<p>During the season of 1904-05 there existed off Dennisport one of
-the largest beds of scallops ever known in Massachusetts. Not only
-was it extensive, but the scallops were very numerous. An enormous
-yield was the result, affording great profit to a large number of scallopers,
-and bringing into the town thousands of dollars. It was stated
-by the scallopers that when the scalloping ceased because of the severe
-winter and ice the number of scallops appeared in no way diminished.
-During the season the catch averaged over 25 bushels per boat. Prospects
-looked good for the following season, as the fishermen expected
-the scallops to live until the next year. Unfortunately, the life of a
-scallop is less than two years, and before spring practically the whole
-of this large bed was dead,&mdash;a heavy loss to the fishing interests of
-the town and of the State.</p>
-
-<p>In cases like this the exclusion of scallopers from the neighboring
-towns, through the present system of town laws, has resulted in severe<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span>
-economic and financial loss to the State, as many more scallops could
-have been captured without injury to the future supply if more fishermen
-had been given an opportunity to enjoy this fishery.</p>
-
-<p>The following season, 1905-06, presented a marked contrast to that
-of 1904-05. Some adverse conditions had injured the set of 1905,
-and as a result there were scarcely any adult scallops. By January 1
-the scallops of the 1906 set had become large enough in certain localities
-to permit capture. Owing to the high prices, these scallops, less
-than eight months old ("seed" scallops), were profitable to catch,
-and the season's catch at Dennisport after January 1 consisted of these
-young scallops. At that time the present "seed" scallop law was not
-in force, so the capture of these scallops was entirely legal.</p>
-
-<p>About 6 men were engaged during 1905-06 in scalloping at Dennisport.
-The scallops were obtained by dredging in the deeper water. The
-average catch was 3 to 4 bushels per day. The 1906-07 season was
-hardly above the average. At West Dennis 8 men were engaged in
-scalloping on the flats with "pushers." The scallops were small, averaging
-about 2 inches in width. It is only once every three or four years
-that West Dennis scallops are in the deep water where it is necessary
-to dredge them; usually the scallops are found on the shallow-water flats.
-The 1907-08 season is the best season the town has had since 1904-05.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Dartmouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>A few scallops are occasionally found in Slocum's River and other
-places, but in no quantity to furnish any commercial fishery.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Eastham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The scalloping grounds are on the west side of the town, about half
-a mile out. During the season of 1906-07, 6 men, working at intervals
-during the winter, managed to take a total of 500 bushels from these
-flats.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Edgartown.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Edgartown, situated at the eastern end of Martha's Vineyard, possesses
-extensive scallop grounds, and is one of the leading towns in the
-production of this shellfish. This fishery, even more important than
-the quahaug industry, furnishes steady winter employment for a large
-number of the inhabitants.</p>
-
-<p>The important grounds are in Cape Poge Pond and in Edgartown
-harbor, while occasionally beds of scallops, especially "seed," are found
-in Katama Bay. These grounds comprise an area of 2,000 acres, chiefly
-of grass bottom.</p>
-
-<p>At Edgartown scalloping is done both with sail and with power boats,
-which are generally auxiliary cat boats, though power dories are used
-to some extent. All but two of the power boats are doubly manned,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span>
-while the sail boats carry but one man. Eleven sail and 15 power boats,
-employing 39 men, are engaged in the fishery.</p>
-
-<p>Two kinds of dredges are used, the "scraper" for scalloping in the
-eel grass and the "slider" for clean surface. The depth of water
-over the scallop beds is not more than 18 feet, necessitating 10&frac12; fathoms
-of rope. The price of a dredge, including rope, is about $3, which is
-cheaper than in the Buzzards Bay towns. Each power boat uses six
-to eight, which are held out by "spreaders," poles extending from the
-sides of the boat, in order that the dredges may cover more ground
-and not trail behind one another.</p>
-
-<p>The greater part of the scalloping is done by power, and, in spite
-of the extra cost of nearly 90 cents per day, the proportionate increase
-makes this method more profitable; it is claimed to increase the catch
-about one-third. Scalloping with power necessitates the services of
-two men, as one man has to cull while the other steers. At the end
-of the "drift" the boat is stopped, and both men cull. With sail,
-culling can be done when dredges are overboard. When two men scallop,
-the owner of the boat takes three-fifths while his partner shares
-two-fifths of the profit.</p>
-
-<p>Twenty-five to 30 openers prepare the scallop for market during
-the afternoons and evenings. These are paid at the rate of 25 cents
-per gallon, and average about $1.50 per day, a good opener cutting
-out a gallon of "eyes" in an hour. Small scallops open 700 "eyes"
-per gallon; the larger ones, 500.</p>
-
-<p>The 1907-08 season was successful, as the scallops were plentiful, the
-daily catch per boat running between 5 and 50 bushels. About 17,000
-gallons, valued at $22,270, were shipped between Oct. 1, 1907, and
-April 1, 1908.</p>
-
-<p>Shipments are made mostly to the New York market; a very few to
-Boston market. The freight charges on a keg, which weighs about 70
-pounds, is 55 cents. In warm weather scallops are sent by express,
-the charges being 80 cents. The scallops are packed in butter tubs
-of large size, averaging from 6 to 7 gallons, and costing 8 cents apiece.
-These are obtained second hand from the grocery stores at New Bedford.
-The tubs are packed full and closed tightly. By the time the
-scallops arrive at market they are reduced in quantity by the jarring,
-in warm weather from 7 to 6 gallons, and in cold from 7 to 6&frac12;. Returns
-from the market are made in about a week. Scallops can be held
-back for better prices three to four days in warm weather, and about
-seven in cold.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of gear,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">550</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$8,550</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></div>
-
-<p>By vote of the town, the season for several years has been open one
-month later than the State season. Shellfish permits costing $2 are
-required of every scalloper. The daily catch for one man is restricted
-to 25 bushels.</p>
-
-<p>Edgartown was one of the pioneer towns in the State in the scallop
-fishery, and as early as 1875 scallops were shipped to the market. The
-industry has maintained a steady supply, and has not shown the great
-variation of the Cape and Buzzards Bay fisheries. This is due perchance
-to the natural conditions, which render favorable the maintenance
-of an extensive industry.</p>
-
-<p>The last four seasons have been very successful, as when scallops
-were scarce the increased price more than made up for the diminished
-supply. The 1904-05 season was favorable, but, owing to the severe
-winter, fishing ceased about January 1, although scallops were plentiful
-both in Cape Poge Pond and Edgartown harbor. In 1905-06 scallops
-were found only in Cape Poge Pond, as the previous severe winter
-had killed all the harbor "seed." This season was most successful, as
-Nantucket and Edgartown, owing to the scarcity of scallops in other
-localities, received very high market prices. Scallops were more abundant
-in 1906-07, but the lower prices made the industry less prosperous
-than in the previous season.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1879 with 1907-08 Production.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td></td>
-    <th>1879.</th>
-    <th>1907-08.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Gallons,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">17,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$22,270</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Fairhaven.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Fairhaven possesses, with New Bedford, the scalloping grounds of
-the Acushnet River, and in addition a much larger territory around
-Sconticut Neck and West Island. The scalloping territory comprises
-about 2,500 acres, most of which is unproductive or productive only at
-intervals.</p>
-
-<p>The town charges $1 for the license to each scalloper. Seventy-three
-licenses were issued in 1906-07. This is a larger number than has been
-issued in recent years. The highest number ever issued was 80.</p>
-
-<p>The capital invested is transitory, for the season, as in New Bedford,
-usually lasts only three weeks. Possibly $14,000 is invested in this way
-in boats and gear.</p>
-
-<p>In a good season as high as 2,000 gallons have been shipped in a
-week. The average season hardly produces this amount in the whole
-three weeks. In the season of 1907-08, 1,300 gallons were shipped.
-Some years ago the starfish was a source of damage to the fishery, but
-of late years it has attracted little notice.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>We find the following account of the scallop fishery of Fairhaven
-written by A. Howard Clark in 1879:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>Ten boats took 2,100 bushels of scallops in 1880. Fourteen men with 10
-boats dredge for scallops from the middle of October to the middle of
-January. Great quantities are found in the Acushnet River, as well as
-along the western shore of the bay. A small dredge, holding about a
-bushel, is used. It is made with an oval-shaped iron frame, 3&frac12; feet in
-length. Wire netting is used in the front part and twine at the back.
-Small sail boats, each with two men, fish with from one to twelve of these
-dredges in tow, sailing with just enough sheet to allow a slow headway. As
-soon as a dredge is filled, the men "luff up," haul in, empty, and go on.
-These little boats take from 10 to 75 bushels a day. If the breeze be
-unfavorable, one man takes the oars while the other tends the dredges.</p></div>
-
-<p>The amount of production at the present time is about the same,
-or even more, than the figures given for 1879. In all other respects
-the industry has changed. Five times as many men now work at the
-business, while more boats and capital are invested. This looks as if
-the industry had improved. The industry as regards the methods of
-capture has improved, but the actual production has remained the same.
-Now the season lasts barely three weeks, whereas twenty-five years ago
-with few men it lasted four months.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Fall River District.</i></h3>
-
-<p>No scallop fishery exists in these waters at the present time. In
-1879, 800 gallons were taken from this region. This furnishes an excellent
-illustration of the total decline of the scallop fishery in certain
-localities.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Falmouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The town of Falmouth cannot be said to support any scallop industry
-of importance. Each year in Squeteague Pond, Wild Harbor, North
-Falmouth and in West Falmouth harbor a few scallops can be found;
-but these are used only for limited local consumption, and usually are
-very scarce. Scallops are occasionally present in small quantities in
-Waquoit Bay.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Harwich.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The scallop territory of Harwich covers an extensive area on the
-south side of the town, and in some places extends for a distance of
-from 2 to 3 miles out from shore. Usually the scallops are found, as
-in the last season (1907-08), outside the bar, at a distance of 3 miles
-from shore, where they can be taken only by dredging from sail or
-power boats. The intervening body of water sometimes contains a few
-scallops in a quantity to make a commercial fishery. The total area
-of the scallop grounds is about 3,200 acres. The bottom is mostly
-sandy, with patches of eel grass.</p>
-
-<p>All the scallops are caught by dredging, as the water is too deep for<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span>
-any other method. Twelve men were engaged in the fishery during the
-1907-08 season. The boats, 7 in number, consisted of 3 power and
-4 sail; 5 were manned by 2 men, 2 were sailed singly. The dredges
-used here are the same style as the Chatham dredge.</p>
-
-<p>The 1907-08 production was 2,170 gallons, valued at $2,843. The
-scallops were shipped to the Boston and New York markets, the greater
-part being shipped to New York, at an average price of $1.30 per
-gallon. The scallops taken in 1907-08 were large, opening 3&frac12; quarts
-to the bushel.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,350</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of gear,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">280</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$3,030</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>For the last two years there has been practically no scallop fishery.
-The 1904-05 season was the last successful season, when the large bed
-of scallops was found off Dennis. The 1907-08 season, however, has
-been fairly good, and it is thought that the following year may be as
-successful.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Marion.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Marion was included in the general revival of the scallop fishery
-which came to Buzzards Bay during the past season of 1907-08, and
-for the first time in eight years has had a successful scallop season.</p>
-
-<p>The scallop grounds of the town extend over an area of 1,500 acres,
-situated on both sides of Great Neck, and extending from the Wareham
-line to Aucoot Cove.</p>
-
-<p>All scalloping is done by dredging. The fishery can be divided into
-two classes: (1) the boat fishery; (2) the skiff fishery. Under the
-first class comes the cat boat and sloop, carrying six dredges; while
-the second class consists of the small sail skiffs, with one dredge. The
-skiff scalloper rows or sails, as the wind permits, and with his one
-dredge makes an average catch of 3 bushels per day. Forty-four men,
-using 16 sail and power boats and 24 skiffs are engaged in the fishery.
-The business likewise requires the services of nearly 24 openers.</p>
-
-<p>About two-thirds of the dredges are of the "scraper" type, with
-chain netting; the rest "sliders," with loose blades. A very few
-"roller" or "lead" dredges are used.</p>
-
-<p>The production for 1907-08 was 7,000 gallons, valued at $9,170.
-The scallops were mostly sent to the New Bedford market. The scallops
-are of two sizes: the smaller, which are taken in the shallow water,
-open only 2&frac12; quarts per bushel, while in the deeper water the larger
-scallops yield about 3&frac12; quarts. The rest of the body of the scallop,
-after the removal of the eye, is saved for bait at Marion, the scalloper
-receiving 30 cents per bucket.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of gear,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">580</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$6,130</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>The three towns of Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester have common
-fishery rights, as all three were included in the original town of Rochester.
-In 1852 Marion became an independent town, and in 1857 Mattapoisett
-was likewise separated from Rochester. Until 1893 Marion and
-Mattapoisett had separate fishery rights, Rochester having mutual rights
-with both. Since then the fishery of these towns has been common to all
-three. Every scalloper is required to have a permit, the boatmen paying
-$2, the skiff scallopers $1, respectively.</p>
-
-<p>The scallop industry supplanted the waning oyster industry at Marion
-some twelve years ago, and for a time it flourished greatly. The abundance
-of scallops and extent of the grounds furnish excellent scalloping.
-After a few very successful years the industry suddenly died out and
-became practically extinct. The direct cause is claimed by the scallopers
-to have been the starfish, which came in the harbor in great
-abundance at the time of the decline of the industry. Up to this
-season but little scalloping had been done for several years, and not
-a single permit was issued for the season of 1906-07.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Mashpee.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The scallop territory of Mashpee lies in the Popponesset River and
-Bay, comprising at most 200 acres. For the last six years there has
-been no scallop industry in the town. A few scallops are occasionally
-taken for home consumption.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Mattapoisett.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The scallop territory of Mattapoisett, comprising an area of 1,200
-acres, much of which is open and exposed, is in general confined to the
-following localities: Nasketucket Bay, Brant Bay, Brant Island Cove,
-Mattapoisett harbor, Pine Neck Cove and Aucoot Cove. The location
-and extent of these grounds are indicated on Map 8.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">22</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sail,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">13</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Power,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">19</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Boats, how manned:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Single,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">16</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Double,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></div>
-
-<p>Dredging is the only method of scalloping used in Mattapoisett.
-Small cat boats and a few power boats are employed in the fishery.
-The "roller" dredge is the most popular style with the Mattapoisett
-scallopers, who claim that on the uneven bottom this dredge is the most
-successful. This town is the only locality in the State where this kind
-of dredge is used. The cost of a dredge completely rigged with rope,
-which is often 15 fathoms long, is $4.50, and 8 to 10 dredges are used
-for each boat.</p>
-
-<p>During the 1907-08 season the production was 5,000 gallons, valued
-at $6,550. These were mostly marketed at New Bedford, where they
-were purchased unsoaked by the New Bedford Fish Company. At the
-first part of the season it was not uncommon for a boat to catch 25
-bushels per day, but as the season progressed the size of the catch
-gradually diminished. The scallops were large, opening 3 quarts to
-the bushel.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$6,900</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of gear,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">760</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$7,660</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>The scallop industry at Mattapoisett, though once important, was
-extinct for several years. The present season has shown a revival, and
-the industry has again assumed a commercial value.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Nantucket.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Nantucket is one of the leading towns of the State in the scallop
-fishery. The grounds lie both in Nantucket harbor and in Maddequet
-harbor on the west end of the island. The former of these is the larger
-and more important, as the fishery is near the town. When the
-scallops become scarce in Nantucket harbor, the scallopers adjourn
-to the fresher beds of Maddequet. Nantucket harbor contains approximately
-3,000 acres of scallop territory; Maddequet and Muskeget, 1,500
-acres.</p>
-
-<p>Practically all the scalloping is done by dredging from sail boats,
-employing about 99 men in the fishery. The dredges are of the "slider"
-and the "scraper" types, the iron frames of which cost $1.50 and the
-netting bags 30 cents. From 6 to 10 of these are used per boat, and
-are dragged by 7 fathoms of 15-thread rope. Five regular openers are
-hired, who receive from 20 to 25 cents per gallon, according to the size
-of the scallops. A few scallops are taken in the shallow water by
-the dory fishermen with "pushers," which are locally known as "scoops."
-These differ from the Cape Cod "pusher," being more rounded and
-smaller in size.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[Pg 110]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Power,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sail,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">37</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Boats, how manned:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Single,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Double,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">32</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Single dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>In 1906-07 the production was 9,820 gallons, valued at $12,875.</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th>1907-08.<a name="FNanchor_14_14" id="FNanchor_14_14"></a><a href="#Footnote_14_14" class="fnanchor">[14]</a></th>
-    <th>Gallons.</th>
-    <th>Price per Gallon.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>October,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,639</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1.25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,298.75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>November,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,160</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,160.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>December,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,430</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,430.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>January,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,910</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8,865.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>February</td>
-    <td class="tdr">960</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.00</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,920.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>March,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,146</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,865.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">20,245</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$1.31</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$26,538.75</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>Shipments were made by express to New York and Boston, the
-charges to New York being 95 cents, to Boston 55 cents per keg. The
-greater part was shipped to New York market. The scallops were
-shipped mostly in 7-gallon kegs, which cost 33 cents apiece. About
-30 New York and 20 Boston firms receive shipments from the Nantucket
-scallopers.</p>
-
-<p>Two kinds of scallops, the large "channel" and the small or "eel
-grass," are obtained. The small scallops are more numerous than the
-large, but are naturally less desirable.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$4,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">9,250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of gear,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">700</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$14,450</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>Of late years the scallopers have taken an interest in protecting the
-scallop. Many scallopers when fishing in shallow water "cull out"
-the small "seed" scallops, and, instead of returning them to the shallow
-water, transplant them to the deep water of the channel, where they<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span>
-are not only protected in case of severe winter, but produce a larger
-scallop the following year. This is the only attempt at protecting
-the scallop ever made in Massachusetts, and shows how important the
-industry is to the town.</p>
-
-<p>For the two seasons previous to 1907-08 every scalloper was required
-to have a license. In 1905-06 the price was 50 cents, while the following
-year, 1906-07, 190 licenses, costing $1 each, were taken out. No
-licenses were required in 1907-08. Special by-laws, either limiting
-the catch or enforcing a close season to meet the demands of the fishery,
-are made by the town each year.</p>
-
-<p>Scallops have been always plentiful, but fifty-five years ago they
-were not caught, as they were considered poisonous. The present industry
-started in 1883, and since that time, in spite of its ups and
-downs, it has remained a constant source of revenue to the island.
-Notwithstanding a scarcity of scallops, the high prices of 1905-06
-enabled the fishermen to have a fairly successful season. Both the
-1906-07 and the 1907-08 seasons have been very prosperous, as scallops
-have been plentiful.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>New Bedford.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The scallop industry at New Bedford has been in existence since
-about 1870, and has furnished a livelihood for an average of 15 men
-ever since. Of late years the industry has shown a marked decline.</p>
-
-<p>In 1879 A. Howard Clark says:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>Scallops are plentiful in the Acushnet River, and large quantities are
-taken with dredges from October through the winter. The business of late
-years has greatly increased.</p></div>
-
-<p>About the same time Ernest Ingersoll also writes:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>In the Acushnet River and all along the western shore of Buzzards Bay
-these little mollusks abound, and their catching has come to be of considerable
-importance in that locality. Mr. W. A. Wilcox, who sends me
-notes on the subject, says that it is only eighteen years ago that a fisherman
-of Fairhaven (opposite New Bedford) was unable to sell 5 gallons
-that he had caught. But the taste has been acquired, and a local market
-has grown up to important proportions, so that in 1880 14 men and 10
-small boats (dories) were dredging for scallops in Buzzards Bay from
-the middle of October to the middle of January. Mr. Wilcox says: "These
-small boats will take from 10 to 75 bushels a day." These men are not
-willing to work every day, however, since the tautog and other fishing calls
-their attention, and there is danger of overstocking the market. It therefore
-happens that the total catch reported for both New Bedford and
-Fairhaven men will not exceed 6,400 gallons, valued at $3,864, 60 cents
-being a fair price in this and the Boston market. The value of the investment
-devoted to this business at Fairhaven is about $120.</p></div>
-
-<p>The scallop industry of 1907 cannot be compared with that of former
-years. The amount of scallops taken is not one-third of the former<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span>
-production. More men are engaged in the business than twenty-five
-years ago, but the beds are raked clean in a shorter time. The annual
-yield has sadly fallen off, in spite of improved methods of capture and
-increased number of fishermen. This decline cannot here be attributed
-to either of the natural enemies of the scallop, as neither the starfish
-nor oyster drill are abundant. Severe climatic conditions and overfishing
-by man are the direct causes of this decline.</p>
-
-<p>The scallop area of New Bedford comprises approximately 400 acres,
-principally in the Acushnet River and in Clark's Cove.</p>
-
-<p>In 1906-07, 38 licenses were issued by the city for scalloping. This
-is a marked decrease over former years. Probably not all these men
-fish regularly. In the last few years the season has been rather short,
-lasting between three and four weeks, as the scallops were practically
-all caught in that time.</p>
-
-<p>The capital required for the business, consisting of cat boats, skiffs,
-dredges, shanties, etc., amounts to about $5,600; but this is merely
-transient, and is only employed for three or four weeks, and then devoted
-to other fisheries.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Annual Production.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th><span class="smcap">Year.</span></th>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Gallons.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1905-06,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1906-07,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1907-08,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">700</td>
-    <td class="tdr">700</td>
-    <td class="tdr">917</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>All scalloping is done by dredging from either cat boats or dories.
-Since 1879 improvements have been made, and cat boats instead of
-dories, each manned by one man with six dredges, now do the work
-once wholly performed, as Ingersoll says, by dories. All the scalloping
-takes place in deep water.</p>
-
-<p>When the law of 1905 made the Acushnet River and Clark's Cove
-forbidden shellfish territory, because of the sewage pollution of the
-harbor, the capture of scallops in season was still allowed. This was
-based on the principle that there is no danger in eating the clean
-"eye" of the scallop, although as a matter of fact there is actual
-danger of typhoid infection to those handling anything from sewage-polluted
-waters.</p>
-
-<p>The following notes were made Nov. 21, 1905, upon the fishery of that
-year:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>At the opening of the season a bed of scallops was discovered just
-outside the harbor beyond the light. Twenty-five boats set to work
-immediately, but there was not a sufficient supply of scallops to keep
-them long employed, and one by one they dropped out, until by November
-21 only two or three boats were still engaged in the fishery.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The scallops of this year were of large size, 2&frac12; to 2&frac34; inches, and
-turned out a gallon of "eyes" per bushel,&mdash;an excellent yield, as the
-average scallops only shuck out 2&frac12; to 3 quarts to a bushel of shells.
-If a man could obtain a gallon per day by November 21 he was lucky,
-and owing to the high retail price, he made a fair day's wages.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Orleans.</i></h3>
-
-<p>On the flats about &frac12; to 1 mile from the west shore scallops are
-occasionally found. Six years ago there was a fairly good season, but
-since that time there have been very few scallops, and these are taken
-only for home consumption.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Provincetown.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Scallops are obtained on the flats in the east bend of the harbor
-toward the Truro shore, where they are blown by a southwest wind.
-Evidently there must be a bed of scallops in the deep water from
-which the scallops are washed on the flats. In 1905-06 from 2 to 6
-men were engaged in picking up these scallops and retailing them for
-home trade. About 1894 or 1895 scallops were numerous, and it was
-not uncommon for a man to pick up 5 bushels on the flats at one tide.
-Since 1900 but few scallops have been found.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Tisbury.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The scalloping grounds of Tisbury are in the harbor at Vineyard
-Haven. Only Vineyard Haven fishermen make a business of scalloping
-here. The scallop grounds comprise an area of 800 acres.</p>
-
-<p>Most of the scallops are obtained by dredging from cat boats, which
-are nearly all equipped with power. With two exceptions the boats
-are singly manned. Fourteen men go in 8 boats, using from six to
-eight dredges per boat. Six men scallop in skiffs, using one dredge.
-The dredges are similar to those used at Edgartown.</p>
-
-<p>During the season of 1907-08, 3,000 gallons of scallops, valued at
-$3,930 were captured. The fishermen ship chiefly to the New York
-market. The scallops are of an exceptionally large size, opening, it
-is said, 4 quarts to the bushel. The proportionate size of the "eye"
-to the shell is much greater than with the ordinary scallop.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">90</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of gear,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$3,390</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>No licenses or permits are required for scalloping. The last season
-(1907-08) is the second season that scallops have been abundant in this
-locality.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span></p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Wareham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Situated at the head of Buzzards Bay, the town of Wareham possesses
-a considerable water area which is suitable for scallops. The
-entire territory, embracing approximately 2,500 acres, extends in a
-southwesterly direction from Peter's Neck, including Onset Bay, to
-Abiel's Buoy and from there to Weweantit River. Scallops are also
-found in the Wareham River. Scallops are mostly found in the deeper
-water, which makes dredging the only profitable method of scalloping
-in this locality.</p>
-
-<p>Scalloping is practically all done by dredging either from sail or
-power boats, only 3 power boats being in use during the 1907-08 season.
-Three men from the village of Wareham use "pushers," but the
-yield from this style of fishing is very small. The style of dredge in
-most common use is the "scraper." This year the price paid for the
-frame of the dredge is $3.50. These dredges have the blade set downward
-firmly, and have a chain bottom of iron rings. The usual number
-per boat is eight, but at Onset any number from four to fourteen are
-used, according to the size of the boat and the individual choice of the
-scalloper. Nearly all the boats are cat boats, averaging in value about
-$300.</p>
-
-<p>About 30 regular openers have been engaged off and on by the scallopers.
-When the catch was large at the first of the season more
-openers were engaged,&mdash;often as many as 3 to a scalloper. One-tenth
-of the number are women.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of scallopers,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">45</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of boats:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Power,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sail,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">33</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">36</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>The quantity of scallops taken during 1907-08 was approximately
-10,000 bushels, valued at $13,100. During October the catch was about
-15 bushels per day for the average scalloper, but later became considerably
-less. The greater part of the scallops were sold to the New
-Bedford Fish Company, the representatives of which bought them
-unsoaked from the fishermen. Certain of the fishermen, however, preferred
-to ship their catch to the Boston and New York markets.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital Invested.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$10,800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of gear,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$19,100</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></div>
-
-<p>No permits were issued in 1907-08. Previous to this year, permits
-were required from every scalloper. Wareham has a fish committee,
-the duty of which is to enforce the fish laws.</p>
-
-<p>The first scalloping started in Wareham in 1879, when several boats
-from New Bedford commenced dredging in Wareham waters. From
-that time the industry rapidly developed, until it assumed considerable
-importance as a winter occupation. Since 1899 the industry has been
-practically dead until the present season of 1907-08. The Wareham
-scallopers to a man attribute this decline to the inroads of the destructive
-starfish. While the scallops have been so exterminated that no
-profitable fishery has been conducted the last seven years, they have
-not been wholly extinct, as a few could be found each year. Lately
-the number has been increasing, until in 1907-08 the season was very
-profitable. In connection with this it is said that the starfish were less
-numerous than usual. The prospects of another good season in 1908-09
-are excellent, as "seed" scallops are said to be plentiful in many places,
-especially in the deep water, which furnishes protection in case of a
-severe winter.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Wellfleet.</i></h3>
-
-<p>At the present time in Wellfleet Bay there is no commercial scallop
-fishery, although scattering scallops are found in various parts of
-the harbor.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Yarmouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The scallop grounds of Yarmouth are on the south side of the town,
-on the flats which border the shore from Bass River to Lewis Bay.
-Part of the waters of Lewis Bay belong to the town of Yarmouth,
-and scallops are found over all this territory. The nature of the bottom
-is the same as at Dennis and Barnstable. The total area of scallop
-territory is estimated at 2,250 acres. The scallop grounds of Dennis
-are open to Yarmouth scallopers.</p>
-
-<p>Both dredges and "pushers" are employed in the scallop fishery of
-the town. The method depends upon the location of the scallops,
-whether in shallow or deep water, as well as the means of the individual
-scallopers. Both the Chatham dredge and the "scraper" are used.
-Forty-one men were engaged in the 1907-08 fishery, using 15 boats and
-ten dories.</p>
-
-<p>The production for 1907-08 was 8,000 gallons, valued at $10,480.
-Scallops were shipped to New York and Boston markets.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of gear,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">475</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$4,425</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></div>
-
-<p>The same laws as were quoted for Dennis, the two towns having
-common fishery rights.</p>
-
-<p>The 1904-05 season was prosperous, as Yarmouth scallopers had the
-privilege of scalloping in the large bed off Dennis. The two following
-years were very poor, and even the last season has not been up to the
-average.</p>
-
-<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_10_10" id="Footnote_10_10"></a><a href="#FNanchor_10_10"><span class="label">[10]</span></a> E. Ingersoll, "The Scallop Fishery," United States Fish Commission report, 1881.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_11_11" id="Footnote_11_11"></a><a href="#FNanchor_11_11"><span class="label">[11]</span></a> United States Department of Agriculture, Farmers' Bulletin 85, 1898.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_12_12" id="Footnote_12_12"></a><a href="#FNanchor_12_12"><span class="label">[12]</span></a> Statistics taken from the United States Fish Commission reports.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_13_13" id="Footnote_13_13"></a><a href="#FNanchor_13_13"><span class="label">[13]</span></a> Licenses.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_14_14" id="Footnote_14_14"></a><a href="#FNanchor_14_14"><span class="label">[14]</span></a> Return of Special Agent William C. Dunham.</p></div></div>
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-
-
-
-<h2><a name="Oyster_Ostrea_Virginiana" id="Oyster_Ostrea_Virginiana"><span class="smcap">Oyster</span> (<i>Ostrea Virginiana</i>).</a></h2>
-
-
-<h3><i>Introduction.</i></h3>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Resolves of 1905, Chapter 73.</span></p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p><i>Resolved</i>, That the commissioners on fisheries and game are hereby
-authorized and directed to make a biological investigation and report as
-to the best methods, conditions and localities for the propagation of oysters
-under the conditions found in Massachusetts waters. The commissioners
-may expend for the purposes of this resolve a sum not exceeding five hundred
-dollars a year for a period of three years.</p></div>
-
-<p>As authorized by the above act, the Commissioners on Fisheries and
-Game have conducted experiments of a biological nature upon the
-oyster. At the start of the investigations, for a proper understanding
-of the various conditions in the different localities, it was necessary to
-make a survey of the oyster industry of the State. Recently this survey
-has been supplemented by sending printed questions to the oystermen,
-and the whole put in the form of a report, which gives an account of
-the industry. This first report on the oyster is merely a broad survey
-of the whole industry of the State, and is preliminary to future reports
-of a more scientific character.</p>
-
-<p><i>The Need of a Survey.</i>&mdash;In 1879 Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, in his "Monograph
-on the Oyster,"<a name="FNanchor_15_15" id="FNanchor_15_15"></a><a href="#Footnote_15_15" class="fnanchor">[15]</a> gave an excellent account of the oyster industry
-of Massachusetts. Since that time no complete account, either statistical
-or biological, has been written. Meanwhile, the oyster industry
-of the State, owing to its steady improvement, has changed in the past
-twenty-eight years, and what was true of 1879 is not true of 1907.
-Not only have localities changed and new areas been opened up, but
-also the whole industry has expanded through the enterprise and business
-ability of the oystermen, and to-day Massachusetts possesses an
-oyster fishery which more than doubles the production of 1879. Thus
-a survey of this fishery, by comparison with that of 1879, shows the
-changes that have taken place, and gives some idea of the growth of
-the industry.</p>
-
-<p>It is hoped that this report will furnish sufficient data to give actual
-knowledge of the conditions of oyster culture in the State, show the
-success of this industry, and indicate what is essential for its future
-improvement. It is necessary, in view of the conflict between the quahaug<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span>
-and oyster fisheries, that the public understand the exact situation,
-and this is possible only through a published account of each industry.</p>
-
-<p><i>Scope of the Report.</i>&mdash;The object of the report is to furnish information
-which will be of value both to the oysterman and to the consumer.
-Primarily the report is for the oysterman, showing the extent of
-the industry in his own locality and in other parts of the coast, where
-perhaps he is unacquainted with the conditions. While exact facts are
-presented for the benefit of the oysterman, this report at the same time
-tries to give a general description of the industry for the consumer, who
-perhaps knows nothing of the oyster except as an article of food.</p>
-
-<p>The first part of the report has been arranged under the following
-headings: (1) the natural oyster beds; (2) results of the survey; (3)
-history of the industry; (4) the oyster laws; (5) the oyster industry;
-(6) general statistics. The second part considers separately the industry
-of each town or section.</p>
-
-<p><i>Methods of Work.</i>&mdash;The statistical figures for the oyster industry
-are reasonably complete as the oyster fishery is on a more systematic
-business basis than any of the other shellfisheries. Nevertheless, on certain
-points it was impossible to obtain absolutely correct information, as,
-for instance, the area of grants, since no survey is made of the grants
-when leased, and the oysterman himself does not know the exact area of
-his granted territory. Thus an estimate has to be made by each oysterman
-of his granted area, and, while this is approximately correct, it
-cannot be considered as absolutely true.</p>
-
-<p>The statistical returns were compiled by sending to each oysterman
-in the State a blank form, containing a series of questions, with the
-request that he would co-operate with the commission by answering.
-Many oystermen responded with complete answers, thus permitting the
-commission, through their aid, to publish an extended report on the
-oyster fishery. However, it was found impossible to obtain complete
-information from several towns, as a number of oystermen neglected
-to return these blanks. The return of each oysterman is filed at the
-office of the Commission on Fisheries and Game, and only the total
-for each town is published, thus treating as confidential the private
-business of individuals. The commission expresses a most cordial
-acknowledgment to the oystermen for their co-operation in this matter.</p>
-
-<p>The other parts of the report were obtained by personal inspection
-of the oyster beds as to their biological conditions, by means of town
-records, and interviews with the oystermen. Town records, which
-should have given the location, number and areas of the grants, proved
-nearly worthless in most cases, owing to incompleteness, loss and confusion.
-Owing to the frequent change in selectmen, little if any information
-could be obtained from this source, as the new selectmen were
-generally unacquainted with the work of their predecessors concerning
-the leasing of oyster grants. The grants were often incompletely described,
-bounds uncertain and the acreage unknown.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The interviews with the individual oystermen furnished more and
-better information both in regard to the present condition of the industry
-and the general history for each town.</p>
-
-<p>Personal inspection of the oyster grounds was made, the biological
-conditions noted and the area of the grants plotted on the accompanying
-maps. Not all these grants are worked, and parts of the cultivated
-grants are unfit for oyster raising. The charted area includes all
-grants, cultivated or uncultivated.</p>
-
-<p>In reviewing the history of the industry, information was obtained
-from town records, oystermen who had been in the business for years,
-and various newspapers and periodicals. For a comparison of the
-oyster industry of 1879 and 1907 the excellent report of Mr. Ernest
-Ingersoll upon the "Oyster Industry," published in the tenth census
-of the United States, was used for comparison, and in many places
-directly quoted. Were it not for this work and the report of A. Howard
-Clark on the "Fisheries of Massachusetts," it would have been impossible
-to draw any reliable comparison with the oyster industry of
-twenty-eight years ago.</p>
-
-<p><i>Massachusetts as an Oyster State.</i>&mdash;Massachusetts is perhaps not so
-well adapted for oyster culture as it is for clam or quahaug farming,
-and does not equal other seacoast States in the extent of its oyster
-industry. Nevertheless, the oyster industry is on a much firmer footing
-than the other shellfisheries, and is an important adjunct to the wealth
-of the southern Massachusetts towns.</p>
-
-<p>All the oyster grants, except in the towns of Wellfleet, Eastham and
-Orleans, are found south of Cape Cod, as the southern shore of Massachusetts
-alone is adapted for the oyster industry. Along the south side
-of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay the numerous inlets and estuaries
-afford with their brackish water excellent ground for the cultivation of
-this bivalve, and many acres which otherwise would be barren have been
-made productive through the grant system; while the shores of Massachusetts
-which adjoin the waters of Narragansett Bay possess, in the
-Taunton, Cole and Lee's rivers, excellent waters for the growth of seed
-oysters. Thus Massachusetts possesses good facilities for oyster culture,
-which are capable of a far greater expansion than present conditions
-indicate.</p>
-
-<p>However well developed the oyster industry is at present, there is
-plenty of room for improvement. It is the consensus of opinion among
-the oystermen that the business is developing every year,&mdash;a fact
-that speaks well for its future. Improvements in the oyster industry
-can arise in three ways: (1) investment of more capital in the business,
-which will allow more extensive operations; (2) more intensive cultivation
-of the present grounds; (3) the opening of new areas for oyster
-culture and the utilization of waters at present useless. Everything
-indicates that the oyster industry will take advantage of opportunities
-as soon as they are given.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span></p>
-
-<p><i>The Oyster Grant System.</i>&mdash;Oyster culture in Massachusetts is the
-logical result of the failure of the natural oyster beds. When these
-beds became destitute of oysters through overfishing, it was necessary
-that means should be used to perpetuate the stock. Oyster planting
-had been successfully carried on in the States south of Massachusetts,
-and it was merely a question of experiment whether the oyster would
-respond to the same methods in Massachusetts. Thus oyster culture
-arose in this State at first as an experiment, later as an established
-industry. Grants were given, as through this way only could oyster
-planting become a success, and the "free fishery" people were forced
-to bow to public opinion, which decreed that grants should be leased.
-Thus oyster grants arose from necessity, as in no other way could
-Massachusetts preserve her oyster supply.</p>
-
-<p>The system of oyster grants and oyster culture, in spite of its many
-failings, has shown what can be done to preserve and increase a natural
-shellfish industry if the proper methods are used. Planted beds have
-furnished enough spawn to maintain the natural beds, which would
-have long ago been depleted through the inroads of overfishing. They
-have preserved a fishery which would have disappeared almost completely,
-and established a better and more extensive industry, not only
-benefiting the oystermen, but also those indirectly associated with the
-business, such as teamsters, transportation companies, etc.</p>
-
-<p>In the following report various abuses of the present system of
-oyster culture will be enumerated, and it is only necessary to state
-that many evils must be eliminated before the oyster industry can
-obtain its maximum expansion. Such evils as town politics, disputes
-with quahaugers, etc., will have to be remedied. The greatest obstacle
-which now checks the oyster industry is the <i>lack of protection</i>. Until
-complete protection is given to the oysterman, the industry will never
-attain to its full development. The removal of the abuses by the organization
-of the oyster industry of the State under a unified system
-is the best way to secure proper regulation and improvement of the
-oyster industry.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>The Natural Oyster Beds.</i></h3>
-
-<p>While there has been much discussion whether oysters were ever
-native in Massachusetts Bay, or merely the result of southern "plants,"
-the consensus of opinion is that there were natural oyster beds in
-existence when the first settlers came to this coast. Not only do historical
-records show this, but the remains of the natural beds at the
-present time indicate that oysters have existed for centuries. Thus
-there seems to be no reasonable doubt that the northern coast of Massachusetts,
-as well as the southern, once possessed extensive natural oyster
-beds.</p>
-
-<p>I. <i>Location of the Natural Oyster Beds.</i>&mdash;(1) <i>Parker River.</i>&mdash;A
-natural bed of oysters once existed in the Parker River at Newbury,
-and even fifty years ago it is said that oysters could still be obtained<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span>
-from this natural bed. About 1882 the experiment of fattening oysters
-for market was made, and many bushels were bedded on the flats during
-the summer by an oyster firm at Newbury. These oysters not only
-grew well, but threw considerable spawn, furnishing a good set in the
-river. Oyster raising was then tried, but the result was a failure, as
-the oysters which were planted in too shallow water were killed during
-the winter.</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>Mystic and Charles Rivers.</i>&mdash;Mr. Ernest Ingersoll states that:
-"In 1634 William Wood, in his 'New England's Prospect,' speaks of
-'a great oyster bank' in Charles River, and another in the 'Mysticke,'
-each of which obstructed the navigation of its river." He locates the
-Charles River beds as either off Cambridgeport or near the site of the
-Boston Museum of Natural History.</p>
-
-<p>Dr. G. W. Field, chairman of this department, in his report in 1902
-as biologist to the Charles River Dam Commission, makes the following
-statement about the Charles River oyster:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>The oyster (<i>Ostrea</i>), formerly abundant, is no longer living, and, from
-what indications I have been able to gather, probably became extinct
-within twenty-five years. Their dead shells are brought up by dredging
-operations. Their peculiar elongated shape is the result of growth being
-concentrated at the upper end, as a result of their closely crowded position
-in the bed, or of an attempt to keep the opening above the accumulating
-mud, and thus avoid being smothered. The fact that there are few signs of
-small "seed oysters" tends to prove that the bottom was so muddy that
-they found few places to "set." From the elongated shape of the shells
-may be inferred that the amount of sedimentation going on in that particular
-region was rapid during the life of the group of oysters whose shells are
-to be found in quantities in the material dredged between Harvard and
-Brookline bridges. This sediment need not necessarily have been sand or
-clay, or any material which is persistent, but it might have been flocculent
-organic d&eacute;bris, which remained but a short time and left little or no evidence,
-beyond its effect upon the shape of the oyster shells.</p></div>
-
-<p>In the above account Dr. Field not only locates the original oyster
-beds of Charles River, but also furnishes evidence which indicates the
-cause of their extinction, <i>i.e.</i>, the d&eacute;bris and sewage, or waste poisonous,
-polluting materials, of a large city emptying into the river. This is not
-only true of the Charles, but also of the Mystic and Taunton river beds,
-which have been destroyed in like manner.</p>
-
-<p>(3) Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, in his report on the "Oyster Industry of
-the United States," in 1880 mentions that natural oyster beds were once
-at Weymouth, Ipswich, Barnstable and Rowley. Nothing further can
-be learned concerning these places.</p>
-
-<p>(4) <i>Wellfleet.</i>&mdash;An extensive oyster bed was found at Wellfleet Bay,
-which not only furnished a sufficient supply for the first settlers, but
-enabled the inhabitants of Wellfleet to carry on a considerable trade by
-shipping them to Boston and other ports, until it was finally destroyed<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span>
-in 1775. Its destruction was due to overfishing and the utilization of
-the shells for lime, which soon destroyed the natural bar.</p>
-
-<p>(5) <i>Chatham.</i>&mdash;A natural oyster bed once existed in the Oyster
-Pond, but no trace of it now remains.</p>
-
-<p>(6) <i>Harwich.</i>&mdash;Herring River in the town of Harwich still possesses
-the remnants of a natural oyster bed, as occasionally a few
-oysters can be gathered along its banks. This bed once comprised a
-stretch of three-quarters of a mile along the river.</p>
-
-<p>(7) <i>Yarmouth.</i>&mdash;The town of Yarmouth once possessed a natural
-oyster bed in Mill Creek, but this was fished out by 1895 and then
-granted for oyster culture.</p>
-
-<p>(8) <i>Barnstable.</i>&mdash;There is a natural oyster bed at Centerville.</p>
-
-<p>(9) <i>Martha's Vineyard.</i>&mdash;Native oysters are said to have existed in
-the brackish ponds on the south side of the island; a few are found
-there at the present time.</p>
-
-<p>(10) <i>Falmouth.</i>&mdash;A few native oysters are to be found in the salt
-ponds on the south coast of the town. In Squeteague Pond and Wild
-Harbor oysters were once native.</p>
-
-<p>Buzzards Bay comprises the best natural oyster territory in the
-State. At the present time the natural oyster industry has been supplanted
-by oyster culture, which gradually took the place of the declining
-natural oyster fishery. While natural beds still exist to some
-extent, they are, to all practical purposes, extinct. Where once there
-were extensive areas, now there are only scattering oysters. In many
-cases the beds have been so completely destroyed that the ground has
-been granted for oyster culture. That Buzzards Bay is a "natural set
-area" can be readily seen by the amount of "seed oysters" that are
-caught by the oystermen who plant shells for the purpose.</p>
-
-<p>(11) <i>Bourne.</i>&mdash;(<i>a</i>) <i>Red Brook Harbor.</i>&mdash;In 1879 Ernest Ingersoll
-says:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>On the southern shore of this harbor, about a mile from its head, exists
-a living bed of natural oysters some 7 acres in extent, under the protection
-of the town for public benefit. The oysters growing on it are reported to
-be large, but not of extraordinary size, scalloped and roundish, differing in
-no respect from aged oysters grown after transplanting to another part of
-the bay.</p></div>
-
-<p>In 1907 this natural bed had been reduced to 3 acres, and the unproductive
-part granted.</p>
-
-<p>(<i>b</i>) <i>Barlow River.</i>&mdash;In 1873 an act was passed to protect the oyster
-fishery in Barlow River, by ordering a closed season of one and one-half
-years. The passage of this act shows that a natural bed of importance
-existed in this river, and that even in 1873 the effects of overfishing
-were apparent. At the present time there are but few native
-oysters in Barlow River, or, as it is sometimes called, Pocasset River.</p>
-
-<p>(<i>c</i>) <i>Monument River.</i>&mdash;A natural bed also existed in Monument<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span>
-River, which became so depleted that about 1875 the river was surveyed
-and divided into small grants.</p>
-
-<p>(12) <i>Wareham.</i>&mdash;(<i>a</i>) <i>Wareham River.</i>&mdash;Natural oysters are found
-in the Wareham or Agawam River, which has been one of the most
-productive natural beds in the State, and still furnishes a scant living
-for two or three men. In view of the overfishing, it is surprising that
-any of the natural oysters have survived, except on reserved areas of
-the town, which are opened every three or seven years for the capture
-of "seed."</p>
-
-<p>(<i>b</i>) <i>Weweantit River.</i>&mdash;The Weweantit River, which lies between
-the towns of Wareham and Marion, has a larger and better natural
-oyster bed than the Wareham River, but this has also been depleted by
-overfishing, except on the reserved areas of the town of Wareham.</p>
-
-<p>(13) <i>Dartmouth.</i>&mdash;A few oysters are found in Slocum's River.</p>
-
-<p>(14) <i>Westport.</i>&mdash;Westport River has also a few oysters.</p>
-
-<p>(15) <i>Taunton River, Coles River and Lee's River.</i>&mdash;These rivers
-once had extensive beds of natural oysters, but now are wholly devoted
-to growing oysters. Old records and laws show how important these
-natural beds were, and also furnish an excellent illustration of the
-effects of overfishing combined with water pollution from manufacturing
-sources.</p>
-
-<p>II. <i>Decline of the Natural Oyster Beds.</i>&mdash;The above-mentioned
-examples furnish abundant proof that the natural oyster beds of the
-State, which once were sufficient to supply the wants of our forefathers,
-have declined to such an extent that at the present time but few
-natural oysters are tonged for the market. Where there were formerly
-many acres of excellent native oysters, to-day there is scarcely an acre
-that can be called good oyster fishing, except in a few cases where the
-towns maintain a nearly perpetual closed season. No proof of the
-decline is necessary; it is an established fact.</p>
-
-<p>There have been two principal causes which have ruined the natural
-oyster beds; besides these two,&mdash;(1) water pollution and (2) overfishing,&mdash;certain
-geographical changes have doubtless occurred, which
-have accelerated the decline.</p>
-
-<p>(1) <i>Water Pollution.</i>&mdash;The effect of water pollution through the
-sediment deposited by sewage and manufacturing waste on the natural
-oyster beds is well illustrated by the destruction of the Charles River
-beds. This is also shown in a less degree in the Taunton River.</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>Overfishing.</i>&mdash;The primary cause of the decline of the natural
-oyster beds was overfishing. This is particularly true of the beds
-south of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay, which were of large extent,
-and unpolluted by manufacturing wastes or sewage. This overfishing
-has not been the result of the last few years, since records show that
-as early as 1824 Harwich passed an act to preserve the oyster fishery
-of the town; and that Sandwich, in the part which is now the town
-of Bourne, in 1832 passed regulations protecting the natural oyster<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span>
-fishery in Monument River; while at Wellfleet the natural oyster bed
-was completely exterminated by the year 1775. Overfishing has affected
-the natural beds in several ways, all of which have worked toward the
-general decline of the native oyster.</p>
-
-<p>(<i>a</i>) The first settlers took the large oysters from the natural beds,
-which under normal conditions had all they could do to keep up the
-supply. In this way the beds were deprived of the spawning oysters,
-with the result that in spite of the closed seasons, which gave little if
-any benefit, a gradual decline set in.</p>
-
-<p>(<i>b</i>) At the same time that the oysters were being taken from the
-beds, the early oystermen through ignorance were making an economic
-blunder by not returning the shells to the waters. The oyster shells
-furnish naturally the best surfaces for the collection of "seed," as
-spat will set only on clean surfaces. By taking the large oysters and
-with them the shells and other d&eacute;bris from the bed, the natural oyster
-bars were destroyed and less space given for the spat to catch. So
-both the taking of the large oysters in excessive amounts and the destruction
-of the natural spat collectors, either for lime, as was done at
-Wellfleet, or for other purposes, were sufficient in the early days to
-cause the decline of the natural oyster beds.</p>
-
-<p>(<i>c</i>) In more recent times the destruction of the natural beds has
-been hastened by the taking of the small oysters. This practice was due
-to two reasons: (1) the supply of large oysters was exhausted; (2)
-oyster culture became important, and the natural beds were raked clean
-for "seed" which the oystermen obtained for planting on their grants.
-Thus the oyster grant system has been the chief cause of the destruction
-of the natural beds in the last forty years. It was only when the
-natural beds failed that grants were given, and so oyster culture cannot
-be considered the primary cause of the destruction of the natural
-beds, but only a later agency in their total extermination. The natural
-beds in Buzzards Bay all bear testimony to these three means of overfishing,
-and in recent years particularly to the last.</p>
-
-<p>It has been a most fortunate thing for Massachusetts that the oyster
-grant system was inaugurated as soon as the decline of the natural
-fishery became manifest, else at the present time there would be no
-oysters in the State, for it is recognized that the present natural beds
-are perpetuated by the spawn which comes from the various oyster
-grants. Foresight has indeed provided an excellent oyster industry,
-which is rapidly improving. It is only necessary to apply similar
-methods of culture to the other shellfish industries of the State to insure
-their future also; otherwise the decline, which is following the same
-steps as the destruction of the natural oyster beds, will lead to the commercial
-extinction of these valuable fisheries.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span></p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Results of the Survey.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The survey of the oyster industry has shown several interesting facts
-which should be brought to the attention of the fishermen and consumers.
-In the first place, it has shown that the oyster fishery is a
-larger and more important industry than it has been commonly considered,
-and that the welfare of the shore fisheries of southern Massachusetts
-depends upon its maintenance. Secondly, the oyster industry
-is to-day in a position where it cannot reach its full development for
-the reason merely that the present laws do not encourage the expansion
-of the industry. Thirdly, the oyster industry is trammeled by certain
-abuses, chiefly of a legal nature, which hinder its development, and upon
-the abolition of which depends its future success. Fourthly, the oyster
-industry under present conditions encroaches to some extent upon the
-other shellfish rights, especially in relation to the quahaug fishery, and
-has caused much jealous feeling; but if properly regulated there should
-be room for both industries.</p>
-
-<p>In order to obtain the opinion of the oystermen concerning the
-present abuses of the oyster industry, and how these could be best
-remedied, the following question was asked of the individual planters:
-"What measures or laws would, in your opinion, be best adapted for
-the improvement of the oyster industry?" Although many neglected
-to answer this question, forty-three opinions were offered, dealing with
-the problems which the oystermen consider as needing attention and
-upon which the welfare of the industry depends. These answers have
-been arranged in tabular form, showing the number of oystermen who
-advocate certain measures.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Measures suggested.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Present laws satisfactory,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Direct State control of oyster industry,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Town control, with right of appeal to the department of fisheries and game,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Longer length of lease,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>More certainty of re-leasing grants if improved,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>More protection for industry,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Right to grow all kinds of shellfish,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>More ground for cultivation,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>State to forbid marketing of oysters from contaminated waters,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Provision for destruction of starfish,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">43</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>While these answers show a diversity of ideas, about 75 per cent. urge
-that something be done to improve the present system, and, while many
-are in favor of placing the industry under State control, the majority is
-definitely of the opinion that the present system of town control is<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span>
-proving a serious drawback to the oyster industry. The best interests
-of the oysterman and the consumer demand a better method of regulation
-of this industry. As long as town politics, partiality and carelessness
-enter into the leasing of oyster grants, and thus deprive certain
-people of their rights, it is safe to say that the oyster industry can
-never get beyond its present state of development. One solution of the
-difficulty might be full State control of leasing the grounds for the
-oyster industry. This is possibly too radical a step at present, and
-the system can perhaps be so adjusted as to remedy its defects without
-taking the control of the fishery entirely away from the hands of the
-town. Another solution is to continue the system of town control, but
-to have a State commission which would act as a board of appeal for
-all who felt aggrieved at the judgment of the selectmen.</p>
-
-<p>The advisability of ten-year grants has caused much comment among
-the oystermen. Practically all grants are now given for this period
-of time. As a system it is deservedly unpopular, since it does not help
-the quahaug interest, and it checks the development of the oyster industry.
-The oyster business, unlike the other branches of shellfish
-culture, requires a considerable capital. This system of ten-year grants
-operates directly to discourage the outlay of capital. If the oysterman
-were sure of reaping the benefits of his labor and capital, it would be
-to his selfish interest to develop his own grant to its maximum capacity.
-But what far-sighted business man will invest money in a business
-which stands a good chance of being completely "wiped out" in a
-few years? Again, this system makes three years out of the ten practically
-worthless. The oysterman usually "seeds" his grant about three
-years before he expects to reap his harvest; but when his grant has
-run for seven years, it is evident that he will plant no more oysters
-because of the uncertainty of obtaining a second lease, and naturally
-does not desire to invest his labor and money for the benefit of an
-unknown successor.</p>
-
-<p>The remedy for this is not difficult. If a grant were rented annually
-as long as the planter desired to hold it, to be forfeited if not improved
-to a certain standard (to be decided upon), or for non-payment of
-rent, the difficulties above enumerated would disappear. Much of the
-territory now held unimproved would either be brought up to a standard
-of excellence or given over to the quahaugers, and in either case direct
-benefits would result. If legislation were so arranged that any man
-might take, by the payment of a nominal rent, a small piece of ground,
-which he could hold as long as he improved it, the oyster industry could
-be put on a firmer footing; a man confident of enjoying the fruits of
-his labors could thus improve his grant, and, as he acquired skill and
-knowledge, could add other land and ultimately expect to build up a
-successful business.</p>
-
-<p>A third important suggestion relates to the marketing of oysters in
-a sanitary condition. The oyster industry of the State has suffered<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span>
-severely because of the scare resulting from the marketing of oysters
-from contaminated waters. The Cape and Buzzards Bay oysters are
-in general free from all sewage contamination, and should not be considered
-on the same basis as the impure varieties from outside the State.
-Naturally, the Massachusetts oystermen desire that there be some guarantee
-for the purity of the oysters marketed, as their interests suffer
-because this impure stock is often sold under the name of the Cape
-oyster. If laws were passed requiring the inspection and certification
-of marketed oysters in regard to healthful conditions under which they
-have been produced, both the oyster planter and the consumer would
-be benefited.</p>
-
-<p>There is but little doubt that the oyster industry can be still further
-developed by opening waste territory which at this time does not appear
-available, since under existing conditions proper capital cannot
-be induced to enter the business. The oyster industry demands more
-attention than it has hitherto received, and must be considered an important
-asset of the Commonwealth.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>History of the Industry.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Although the oyster laws are the mile-stones which mark the progress
-of the oyster industry, and any consideration of the development
-of these laws naturally gives many historical features, it is nevertheless
-necessary, at the risk of repetition, to give a separate account
-of the history of the oyster fishery. The Massachusetts oyster fishery
-can be divided historically into three distinct periods: (1) the free
-fishing period; (2) the period of bedding southern oysters; (3) the
-period of oyster grants.</p>
-
-<p>(1) <i>The Free Native Fishery (1620-1840).</i>&mdash;In the early colonial
-days the oyster fishery was considered in the same way as the other
-shellfisheries are now looked upon, <i>i.e.</i>, held to be the common property
-of the inhabitants of the Commonwealth. The natural supply was abundant
-enough to meet the needs of all the inhabitants, and for many
-years no signs of decline were manifest. In 1775 the natural beds of
-Wellfleet gave out, furnishing the first record of unmistakable decline.
-From that time there arose an extensive series of protective laws, with
-the one object of preserving the natural supply by limiting the demand.
-This policy of protective laws, though perhaps temporarily beneficial,
-was based on an erroneous principle. It was preventive, but not constructive,
-and did not build up the demolished fishery.</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>Oyster Bedding (1840-70).</i>&mdash;With the decline of the natural
-beds, the practice of bedding southern "plants" became an important
-part of the oyster trade. The southern oysters were bedded on the
-flats in the spring and taken up for market in the fall. Salem, Wellfleet
-and Boston were the leading places in this new phase of the oyster
-industry, and many thousand bushels were annually planted.</p>
-
-<p>(3) <i>Oyster Grants (1870-1908).</i>&mdash;So successful was this summer<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span>
-bedding of southern oysters that experiments were soon made in rearing
-oysters. This proved successful from the start, and within a few years
-the extensive grant system which is now in vogue was inaugurated on
-Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay.</p>
-
-<p>These three methods, although separated by definite periods in which
-each have been the leaders, remain to a greater or less extent at the
-present day. The natural beds are still in existence, and, as at Wareham,
-are opened once in three or seven years, according to the discretion
-of the selectmen, for catching "seed." The summer bedding of
-oysters still continues, as certain planters find it more profitable to
-fatten than to grow oysters, and the oyster grant system is now in full
-operation.</p>
-
-<p>A comparison of the industry of 1907 with that of 1879 shows several
-changes. These changes are for the most part improvements which
-have arisen with the development of the industry. In some cases the
-changes have been detrimental, and a few localities have shown a decline.
-New fields have opened to the oysterman both in new localities
-and through the extension of the present beds. On the whole, there
-has been a great increase in the grant system of oyster culture, while
-the "bedding" of southern "plants," which in 1879 employed many
-men, boats and extensive capital, has practically disappeared. The
-annual production has increased gradually, and for 1906-07 is approximately
-five times as large as in 1879. The following figures, except
-for 1907, are taken from the United States Fish Commission's reports,
-and show the gradual increase in production:&mdash;</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th><span class="smcap">Year.</span></th>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-    <th><span class="smcap">Year.</span></th>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">36,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$41,800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1898,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">101,225</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$156,235</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1887,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">43,183</td>
-    <td class="tdr">64,115</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1902,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">103,386</td>
-    <td class="tdr">133,682</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1888,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">45,631</td>
-    <td class="tdr">66,453</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1907,<a name="FNanchor_16_16" id="FNanchor_16_16"></a><a href="#Footnote_16_16" class="fnanchor">[16]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">161,182</td>
-    <td class="tdr">176,142</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>The Oyster Laws.</i></h3>
-
-<p>In submitting a complete report upon the oyster industry, the oyster
-laws, which have played an important part in the development of the
-fishery, cannot be totally neglected. However, so important a subject
-demands separate investigation, and offers excellent opportunities for
-legal research. Therefore it is not the purpose of this report to give
-more than a brief account of the present oyster laws and their history.</p>
-
-<p>The shellfish laws of Massachusetts constitute the foundation of the
-oyster industry, as they have taken a practically extinct native fishery
-and have built up the present extensive business. So closely are they
-connected with its welfare that the future of this growing industry
-depends upon the proper expansion of these laws to meet the new
-conditions.</p>
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span></p>
-<p>A survey of these oyster laws, with an analysis of their merits and
-defects, is needed. Their defects have brought about the present unsatisfactory
-situation in certain localities, and should be remedied.
-Their merits should be strengthened and amplified, as the basis of
-future expansion. They have come into being from time to time, in
-response to the immediate need of the hour; consequently they have
-no unity, and are, indeed, but imperfectly understood. An insight
-into their perplexing details should bring out many inconsistencies.
-Again, no comprehensive knowledge of the history of the industry is
-possible without a study of the laws. The errors once committed need
-not be repeated to further embarrass the industry, and the lessons
-learned by experience would be well applied to its future development.</p>
-
-<p><i>Protective and Constructive Laws.</i>&mdash;The oyster laws can be divided
-into two classes: (1) protective; and (2) constructive. The early
-laws, which were passed to save the natural supply, were of the first
-class; while the laws establishing the present system of oyster culture
-come under the second heading. The beginnings of all legislative enactment
-arose in the treatment of the natural oyster beds. These beds
-were fast becoming exhausted, when laws were passed to protect their
-important natural resources. This measure was only partially successful.
-It did succeed in preserving the remnant of those old beds from
-destruction, but it was powerless to build up an industry of any extent.
-When it became clearly evident that no possible fostering of native
-resources could supply the growing demands of the market, legislation
-quite logically directed itself toward the artificial propagation of oysters.
-From this step arose a series of problems which long proved baffling,
-and still engross a great deal of public attention. The artificial propagation
-of oysters necessitated the leasing of grants in tidal waters.
-This giving up of public property to private individuals aroused the
-opposition of rival shellfish industries, who saw in this measure a curtailment
-of their resources. Numerous other difficulties of minor significance
-arose from time to time, all demanding attention at the hands
-of the Legislature.</p>
-
-<p>Apart from the general supervision of the oyster industry, there
-have been two other sources of legislative enactment. First, special
-laws have been called for to regulate the fishery in certain waters under
-the oversight of the State Board of Health. Secondly, during the past
-few years the attention of the Legislature has been directed towards
-the development of the oyster fishery as an important asset of the
-Commonwealth, and laws authorizing various experiments, both scientific
-and practical, have been passed in order to devise methods of increasing
-and developing the industry.</p>
-
-<p>I. <i>Protective Laws.</i>&mdash;The history of the oyster laws of Massachusetts
-is a history of the industry itself. The rise and decline of the
-fishery are distinctly traceable in the development of the legal machinery
-which regulates it. From the time of the Pilgrims the oyster<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span>
-beds of the coast had been regarded as inexhaustible mines. The fallacy
-of this view gradually became apparent, as these beds began to be
-depleted through overfishing. As early as 1796 a general law, entitled
-"An act to prevent the destruction of oysters and other shellfish," was
-passed by the Legislature. Prior to 1869 the town of Harwich adopted
-this old law. Shortly after, Swansea followed suit, and restricted the
-exploitation of her native oyster beds in the Lee and Cole rivers. In
-1870 Wellfleet inaugurated an innovation, in the nature of a permit
-to take oysters, which was required of all citizens of the town. The
-idea of this permit was to regulate the fishery, centralize control in
-the hands of the selectmen and add to the income of the town. In
-1873 Sandwich passed a law enforcing a close season on all her native
-beds, to last for a period of one year. In 1875 Brewster followed
-the lead of Wellfleet, in demanding permits of all outsiders and also
-from all citizens taking more than 3 bushels at any one time, although
-an unlimited amount might be taken for food.</p>
-
-<p>The aim of all this legislation was not to develop the industry directly,
-but indirectly by preserving and fostering the native beds. This
-theory, while excellent in motive, did not work out well, as the native
-beds could not by any possible protection be brought to produce an
-annual yield at all adequate to the growing demands of the market.</p>
-
-<p>The utilization of purely natural resources proving unequal to the
-demands of the occasion, the creation of other resources became necessary,
-and an entirely new epoch in the history of the oyster fishery
-was inaugurated. This epoch marked the beginning of the production
-of oysters by artificial means, and the establishment of this new industry
-and the perplexing complications which grew out of it have been
-the source of legislative strife for many years.</p>
-
-<p>II. <i>Constructive Laws.</i>&mdash;The first legislation authorizing the present
-system of oyster culture was instituted at Swansea, in 1869. This
-was the beginning and the foundation of a broad movement of oyster
-culture which spread rapidly along the southern coast of the State.
-This curious law allowed the selectmen to sell, by public or private
-sale, the oyster privilege of Swansea outright to any person or persons
-who were citizens of the town. The measure, although apparently
-designed to restrict the exhaustion of the native resources, did not
-tend to develop the industry. It possessed one element of value, i.e.,
-it increased the revenue of the town. Apart from its interest as the
-forerunner of artificial propagation of oysters, this old law is noteworthy,
-as it forms the basis of the system which to-day regulates the
-industry in that section of the country. The custom of selling an
-extensive oyster privilege, as apart from the system of leasing grants,
-first clearly outlined in the law of 1869, still holds throughout this section.
-It remains the usual custom to sell either the whole of a township's
-available oyster territory, or else an extensive part of it, to one
-man for a lump sum per year.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>In 1874 an important step occurred in the evolution of the oyster
-industry. Swansea and Somerset were given the privilege of granting
-any of their bays, shores, banks and creeks for the propagation of
-oysters. This act was far more sweeping and advanced than any of
-its predecessors, but it was in one respect too sweeping. It interfered
-with the rights of the property owners along the shore, and was therefore
-contrary to the general underlying principle of the State law,
-which allows the cultivation of oysters only in so far as such cultivation
-does not interfere with the vested rights of all citizens alike. The
-measure proved untenable, and was promptly repealed. Its repeal
-was on general principles a thing to be desired, but nevertheless a blow
-to the industry. The tidal waters along the coast have always been
-the most valuable part of the oyster territory, as they have proved
-to be the best adapted for obtaining "oyster set." This measure was
-therefore designed to aid the oyster growers, and give them valuable
-privileges which belonged originally to the adjoining property owners.
-Even to the present day the dividing line between the rights of property
-owners and oystermen has remained an unsettled question.</p>
-
-<p>It was about this time that the close season proved a failure in
-Buzzards Bay, and the towns of Wareham, Bourne and Marion turned
-their attention toward the establishment of an oyster industry. This
-attempt became a settled policy of these towns about 1875.</p>
-
-<p>In 1878 a peculiar act was passed, making it unlawful for any person
-to remove oysters from any grant, even his own, between the hours
-of sunset and sunrise. This act was necessary for the protection of the
-oyster planters, by preventing the stealing of oysters from the grant
-at night. Various efforts had been made to protect grants from such
-attacks, but the extreme difficulty of detection was always an insuperable
-obstacle to proper enforcement, and it was deemed expedient to
-prohibit all fishing at night. That this problem had become an important
-one is shown by the title of the law, which was styled "An
-act for the better protection of the oyster fisheries in this commonwealth."</p>
-
-<p>In 1884 an important act was passed, enlarging the limits of that
-territory which might lawfully be used for the cultivation of oysters.
-Practically all communal waters outside the jurisdiction of adjacent
-land owners was thrown open for oyster grants.</p>
-
-<p>In 1885 the institution of a public hearing was inaugurated. This
-was a concession to the hostile quahaug element, and allowed the public
-the opportunity of protesting against the granting of territory for
-oyster culture; nevertheless, the final power really remained in the hands
-of the selectmen. A further concession to this element was the law
-which called for the revoking of grants within two years if unimproved.
-The interests of the oystermen were also kept in sight, and legislation
-passed which was designed to protect grants still more from the depredations
-of outsiders. Provision was likewise made for the proper enforcement
-of these laws, and the penalties attached were increased.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>In 1886 an act was passed which was designed to do away with all
-possible outside monopoly. The danger of organized capital acquiring
-control of a large tract and excluding small individual planters had
-become apparent, and this means was taken to guard against it. The
-act prohibited the transfer of grants in any township to any person
-not a citizen of that township; thus, if any monopoly did exist it would
-be restricted to only one township. The limits during which fishing
-on grants might be carried on was lengthened two hours, so that it read
-from "one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset."</p>
-
-<p>In 1892 the town of Yarmouth obtained a law requiring a permit
-for citizens to take oysters from native beds, not exceeding 2 bushels
-per week, from September 1 to June 1. This is now the only town in
-the Commonwealth to require such a permit from citizens.</p>
-
-<p>In 1895 legislation was passed relative to the proper definition of
-the boundaries of grants. This was rendered necessary because of the
-haphazard methods hitherto pursued in giving grants with very indefinite
-boundaries. Mean low-water mark was fixed as the shoreward
-boundary of grants, while mean high-water mark was defined as the
-limit to which shells might be placed to catch the set. This, however,
-was dependent upon the owners of the adjacent property, and their
-consent was held necessary before this territory between high and low
-water could thus be utilized.</p>
-
-<p>In 1901 special legislation was passed, restricting the catching of
-oysters in contaminated waters except for bait.</p>
-
-<p>In 1904 authority was granted to proper officials to develop the
-oyster industry by planting shellfish, or by close season.</p>
-
-<p>In 1905 the Fish and Game Commission was authorized to expend
-a sum not exceeding $500 per annum for the investigation of the oyster,
-by experiment or otherwise, with a view to developing the industry.</p>
-
-<p>The development of the oyster laws has been by a process of evolution.
-They have kept pace with the growth of the industry, and have
-been in fact the logical outcome of that expansion. The various acts
-which go to make up the bulk of this legislation have been passed from
-time to time to fill the immediate demands of the hour, and consequently
-lack that unity and consistency which might otherwise characterize
-them. Changing conditions have called for alterations in the legal
-machinery, as the industry has expanded, to meet new requirements.
-These additions have frequently been dictated by short-sighted policy,
-and the Commonwealth as a whole has often been lost sight of in the
-welfare of the community.</p>
-
-<p>Of all the shellfisheries, the oyster industry is most hampered by
-unwise legislation. It is the most difficult to handle, because it presents
-many perplexing phases from which the others are free. Clams, quahaugs
-and scallops flourish in their respective territories, and legislation
-merely tends to regulate their exploitation or marketing. With the
-oyster, however, other problems have arisen. The areas in the State<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span>
-where oysters grow naturally are few in number and relatively of small
-importance. The clam, quahaug and scallop grounds are to be compared
-with wild pastures and meadows, which yield their harvests without
-cultivation; while the oyster grants are gardens, which must be
-planted and carefully tended.</p>
-
-<p>With this distinction arises another question, of far-reaching significance,&mdash;the
-question of private ownership. The quahaug, clam and
-scallop fisheries demand that the tidal flats and waters be held in common
-as communal interests, and freely open to all citizens of the town;
-the oyster fishery requires that certain portions of these flats and waters
-be set aside for private ownership. With the economic questions involved
-in this discussion it is not the purpose of this report to deal.
-There is one fact, in any case, which cannot be argued away. The
-oyster industry is dependent solely upon private ownership of grants.
-If, therefore, the oyster industry is to be encouraged at all,&mdash;and it
-certainly has very great possibilities,&mdash;this fact of private ownership
-must be accepted at once. If, as some assert, it is an evil, it is a necessary
-evil, and it has come to stay. The questions remaining for legislation
-on this subject are the proper regulation of this private ownership,
-so as to give the maximum of encouragement to the oyster fishery, and
-the minimum of danger to the rival shellfish industries.</p>
-
-<p>The oyster and quahaug industries openly clash. This is an unfortunate
-occurrence, but it cannot be avoided, since the ground suitable
-for the culture of oysters is almost always the natural home of the
-quahaug. Therefore, when portions of this ground are given out to
-private individuals for the production of oysters, the available quahaug
-territory is necessarily reduced. Over this question endless disputes
-have arisen. The problem is undoubtedly one requiring delicate adjustment;
-but there is no reason why these two industries should not
-flourish side by side, as there would be plenty of room for both if all
-the available territory were properly utilized.</p>
-
-<p>There is one important feature of this problem, however, which the
-present laws have wholly failed to recognize. Wherever practicable,
-the best of the quahaug territory should not be granted; and as far as
-possible, the oystermen should utilize only those tracts of territory which
-are not naturally very productive of quahaugs.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>The Oyster Industry.</i></h3>
-
-<p>For the benefit of those who perhaps are not familiar with the methods
-employed in the oyster industry, the following brief account is given:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>I. <i>Selecting the Grant.</i>&mdash;The oysterman, in selecting a grant, has
-to consider first the nature of the soil; and secondly, the location as
-influencing the growth of the oyster. Not less important is the quality
-of the oyster, which means not only a good price, but also readiness
-of sale, as the oysters produced in certain localities are especially desirable
-in appearance and flavor.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>As the oyster will not grow on all kinds of bottom, but demands a
-firm soil, free from soft mud and shifting sand, the oyster area of the
-State is naturally limited. Usually but part of an oysterman's grant
-is suitable for the cultivation of oysters, and he is forced to let the
-rest of the territory lie idle, unless he can, with shells or gravel, artificially
-change this waste area into suitable ground. Shifting sand perhaps
-can never be made suitable for oysters; but many acres of soft
-mud can be made productive, if the oysterman only has a reasonable
-guarantee that he would receive the results of his labor.</p>
-
-<p>While the oyster culture is limited by the nature of the bottom, it
-is also restricted by other conditions. The salinity of the water has
-much to do with the rapidity of growth, and the oysters seem to thrive
-in localities where a slight amount of fresh water enters. The amount
-of food in the water is the principal factor in the rate of growth, and
-to this is due the fact that the rate of growth varies considerably in
-different localities. As a rule, the beds with good circulation of water
-(<i>i.e.</i>, currents) show the more rapid growth.</p>
-
-<p>II. <i>Collecting the "Seed."</i>&mdash;The term "seed" is applied to one,
-two, three and even four year old oysters which the oystermen plant
-on their grants. These grants are in reality salt-water gardens, requiring
-constant supervision; and the obtaining of the "seed" for planting
-is a most important consideration. The gathering of the oyster "seed"
-is a simple process, but one which requires much research.</p>
-
-<p>Early in the summer, usually during the months of June and July
-in these waters, the Massachusetts oyster spawns. Both sperm from
-the adult male and the eggs from the adult female oysters are extruded
-in considerable quantities into the water, and there the eggs are fertilized.
-As fertilization is somewhat a matter of accident, undoubtedly
-the great majority of eggs never develop. The fertilized eggs pass
-rapidly through various changes in the course of a few hours, and
-emerge as microscopic embryos, with thin, transparent coverings. At
-this period these forms are free swimming, and are found in great
-numbers in the water. They are extremely delicate, and great quantities
-are destroyed by natural agencies, such as cold storms, sudden
-changes in temperature, etc. They likewise are subject to the depredations
-of all sorts of marine creatures, and comparatively few in proportion
-survive. The survivors, after leading this free-swimming
-existence for several days, settle to the bottom, where they attach themselves
-by a calcareous fixative to stones, shells, pieces of wood, etc.
-Here, unless buried by silt and soft mud or killed by exposure, poisonous
-pollution, etc., the young oyster rapidly becomes of a size suitable
-for planting.</p>
-
-<p>The economic utilization of this scientific knowledge is as follows:
-shells offer a very good surface for the attachment of the young oyster,
-and many thousand bushels are annually strewn over the bottom previous
-to the spawning season. Considerable judgment is needed in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span>
-choosing the right time to plant these shells, which after a few weeks
-in the water become so coated with slime that fixation of the "spat"
-becomes impossible. In Massachusetts the area between high and low
-water mark has been found by experiment to be the most valuable
-territory for this purpose, as shells planted here collect the heaviest
-set and can be handled with the least expense. A projecting sand bar
-or point with a current is also well adapted for catching oyster spat.</p>
-
-<p>The scallop shell is the most serviceable in spat collecting, because it
-is more brittle, and the clusters of oysters when attached are readily
-broken apart. After the oysterman has obtained a successful set, he
-allows the young oysters to obtain a suitable growth before he makes
-a final planting, either in the spring or fall.</p>
-
-<p>III. <i>Size of the "Seed" used for Planting.</i>&mdash;While many oysters
-are raised from native spat in the Buzzards Bay district, the greater
-part of the seed is purchased in Connecticut and Long Island, and is
-carried in schooners or steamers to Massachusetts waters. The usual
-price ranges from 35 cents to $1 per bushel, according to size and quality.
-The oystermen cannot always choose the size of "seed" they desire
-for planting, as the set of any one year is very uncertain, and several
-seasons may pass before a large quantity of "seed" can be obtained.
-Thus the oyster planters are forced to take whatever size they can obtain,
-whether it be two, three or four year old "seed." As a rule, the
-small "seed" is most in demand, as it means relatively faster growth
-and less money invested. Often, when the ground is most favorable for
-fattening, large oysters are preferred for planting, and certain oystermen
-make this line of work a specialty. Certain localities where there
-is plenty of lime in the water are well adapted for growth, and yet
-produce poor-"meated" oysters, while in other grounds the reverse
-is true. The oystermen occasionally by a double transfer utilize both
-grounds, planting oyster "seed" for the first few years in the rapid-growing
-localities, and then transplanting the large oysters to the
-"fattening" ground six months before marketing.</p>
-
-<p>IV. <i>Preparing the Grant.</i>&mdash;The first step in preparing the grant
-is to remove all d&eacute;bris. In the deep water, this is usually done by dredging;
-in the shallow water, by whatever means is the easiest. If the
-bottom is of firm soil, the grant is then ready for planting; however,
-if the soil is soft mud, it is necessary to shell the bottom in order to
-give it greater firmness. The oysterman continually has to keep a sharp
-lookout in order to protect his grant from enemies such as the starfish
-and the oyster drill, and to keep it clear of seaweed and other matter
-which would interfere with the growth of the oyster.</p>
-
-<p>V. <i>Sowing the "Seed."</i>&mdash;The "seed" oysters are planted on the
-prepared bed by scattering them with shovels or scoops from the boats
-and scows. The oysterman, knowing the maximum amount of "seed"
-the bed will grow to the best advantage, plants the required number,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span>
-taking care that the oysters are properly scattered, as for the best
-growth oysters should lie separate and not in crowded masses. The
-amount of "seed" that can be planted on a given area depends upon
-the natural conditions of the locality.</p>
-
-<p>VI. <i>Enemies.</i>&mdash;The oyster, having passed through the countless
-dangers of his embryonic career, is still harassed by several enemies.
-Of these, the most destructive is the starfish. This animal, commonly
-known as the "five-finger," occurs along the entire Massachusetts
-coast, and is especially abundant in Buzzards Bay. Occasionally whole
-oyster beds are wiped out by this pest, which sweeps over the ground
-in vast armies. The method of attack of the starfish is unique. By
-exerting with its tube feet a steady pull in opposite directions on both
-valves of the shell of the victim, the starfish tires the contracted muscle
-of the oyster, and the shells open. The starfish then extrudes its
-stomach so as to enwrap the prey, and in this curious manner devours
-the oyster.</p>
-
-<p>A close second to the starfish in amount of damage is the oyster
-"drill" or "borer" (<i>Urosalpinx cinerea</i>). This little mollusk with
-its rasping tongue drills a small hole through the shell of the oyster,
-and then sucks out the contents.</p>
-
-<p>A third enemy, according to the oyster planters, is the "winkle"
-(<i>Fulgur carica</i> and <i>F. caniculatus</i>). The method of attack is somewhat
-obscure.</p>
-
-<p>Besides this dangerous trio of living enemies, the oyster is subject
-to constant peril from inanimate agencies. Probably the greatest of
-these is shifting bottom. Where oysters are grown on sandy soil, the
-violent waves of winter storms frequently tear up the bottom, or else
-the force of currents is such as to kill the oysters by completely burying
-them in the sand. Again, if the oysters are growing in very
-muddy bottom they are constantly liable to be smothered in the slimy
-ooze. Ice in winter frequently tears oysters from their beds and bears
-them to some unfavorable environment, where they soon die.</p>
-
-<p>VII. <i>Harvesting the Oysters.</i>&mdash;The oysterman completes his planting
-about June 1. During the summer months, the growing period
-of the oyster, the grants remain idle except for the care and supervision
-of the oystermen. As the oyster takes from three to five years
-to attain its growth, the oysterman practically harvests but one-fourth
-to one-third of his entire stock each year, beginning about September
-1 and continuing through the winter as the weather permits.</p>
-
-<p>In winter the oysterman, to keep up the market supply, beds "culled"
-oysters near the shore, where he can tong them through the ice whenever
-it is impossible to obtain oysters from his grant.</p>
-
-<p>The implements used in gathering the oyster harvest are of three
-kinds: tongs, dredges and rakes. Tongs are employed principally by
-the smaller oyster growers, and on ground where the water is com<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span>paratively
-shallow. A pair of tongs is really a pair of long-handled
-rakes, fastened together like a pair of shears. The pole, corresponding
-to the blade of the shears, varies from 8 to 16 feet in length. The
-rakes, some 2 to 2&frac12; feet broad, are so fitted to the end of the poles
-that when extended by spreading the handles they rest upon the bottom
-parallel to each other. These tongs are usually worked from skiffs
-or flat-bottomed boats, the oystermen first separating the tips of the
-handles and then bringing them together, thus causing a corresponding
-movement of the two rakes, which with their 2-inch iron teeth gather
-in all the intervening oysters. The tongs with their burden of oysters
-are then lifted into the boat, emptied, and the process repeated.</p>
-
-<p>Dredging is a much faster and less laborious method of oystering
-than tonging, and can be carried on over a much larger territory.
-The oyster dredge consists of a bag of woven iron rings attached to
-an iron framework. From each corner of the framework iron rods
-extend, converging at a point some feet away. At this point the rope
-is attached, by which the dredge is dragged from either a sail or
-power boat. The blade, resting horizontally on the surface, is armed
-with teeth which rake the oysters into the bag. When this bag, which
-holds from 3 to 8 bushels, is full, the dredge is raised, usually by a
-windlass worked by steam, gasolene or hand power, as the case may
-be, its contents dumped out and the dredge lowered for another haul.</p>
-
-<p>Rakes, the third implement in general use, are not employed as
-extensively as tongs or dredges, but are used in still water, where the
-bottom is suitable.</p>
-
-<p>VIII. <i>Marketing.</i>&mdash;The "catch" as soon as it is dredged or tonged
-is brought in boats to the oyster houses, where men with hatchets or
-similar implements break apart the clustered oysters and cast aside
-the empty shells, bits of rock, etc. Three different varieties of marketable
-oysters are usually sorted out, according to size: (1) large, (2)
-medium and (3) small. The respective sizes vary somewhat with the
-locality, demands of the market and the season; but the large oysters
-commonly count about 900 to the barrel, the medium 1,000 or more,
-while the small run 1,200 or over.</p>
-
-<p>The different sizes as they are sorted out are packed in barrels and
-are then ready for shipment. The principal markets are of course
-New York and Boston, though the demand farther inland is increasing,
-and shipments to Chicago or places even farther west are frequently
-made.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>General Statistics.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The following facts concerning the oyster industry have been compiled
-from the written statements of the different oystermen. Complete
-returns have not been received from Wareham, Barnstable, and
-Falmouth, while possibly a few oystermen in the other towns have
-been overlooked. Falmouth raises but few oysters for the market and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span>
-these returns have been recorded, the remaining oystermen merely
-planting for their own use. In the towns of Barnstable and Wareham
-about four-fifths of the oystermen have made returns. The facts
-given in the following tables are based only on the returns at hand,
-and therefore do not give a complete report for these two towns.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Statistical Summary.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th rowspan="2"><span class="smcap">Town.</span></th>
-    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Number of Grants.</span></th>
-    <th colspan="3"><span class="smcap">Area of Worked Grants (Acres).</span></th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Number of Men.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <th>Total.</th>
-    <th>Worked.</th>
-    <th>Total.</th>
-    <th>Suitable.</th>
-    <th>Unsuitable.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Wellfleet,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">35</td>
-    <td class="tdr">23</td>
-    <td class="tdr">967</td>
-    <td class="tdr">810</td>
-    <td class="tdr">157</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Chatham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">21</td>
-    <td class="tdr">21</td>
-    <td class="tdr">65</td>
-    <td class="tdr">55</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dennis-Yarmouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barnstable,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">29</td>
-    <td class="tdr">29</td>
-    <td class="tdr">188</td>
-    <td class="tdr">121</td>
-    <td class="tdr">67</td>
-    <td class="tdr">33</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Falmouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">22</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-    <td class="tdr">44</td>
-    <td class="tdr">23</td>
-    <td class="tdr">21</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Bourne,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">135</td>
-    <td class="tdr">42</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">83</td>
-    <td class="tdr">17</td>
-    <td class="tdr">21</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Wareham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">125</td>
-    <td class="tdr">70</td>
-    <td class="tdr">196</td>
-    <td class="tdr">159</td>
-    <td class="tdr">37</td>
-    <td class="tdr">26</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Fall River district,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14</td>
-    <td class="tdr">810</td>
-    <td class="tdr">510</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">36</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Nantucket,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">17</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">387</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">208</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">2,400</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">1,774</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">626</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">159</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th><span class="smcap">Town.</span></th>
-    <th>Boats.</th>
-    <th>Implements.</th>
-    <th>Shore Property.</th>
-    <th>Bedded Oysters.</th>
-    <th class="tdt">Total.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Wellfleet,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$10,115</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$575</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$19,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$31,390</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Chatham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,695</td>
-    <td class="tdr">313</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,225</td>
-    <td class="tdr">23,300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">26,533</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dennis-Yarmouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,175</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barnstable,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,269</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,139</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">28,850</td>
-    <td class="tdr">39,558</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Falmouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,525</td>
-    <td class="tdr">105</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">450</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,080</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Bourne,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,515</td>
-    <td class="tdr">483</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">18,300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">24,448</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Wareham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">9,355</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,120</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,420</td>
-    <td class="tdr">27,725</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40,620</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Fall River district,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">19,840</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">68,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">96,540</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Nantucket,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">518</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,358</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$53,857</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$5,800</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$16,620</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$192,425</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$268,702</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Production of 1906-07.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th rowspan="2"><span class="smcap">Town.</span></th>
-    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Marketable Oysters.</span></th>
-    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Seed Oysters.</span></th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Total Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Wellfleet,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">22,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$24,850</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$25,850</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Chatham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14,550</td>
-    <td class="tdr">23,987</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">23,987</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dennis-Yarmouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barnstable,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25,850</td>
-    <td class="tdr">48,050</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">48,150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Falmouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,012</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,025</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,025</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Bourne,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">23,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">19,100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Wareham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7,770</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12,790</td>
-    <td class="tdr">22,100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12,090</td>
-    <td class="tdr">24,880</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Fall River district,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">38,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">26,250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">26,250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Nantucket,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">114,982</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$147,952</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">46,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$28,190</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$176,142</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Sectional Arrangement of Towns.</span>
-</p>
-
-<ul class="index"><li><i>A.</i> North side of Cape Cod:&mdash;</li>
-<li class="isub3">        1. Wellfleet.</li>
-<li class="isub3">        2. Eastham.</li>
-<li class="isub3">        3. Orleans.</li>
-<li><i>B.</i> South side of Cape Cod:&mdash;</li>
-<li class="isub3">        1. Chatham.</li>
-<li class="isub3">        2. Harwich.</li>
-<li class="isub3">        3. Dennis and Yarmouth.</li>
-<li class="isub3">        4. Barnstable.</li>
-<li class="isub3">        5. Mashpee.</li>
-<li class="isub3">        6. Falmouth.</li>
-<li><i>C.</i> Buzzards Bay:&mdash;</li>
-<li class="isub3">        1. Bourne.</li>
-<li class="isub3">        2. Wareham.</li>
-<li class="isub3">        3. Marion.</li>
-<li><i>D.</i> Fall River district.</li>
-<li><i>E.</i> Nantucket.</li>
-</ul>
-
-
-<h3><i>Wellfleet.</i></h3>
-
-<p>For the past thirty years there has been an extensive oyster industry
-at Wellfleet, and many grants have been taken out in the waters of
-Wellfleet Bay, which possesses some of the best oyster ground in the
-State. In spite of the success of the past years, the industry is declining,
-indicating, possibly, that after 1910 no more grants will be
-leased.</p>
-
-<p>Four parts of the bay are taken up by oyster grants in the vicinity
-of: (1) Mayo's Beach; (2) Great Island; (3) Indian Neck; (4) Lieutenant's
-Island.</p>
-
-<p>(1) Nine grants, covering an area of 176 acres of both flats and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span>
-deeper water, extend out from Mayo's Beach a distance of 1,500 feet.
-These grants extend along shore from Commercial Wharf to Egg
-Island, a distance of 3,500 feet. Seven of these grants have each a
-shore extension of 200 feet, the other 2 having 600 and 1,500 feet
-respectively. The principal planting on these grants is done by D.
-Atwood &amp; Co.</p>
-
-<p>(2) On the west side of the bay, along the shores of Great Island
-and Beach Hill, there are 7 grants which are now worked. Originally
-there were 12 grants in this locality, but 5 of them expired some time
-ago. The area included in these 5 grants is 500 acres, while the entire
-granted area covers 708 acres. Wright &amp; Willis, R. R. Higgins and
-L. D. Baker have done most of the planting on these grants in the
-past few years.</p>
-
-<p>(3) On the east side of the bay, near Indian Neck, are 5 grants,
-comprising 224 acres. J. A. Stubbs does all the planting here. A
-single grant of 11 acres of flats is held in Duck Creek Cove by J. C.
-Wiles. These grants extend along the shore for 2,000 yards and run
-out into the bay for 1,000 yards.</p>
-
-<p>(4) Off Lieutenant's Island are 8 grants, comprising a total area
-of 1,062 acres. Only 3 of these, comprising 559 acres, are now worked.
-Joseph Crosby of Osterville is the principal planter on these grants.</p>
-
-<p>From the statistical returns of the oyster planters it is found that
-23 grants are now held for oyster planting, comprising an area of
-967 acres; 810 acres, or 83 per cent. of this area, is suitable for oyster
-culture. There is very little soft mud bottom, only 82 acres, while
-the shifting sand area is 75 acres.</p>
-
-<p>The total area of grants ever leased at Wellfleet comprises 2,182
-acres, of which 1,473 are now held. The average depth of water over
-these grants at mean low tide is 4 feet, the extremes running from
-1 to 12 feet.</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$31,390</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$9,250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dories and skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories and skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$115</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$575</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of oysters on grant,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$19,500</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>Most of the oystering is done by dredging, two large gasolene oyster
-boats, the "Cultivator" and the "Marion," being employed for this<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span>
-purpose. Tongs are also used extensively. Fourteen men are engaged
-from six to twelve months each year in the oyster business.</p>
-
-<p>The production for 1906-07 was 22,500 bushels of marketable oysters,
-valued at $24,850; and 1,000 bushels of "seed," worth approximately
-$1,000. Most of the planted "seed" is obtained from Long Island
-and Connecticut.</p>
-
-<p>The damage from the natural enemies of the oyster is reported as
-very slight.</p>
-
-<p>The Wellfleet oyster has a peculiar salty flavor not possessed by other
-oysters. For some trade this is preferred, while for others it is not
-so desirable. Before marketing the extreme saltiness is sometimes removed
-by floating the oysters in Duck Creek, where the water is less
-salt, using large, scow-like floats, 30 by 15 feet.</p>
-
-<p>Several Boston firms are engaged in oyster culture at Wellfleet, including
-D. Atwood &amp; Co., J. A. Stubbs and R. R. Higgins.</p>
-
-<p>For years there has been a conflict between the quahaugers and the
-oystermen at Wellfleet. This is very natural, owing to the rivalry
-between the two industries and the rapid rise of the quahaug fishery
-in the last fifteen years. Owing to their greater number, the quahaugers
-have obtained the upper hand in town affairs, with the result
-that in 1910, when all the oyster leases run out, it is said that no more
-will be granted, and the oyster business of Wellfleet will come to an
-end. This is especially unfortunate for the town, as there is room
-for both industries, and the destruction of either one would be a great
-financial loss. It is hoped that some means can be devised to straighten
-out the difficulties between the opposing factions before either industry
-is ruined.</p>
-
-<p>But little oyster spat has ever been caught in Wellfleet Bay. That
-oysters will set there is evidenced by the young "seed" caught on
-the piles of the wharves and on stones and rocks around the harbor. It
-is noteworthy that at Wellfleet the spat sets only between the tide
-lines, and does not catch where water is constantly over the ground.
-This is directly contrary to the conditions in Long Island Sound, where
-the set is caught in deep water. E. P. Cook and J. A. Stubbs have tried
-spat collecting in Herring River for several years, with the results
-of one or two good sets, the best being caught by Mr. Cook in 1906.
-The other years have proved failures in this line. There is no question
-but that oyster spat can be profitably caught if sufficient interest is
-taken in the matter.</p>
-
-<p>The early laws were as follows:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>In 1772 a law having been enacted by the General Court, regulating the
-taking of oysters in Billingsgate Bay, an amendment to that act was now
-asked by the town, namely, that during the summer months oysters shall
-not be taken to market, nor fished by the inhabitants of the town for their
-own use during the months of July and August.</p></div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>In 1773:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>That, inasmuch as the oyster fishery, which is of great value to the town
-and of great advantage to the Province, has received detriment from persons
-taking young oysters, the enactment of more stringent regulations are
-necessary to prevent their destruction.</p></div>
-
-<p>These early laws show that the natural oyster beds were highly prized
-by the Inhabitants in colonial days, and that measures, even then, were
-necessary to prevent their extinction. At the present time Wellfleet
-has no other regulations than the general oyster laws of the Commonwealth.</p>
-
-<p>The history of the oyster industry of Wellfleet can be divided into
-three periods: (1) the natural oyster fishery; (2) the "bedding" of
-southern oysters; (3) oyster planting.</p>
-
-<p>(1) <i>The Natural Oyster Beds of Wellfleet.</i>&mdash;The first settlers found
-a natural oyster bed near Hitchin's Creek, or Silver Spring, in 1644,
-and it is said that oysters were very abundant at that time. Old
-shells are occasionally dredged or raked up at the present day from
-these beds. The Rev. Enoch Pratt, in his "History of Eastham, Wellfleet
-and Orleans," gives the following account of this early oyster
-industry:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>Oysters were found in great abundance on the flats at the first settlement
-[1644], but at this time [1770] the inhabitants had so increased and
-such quantities were taken for consumption and for the Boston market,
-that it became necessary, to prevent their entire destruction, for the district
-to take measures to preserve and propagate them.... Shops and
-stands were opened in Boston, Salem, Portland and other places, where
-the oysters were sold in quantities to suit the purchaser.</p>
-
-<p>In 1775 all the oysters in the bay died. What caused their destruction
-is not certainly known, but it is supposed that as, at this time, a large
-number of blackfish died and came on shore, where their carcasses remained,
-producing a very filthy condition of the water, it caused this mortality.</p></div>
-
-<p>A more probable explanation is given by Mr. E. P. Cook of Wellfleet.
-The early inhabitants, not knowing the value of the natural shell beds
-for catching the spat, greedily took every shell and burned them into
-lime as a fertilizer for their farms and plaster for their houses. There
-was once a fine strip of woods near this original oyster rock, but this
-was cut down, and the sand gradually washed over the beds, killing
-the young oysters. To these two causes can be attributed the final destruction
-of the natural beds in 1775.</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>The Bedding of Southern Oysters.</i>&mdash;After the destruction of
-the natural beds, an important industry arose in the "bedding" of
-southern oysters for northern trade. Privileges for bedding oysters
-on the flats were granted to a number of oyster firms. These men
-hired schooners in the latter part of the winter or the early spring,
-which went to the southern oyster grounds and brought back loads<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span>
-of oysters. These oysters were spread or bedded over the leased flats
-of the harbor, where they remained until the following fall, when they
-were taken up for market. In this way the oysters gained in size by
-the summer's growth, and were fattened for market. Considerable trade
-sprang up in the carrying of oysters, and many vessels were engaged
-in this traffic. In 1841 Mr. Gould, the conchologist, states that 120 men,
-with 30 vessels of about 40 tons each, were employed for three months
-of the year, and brought to the town an annual revenue of $8,000.</p>
-
-<p>In 1841 Capt. William Dill is credited with bringing into Wellfleet
-the first cargo from Virginia, which started a large trade in Chesapeake
-oysters. Mr. Ernest Ingersoll makes the following statement concerning
-the Virginia trade:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>Nevertheless, it was not until about 1845 or 1850 that the business began
-to confine itself to Virginia oysters, and a large business to be done. At
-its height, about 1850, it is probable that more than 100,000 bushels a
-year were laid down in the harbor; some say 150,000.... The favorite
-ground was at the mouth of Herring River.</p></div>
-
-<p>The Rev. Enoch Pratt writes, in 1844:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>The inhabitants of the town tried the experiment of bringing oysters
-from the south and laying them down on the flats, which succeeded well.
-In the course of a year they doubled their size and their quality was much
-improved. This soon became a large business, and a number of vessels
-have been employed in the spring of every year in bringing them here.
-The number of bushels which are now [1844] annually brought is about
-60,000. Nearly all the oyster shops and stands in Boston, and other cities
-and towns in this State, are supplied from this place, and are kept by
-persons belonging to the town. This business affords a living for many
-families.</p></div>
-
-<p>Mr. Ernest Ingersoll thus describes the decline of the oyster trade
-in 1870:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>The war of the rebellion, however, interfered somewhat with the oyster
-trade, and it began to decline so far as Wellfleet was concerned. Then the
-various dealers in northern ports, having learned something, began to bed
-near home in their own harbors, and so saved freightage. Finally, the
-steamers from Norfolk and the railways entered into so serious a competition
-that fully ten years ago [1870] Wellfleet Bay was wholly deserted by
-the oystermen as a bedding ground, though her vessels still continue to
-carry cargoes in winter from Virginia to Boston, Portland, Salem, Portsmouth
-and the Providence River, to supply the active trade and fill the
-new beds, which the dealers at these various ports had learned could be
-established at home. The reader thus discovers how important a part
-Wellfleet has played in the history of the oyster trade of New England. A
-hundred thousand bushels of the bivalves once grew fat along her water
-front, and thousands of dollars were dispensed to the citizens in the industry
-they created. Now [1880] a little experimental propagation, to the
-value of a few hundred dollars, and about 6,000 bushels of bedded oysters<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span>
-from Virginia, worth perhaps $5,000 when sold, form the total active business.
-The oyster fleet, however, remains, though greatly diminished, and
-carrying its cargoes to Boston, Portland and elsewhere, instead of bringing
-them to be laid down in the home harbor. It will be long before Wellfleet,
-and its neighbor, Provincetown, lose the prestige of old custom as oyster
-carriers.</p></div>
-
-<p>(3) <i>Oyster Raising.</i>&mdash;In 1876 the first attempt to raise oysters from
-"seed" at Wellfleet, is said to have been made by E. P. Cook, who
-obtained a grant from the town of about 30 acres, on which were
-planted 500 bushels of "seed" from Somerset, Mass. The "Oysterman"
-of Dec. 20, 1906, gives the following account of oyster planting
-at Wellfleet:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>In 1876 our informant, Mr. E. P. Cook, conceived the idea that these
-waters could grow "seed" oysters as well as fatten big stock. He went
-to Somerset, Mass., and got a carload of 500 bushels and planted them.
-A few had previously been planted but with ill success. The people laughed
-at him for dumping his good money overboard. He was the first man to
-lease a piece of oyster ground from the State, and of course had his pick,
-which was 600 feet on the shore next to the Silver Spring, the original spot
-of the natural rocks. Mr. Cook here showed his acumen as a culturist. The
-next spring they had made a remarkable growth, and all had lived. Then
-there was a stampede of the fellows who laughed, to get some ground, too.
-Soon every inch of available ground had been taken up. We mention the
-following who took up plats: Solomon Higgins, I. C. Young, Benjamin
-Oliver, Daniel Oliver, Edward Oliver, Cornelius Rogers, William Smith, S. B.
-Rich, Theodore Brown, Stephen Young. These men did not all plant. The
-next year Mr. Cook bought 500 bushels more, and now he had 1,000 bushels
-on his grounds. These were two-year-old plants, and when they had laid
-there three years he sold these primitive beauties for $5 per barrel. Some
-time after this he bought Mr. Rich's plot. Subsequently Mr. Cook sold
-400 of his 600 feet to R. R. Higgins, the founder of the famous oyster-packing
-house by that name. This same man bought the 200 feet of
-Solomon Higgins. Now this house had 600 feet of shore ground. R. R.
-Higgins was the first wholesaler with capital invested in the culture of the
-Cape Cod oysters. Finally, this house absorbed all the ground Cook had.
-Eight years after this the Wright &amp; Willis firm came on the scene; that
-period had elapsed since the first cargo of "seed" had been freighted here.
-They bought the remainder of the Solomon Higgins grant. Then Mr. Cook
-took out another grant below Smalley's Bar. Capt. Albert Harding and
-Capt. D. A. Newcomb took out leases. In 1892 Mr. Cook sold his lease to
-the D. Atwood Company. Then Mr. Cook bought the Capt. Albert Harding
-lease and sold the right to plant on it, the law then not allowing the lessee
-to turn over the grant in toto. Then H. &amp; R. Atwood became interested
-here. About this time some friction between the planters and clammers
-existed, but it should be remembered that the planters occupied only about
-200 of the 2,400 acres involved in this dispute. Then it was that J. A.
-Stubbs came on the stage of activity, and Mr. Cook secured a lease for this
-wholesale concern.</p></div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span></p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Eastham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The oyster industry of Eastham is closely associated with the Wellfleet
-industry, and practically all the business is carried on by Wellfleet
-firms.</p>
-
-<p>The grants extend along the western shore from the Eastham-Wellfleet
-line south, running out into the bay a distance of 1 mile. The
-average width of these grants is 900 feet. Twenty-four grants have
-been given out by the selectmen, but only 12 of these are in existence
-at the present time, the others having lapsed for non-payment of dues.
-(The town charges $3 for the original grant, and $1 each year thereafter).
-The area of the grants is 800 acres, of which only 125 acres
-are under cultivation. As all the business, which is but small, is done
-by Wellfleet firms, the statistics of the industry are included in the
-Wellfleet report. All the grants, as at Wellfleet, expire in 1910.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Orleans.</i></h3>
-
-<p>There are 5 grants on the west coast of the town, but practically
-nothing is done in the oyster business. The oyster industry of Orleans is
-a dead issue, and quahaugers dig at will over all the granted territory.</p>
-
-<p>The grants are all eight to nine years old, and will not be renewed,
-as they are said to be unconstitutional, since the waters of Eastham
-and Orleans are common, and the consent of Eastham was not obtained
-when they were granted. The real reason for not renewing
-them will be because they are not profitable. The sand shifts on
-a good deal of the territory, and where the water is too deep for
-shifting, oyster culture does not seem to pay.</p>
-
-<p>Four years ago 15,000 bushels of two-year-old "seed" was sent
-here from Connecticut. The greater part of this "seed" died in
-transportation, and much of the remainder was killed by the shifting
-sand. Two years ago (1905) 3,000 bushels of marketable oysters were
-shipped from Orleans; but little has been done since then. No set
-has ever been caught here, although spat catches readily on the rocks
-which lie between the tide lines.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Chatham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The oyster furnishes an important industry for the town of Chatham,
-which ranks next to Wellfleet and Cotuit in the production of
-"Cape" oysters.</p>
-
-<p>The oyster grants are all situated in Oyster Pond and Oyster Pond
-River, covering an area of 65 acres of excellent bottom. Of this, 55
-acres is hard bottom; 6 acres, soft mud; and 4 acres of coarse shifting
-sand. The whole of Oyster Pond River and the most of the shore
-waters of Oyster Pond are taken up by grants. The central part of
-Oyster Pond possesses a soft bottom, and is therefore unsuited for<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span>
-oyster culture. The depth of water over the grants varies from dry
-to 6 feet at low tide.</p>
-
-<p>Records show that a natural oyster bed once existed in Oyster Pond,
-as in 1802 "excellent oysters, but scarce," were reported. Even now
-old shell heaps are found, which contain extremely large oyster shells,
-and indicate that the Indians used these oysters for food. Indeed,
-the name, Oyster Pond, was given long before grants were issued,
-and doubtless received this name because of these natural oysters.</p>
-
-<p>No natural oysters remained in 1877, when the first grants were
-issued to George S. Atwood, John Vanhise, Jonathan Small, Stephen
-Gould and Frank Lanpier. The last three named held together one
-grant in Oyster Pond River; Atwood's grant was in Oyster Pond;
-while Vanhise's grant was partly in Oyster Pond and partly in Stage
-harbor, where oyster culture was a failure. The planting was not very
-successful at first, owing to a lack of proper methods.</p>
-
-<p>These grants were issued in 1874 for a term of twenty years. The
-next series of grants were issued for ten years, and in 1893 the first
-grants were renewed for the same length of time. Since the period
-of the twenty-year grants there have been two ten-year leases, and
-the present leases will expire in 1911.</p>
-
-<p>A town regulation restricts the oyster grants to the southern waters
-of the town, and allows no grants to be given in the waters of Pleasant
-Bay, where there is considerable territory which might be suitable for
-oyster raising. As all the available territory is now taken up in Oyster
-Pond, no more grants can be issued.</p>
-
-<p>The method of obtaining a grant by a resident of the town is to
-choose the locality, stake out the grant and report the same to the
-selectmen, who will grant a license if the bounds are satisfactorily
-described, and no part of another grant is included. The price of the
-license, which runs for a period of ten years, is $2, and 50 cents is
-charged for recording it. No regular survey of the grant is made.
-Taxes are paid yearly on stock and working capital.</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$26,533</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dories and skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories and skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$105</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Scows,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of scows,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$790</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">34</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$313</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,225</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of oysters on grant,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$23,300</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></div>
-
-<p>Owing to the shallow water, most of the work is done by tonging.
-Flat scows, 25 by 10 feet, are generally used for this work, as they
-afford excellent footing for the oysterman in tonging and plenty of
-room for the oysters. These scows, which have a capacity of 100
-bushels, can be anchored by stakes or iron piping, and definite areas
-covered by the tonger. In the fall the oystermen make their "culls"
-on these scows. Chatham is the only town in Massachusetts where
-scows are in general use. Dredging is done only to a limited extent
-by 3 oystermen, the others all using tongs. Twenty men are engaged
-from four to six months of the year in the oyster business at Chatham.</p>
-
-<p>The production for 1906-07 was 14,550 bushels, valued at $23,987.
-The oyster industry has been increasing every year, the production for
-1906-07 being one-third more than the 1905-06 output. The oystermen
-are unanimous in saying that the oyster business of Chatham is steadily
-improving.</p>
-
-<p>No "seed" oysters are raised in Chatham, as no large set has ever
-been caught, and all attempts in this line have proved unsuccessful.
-All the "seed" oysters are brought from Greenport, L. I. These run
-from two to four years old, the larger oysters being preferred. As a
-rule, oystermen are forced to take what they can get when they buy seed.</p>
-
-<p>The only natural enemy which infests the Chatham oyster is the
-oyster drill (<i>Urosalpinx cinerea</i>). The damage done by this pest is
-slight, amounting to nearly $800 annually.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Harwich.</i></h3>
-
-<p>No oyster industry is now carried on in the town of Harwich. A
-natural oyster bed once existed in Herring River, and occasionally a
-few oysters can be picked up at the present time; but the bed is practically
-fished out. This bed once extended a distance of three-quarters
-of a mile in the lower part of the river.</p>
-
-<p>In 1824 an act was passed to prevent "the wilful destruction of
-oysters and other shellfish in the town of Harwich," which shows that
-even as early as 1824 the natural bed in Herring River was on the
-verge of depletion.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Dennis and Yarmouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The oyster industries of Dennis and Yarmouth are so connected
-that they will have to be considered as belonging to one town.</p>
-
-<p>Four grants have been leased in the two towns, but only 2 of these
-are worked. Three grants are situated in Bass River, while the fourth,
-which is not operated, owing to the shifting sand, lies outside Dog
-Fish Bar. The 2 grants which are worked are situated in Bass River,
-and comprise an area of 10 acres of hard bottom, all of which is suitable
-for oyster culture. The Bass River grants, which are taxed at
-the valuation of $1,000 apiece, expire in 1914.</p>
-
-<p>Mill Creek, in West Yarmouth, one of the most valuable shellfish
-areas in the town, originally contained a natural oyster bed which
-extended from the mouth of the creek up for 1,000 feet, comprising<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span>
-an area of 2-1/3 acres. Nevertheless, this was granted in 1895 for a
-period of ten years. Two years ago the lease expired, and it is said
-that the oysters have come in again in abundance.</p>
-
-<p>All along the south shore of the two towns "seed" oysters, which
-have been washed out of Mill Creek, can be picked up. A small amount
-of "seed" is raised on the grants, but this is not enough to furnish
-the requisite amount required for planting purposes, so about 2,500
-bushels is annually brought into the town from Oyster Bay, L. I.</p>
-
-<p>No damage is done in these waters by the natural enemies of the
-oyster, as both the starfish and oyster drill are very scarce.</p>
-
-<p>One thousand bushels of marketable oysters, valued at $1,500, were
-shipped in the season of 1906-07.</p>
-
-<p>Three men are engaged for a period of seven and one-half months
-in the oyster industry.</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,175</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Tongs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of bedded oysters,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>The oysters are taken by tonging from dories, as the water is comparatively
-shallow. No dredging is done.</p>
-
-<p>Yarmouth is the only town in the State which requires a license for
-taking oysters from a natural bed.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Barnstable.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Barnstable is the great oyster town of the Commonwealth, as it
-has the twofold distinction of possessing the most extensive industry
-and producing the finest quality of oysters. The causes which have
-brought the cultivation of oysters in this town to so flourishing a
-condition have been fourfold: first, Barnstable has a long coast line,
-much cut up by bays and rivers, which give it a very large available
-area; secondly, this area is remarkably suited for the cultivation of
-oysters, as it is for the most part hard, clean bottom, in comparatively
-shallow water and well sheltered from storms; thirdly, there is little
-damage from the enemies of the oyster,&mdash;the starfish, winkle and
-drill, fourthly, the waters of the township are notably pure, free from
-contamination, and well adapted for the production of a rapid-growing
-oyster of excellent quality.</p>
-
-<p>Barnstable township contains several villages, three of which, Cotuit,
-Marston's Mills and Osterville, are prosperous centers of the oyster
-fishery. Hyannis, a fourth village, once maintained a business of this
-nature, which proved unprofitable and has now practically disappeared.
-Oyster grants are scattered along the shores of Popponesset River and
-Bay, in Cotuit harbor, Bluff Channel, South Bay, Osterville Narrows<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span>
-and at Marston's Mills. In addition, a large but indefinite territory
-along the southern shore, as indicated on the map, is maintained as
-experimental grants.</p>
-
-<p>Cotuit is by far the most important center of the industry. Here
-the fishery is conducted on an extensive scale. The white, clean sandy
-bottom and the remarkably pure waters of the bay produce an oyster
-with a bright, clear shell, which distinguishes it from oysters grown
-elsewhere. This Cotuit oyster is much sought for by hotels and fancy
-dealers, and is universally considered par excellence among Massachusetts
-oysters.</p>
-
-<p>Barnstable, though supporting an immense industry, has by no means
-exhausted her latent resources. Extensive experiments to increase the
-productive area of the town have been carried on for the past few
-years. A strip of territory along the southern coast, some 4 miles
-long and 3 miles wide, has been granted. This territory is of doubtful
-utility, as the bottom is largely shifting sand exposed to the full force
-of southerly gales. These grants have hardly been in force long enough
-to demonstrate their possibilities, but it is probable that a large territory
-may be thoroughly suitable for the future expansion of the oyster
-industry.</p>
-
-<p>Unfortunately, several oystermen did not make statistical returns,
-thus rendering a complete record for the Barnstable oyster industry
-impossible. The majority of the oystermen willingly responded, and
-the present report comprises only those returns which have been sent in.</p>
-
-<p>The total area comprised by the grants, 29 in number, is 188 acres,
-of which 121 acres are of hard bottom, suitable for oyster culture.
-There is very little shifting bottom. The usual Cotuit bottom is a clear
-sand, which is especially favorable for the production of fine oysters.</p>
-
-<p>Thirty-three men are employed from six to eight months each year
-in the industry, which gave in 1906-07 a production of 25,850 bushels
-of marketable oysters, valued at $48,050. Except for a small natural
-oyster bed at Centerville, no "seed" is caught in Barnstable, and is
-all brought from Long Island and Connecticut. Several firms plant
-only large oysters, bedding them in the spring and taking them up
-the following fall, when they have acquired the Cotuit flavor.</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$39,558</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,900</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">22</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$413</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Scows,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of scows,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$156</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">23</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">45<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span></td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,139</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$4,300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of oysters on grant,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$28,850</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Mashpee.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The oyster industry of Mashpee is rather limited. Five grants
-exist in the west channel of Popponesset River, covering practically
-all the territory. Only about 5 to 10 acres of this territory is suitable
-for oyster culture. The ground granted for oysters is used indiscriminately
-for quahauging and scalloping, and seems to be almost
-public property.</p>
-
-<p>But one man is engaged in the oyster business, and he rarely ships
-any, but peddles them around the community. No "seed" is caught.
-Starfish and oyster drills are very scarce. A cat boat, dory and tongs
-constitute the capital invested, which is valued at $200. The annual
-production is valued at $100.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Falmouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The oyster industry of Falmouth is conducted on the south side of
-the town, in the waters of Waquoit Bay. There are no oysters on
-the Buzzards Bay side of the town.</p>
-
-<p>According to the town records, there are 22 grants in existence.
-These grants are mostly small, not averaging more than 2 to 10 acres,
-and are but little cultivated. Returns from 6 of these grants, which
-comprise all the territory worked for market, are alone used for the
-statistical figures.</p>
-
-<p>The best oyster territory is in Waquoit Bay and Child's River. In
-Waquoit Bay 6 acres are granted, 4&frac12; acres of which is hard bottom,
-suitable for oyster culture. In Child's River the grants comprise 20
-acres, two-thirds of which, or 13 acres, is hard bottom. Altogether,
-some 44 acres are granted, and, although a good deal of the surface is
-muddy, there are 23 acres of very fair oyster ground.</p>
-
-<p>No business is made of raising "seed," but from two to three year
-old "seed" is shipped from Greenport, L. I., and replanted.</p>
-
-<p>In 1906-07, 3,012 bushels of marketable oysters, valued at $6,025,
-were shipped. Many of the grants are leased to men who raise oysters
-for their own use only, while but few make a business of shipping
-oysters.</p>
-
-<p>The only enemy is the oyster drill, which does but slight damage here.</p>
-
-<p>Three men are engaged for nine months each year in the oyster industry
-at Falmouth; while 5 or more run grants for their own use.</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,080</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$75<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span></td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Scows,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of scows,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$105</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of bedded oysters,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$450</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Buzzards Bay District.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The Buzzards Bay oyster industry is in a state verging on chaos.
-In some specially favored localities it is in a flourishing condition; in
-others hardly less favorable it is almost completely stagnant. Great
-natural advantages exist, which if properly utilized would create a
-business of immense proportions. These resources are for the most
-part but poorly improved, and in many cases are neglected altogether.
-A spirit of uncertainty, which discourages confidence and checks initiative,
-seems to pervade the business atmosphere. Amid this uncertainty
-and conflicting forces, one fact, at once the starting point of the whole
-difficulty and at the same time the sole solution of the problem, stands
-out vividly clear. This is the need of proper <i>legislation</i>.</p>
-
-<p>The troubles which beset the Buzzards Bay oyster industry are
-directly traceable to defects in the present legislative system. These
-defects are both active and passive. In some cases unwise and illogical
-laws are in operation, which hamper business activity; in other cases
-laws for which there is a crying need are laid aside or neglected. A
-reform in certain aspects of town supervision is the demand of the
-hour. Until the present system receives an overhauling, it is doubtful
-if the industry will ever experience full prosperity.</p>
-
-<p>In order to gain a clear insight into the difficulties which darken
-the immediate outlook in this region, it will be necessary to take a
-brief survey of the history and present status of the industry.</p>
-
-<p>The beginnings of the oyster fishery in Buzzards Bay arose from the
-exploitation and subsequent depletion of the natural beds. These beds,
-of which there are several scattered along the coast from Bourne to
-Mattapoisett, furnished for a long time a large annual output of
-oysters. In the early '70's the supply began to decrease rapidly, and
-the fear of total extermination caused the selectmen of Marion, Wareham
-and Sandwich (Bourne) to attempt a strict supervision of the
-fishery. These attempts were in all cases unsatisfactory, and about 1875
-the artificial culture of oysters began almost simultaneously in the
-three towns by the issue of licenses or grants to private individuals.
-The measure was popular from the first. Almost all the available land
-was speedily appropriated, and a flourishing but exotic industry, stimulated
-by a considerable outlay of capital, burst into life.</p>
-
-<p>At Marion the new business lasted precisely fifteen years. The industry
-was largely a losing venture. The oysters did not grow well,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span>
-and were of inferior quality. In time, doubtless, when the causes which
-produced these effects had been studied, a stable and well-ordered industry
-would have resulted. It is but natural to assume that where
-oysters grew in a "wild" state, cultivated ones could likewise be grown.
-Such an outcome, however, was not destined to follow. The grants
-had been so given that they all expired at the same time. When this
-date arrived, the majority of the inhabitants of Marion were of the
-opinion that the oyster grants would yield far better returns if utilized
-merely for the quahaugs which grew naturally on them, and the
-whole harbor was consequently thrown open as common ground. From
-that date the quahaug fishery has waned almost to the point of extinction,
-but no efforts have been made to resurrect the old oyster
-industry, which has practically disappeared.</p>
-
-<p>At Bourne the industry began with bright prospects. The present
-business, though somewhat impoverished, still possesses those inherent
-resources which are capable of developing a more extensive industry.</p>
-
-<p>At Wareham the business was of slower growth and more logical
-development, and it has continued to increase, until at present the
-town possesses an important industry. It has struggled with many
-problems which have retarded its growth, and which still embarrass it.
-These are primarily problems of legislation, as the industry stands in
-need of better regulations before it can attain its maximum development.</p>
-
-<p>In all these difficulties, which have been briefly outlined and hinted
-at, the main source of annoyance has been the strife between two rival
-factions,&mdash;the oyster and quahaug interests. These interests have ever
-been at war, and the result has been almost fatally destructive to both.
-The questions at stake in this controversy have been broad in their
-general interest. The quahaug industry is essentially democratic, representing
-roughly labor as against capital, and demands that tidal flats
-and waters be kept as common property for general use. The oyster
-industry, on the other hand, is essentially exclusive, representing organized
-capital, and maintains that oyster grants are as much the subject
-of private ownership as farms and city lots. The whole aim of
-legislation has been to reconcile these wholly opposite theories. The
-problem has been complex and many-sided, and it is not strange that
-the selectmen of the towns in question have been unable to harmonize
-the two factions or pass regulations suitable to both parties. Certain
-it is that in trying to benefit both they have benefited neither, and the
-present confusion has resulted.</p>
-
-<p>The matter is one certainly of sufficient importance to merit attention
-from the State. It is not merely local. The whole Commonwealth is
-interested vitally in the development of its industries, and it is unwise
-to allow so important an industry as the oyster fishery to remain solely
-in the hands of local authority, especially when local authority has
-shown itself unable to cope with the problem.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The present system in vogue in the Buzzards Bay district is perhaps
-unfair to both parties in its policy. The selectmen may lease an
-unlimited number of grants, of an unlimited area, to any citizen or
-number of citizens of the town in question. Theoretically at least they
-may grant all the available area in sight to one man. There must
-of course be the formality of a hearing, and sufficient pressure may
-be and is frequently brought to bear upon the selectmen to retard them
-from exercising the full extent of their authority; but nevertheless
-the system is unjust to the majority, and it is small wonder that the
-quahaug fishermen feel aggrieved that some of their former privileges
-are thus curtailed. Furthermore, the clause which demands that these
-grants should be used for the cultivation of oysters is oftentimes openly
-evaded, and a good portion of the granted area, though not used for
-oysters, is closed to the quahaugers.</p>
-
-<p>On the other hand, the oystermen, while apparently enjoying great
-privileges, in reality are severely handicapped. An oysterman obtains
-a grant perhaps with great difficulty, owing to opposition from the
-quahaug men. He can carry on no extensive business without the
-expenditure of considerable capital. If he "seeds" his grant, the first
-two or three years are spent in the maturing of the first harvest. The
-grant is given only for ten years; consequently, when it has run for
-seven or eight years the owner is in doubt whether to plant any more
-"seed," as he does not know that his license will be renewed and
-naturally does not wish to plant a bed for his unknown successor.
-Again, if he is fairly successful and wishes to expand his business,
-he cannot without great risk invest in the costly equipment necessary
-for such an enterprise, as he has no certainty of getting a sufficient
-amount of territory or of keeping it any length of time. Furthermore,
-additional complications arise from the disputes with owners of adjoining
-shore property. This is particularly unfortunate, as this tidal
-area along the shore is most valuable for the collection of oyster set
-or "seed."</p>
-
-<p>From the foregoing statements it appears that the oyster and quahaug
-factions are in the position of two combatants who continue
-to fight, while the object of the strife is lost to both. It is impossible
-to handle so grave a problem by merely theorizing, but a few ideas
-might be suggested as bearing favorably on the subject. It would
-seem wise to refrain as far as possible from granting the best portions
-of quahaug territory, for there is sufficient room for both industries
-to flourish. Then, too, grants might be rented at so much per acre
-as long as the owner desired within certain time limits, assuming that
-he paid his annual rental and improved his grant. These and other
-suggestions might be made which would seem an improvement over
-the present circumstances; but it is doubtful if conditions can be much
-bettered until some motive force and centralized authority is supplied
-by proper legislation.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span></p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Bourne.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Bourne has long supported a promising oyster industry. In some
-respects it has greater advantages for the extension of this business
-than Wareham, but the invested capital, the annual product and the
-resulting revenue are all overshadowed by those of its neighboring rival.
-The great natural resources which Bourne possesses, its extensive available
-area, its multiplicity of bays, inlets, islands and rivers,&mdash;these and
-a variety of other causes combine to make it a most favorable locality
-for the growth of oysters; and it is indeed an unfortunate circumstance
-both for the shellfish interests of the community and the broader interests
-of the State that so great a source of economic wealth should be so
-little improved. The vexing questions which harass the oyster planters
-of Wareham and hamper their efforts are present here in even greater
-force. In many places where a flourishing business was once carried on
-the industry is at a standstill, while nowhere does it evince that life
-and activity which its decided advantages warrant.</p>
-
-<p>The town books contain records of 135 grants in force to-day. No
-accurate system of charting is in vogue except in the Monument River,
-and no absolutely reliable data concerning the total area is available,
-but the combined territory comprised in these grants aggregates nearly
-600 acres. Of this territory, however, only a portion, and a relatively
-small portion, is really improved; the remainder is either allowed to lie
-dormant or is worked merely for the quahaugs which it produces. The
-oyster territory of Bourne is divided into five distinct sections: the
-Monument River section, the region about Mashnee Island, Toby Island
-and vicinity, Basset's Island and the neighborhood of Wing's Neck, and
-Pocasset and the Red Brook harbor or Cataumet district. Of these
-five regions, the Monument River ranks first, both in the total area and
-also in importance, and it is here that most of the business is carried on.</p>
-
-<p>The statistical returns of the Bourne oystermen show that only 42
-grants comprising 100 acres are worked. Of this 83 acres is hard
-bottom suitable for oyster raising while the remaining 17 acres is mostly
-soft mud.</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$24,448</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,900</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dories and skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">29</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories and skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$615</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">99</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">38</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$483</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of bedded oysters,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$18,300</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></div>
-
-<p>Twenty-one men make a living from the industry. The production
-for the year ending Aug. 1, 1907, amounted to 2,100 bushels of marketable
-oysters, valued at $4,100, and 23,000 bushels of "seed," worth
-$15,000. The methods employed in oyster culture here are similar to
-those in use at Wareham. Thousands of bushels of shells, preferably
-those of the scallop, are strewn over the bottom to collect the set, which
-is then taken up and transferred to the proper grant or shipped for
-sale. The two great enemies of the oyster, the borer or drill, and the
-starfish, flourish here. The borer seems more destructive in those sections
-which are comparatively sheltered, the starfish in more exposed
-localities.</p>
-
-<p>The history of the industry is one of picturesque variety. The
-beginnings of the industry were bright with promise; the sudden growth
-which followed was spectacular but erratic; and the difficulties which
-soon arose plunged it into complications from which it emerged much
-shattered and greatly declined. Originally there were three good
-natural beds,&mdash;in Monument River, Barlow's River and Red Brook
-harbor, respectively. These beds long supplied all the oysters produced,
-and when in 1834 they began to be depleted, legislation was
-enacted regulating them until 1863, when the town surveyed a number
-of grants in the Monument River, each with an average area of 1&frac12; to 10
-acres, and allowed one of these grants to every citizen desiring it, on
-the payment of $2.50. These old beds still linger as rather uncertain
-assets of the communal wealth. The Monument River grounds still
-supply a fairly large harvest, the Barlow River has declined much
-more, while the Cataumet beds are nearly extinct.</p>
-
-<p>The shellfish laws of this region are of vital importance, as it is their
-province to inaugurate order from chaos, put a stop to wasteful methods,
-and take such steps as appear necessary for the proper development
-of the industry. How greatly these laws fail in their mission is
-abundantly shown by the present conditions of the fishery. The whole
-situation is on the threshold of a change. What this change will be,
-whether for better or worse, depends upon the legislation of the future.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Wareham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Wareham is the second town in the State in the production of
-oysters, being excelled in this respect by Barnstable alone. Its commanding
-position at the head of Buzzards Bay, the numerous indentations
-of its coast line, and the three rivers which lie partially within its
-borders, give it a wide expanse of available territory exceptionally
-favorable for the development of this shellfish industry.</p>
-
-<p>The substantial success which has attended the oyster business at
-Wareham has been attained by slow but steady growth. Many problems
-have been encountered,&mdash;problems of local prejudice, opposition from
-rival industries and the like; but these problems have simply hampered
-the industry,&mdash;they have not sufficed to check its growth. At present<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span>
-the business seems firmly established, and can enter on its future career
-of prosperity as soon as the barriers which block its progress shall have
-been removed.</p>
-
-<p>The town records show a total of 125 grants in operation to-day.
-These grants are poorly described and for the most part unsurveyed,
-but their total area approximates 1,000 acres. According to the
-statistical returns of the oystermen, 70 grants, comprising 196 acres,
-are under cultivation. Of this, 159 acres are of hard bottom, suitable
-for oyster planting, while the waste area is equally soft mud and
-shifting sand.</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$40,620</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">17</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$4,485</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dories and skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories and skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$820</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Scows,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of scows,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">120</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">84</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,120</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,420</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of bedded oysters,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$27,725</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>The catching of oyster "seed" at Wareham is more important than
-the raising of marketable oysters; 22,100 bushels of seed, valued at
-$12,090, were exported last year (1906-07). Thousands of bushels
-of shells, chiefly those of the scallop, are planted yearly in shallow
-water, to catch the set. The territory where these shells may be planted
-to the best advantage is on the fringe of tidal flats which skirt the
-coast. This area, however, which is consequently of considerable value,
-is of doubtful ownership, being claimed both by the oystermen and also
-by the owners of the adjacent shore property. The dispute arising
-over this question has been most harmful to the industry.</p>
-
-<p>The marketable oysters raised at Wareham are of very good quality.
-There were 7,770 bushels of these oysters, valued at $12,790, produced
-in 1906-07, and shipped mostly to New York and Boston. Altogether,
-there are 26 men depending on this industry for a living.</p>
-
-<p>Besides the grants, there are two native beds, one each in the Wareham
-and the Weweantit rivers. These beds comprise nearly 80 acres,
-and, though now greatly reduced, they still yield a considerable amount
-of seed oysters.</p>
-
-<p>The laws governing the industry here are similar to those at
-Bourne. The ten-year grant prevails, with all its attendant evils to the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span>
-oysterman; while the quahaugers have abundant cause to complain,
-from the fact that practically all the available territory has been
-granted to the oystermen. While it is true that scarcely a third of this
-land is utilized for the cultivation of oysters, it is likewise true that the
-rights of the oystermen are by no means strictly observed by the quahauger.
-There can be but one result of this policy,&mdash;endless wrangling
-and confusion, and, in the end, loss to both parties. The unfortunate
-thing about the whole matter is that most of this wastefulness is entirely
-needless; but this is a problem for future legislation.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Marion.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The oyster industry at Marion is practically dead. The last grants
-expired some ten or twelve years ago, and were never renewed. Of
-the two original natural beds, that in Blankinship's Cove is now almost
-entirely depleted, while the larger and more important bed in the
-Weweantit River has greatly declined in importance. This bed, however,
-still supplies all the marketable oysters produced within the town,
-though the annual production is insignificant. From twenty-five to
-thirty years ago the oyster industry had its beginning, and for a time
-flourished. Almost all the available territory, both in the harbor and
-in the Weweantit River, was granted. The older grants were leased
-for fifteen years, and those of later date were arranged to run out at
-the same time; so it followed that all the leases expired simultaneously,
-and the industry came to an abrupt end. These old grants were not
-renewed, for two reasons: first, they had not paid very well; and,
-secondly, the growing quahaug industry promised more lucrative returns.
-The scallops, too, began to be abundant, and the old oyster business
-gave way before its newer and more prosperous competitors.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Fall River District.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The Fall River district, comprising the six towns of Fall River, Freetown,
-Berkley, Dighton, Somerset and Swansea, may best be treated
-as a geographical unit. The oyster industries of the individual communities
-overlap to a considerable extent, and make distinct separation
-difficult, while, as the same methods of culture everywhere obtain and
-the same problems and difficulties are encountered, a brief survey of
-this whole region may be comprehensively discussed in one article.</p>
-
-<p>The beautiful shores of Mount Hope Bay and its tributary streams,
-the Cole, Lee and Taunton rivers, furnish an extensive territory for
-a large oyster industry. The best of this area is now included within
-the confines of the bay itself, though the Cole and Lee rivers furnish a
-small but valuable addition. The Taunton River, however, which thirty
-years ago produced the finest oysters in the State, and was the main
-source of supply for this district, has become utterly worthless for the
-growth of marketable oysters. In fact, this river, with its curious<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span>
-history, and the difficulties which it now presents to the carrying on
-of an important and profitable industry, furnishes the most interesting
-problem of this whole region. This river embraces the entire oyster
-territory of Freetown, Berkley and Dighton and portions of Somerset
-and Fall River,&mdash;certainly half of all the available territory of the
-whole section; and yet it is an indisputable fact that this large and
-formerly profitable area is now altogether unsuitable for the production
-of edible shellfish.</p>
-
-<p>The causes for this transformation of a river which once supplied
-a large annual revenue to the prosperous communities which lined its
-banks, into a stream unwholesome and unfit for the proper maturing
-of its shellfish, have been much discussed. The prevailing opinion
-seems to lay the blame to the impurities discharged into the river by
-the Taunton factories. Other theories, ingenious but far less worthy
-of weight, have been urged; but the burden of evidence strongly points
-to the sewage of the city of Taunton as the probable main factor in
-the decline of the industry.</p>
-
-<p>While greatly impaired as a favorable territory for the propagation
-of oysters, the river, however, is still largely utilized. Extensive grants
-are sold by the towns of Dighton, Berkley and Freetown to oystermen,
-who bed them with "seed," which is allowed to remain until it is from
-two to three years old, when it is taken up and replanted in some other
-locality where the waters are uncontaminated, and here left for a
-certain time until it becomes "purified" and ready for shipment to
-market. By this method the old grants are still worked, though greatly
-declined in value, as oysters can no longer be sold to market direct,
-and the process of transplanting entails considerable expense.</p>
-
-<p>In the other towns of this region the industry is carried on much the
-same as in Buzzards Bay or Barnstable. A great deal of attention is
-paid to the enemies of the oyster, particularly the starfish. This animal
-is combated chiefly with "mops" of cotton waste which are dragged
-over the bottom, and the starfish, becoming entangled in the strands, are
-removed and destroyed. As this fairly effectual warfare is being constantly
-waged, the numbers of this pest are kept well reduced, and the
-grounds maintained in very good condition.</p>
-
-<p>By a peculiar local custom, which would be decidedly unpopular in
-some coast communities, the towns of this section usually sell their
-entire oyster privilege to some individual or company, ordinarily the
-highest bidder. In this manner, aided by the fact that some persons
-purchasing such rights re-sell them to others, the oyster industry of
-this entire region is owned and controlled by a very few men. This
-arrangement, however, does not seem to be unpopular, the only difficulty
-arising from those clammers who are accustomed to dig clams under
-water, and sometimes find a bed located on an oysterman's grant. In
-such cases the owners usually waive their rights, and allow the clammers
-to dig undisturbed.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>As has been said, the oyster industry in this district, while it has by
-no means attained its maximum development, has indeed reached very
-considerable proportions. The entire amount of area granted aggregates
-810 acres. Of this total, some 510 acres are suitable for oyster
-culture, the remainder being soft mud, shifting sand, or otherwise unfit
-for utilization. The entire output for 1907 exceeded 38,000 bushels,
-valued at $26,250. Thirty-six men depend partially upon the business
-for a livelihood.</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$96,540</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">9</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$19,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dories and skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">17</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories and skiffs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$340</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">18</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$6,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of oysters on grant,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$68,500</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Nantucket.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The oyster industry of Nantucket is of recent origin, and the oysters
-are as yet raised only for home consumption.</p>
-
-<p>Two grants have been leased by the selectmen, but only one of these
-is now planted. These grants are situated in the east and west bends
-of Polpis harbor. The cultivated grant in the west bend comprises
-some 20 acres, only 3 of which are of hard bottom and suitable for
-oyster culture, the remaining 17 having a soft mud bottom.</p>
-
-<p>The "seed" planted on the grant is obtained at New Haven. In the
-last few years the oysters on this grant have thrown a large quantity
-of spawn, which has caught on piles and stones at various places around
-Nantucket harbor.</p>
-
-<p>The only enemy to the Nantucket oyster is the oyster drill.</p>
-
-<p>The production of marketable oysters for 1906-07 was 200 bushels,
-valued at $400. These were sold for home trade on the island.</p>
-
-<p>One man is engaged in the oyster business for a period of three
-months each year.</p>
-
-<p>The oysters are taken both by dredging and with tongs.</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,358</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$18</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span></td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of implements,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of oysters on grant,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_15_15" id="Footnote_15_15"></a><a href="#FNanchor_15_15"><span class="label">[15]</span></a> The Oyster Industry in the United States. Tenth Census of the United States.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_16_16" id="Footnote_16_16"></a><a href="#FNanchor_16_16"><span class="label">[16]</span></a> Returns of the Massachusetts department on fisheries and game.</p></div></div>
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-
-
-
-<h2><a name="Clam_Mya_arenaria" id="Clam_Mya_arenaria"><span class="smcap">Clam</span> (<i>Mya arenaria</i>).</a></h2>
-
-
-<p><i>Mya arenaria</i>, commonly known as the "soft" or "long-neck" clam,
-is found along the entire Massachusetts coast, wherever there is afforded
-a sufficient shelter from the open ocean. Exposed beaches with open
-surf are never inhabited by this mollusk, which is usually found on
-the tide flats of bays, inlets and rivers, and on the sheltered beaches
-between high and low tide lines. The clam occurs in various kinds of
-soil, from rocky gravel to soft mud, but grows best in a tenacious soil
-of mud and sand, where it lies buried at a depth of from 6 to 12 inches.</p>
-
-<p>As Cape Cod marks the dividing line between a northern and a
-southern fauna, it also divides the clam flats of Massachusetts into two
-distinct areas. The same clam is found both north and south of Cape
-Cod, but the natural conditions under which it lives are quite different.
-In comparing these two areas, several points of difference are noted.</p>
-
-<p>(1) The clam areas of the north coast are mostly large flats, while
-those of the south shore are confined to a narrow shore strip, as Buzzards
-Bay and the south side of Cape Cod for certain geological reasons
-do not possess flats, but merely beaches.</p>
-
-<p>(2) The rise and fall of the tide is much higher on the north shore,
-thus giving an extent of available flats nearly six times the clam area
-south of Cape Cod.</p>
-
-<p>(3) Clam growth as a rule is much faster on the north shore. This
-is due to the great amount of tide flow over the river flats of the north
-shore. Current is the main essential for rapid clam growth, as it
-transports the food. The average south shore flats possess merely the
-rise and fall of the tide, and as a rule have not the currents of the north
-shore rivers.</p>
-
-<p>(4) The temperature of the northern waters is several degrees colder
-than the waters south of Cape Cod. This affords, as has been shown
-experimentally, a longer season of growth for the southern clam. The
-north shore clam in the Essex region only increases the size of its shell
-through the six summer months, while the south shore clam grows
-slightly during the winter.</p>
-
-<p>The present advantages lie wholly with the north shore district, as
-through overdigging the less extensive areas of southern Massachusetts
-have become in most parts commercially barren. Overdigging has not
-occurred to the same extent on the north shore, owing to the vast extent
-of the flats. Nevertheless, many acres of these, as at Plymouth,
-Kingston, Duxbury, and even Gloucester and Essex, have become wholly
-or partially unproductive. The only important clamming in Massachusetts
-to-day is found in the towns bordering Ipswich Bay. The south
-shore and a good part of the north shore furnish but few clams for
-the market.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>In view of restocking the barren areas through cultural methods,
-the north shore possesses two advantages over the south shore:
-it has a larger natural supply at present, which will make restocking
-easier; it has larger areas of flats, which can be made to produce
-twenty times the normal yield of the south shore flats. Although,
-compared with the north shore, the clam area of the south shore seems
-poor, it is above the average when compared with the clam areas of the
-other States south of Massachusetts, and when properly restocked the
-clam flats of southern Massachusetts should furnish a large annual production.</p>
-
-<p>If the clam industry is not properly cared for, it will be totally
-ruined before many years. The clammers do not realize this, because
-of a mistaken impression that nature will forever furnish them with
-good clamming, and they have little thought for the future; while, on
-the other hand, the consumer is indifferent from lack of knowledge.</p>
-
-<p><i>Scope of the Report.</i>&mdash;The object of this report is to present in
-brief form the condition of the clam fishery in Massachusetts. For this
-purpose facts showing the present extent of the industry have been
-compiled, with the view of furnishing both the clammer and consumer
-with certain desirable information.</p>
-
-<p>The report will consider: (1) general conditions of the industry of
-1907; (2) a survey of the clam-producing area, illustrated by maps;
-(3) a plan of clam culture which will make productive many acres of
-barren flats; (4) the history of the clam industry, a comparison being
-made between the industries of 1879 and 1907; (5) a description of the
-industry.</p>
-
-<p><i>Methods of Work.</i>&mdash;The same methods as used with the other shellfish
-were pursued in obtaining the statistical data for the clam industry.
-The clam-producing areas were examined and the observations recorded.
-Town records, which were of some assistance with the other shellfish,
-furnished practically no clam data, compelling the Commission to rely
-upon the estimates of the clammers and clam dealers. While this
-method made it difficult to secure accurate detailed information, the
-statistics for each town were checked up in a variety of ways, thus
-furnishing as nearly correct figures as can be obtained.</p>
-
-<p>In making an historical comparison of 1879 and 1907, the report
-of Ernest Ingersoll on the clam fishery of the United States, and the
-report of A. Howard Clark on the fisheries of Massachusetts, as published
-in the United States Fish Commission Report, Section V,
-volume 2, and Section II., respectively, were of great use, as practically
-all of the statistics for 1879 were obtained from these two reports.</p>
-
-<p>In making the survey of the clam areas, records were made of:
-(1) soil; (2) food (<i>a</i>) in water, (<i>b</i>) on surface of soil; (3) rate of
-currents; (4) abundance of clams and localities of set; (5) barren flats
-that can be made productive. In the present report only the kind of
-soil, abundance of clams and area of barren flats will be given, the
-food problem being reserved for later publication.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span></p>
-
-<p><i>Summary.</i>&mdash;In the following summary the seacoast towns are arranged
-in geographical order from north to south. The number of
-men includes both regular and intermittent clammers who dig for the
-market; all others are excluded. In determining the production of
-any town it is impossible to obtain exactly correct figures, as the amount
-dug for home consumption is an unestimable quantity, and the clams
-are marketed in a number of ways, rendering it almost impossible to
-get complete statistics. The production statistics have been obtained
-in a variety of ways, and the final estimates have resulted from careful
-consideration of all facts. The invested capital includes the clammer's
-outfit and boat, but does not include personal apparel, such as boots and
-oil skins.</p>
-
-<p>The clam flats are divided into two main divisions: (1) productive;
-and (2) barren. The barren areas are those where at present no clams
-grow at all, not even scattering; and areas yielding even a few clams are
-still considered productive flats, though to all practical purposes barren.
-It was necessary to make the division thus, as otherwise no decisive line
-could be drawn. The barren flats are divided into those sections that
-can be made productive and those that can never be made to grow
-clams. The productive flats, on the other hand, are divided into areas
-of good clamming and areas of scattering clams which do not support
-a commercial fishery. The normal production of the clam flats has been
-carefully estimated, in view of the previous experiments of the Fish
-and Game Commission, and the different classes of flats have each been
-given a certain valuation in computing the total for each town. The
-areas given of the clam flats are based upon calculations, as no engineering
-survey was made.</p>
-
-<p>The price of clams varies in different localities, and chiefly depends
-upon the quality of clams and the method of marketing. In certain
-towns clams are "shucked" (removed from the shell),&mdash;a process
-which greatly increases their market value; while in other places they
-are sold only in the shell. These two facts account for the apparent
-variation in the value of the production in different localities, as each
-town is given its own market price.</p>
-
-<p>The following production table does not include an important factor,&mdash;the
-amount of clams dug by the summer people. An unestimable
-quantity is annually taken from the flats in this way, and is not
-included in the production statistics. Indeed, summer people have
-affected the clamming interests of several towns, as the selectmen have
-refused to place closed seasons, etc., on certain depleted flats in order
-to cater to the summer residents, who desire free clamming near their
-cottages. The total number of licenses issued by the boards of health
-of Boston and New Bedford for taking shellfish in their respective
-harbors are given as representing the number of clammers. In reality,
-however, only a few of these licensees make a regular business of
-clamming.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of the Clam Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of the Clam Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th rowspan="2">TOWN.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Num&shy;ber of Men.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2" class="br">Cap&shy;i&shy;tal In&shy;vest&shy;ed.</th>
-    <th colspan="2" class="smcap">1907 Pro&shy;duc&shy;tion.</th>
-    <th colspan="5" class="smcap bl">To&shy;tal Ar&shy;e&shy;a.</th>
-    <th colspan="2" class="smcap bl">Pro&shy;duc&shy;tive Ar&shy;e&shy;a.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2" class="bl">Bar&shy;ren Ar&shy;e&shy;a pos&shy;si&shy;bly Pro&shy;duc&shy;tive.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Waste Bar&shy;ren Ar&shy;e&shy;a.</th>
-    <th rowspan="2">Pos&shy;si&shy;ble Nor&shy;mal Pro&shy;duc&shy;tion.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <th>Bush&shy;els.</th>
-    <th>Val&shy;ue.</th>
-    <th class="bl">Sand.</th>
-    <th>Mud.</th>
-    <th>Grav&shy;el.</th>
-    <th>Mus&shy;sels and Eel Grass.</th>
-    <th>To&shy;tal.</th>
-    <th class="bl">Good Clamm&shy;ing.</th>
-    <th>Scat&shy;ter&shy;ing Clams.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Salisbury,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">66<a name="FNanchor_17_17" id="FNanchor_17_17"></a><a href="#Footnote_17_17" class="fnanchor">[17]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">$625</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">15,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$16,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">34</td>
-    <td class="tdr">216</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$70,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Newburyport,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">175</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,700</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">55,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">61,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">930</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,080</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">280</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Newbury,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">110</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">360</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">260</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Rowley,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">80</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">60,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Ipswich,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">136<a href="#Footnote_17_17" class="fnanchor">[17]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">7,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">25,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">18,750</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">390</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">55</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">970</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">420</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">125</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Essex,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">15,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12,750</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">125</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">650</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">325</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">120,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Gloucester,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">31</td>
-    <td class="tdr">600</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">6,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">550</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">75</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">275</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">70,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Manchester,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Beverly,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Salem,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">75</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">70</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Lynn,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">90</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">160</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">26,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Saugus,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">22,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Nahant,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Boston,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">350<a name="FNanchor_18_18" id="FNanchor_18_18"></a><a href="#Footnote_18_18" class="fnanchor">[18]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,250</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">7,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">525</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,325</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,380</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,095</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,325</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,180</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,045</td>
-    <td class="tdr">376,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Cohasset,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Scituate,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">45</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Marshfield,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr">9,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Duxbury,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">60</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">700</td>
-    <td class="tdr">600</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,700</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,685</td>
-    <td class="tdr">83,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Kingston,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">450</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">450</td>
-    <td class="tdr">600</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">440</td>
-    <td class="tdr">18,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Plymouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-    <td class="tdr">60</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">3,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,600</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">440</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">58,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barnstable,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">700</td>
-    <td class="tdr">550</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">330</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">39,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Yarmouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">600</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Orleans,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">3,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">125</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">75</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">27,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Eastham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">36</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">4,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Wellfleet,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">640</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">450</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">605</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">340</td>
-    <td class="tdr">28,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Truro,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">60</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">47</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Provincetown,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">320</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">3</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">194</td>
-    <td class="tdr">21,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Chatham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">330</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">360</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">44,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Harwich,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">80</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dennis,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">45</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Mashpee,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">45</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Falmouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">175</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">2</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Bourne,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Wareham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Marion,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Mattapoisett,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Fairhaven,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>New Bedford,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">320<a href="#Footnote_18_18" class="fnanchor">[18]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
-    <td class="tdr">225</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dartmouth,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">160</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Swansea,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">24,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Somerset,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Dighton,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">8</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Berkley,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">6</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Freetown,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Fall River,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Nantucket,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">350</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">130</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">18,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Edgartown,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">1,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-    <td class="tdr">33,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">1,361</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$18,142</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt bl">153,865</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$150,440</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt bl">6,269</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">7,111</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">2,125</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">5,580</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">21,085</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt bl">1,878</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">3,233</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt bl">6,096</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">9,878</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$1,801,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></div>
-
-<p><i>Decline of the Natural Clam Supply.</i>&mdash;The decline of the clam
-supply is a matter of general knowledge. People who live along the
-seashore realize that they can no longer gather the amount of clams
-they once could dig with ease from the same flats. On the southern
-shore of the State especially it is oftentimes difficult to obtain even
-enough for family use. The consumer also realizes the loss of the
-clam, as he is forced to pay higher prices.</p>
-
-<p>If specific cases of this decline are demanded, the following instances
-should show the exact depletion in the various localities. Even in the
-best clam-producing town of the State, Newburyport, where the clam
-production, according to statistics, has apparently increased during
-the last twenty-five years (as a result of more men entering the fishery),
-the supply has shown signs of failing. Essex now possesses many
-acres of flats formerly productive which now lie in a practically barren
-condition. Gloucester can no longer boast of her former clam industry,
-as the flats in Annisquam River are in poor condition. Hardly 30 men
-now make a business of clamming in that town, whereas 92 men were
-engaged in the fishery in 1879. Passing south of Gloucester, we find
-great evidence of decline in the Boston harbor flats. Even before the
-edict closing the harbor from clammers was in force, the production did
-not by any means equal that of 1879. Plymouth harbor, including the
-three towns of Duxbury, Kingston and Plymouth, furnishes an excellent
-illustration of this decline. Here an area of flats as extensive as all
-the other flats of the State combined now lies practically barren,
-whereas in former times great quantities of clams were taken. These
-flats had already become depleted to a marked extent by 1879, and to-day
-practically no clams are shipped to market from the Duxbury flats,
-although you can still read "Duxbury clams" on the menus of the
-hotels and restaurants, showing how important a clam industry this
-town once possessed. Buzzards Bay district lies at present unproductive
-except for supplying home consumption and the demands of the
-summer people. The shores of Cape Cod no longer yield their former
-supply of clams, and the most striking example of the extinction of a
-flourishing fishery is found in the town of Chatham, which now does not
-produce one-tenth part of its production in 1879. The Fall River or
-Narragansett Bay district does not come up to its past productiveness,
-and now chiefly yields clams which in former times would have been
-considered as too small to use.</p>
-
-<p>As can be seen by the following table, which gives a comparison
-between the industry in 1879 and 1907, the localities south of Gloucester
-all show a decline in their production, and there is no town on
-the coast which has not shown some depletion in the natural clam
-supply. The localities of the north shore, while indicating by their
-statistics a gain in production, nevertheless have not their former
-abundance, and the actual diminution of the supply is concealed by the
-fact that more men have entered the industry.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span></p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th rowspan="2">LOCALITY.</th>
-    <th colspan="3">1879.</th>
-    <th colspan="3">1907.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <th>Men.</th>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-    <th>Men.</th>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Ipswich,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$4,600</td>
-    <td class="tdr">136</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$18,750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Salisbury and Newburyport,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">60</td>
-    <td class="tdr">28,800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11,520</td>
-    <td class="tdr">241</td>
-    <td class="tdr">70,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">77,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Essex,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12,750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Gloucester,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">92</td>
-    <td class="tdr">13,978</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">31</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Boston harbor,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">90</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">350<a name="FNanchor_19_19" id="FNanchor_19_19"></a><a href="#Footnote_19_19" class="fnanchor">[19]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">7,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Duxbury,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">-<a name="FNanchor_20_20" id="FNanchor_20_20"></a><a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-    <td class="tdr">700</td>
-    <td class="tdr">600</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Plymouth</td>
-    <td class="tdr">-<a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Harwich,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,125</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">80</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Chatham,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">35,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12,250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Nantucket,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">-<a href="#Footnote_19_19" class="fnanchor">[19]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,253</td>
-    <td class="tdr">872</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">350</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Edgartown,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">-<a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,570</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>New Bedford district,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">-<a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,900</td>
-    <td class="tdr">332<a href="#Footnote_19_19" class="fnanchor">[19]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,600</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,685</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Fall River district,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">-<a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a></td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,375</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,121</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,315</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,290</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p><i>Causes of the Decline.</i>&mdash;The same cause which has been stated in
-the general report has contributed to the decline of the clam supply,
-<i>i.e.</i>, the increasing demand which has led to overfishing. Thus the decline
-can be directly attributed to the exploiting of natural clam resources
-by man, although it must be admitted that natural agencies, such as
-geographical changes, destroy the clam flats of certain localities and
-build up others.</p>
-
-<p>This decline has become possible through the indifference of the towns
-to the welfare of their clam fishery, and by not restricting, through
-town laws, the extermination of the clams in time to allow nature to
-replenish the flats. Some towns, such as Ipswich, have regulated this
-matter by placing closed seasons on portions of the flats, which has
-been the partial means of preserving their natural supply. Thus the
-town laws have proved inadequate, as most towns have no laws at all,
-or have such unwise ones that they often defeat their own object.</p>
-
-<p>It is again necessary to emphasize the need of reform in the clam
-industry. This Commonwealth once possessed an extensive supply of
-clams, and still possesses part of its former abundance; but the present
-supply is diminishing at such a rate that it will not be a quarter of a
-century before the natural clam fishery will be commercially extinct.
-On the south shore clams are now commercially extinct, and it is only
-a question of time, if the present methods are allowed to remain, before
-the north shore clams will also disappear. The experiments of the
-Massachusetts department of fisheries and game and the work of men
-who have planted this shellfish all show that thousands of dollars can
-be brought into the State by utilizing the waste clam areas, and that
-<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span>the production can be so increased as to even exceed that of former
-years. Immediate action is necessary, if this important industry is to
-be saved.</p>
-
-<p><i>The Remedy.</i>&mdash;The remedy is comparatively simple, and abundant
-proof of its success is at hand. By restocking the barren and unproductive
-areas of the Commonwealth the present production can be increased
-many times. Experiments have shown that clams can be
-readily, successfully and economically transplanted, and that it is
-a completely practical undertaking. Not only can the barren areas be
-restocked, but the yield of the productive areas can be much increased.
-Clam farming is the only practical method of restocking these areas,
-and only through such means can the clam flats be made to yield their
-normal harvest.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Clam Farming.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The subject of clam farming has received a good deal of attention
-the past few years, and much has been said concerning the enormous
-profits which would result from the cultivation of this shellfish. While
-the newspaper statements have been for the most part correct, there has
-been considerable exaggeration and many details have been inaccurate.
-To remove any misapprehensions, the following account of clam farming
-is given.</p>
-
-<p>The value of clam farming has been perhaps overestimated. While
-no fabulous returns are ever to be expected, the yield is large in proportion
-to the labor, and steady returns are sure. The methods used
-are simple, the capital required is small, the area suitable for raising
-clams is extensive, and clam farming gives promise of becoming one
-of the most prominent and remunerative shore industries. The profits
-derived from such a system should furnish steady employment for
-hundreds of men on the Massachusetts coast.</p>
-
-<p>Massachusetts possesses thousands of acres of tidal flats which are
-capable of producing clams. Most of these flats are practically barren,
-<i>i.e.</i>, produce no clams in paying quantities, and yet if planted with
-small clams will yield in from one to two years large quantities of
-marketable bivalves. This large area of barren flats should be divided
-into small farms, which should be leased to individuals for the purpose
-of planting and raising clams.</p>
-
-<p><i>The Necessity of Clam Farming.</i>&mdash;It is a well-known fact that the
-natural supply of clams is becoming rapidly exhausted, and that this
-important fishery will become commercially extinct unless steps are
-taken to check its decline. The only practical means known at the
-present time is <i>clam farming</i>. In the past, methods such as close
-seasons and restricting the catch have been used, but with poor results,
-as these have been economically wrong. The correct method in such
-cases is not to restrict the demand, but to increase the supply. Clam
-farming offers the only means of increasing the natural production,
-and not only checking the decline, but establishing a large industry.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span></p>
-
-<p><i>Is Clam Farming Practical?</i>&mdash;Clam farming is not a theory but
-an <i>established fact</i>. Clams will grow if planted in suitable places,
-and will yield large returns. For three years the Commission of
-Fisheries and Game have made numerous experiments in clam farming
-in many seacoast towns. They have not only proved its complete
-practicability, but have also shown that large profits result from successful
-planting. Records are on file at the State House showing the
-exact results of these experimental farms, which indicate the future
-success of clam farming.</p>
-
-<p>Besides the experiments of the Commission on Fisheries and Game,
-<i>successful clam farming</i> is now being carried on in several towns of the
-State. The leading town in this line is Essex, where at least 15 grants
-are held by the clammers. The only protection given is based upon
-public sentiment, which, however, is sufficient to insure the success of
-the enterprise. All these grants were staked out on flats which were
-producing no clams when granted, although part of this area was once
-very productive. So far these grants have proved most successful, thus
-proving by actual experience that clam farming is a worthy rival of
-agriculture.</p>
-
-<p><i>Historical Attempts at Clam Farming.</i>&mdash;Clam farming has been in
-existence for years. The first record of any legislation upon this subject
-is found in an act to regulate the clam fishery in and around the
-shores of Plymouth, Kingston and Duxbury in 1870, whereby a license
-was granted for a term not exceeding five years to any inhabitant of
-these towns to plant, cultivate and dig clams. This license cost $2.50,
-and gave the exclusive use of the flats and creeks described to the
-licensee and his heirs during the time specified, and also the right in an
-action of tort to recover treble damages from any person who, without
-his consent, dug or took clams from said grant. Evidently nothing was
-done to follow out this law, which was soon forgotten.</p>
-
-<p>In 1874 an act was passed to regulate the shellfisheries (including
-clams) in the waters of Mount Hope Bay and its tributaries. The
-terms of this act were practically the same as the Plymouth act, the
-only difference being the substitution of the word <i>shellfish</i> for <i>clam</i>.</p>
-
-<p>In 1888 an act was passed by the town of Winthrop, authorizing the
-planting of clams on the shores of that town. The grant was to consist
-of not over 2 acres of <i>barren</i> flats, situated more than 500 feet from
-high-water mark. The other provisions of this act were the same as
-those of the Plymouth act of 1870.</p>
-
-<p>The most important clam culture law was passed in 1888. This
-authorized the planting of clams on the shores of Essex. Here the
-provisions of the law were followed out, and the first energetic attempt
-at clam farming started. The law, the provisions of which were nearly
-the same as the previous laws, reads as follows:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span></p>
-
-
-<h3><span class="smcap">Acts of 1888, Chapter 198.</span></h3>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">An Act authorizing the planting of clams, in and around the shores
-of essex.</span></p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p><i>Be it enacted, etc., as follows:</i></p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Section 1.</span> The selectmen of the town of Essex may by writing under
-their hands grant a license for such a term of years, not exceeding five,
-as they in their discretion may deem necessary and the public good requires,
-to any inhabitant of said town, to plant, cultivate and dig clams upon and
-in any flats and creeks in said town now unproductive thereof, not exceeding
-two acres to any one person, and not impairing the private rights of
-any person.</p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Section 2.</span> Such license shall describe by metes and bounds the flats
-and creeks so appropriated and shall be recorded by the town clerk before
-it shall have any force, and the person licensed shall pay to the selectmen
-for the use of said town two dollars and to the clerk fifty cents.</p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Section 3.</span> The person so licensed and his heirs and assigns shall for
-the purposes aforesaid have the exclusive use of the flats and creeks described
-in the license during the term specified therein, and may in an
-action of tort recover treble damages of any person, who, without his or
-their consent digs or takes clams from such flats or creeks during the
-continuance of the license.</p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Section 4.</span> Said town of Essex at any legal meeting called for the purpose
-may make such by-laws, not repugnant to the laws of the commonwealth,
-as they may from time to time deem expedient to protect and
-preserve the shellfisheries within said town.</p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Section 5.</span> Whoever takes any shellfish from within the waters of said
-town of Essex in violation of the by-laws established by it or of the provisions
-of this act shall for every offence pay a fine of not less than five
-or more than ten dollars and costs of prosecution, and one dollar for every
-bushel of shellfish so taken.</p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Section 6.</span> This act shall take effect upon its passage. [<i>Approved
-April 9, 1888.</i>]</p></div>
-
-<p>In the report of the United States Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries
-for 1894 Mr. Ansley Hall gives the following account of clam
-culture under this act:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>During the first two years (1889-90) the people were slow to avail themselves
-of the privilege of planting, for fear that after they had spent their
-time and labor they would not be able to secure protection from trespassers;
-but in 1891 and 1892 lots were obtained and planted. In 1892 there were
-25 acres that were quite productive, about one-third of the entire catch
-of the section being obtained from them. The catch from these lots is
-not definitely known, but is estimated at about 2,500 barrels.</p>
-
-<p>Cultivated clams possess some advantage over the natural growth, from
-the fact that they are more uniform in size, and are as large as the best
-natural clam. They bring $1.75 per barrel, while the natural clams sell
-for $1.50 per barrel. This is the price received by the diggers. One acre
-of these clams is considered to be worth $1,000, if well seeded and favorably<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span>
-located so as not to be in danger of being submerged with sand. This
-valuation would be too high for an average, since all the acres are not
-equally well seeded and located. The clammers are generally impressed
-that the industry can be extensively and profitably developed, and their
-only fear is that they will not be able to secure lots permanently. The
-greater part of the land available for this purpose is covered by the deeds
-of people owning farms along the river, and the consent of the land owners
-has to be obtained before lots can be taken up. It seems probable, however,
-that the business will continue to progress unless checked by complications
-that may arise relative to the occupancy of the grounds.</p></div>
-
-<p>The result of this first practical attempt at clam culture was a
-complete failure, and after a few years' trial the clam farms were all
-given up. The main reason for this failure was lack of protection
-both from outsiders and from one another. Nevertheless, this attempt
-proved that with proper protection a most successful industry could be
-made of clam farming. The following statement by Prof. James L.
-Kellogg, in the United States Fish Commission Bulletin for 1899,
-describes the failure of clam culture at Essex:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>It is not difficult to determine the reasons for the failure of the culture
-experiment at Essex. The areas upon which clams were planted were those
-which were at the time unproductive. The beds still containing clams&mdash;the
-"town flats"&mdash;were free to any native of Essex. The one thing which
-was absolutely necessary to the success of any planter was that the clams
-on his leased ground should not be disturbed by other diggers. This protection
-was apparently not given in any case by the town authorities, and,
-as no person lived within sight of the majority of the beds, it was quite
-impossible for any man to guard his property much of the time.</p>
-
-<p>As to what followed it is not easy to obtain definite testimony from the
-clammers themselves. Other citizens of the town, however, and some few
-clammers, intimate that most of the men began to take clams from any
-property but their own, and that in this way the full result of no man's
-labor in planting was ever realized. Others who did not make clam digging
-a regular business, but only dug occasionally, are said to have had no
-respect for the rights of those who had leased property. It was said that
-at times when vessel builders and the shoe factory released employees, many
-of them, for lack of other occupation, turned their attention to clam digging,
-with the result that too many clams were at the time taken from
-the flats.</p>
-
-<p>Another reason for the failure of the Essex experiment is that a number
-of short-sighted clammers began to fear, after the clams had been planted,
-that the production might suddenly become so great as to glut their market,
-and, as a consequence, force prices down. Some few individuals, inspired
-by this fear, are reported to have said and to have done everything
-in their power to prevent the success of the experiment. In all cases, it
-is said, the selectmen of the town, who issued the leases, refused their aid
-in the prosecution of trespassers.</p>
-
-<p>In spite of the fact, which had been demonstrated in the experiment,
-that when properly planted the clams grew much more rapidly and became
-much larger than on the natural beds, no applications for a renewal of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span>
-leases were made when the first ones expired. No change in the condition
-at Essex may be hoped for until there is some evidence that a law protecting
-the planter will be strictly enforced. With proper protection, a
-great industry might, and probably would, be quickly established, not
-only in Essex, but in any region where clam flats are now unproductive
-because of excessive digging.</p></div>
-
-<p><i>Protection Necessary.</i>&mdash;The same lack of protection which ruined
-the Essex clam experiments has been the cause of similar failures in
-other shore towns. As long as no protection is given, clam farming can
-never become possible, as the whole success of the enterprise depends
-wholly upon the planter's having complete control of his land. The
-present law gives absolutely no protection, as according to the old free
-beach law a person has a right to dig a mess of clams anywhere
-between the tide lines, no matter whether natural or planted. This
-practically discourages clam farming, however profitable, as no clammer
-is going to the labor and expense of planting clams, if the next person
-who comes along has a legal right to dig as many as he pleases. Until
-a law is passed which gives to the clam planter absolute protection from
-this sort of trespassing, and does away with the antiquated free fishing
-law, clam culture can never become a successful industry.</p>
-
-<p><i>Present Clam Culture.</i>&mdash;In 1906 grants of barren flats were again
-issued for the purpose of clam culture in Essex, and this time the
-attempt seemed successful. Two things encouraged this: the excellent
-results of the experiments in Essex River by the Commission on Fisheries
-and Game, and the possible results indicated by the experiments of
-1888. The only protection for these clam grants is by public sentiment,
-and the mutual agreement of all the clammers to respect the rights of the
-individual. So far there has been no trouble from trespassing and the
-lack of protection, which caused the failure of first attempts. It is
-hoped that these clam farms will become permanently successful, despite
-the lack of protection, as they will greatly increase the production of
-the Essex clam flats.</p>
-
-<p><i>Clam Farming and Agriculture.</i>&mdash;The comparison between clam
-farming and agriculture is very close, and both possess many common
-features, though there are several points of difference. The clam obtains
-its sustenance entirely from the water, while agricultural products
-obtain their nourishment chiefly from the soil. The nitrogenous waste
-products of the land washed into the streams furnish the nourishment
-to the little marine plants (diatoms) on which the clams feed.</p>
-
-<p><i>Rate of Growth of the Clam.</i>&mdash;The report of the Commission on
-Fisheries and Game for the year 1906 contains the following statements:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p><i>What is the natural growth of the clam per year?</i></p>
-
-<p>There is great diversity in the growth of the clam, owing to the location
-in respect to three essential conditions,&mdash;current, length of time submerged,
-and soil. The following figures give briefly the general trend of results<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span>
-from numerous experimental beds under great variety of conditions. For
-simplicity, a 1-inch clam is taken as the standard.</p>
-
-<p>A 1-inch clam will grow in one year to a size between 2 and 3 inches.
-Under fairly favorable conditions, with a moderate current, a 1-inch clam
-will increase to 2&frac12; inches, or a gain of 900 per cent, in volume. For
-every quart planted, the yield in one year will be 9 quarts. For beds without
-current, 1-inch clams average about 2 inches, or a gain of 500 per cent.;
-<i>i.e.</i>, five quarts for every quart planted. Beds under exceptionally fine conditions
-have shown the amazing return of 15 quarts for every quart of
-1-inch clams planted. Clams increased in these beds from 1 to 3 inches
-in length. Therefore, by planting clams 1 inch or over, under <i>favorable</i>
-conditions a <i>marketable</i> clam can be produced in <i>one year</i>.</p>
-
-<p><i>What is the maximum production per square foot?</i></p>
-
-<p>The number of clams per square foot that can be raised to the best
-advantage depends upon the location of the flat in respect to natural conditions.
-Clams thickly planted (15 to 20 per square foot) in favorable
-locations may show a greater growth than when thinly planted (5 per
-square foot) in less favorable locations; therefore, no definite statement
-can be made which will apply in all cases. The only rule that can be
-given is that a flat with a current will produce a greater number of clams
-per square foot than one without a current. On good flats clams can be
-planted conveniently and economically from 10 to 15 per square foot, or
-even a larger number.</p>
-
-<p><i>What results can be obtained by planting on barren flats?</i></p>
-
-<p>There are two groups of flats which come under the term barren: (1)
-flats which once produced clams in great numbers, but now are practically
-barren, except for an occasional clam here and there; (2) flats which never
-have produced clams, and on which for physical reasons clams can never
-grow. The first group of flats is alone considered in this answer.</p>
-
-<p>Experimental beds were planted on certain flats in the Essex River which
-come within the first group of barren flats. These once productive flats
-had been cleaned out in the past, and for some reason had not seeded
-naturally. Forty beds were laid out under all kinds of conditions, with
-the object of finding a way to make these once more productive. Results
-have been all that could be hoped for. Only 4 poor beds were found, out
-of the 40 laid out; 36 beds were in thriving condition. It should be noted
-that no attempt was made to choose the best places, but all conditions were
-tried. Over two-thirds of the clams were re-dug, the increase averaging,
-in terms of 1-inch clams, over 1,000 per cent., or 10 quarts for every quart
-planted the year before.</p>
-
-<p>If many acres of Massachusetts flat, idle at present, are capable of
-such a yield, should such economic waste be allowed? Why should not
-the towns, by the expenditure of a little money, restock flats such as these
-for the benefit of their inhabitants? I do not say that all flats can be made
-productive in this way, as I know of many cases where the mere sowing
-of seed clams will not restock a flat; but I do say that Massachusetts possesses
-enough flats of the former nature, which should be made a profit
-to her clammers. Clam set occurs, as Mr. Stevenson shows in his report,
-in large quantities; the transportation of seed clams is easy; planting requires
-little labor, the practical way being to sow the clams, which burrow
-readily; while the yield in proportion to the labor is enormous.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span></p>
-
-<p><i>What sized clams are best for planting?</i></p>
-
-<p>The size best adapted must be determined for each flat. Shore flats with
-little current will allow the planting of any size, from &frac14; inch up; flats
-with a swift current necessitate a larger clam (1 to 1&frac12; inches), as the
-smaller will be washed out of its burrow; soft mud also demands a larger
-clam, as the smaller will be stifled by the oozy silt.</p>
-
-<p><i>What are the physical conditions that influence the growth of clams?</i></p>
-
-<p>There appear at least three essential conditions for rapid growth of clams:
-(1) a good current; (2) low and level flat; and (3) a tenacious soil, relatively
-free from decaying matter.</p>
-
-<p>A low flat gives the clams longer feeding periods, as the water remains
-over them longer, therefore there is a greater growth. This has been experimentally
-shown by Dr. A. D. Mead.</p>
-
-<p>According to Prof. J. L. Kellogg, clams cannot do well in a soil which
-contains much decaying organic matter, as the acids eat away the shells.
-Soils of this description also facilitate the spread of infection from one
-clam to another.</p>
-
-<p>Current is the chief essential for successful clam culture. The term
-"current" does not imply a rapid flow of water, but rather a good circulation
-of water over the flat. In the Essex and Ipswich rivers the clam flats
-have a continuous current. On such flats the growth is more rapid than
-on flats which have no circulation of water, in addition to the mere rise
-and fall of the tide. The current performs the work of (1) keeping the
-flats clean and carrying away all contamination, but its most important
-work is as (2) <i>food carrier</i>.</p>
-
-<p><i>Value of a Clam Farm.</i>&mdash;The value of an acre of clam flats, if
-properly cultivated, is about $450 per year for the average clam flat.
-Many of the more productive flats will yield a far greater amount,
-while others will not yield as much. It has been often erroneously
-stated that an acre of clam flats would produce $1,000 per year. This
-is a decided overestimation, as it would be hardly possible for the most
-productive flat to yield that amount. It is possible, however, for a
-good flat to yield about $750 per year, but this is only under the most
-favorable conditions. Such yields as these are large for the clammer,
-whose average yearly income is only $400 (a few of the more expert
-clammers make possibly $700 to $750), and a man possessing a clam
-farm of 1&frac12; to 2 acres would make a good living.</p>
-
-<p><i>Method of operating a Clam Farm: choosing the Ground.</i>&mdash;In
-choosing a grant, the planter should have in mind three things: (1) the
-accessibility of the grant, for his own convenience, and nearness to
-the market, as much of the success of clam farming depends upon the
-expense of marketing the product, and the ease with which it can be
-disposed of; (2) the length of time allowed for labor by the exposure
-of the flat (flats vary greatly in the amount of time exposed each tide,
-the low flats being submerged nearly all the time, and the high flats
-having a much longer exposure),&mdash;a high flat possesses the advantage
-of allowing a longer working period for the clammer; (3) the natural
-facilities of the flat itself as regards the growth of clams. Moreover,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span>
-the flat should be chosen in regard to (1) soil; (2) current; (3) tide.
-A good flat should have a soil which is tenacious and compact, affording
-at the same time easy digging. Probably the best soil is a mixture of
-fine sand and mud in a ratio of one-third mud to two-thirds sand, as this
-amount of mud gives the right degree of tenacity.</p>
-
-<p>The growth of a clam depends upon the circulation of water over the
-flat, as the current carries the food, and, therefore, the more current
-the more food for the clams. Current also keeps the bed clean, and
-prevents contamination and disease from spreading among the clams.
-Then, again, the growth of a clam depends upon the amount of water
-over the bed; <i>i.e.</i>, length of time covered. The clam can only feed when
-the tide is over the bed, and thus the feeding time is limited for the
-higher flats. While experiments have shown that clams grow faster
-when continually under water than when exposed part of the time, the
-question of tide is not so great a factor as that of current in regard to
-clam growth, and can be almost disregarded.</p>
-
-<p>The best flat for clam planting is a <i>fairly high flat</i> with a <i>good current</i>
-over it, as it gives nearly as rapid growth and a much longer period
-to dig than a flat which is exposed only a short period. This flat must
-have the right kind of soil, which must not be shifting sand or too soft
-mud, but a compact, tenacious mixture.</p>
-
-<p><i>The Seed Clams.</i>&mdash;Nature has provided the means of stocking these
-farms. The set of clams is usually restricted to certain localities,
-which, however, vary from time to time, and heavy sets are found in
-limited areas. These sets run as thick as 2,000 per square foot of
-surface, occasionally covering an area of 3 acres. From these natural
-set areas the natural clam flats are partially restocked by the washing
-out of the small clams. More often these whole sets are wasted,
-as the clams, instead of washing on the good flats, are carried to unproductive
-places and consequently perish. Thus there are areas of
-heavy set which are of no use to any one, as practically all the clams
-perish before they become adults. These areas of heavy set occur in
-nearly every harbor of the coast to a greater or less extent, and are
-available for nearly every town.</p>
-
-<p>The problem now is to make use of these large sets, and not allow
-them to go to waste. It has been shown that these clams when transplanted
-will grow much faster, and will not perish; therefore, clam
-farming offers both the possibility of saving these natural sets and
-utilizing barren ground.</p>
-
-<p>Methods of spat collecting have been constantly referred to in connection
-with clam farming, especially by the Rhode Island Fish Commission,
-and the impression has been given that clam farming can
-never become a success until some practical method of spat collecting
-has been found. With the soft clam there is no need of any method
-of spat collecting, as the natural set is more than sufficient for restocking
-the barren flats. All that is necessary is to utilize the enormous
-<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span>natural sets. If this is done, the barren flats of Massachusetts can be
-made productive.</p>
-
-<p>The main difficulty is in devising some method of obtaining the small
-clams with sufficient rapidity. As the nature of the soil and the size of
-the clams vary, no one method can apply to every case, and it depends
-upon the ingenuity of the clammer. The methods used at present are:
-(1) digging with an ordinary clam hoe, which is slow work; (2) digging
-in shallow water, so that the clams may be washed out; (3) digging
-a series of trenches across the heavy set area, and scooping out the
-clams washed in these trenches; (4) carrying both sand and clams by
-the dory load; (5) by using a sieve, in the form of a cradle, which
-washes the clams out in the water. This last method is the most successful
-for small clams, and has been used by the commission in obtaining
-seed clams for their experimental beds. By using a cradle 3 by 2
-feet, covered with sand wire netting, clams which ran 3,000 per quart,
-were obtained by 3 men at the rate of 2 bushels an hour,&mdash;an amount
-sufficient to plant from 1/25 to 1/10 of an acre.</p>
-
-<p>Another problem of importance is the transportation of seed clams,
-as in many instances the clams will have to be carried some distance.
-The best method of shipping seed clams is to pack them dry in damp sea
-weed, putting them in small packages, so they will not be crushed by
-their own weight. The best though most expensive method is to pack
-the clams in crates, such as are used for strawberries. It has been
-found that clams kept in water are not in such good condition as those
-shipped dry, and it is of the utmost importance that the clams be in
-good condition when planted.</p>
-
-<p>The length of time a clam will live out of its natural element depends
-upon the temperature; in cold weather it will keep for several days,
-and even weeks; while in warm weather the seed clam will be in poor
-condition after one day's exposure.</p>
-
-<p><i>Preparing the Grant.</i>&mdash;Usually the ground needs no preparation,
-and the clams can be planted at once. It is a good plan to remove any
-mussels and any of the enemies of the clam from the grant.</p>
-
-<p><i>Planting the Clams.</i>&mdash;The planting of the seed clams is perhaps the
-easiest work of the clam culturist, as it necessitates merely the sowing
-of the seed on the surface of the flat. The small clams when left this
-way burrow into the ground as soon as the water is over them, and
-require no planting on the part of the culturist.</p>
-
-<p><i>Working the Farm.</i>&mdash;This style of farming requires no cultivation
-for the growth of the clams. Once planted, the farmer has no further
-work until the time when he is ready to dig them. The clams grow
-better when undisturbed than when the soil is upturned by frequent
-digging. Protection from man and the natural enemies of the clam
-demand the attention of the owner at all times.</p>
-
-<p><i>Harvesting the Clams.</i>&mdash;The time of digging will vary as to the
-size of clam desired and the rate of growth on the grant. The clam<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span>
-farmer can cater to a particular trade by regulating the size of the
-clams marketed. He may find it more profitable to market a small
-clam after a short period of growth, or <i>vice versa</i>, on the same principle
-that a farmer raises hogs for the market.</p>
-
-<p>North of Boston, in localities favorable for fast growth, such as the
-Essex and Ipswich rivers, by planting large seed of at least l&frac12; inches
-in the spring, marketable clams of 2&frac12; to 3 inches can be obtained in the
-fall after six months' growth. Here the clams grow only during the
-summer months, and nothing would be gained by leaving them over
-winter. In this way a crop each year can be raised on these farms.
-In other localities of slower growth it will take from eighteen to twenty-four
-months to raise a crop. The clam farmer will have to regulate
-the size of the seed and length of growth to best suit the needs of his
-farm.</p>
-
-<p><i>Advantages of Clam Farming.</i>&mdash;Clam culture possesses several advantages
-over the old free-for-all digging: (1) steadier returns; (2)
-easier work; (3) better pay; (4) more clams per man. If the clammers
-of the Commonwealth only realized these facts they would make a
-united effort toward clam culture.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>History.</i></h3>
-
-<p>I. <i>Early History.</i>&mdash;The history of the Massachusetts clam industry
-began in obscurity. Even before the time of the earliest settlers the
-native Indians depended largely upon this abundant mollusk for their
-food supply, as is clearly indicated by the scattered shell heaps which
-mark their ancient camp fires. Upon the arrival of the Pilgrims, clam
-digging was incorporated among the most time-honored industries of
-the Commonwealth, and in times of want the early colonists depended
-largely upon this natural food supply. With the arrival of the colonists
-really began the first epoch of the clam fishery as an economic factor
-in this Commonwealth, a period which lasted nearly two hundred years.
-This period marked the exploitation of clam grounds merely for home
-consumption. Money was scarce, inland markets were practically unknown,
-and the importance of this shellfish was confined merely to local
-quarters.</p>
-
-<p>II. <i>Rise of the Bait Industry.</i>&mdash;Early in the last century a growing
-demand for clams as bait for the sea fisheries became apparent. Clams
-had always been utilized for this purpose more or less, but an increased
-demand called for the development of an important industry in this
-line. Various centers of activity were established, particularly at Newburyport,
-Essex, Ipswich, Boston harbor and Chatham. The clams
-were mainly shucked, that is, removed from the shell, and shipped either
-fresh or salted in barrels to the fishermen at Gloucester, Boston and
-Provincetown. This industry opened up new fields of employment for
-many men and boys, and brought considerable ready money into various
-coast communities.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>III. <i>The Development of Inland Markets.</i>&mdash;The consumption of
-clams for food in the coast towns continued throughout the rise and
-gradual decline of the bait industry, but the creation of inland markets
-did not begin to be an important factor until 1875. It was about this
-time that the clam came to be generally looked upon throughout the
-State as an article of food, and consequently an important industry
-was gradually evolved to meet this growing demand. This step marked
-the beginning of the extensive fishery of the present day.</p>
-
-<p>The mistaken policy of the average shellfish community, which
-regarded clam grounds as natural gardens of inexhaustible fertility,
-still persisted even after the fallacy of this policy had long proved
-apparent through the depletion of extensive tracts. The same ill-advised
-methods were pursued to the ultimate ruination of much valuable
-territory. All wise regard for the future was overshadowed by the
-immediate needs of the present; local legislation fostered the evil; State
-legislation was conspicuous by its absence; and, left to the mercy of
-unsystematic overdigging, these natural resources rapidly wasted away.</p>
-
-<p>The disastrous tendencies which have lurked in the ruling policy of
-the clam fishery have been shown in the rise and fall of the industry in
-certain localities. Forty years ago Duxbury and Plymouth ranked as
-the greatest clam towns of the coast. Their supply has long since
-become insignificant. Newburyport and Ipswich have become the chief
-producers of the State clam harvest; but Essex and Gloucester, in the
-same fertile regions, have greatly declined, and the industry at Rowley
-has become nearly extinct. In the Fall River district the digging of
-small seed clams for food has brought the fishery to the verge of ruin.
-The few resources of Buzzards Bay have become nearly exhausted,
-while on Cape Cod the industry has shown here and there a temporary
-increase, overshadowed by a far more extensive decline, such as at
-Chatham. Furthermore, the sewage contamination of coast waters in
-the harbors of Boston and several other large cities have closed extensive
-regions for the production of food.</p>
-
-<p>IV. <i>Attempts to develop the Industry.</i>&mdash;Various efforts have been
-made to restrain overdigging the clam flats, by local regulations, particularly
-by "close" seasons. These attempts have been productive of
-little good. Other efforts, designed to develop extensive tracts made
-barren by wasteful methods of fishing, have been put in operation.
-These efforts have been along two independent lines: the first, an effort
-on the part of the community to seed in common flats by the appropriation
-of money for that purpose, as in the case of Wellfleet; the
-second, an attempt to arrive at the same end by leasing private grants
-to individuals, as at Essex and Plymouth. These efforts, while tending
-in the right direction, have not as yet yielded the results that might
-be wished for. Within the past three years the State has taken hold
-of the problem, and by an extensive series of experiments is endeavoring
-to devise practical means of developing the great inherent possibilities
-in this extensive industry.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Clam Production Table for Massachusetts, obtained from the Reports
-of the United States Fish Commission.</span></p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th>YEAR.</th>
-    <th>Bushels.</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-    <th>Price per Bushel (Cents).</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1880,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">158,626</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$76,195</td>
-    <td class="tdr">41.73</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1887,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">230,659</td>
-    <td class="tdr">121,202</td>
-    <td class="tdr">52.54</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1888,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">243,777</td>
-    <td class="tdr">127,838</td>
-    <td class="tdr">52.44</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1889,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">240,831</td>
-    <td class="tdr">137,711</td>
-    <td class="tdr">57.14</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1892,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">191,923</td>
-    <td class="tdr">133,529</td>
-    <td class="tdr">69.57</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1898,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">147,095</td>
-    <td class="tdr">102,594</td>
-    <td class="tdr">69.74</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1902,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">227,941</td>
-    <td class="tdr">157,247</td>
-    <td class="tdr">68.98</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1905,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">217,519</td>
-    <td class="tdr">209,545</td>
-    <td class="tdr">96.19</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>The Clam Industry.</i></h3>
-
-<p><i>Methods of Digging.</i>&mdash;The ordinary method of taking clams is so
-simple as hardly to need explanation. Although simple, clam digging
-requires considerable skill, and it takes years of experience to become
-a good clammer.</p>
-
-<p>There are two methods of clam digging used in Massachusetts,&mdash;the
-"wet" and the "dry" digging. Wet digging is carried on when
-water is over the clam beds; dry digging, which is the common method,
-takes place when the flats are left exposed by the tides. The only
-places in Massachusetts where wet digging is carried on regularly are
-Eastham, Chatham, Swansea, and in Katama Bay, Edgartown. In
-the lower end of Katama Bay is found a submerged bed of clams
-which is one of the most productive beds of this class in Massachusetts.
-These submerged clams are taken with what is known locally as a "sea
-horse," which is an enlarged clam hoe, with prongs 12 to 14 inches
-long, and a strong wooden handle four feet in length. This handle
-has a belt attachment which is buckled around the clammer. Two men
-are required for this work. The sea horse is worked deep into the loose
-sand and is dragged along by one man, who wades in the shallow water
-over these submerged flats, while his partner follows, gathering the
-clams which the sea horse roots out. Another method of wet digging is
-called "churning," and is based on the same principle as the above
-method, only the clams are turned out under water by long forks or
-hoes. This method is not used in Massachusetts to any extent. Excellent
-results are usually obtained from wet digging.</p>
-
-<p>The methods used in dry digging depend upon the nature of the soil.
-The difference lies only in the kind of digger. The clam hoe of the
-south shore, where the soil is either coarse sand or gravel, has broad
-prongs, some even being 1&frac14; inches across. The usual number of prongs
-is four, but occasionally three broad prongs suffice. The clam hoe of
-the north shore, often called "hooker," has four thin, sharp prongs<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span>
-and a short handle. The set of this handle is a matter of choice with
-the individual clammers, some preferring a sharp, acute angle, and
-others a right angle. This style of clam hoe is best suited for the hard,
-tenacious clam flats of the north shore. At Essex spading forks are
-used for clamming, but not as extensively as the hooker. For sand
-digging the forks are said to be better, while for mud digging the
-hooker is preferred.</p>
-
-<p><i>Outfit of a Clammer.</i>&mdash;The outfit of a clammer does not require
-much outlay of capital. A skiff or dory, one or two clam hoes and three
-or four clam baskets complete the list. Occasionally, as at Ipswich,
-where the clam grounds are widely scattered, power dories are used,
-and this necessitates the investment of considerable capital; but the
-investment of the average clammer does not exceed $26. Personal
-apparel, such as oilskins and boots, are not considered under this head.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Clamming Outfit.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Skiff dory,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$22.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Two clam diggers,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Four clam baskets,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2.00</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr bt">$25.50</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>The boats most often used by the north shore clammers are called
-"skiff dories," and in construction are between a dory and a skiff.
-These boats are especially adapted for use in rivers.</p>
-
-<p><i>Marketing.</i>&mdash;Clams are shipped to market either in the shell or
-"shucked out." Two rules are followed by the clammers in making
-this distinction: (1) small clams, or "steamers," are shipped in the
-shell, especially during the summer months, while the large clams are
-"shucked;" (2) the fine-appearing sand clam is usually sold in the
-shell, while the unprepossessing mud clam is shucked, <i>i.e.</i>, the shell
-and the external covering of the siphon or neck are removed. This
-causes on the north shore a division by locality. The Ipswich and
-Essex clams, except for a few individual orders, are mostly shipped to
-market in the shell, while the Annisquam River and Newburyport
-clams are usually shucked in the winter. Little if any shucking is done
-by the south shore clammers.</p>
-
-<p>Shucking almost doubles the value, as a bushel of clams, worth in the
-shell 75 cents, will furnish, when soaked, about 10 quarts of shucked
-clams, which bring about 50 cents per gallon, or a total of $1.25 when
-marketed. The shucked clams are put through a process of soaking in
-the same way the scallop "eyes" are treated before marketing. They
-absorb a sufficient quantity of fresh water, after soaking six hours, to
-increase their bulk about one-third and give a plump appearance to
-the clams.</p>
-
-<p>While many clammers do not soak their clams, it seems to be a
-universal tendency, wherever clams are shucked, to gain by this method.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[Pg 180]</a></span>
-Soaking of any sort impairs the flavor of the clam, and for this reason
-such a practice is to be deplored, but as long as the consumer is satisfied
-to take second-rate goods, this practice will continue, and it can
-be stopped only by the united demand of the shellfish dealers.</p>
-
-<p><i>Shipment.</i>&mdash;Second-hand flour and sugar barrels are used for the
-shipment of clams in the shell, while kegs and butter tubs hold the
-shucked clams. In winter clams can be shipped inland without perishing;
-but in hot weather they will spoil in a few days, unless iced.</p>
-
-<p><i>Maine Clams.</i>&mdash;Massachusetts annually consumes many thousand
-barrels of Maine clams. If the demand of the Boston market were
-not partially met by the influx of Maine clams, the clam flats of Massachusetts
-would be subject to a greater drain.</p>
-
-<p><i>Market.</i>&mdash;The principal market for the clam industry of Massachusetts
-is Boston. Gloucester, Newburyport, Salem and Lynn draw part
-of the clam trade of the north shore, but the greater portion goes to
-Boston, whence it is distributed throughout the State. In recent years
-shipments have been made from the Ipswich Bay region direct to New
-York, Baltimore and Philadelphia.</p>
-
-<p><i>Price.</i>&mdash;The price of clams is fairly constant, varying but little in
-summer and winter. Naturally, this seems curious, when winter and
-summer clamming are compared. The production in winter is much
-smaller than in summer, which is due to (1) fewer clammers, because
-of the severe work in cold weather; (2) less working days, as the
-clammer is often unable to dig for weeks, and even months, and also
-cannot work early or late tides, as in summer. In spite of this diminution
-of supply, the winter price is practically no higher. This is due to
-a smaller demand in winter, as well as to the influx of the Maine clams
-at this season. In summer there is an increased demand for clams,
-caused by the arrival of the summer people at the seashore; and large
-quantities of this shellfish are used by hotels, cottages, etc. This increase
-in demand is enough to offset the increase in supply, resulting in a stationary
-price.</p>
-
-<p>The price varies as to the quality of the clams, whether soaked or
-unsoaked, small or large, good or poor looking shells, and fresh or stale.
-The average price as received by the clammer for clams in the shell is
-75 cents per bushel; shucked clams, when soaked, 45-50 cents per
-gallon.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Arrangement of Towns.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Owing to the peculiarities of the different localities, it has been
-impossible to satisfactorily arrange the towns alphabetically. Therefore,
-in order to present local comparisons, they have been arranged in
-geographical order, starting at the northern boundary of the State.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Salisbury.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Salisbury, the most northerly town in the State, has a good clam
-territory, very similar to that of Newburyport, though much smaller
-in area.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>Almost all the clam ground, and practically all the very good digging,
-is comprised in a single flat, which extends along the northerly bank of
-the Merrimac for nearly 2 miles. This flat is about 900 feet wide, on
-an average, and has a total area of 216 acres. On the eastern end, and
-skirting the channel, it is sandy; but for the most part it is mud
-throughout, varying from a hard, smooth surface in the middle portion
-to a soft, scummy soil on the west.</p>
-
-<p>About 100 acres in the central section of this flat are covered with
-a thick set of clams, especially from 1 to 2 inches. This territory
-furnishes the bulk of the good digging, and is being constantly turned
-over and the larger clams sorted out. Roughly speaking, the main east
-half of the flat is sandy, or hard mud, with very good clamming, the
-western half softer mud, with fair or scattering clams. This is an
-exceptionally fine natural clam flat, and if properly cultivated its production
-would be immensely increased. At the eastern extremity of
-the flat a long, narrow cove extends in a general northerly direction
-into the main land. This cove, including the outer fringing bars,
-contains some 34 acres of flats, for the most part sandy and rather
-poorly productive, though no considerable area is anywhere strictly
-barren. The combined clam flat territory of the town aggregates 250
-acres, comprising 150 acres of good clamming and 100 acres of scattering
-clams; of these, 216 acres are of mud and 34 acres of sand.</p>
-
-<p>While the town records show 66 licensed clammers, only about 50
-make clamming their chief occupation. The industry is carried on in
-much the same manner as at Newburyport; $625 is invested in boats and
-implements, and some 15,000 bushels of clams, aggregating $16,500,
-are annually produced.</p>
-
-<p>The clam industry at Salisbury is largely stationary as regards
-available territory, while the production varies considerably from year
-to year. There is little or no town legislation affecting the industry,
-except the issuing of permits by the selectmen. These permits cost 25
-cents, and are required from every clammer.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">66</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$625</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$16,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand</td>
-    <td class="tdr">34</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">216</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span></td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$70,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Newburyport.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Newburyport is pre-eminently the clam town of Massachusetts. It
-produces the most clams, gives employment to the most men, and has
-on the whole the finest flats.</p>
-
-<p>The total clam-growing area of this town comprises about 1,080 acres;
-of this, some 800 acres are more or less productive, while the balance,
-280 acres, is practically nonproductive. Scattering clams exist everywhere,
-so there are, properly speaking, no truly barren flats.</p>
-
-<p>The flats of Newburyport, broad, level and continuous, are peculiarly
-adapted to clam culture. The general type of soil is mud, varying from
-a soft, sticky variety on the west coast, and also along the shores of
-Plum Island, to a firm, hard surface in the great middle section north of
-Woodbridge's Island, where clams flourish most abundantly and furnish
-the best digging within the city limits. Here nearly 100 acres are
-covered with a heavy set of 1 to 2 inch clams. Altogether there are
-some 930 acres of this mud. Much of this, especially to the west and
-south, is apparently unfavorable to clams, being soft and unwholesome,
-but even here at certain seasons clams are dug extensively.</p>
-
-<p>The sand flats include the shifting Hump sands that fringe the
-Merrimac channel and the Cove on Plum Island. These and other
-minor sections comprise about 150 acres. The Hump sands are quite
-productive. The other sand flats are not entirely barren, but practically
-unutilized.</p>
-
-<p>The clam industry at Newburyport furnishes employment for about
-175 men, although over 200 depend upon it for some portion of their
-income. The season lasts the year round, though on account of storms
-and ice the winter's work is rather uncertain. A good fisherman will,
-under favorable circumstances, dig several bushels of clams at a tide,
-though the ordinary man will probably not average more than a bushel
-and a half, taking the whole year into account.</p>
-
-<p>The outlay of capital invested is comparatively small. A flat-bottom
-boat or dory, a clam hoe or two, and three or four wire-bottom baskets,
-constitute a clammer's outfit, costing altogether perhaps $15 or $20. As
-two or more men frequently go in one boat, even this expenditure may
-be reduced. The shore property in use, consisting of from 8 to 10
-shanties, is also inconsiderable. Several power boats are used, however,
-and their added cost brings the aggregate money invested up to about
-$2,700.</p>
-
-<p>The flats of Newburyport are a large factor in its economic wealth.
-During 1907 they produced nearly 55,500 bushels of clams, exceeding
-$61,000 in value. Nearly two-thirds of these clams were shucked, that
-is, removed from the shell and sold by the gallon. In this form, usually<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span>
-soaked to increase their volume, they retail for about 45 cents per
-gallon. As clams in the shell, sold for "steamers," etc., will hardly
-bring more than 65 cents per bushel, the process of shucking nearly
-doubles the value to the fisherman, as a bushel of clams in the shell will
-produce from 2 to 3 gallons of soaked clams. The income of the
-average clammer will hardly exceed $350 per year, but a really energetic
-and industrious fisherman may in the same time make from $500
-to $700, or even more. Many of the men have individual orders from
-dealers in Lynn, Haverhill and the neighboring cities, while the local
-dealers ship largely to Boston.</p>
-
-<p>The regulation of the industry by city ordinance is of very little
-note. Practically the only legislation pertaining to it is the law which
-requires every clammer to have a permit, but even this regulation is but
-indifferently enforced. The Newbury flats are likewise free to the Newburyport
-clammers, and part of the Newburyport production comes
-from these outside flats.</p>
-
-<p>The history of the clam industry at Newburyport is one of constant
-change. Twenty years ago large areas on southwest Joppa were practically
-barren; now they are quite productive. The reverse is true of
-Ball's flat on Plum Island, which, though once of great importance, is
-now almost waste. Though no serious inroads have as yet been made,
-a slow but steady decline in the industry is distinctly noticeable.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879 (Salisbury and Newburyport).</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th>YEAR.</th>
-    <th>Production (Bushels).</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-    <th>Men.</th>
-    <th>Capital.</th>
-    <th>Price per Bushel.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">28,800</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$11,520</td>
-    <td class="tdr">60</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$750</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$0.40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">70,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">77,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">241</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,325</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.10</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">175</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,700</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">55,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$61,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">930</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,080</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">280</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$250,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Newbury.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The town of Newbury has in itself no shellfish industry, although
-there is an extensive area of suitable flats which are worked with equal
-rights by the Newburyport clammers. These flats comprise some 360
-acres, and extend along both sides of Plum Island Sound and Parker
-River. Over 100 acres of scattering clams occur, though not in sufficient
-quantities for the most part to make very profitable digging. The
-remainder, some 260 acres, though almost all suitable for the production
-of large quantities of clams, is practically barren.</p>
-
-<p>The principal type of soil is mud, and the mud flats comprise about
-250 acres. The flats of Parker River and those in its immediate neighborhood,
-however, are largely sand, and altogether they aggregate about
-110 acres. Of these, "the thoroughfare" is practically the only one
-which furnishes clams in any quantity. Sections of the broad flats
-which border on Plum Island Sound produce scattering clams of large
-size. There is, however, no very good digging in town, and no consistent
-effort seems ever to have been made to utilize the great wealth
-which lies dormant in the clam flat territory. Six Newbury men dig
-intermittently in the summer, and furnish some 300 bushels, worth
-about $250, for town trade. However, this does not take into consideration
-the amount taken from these flats by the Newburyport
-clammers.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">110</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">360</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">260</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$40,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Rowley.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Rowley presents a more striking example of the decline in the shellfish
-industry than any other town in this region.</p>
-
-<p>Four hundred acres of good flats border Plum Island and Rowley
-River within the town limits, but of these only 20 at most are economically
-productive. Eighty acres more are not entirely barren, though<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span>
-practically worthless, while the remaining 300, though almost all well
-adapted for clam culture, are barren.</p>
-
-<p>The main type of soil is sand, and the sand flats, for the most part
-in Plum Island Sound, comprise some 250 acres. The remainder, 150
-acres, is mostly mud in scattered sections along the Rowley River and
-in patches on the main flats. The only really productive flats are the
-little coves and creeks of Rowley River and the Knob Reefs in Plum
-Island Sound. The Knob Reef clam grounds produce very large and
-fine clams, which lie on the lower edge of the flat and are exposed only
-a short time every tide. Knob Reefs also has the distinction of possessing
-probably the finest clam set of its size in the State, which would
-furnish abundant opportunity for restocking all the barren Rowley
-River flats, if the town authorities had taken proper measures to transplant
-this seed. As it is, this extensive set, too thick for good growth,
-is rapidly wasting away.</p>
-
-<p>The history of the industry is one of steady decline. Reliable evidence
-exists to show that almost all the flats of Rowley once produced clams,
-and that large areas now waste were formerly productive. That these
-immense barren areas, possessing such an enormous latent wealth, should
-be allowed to remain thus unimproved, is a most conclusive argument
-for the need of radical action. No settled attempt, however, except for
-a single closed season in 1906, has ever been made by the clammers
-or town authorities to better the conditions, or to check the decline in
-the productive territory that remains.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">80</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$60,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Ipswich.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Ipswich is second only to Newburyport in the production of clams,
-and has perhaps even greater possibilities of development. The clam
-territory of the two towns, while nearly equal in extent, is, however,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span>
-markedly different in general characteristics. The flats of Newburyport,
-while few in number, are broad, continuous, and have a great degree
-of similarity throughout. The flats of Ipswich, on the other hand,
-are divided into a great number of relatively small sections, widely
-diversified in character, and scattered along an extensive coast line. As
-these flats are in many respects the most interesting and important of
-any town in the State, it seems well to examine them in detail.</p>
-
-<p>Four distinct divisions can be distinguished in the clam territory of
-this town: Ipswich River, Plum Island, Green's Creek and Roger
-Island, and Essex River flats.</p>
-
-<p>Taken in the order named, the Ipswich River has in itself a great
-variety of clam ground. Both sides of the river for nearly 3 miles are
-fringed with bars, mainly of mud though sandy near the mouth. Some
-of the mud flats are so soft that they are practically barren, or given
-up largely to mussel beds; while much of the sand, as, <i>e.g.</i>, the main
-portion of the High Sands, is too shifting to be valuable. The larger
-part of these river flats are, however, productive.</p>
-
-<p>The Plum Island division comprises Lufkins, Point Peter, Appletons,
-Foresides and several other minor flats. Of these, Lufkins is very
-important. It occupies a semicircular depression on the coast of Plum
-Island, and, owing to its peculiar location, the swift current which
-flows past its outer edge makes a double eddy at both ebb and flood
-tide. These eddies sweep gently over its broad surface, and deposit
-a fine silt which has made the characteristic soil a hard, bluish clay.
-This is the only important clay flat of this region. The total area of
-Lufkins is 46 acres. The outer border to the north is mud, becoming
-soft; to the south, sandy. The portion near shore is, as has been stated,
-a clayey soil, and it is here that clams are found abundantly. An exceptionally
-good set of 1 to 2 inch clams occupies from 3 to 4 acres
-of this portion. Though clams are numerous, the exceeding hardness
-of the soil makes digging rather difficult.</p>
-
-<p>Point Peter, or "P'int" Peter, is also an important flat, comprising
-altogether 28 acres, though about 7 acres of the outer portion extend
-far into the current, and are of so shifting and sandy a nature as to
-be practically worthless. Most of the remainder is mud, varying from
-sand and hard mud on the outside to soft mud in the creeks that lead
-into the main land. The central portion of the flat is peculiarly
-adapted to the culture of clams, however, and is very productive.</p>
-
-<p>Appleton's flat comprises about 6 acres of hard sand, verging into
-mud, thickly strewn with old clam shells. It lies at the mouth of
-Perkins and Pine Creeks, which run for about a mile into the main
-land of Plum Island, and contain nearly 25 acres each of fairly productive
-mud flats. Appleton's is a valuable flat, and the clams dug
-here are large.</p>
-
-<p>The Foresides is a thatch island a little over a mile in length, lying
-in the mid channel of Plum Island Sound. The flats which surround it<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span>
-on all sides are practically all sand, and comprise about 80 acres. The
-whole western side is more or less productive, though the outer edge,
-where the strong cross currents of the channel sweep over, is too much
-rippled to be suitable for clam growth. The strip of sand along the
-northern and northeastern sides, though rather narrow and limited in
-area, is productive, while most of the southeastern portion, which
-projects far into the channel, is barren and totally unadapted for soft
-clams, though bedded with sea clams. The productive sections of this
-flat are much dug, and altogether it is one of the most important of the
-Ipswich clam grounds.</p>
-
-<p>The west coast of Plum Island Sound, comprising the Green's Creek
-and Roger Island territories, extends from the Ipswich to the Rowley
-rivers. This division contains the bulk of the waste and barren flats
-of the town, although there is exceptionally good clamming in Stacy's
-Creek, Third Creek and the "Nutfield."</p>
-
-<p>The Essex River region is rather remote for most of the clammers,
-and hard to reach, but furnishes on the whole some of the very best
-digging. The three main flats of this division are the Essex beach,
-Wheeler's, and the Spit. Essex beach has a very good set, evenly
-sprinkled over the ridgy, shifting bars that skirt the channel.</p>
-
-<p>Wheeler's is an irregular sand bar, occupying about 77 acres. Fully
-one-half of this is very productive, and in the main portion occurs
-another thick set very similar to that on Essex beach.</p>
-
-<p>The Spit, mainly sand or sandy mud, lies in the three towns of
-Ipswich, Essex and Gloucester. The whole area is some 300 acres,
-about a third lying within the town of Ipswich. This whole bar is
-so liable to change that any calculations based on its precise area or
-location are decidedly unreliable. Very good digging occurs, however,
-in limited areas on the north and west sides of the Ipswich territory.</p>
-
-<p>These four divisions comprise the clamming territory of Ipswich, and
-aggregate 970 acres, of which 390 acres is sand and 500 mud. This also
-includes 15 acres of mussels scattered along Ipswich River, Plum
-Island and Green's Creek region, and about 10 acres of eel grass in
-various localities. Over 800 acres is more or less productive, about half
-being good clamming.</p>
-
-<p>About 50 regular clammers depend upon these flats for a living,
-though 136 permits were issued in 1907. Here, owing to the greater
-distances to be traversed, many power boats are used. Nearly $7,500
-is invested in the industry, and 25,000 bushels of clams, at a valuation
-of $18,750, are annually produced. The relative decrease in price as
-compared with Newburyport is due to the fact that shucking is not so
-extensively practised here.</p>
-
-<p>The town laws merely require a permit from every clammer, for
-which no charge is made. Such permit is issued at the discretion of
-the selectmen, and requires of the recipient six months' residence in
-the town and two years in the State. In past years the town has made<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span>
-several by-laws for the protection of shellfish, chiefly in the nature of
-partial closed seasons; but unfortunately considerable difficulty has
-been found in enforcing these excellent laws, and the results have been
-far from satisfactory.</p>
-
-<p>Ipswich has jealously guarded the rights of its clam flats, and has
-protected them in every way from the invasion of outsiders, which in
-part accounts for the excellent condition of these flats, which were
-originally deeded to the Commoners by the Crown, and from them to
-the town. Ipswich is the only town in the Commonwealth which has
-thus directly received its clam flats as its own property, and naturally
-has done more to improve its natural clam resources than any other
-town in the State.</p>
-
-<p>The history of the industry shows little change; some few flats once
-considered worthless have been opened and utilized; others once productive
-have been dug out and allowed to become waste. On the whole,
-the industry is following the trend of the shellfisheries everywhere, and
-slowly but steadily declining.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">136</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$7,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$18,750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">390</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">55</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">970</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">420</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">125</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$200,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Essex.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Essex, while still ranking as an important clam-producing town, has
-a very imperfect development of her shellfish resources. The total
-clam flat area comprises some 650 acres, and, though scarcely more than
-25 acres can be considered as unfit for the growth of clams, and consequently
-barren, only a little more than half the remainder is at all
-productive, and of this probably less than 150 acres yields any financial
-return. In other words, 325 acres of good clam flat is allowed to remain
-practically barren.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The main type of soil is sand, and nearly 500 acres may be properly
-classed under this head. The remaining 150 acres are mud, and are
-located in the creeks along the river and in the coves north of Hog
-Island. The productive sections are scattered for the most part along
-both sides of the Essex River, and well-developed areas are also
-found at its mouth and on the Spit. There are several good locations
-of seed clams. One section of about 25 acres occurs on the west side
-of the Spit. This is composed of 1 to 2 inch clams, running 10 to 40
-per square foot. At the mouth of the river on the north side occurs
-another set of &frac12;-inch clams, covering about 10 acres. On the flats
-west of Cross Island is found a third set of &frac12; to 2 inch clams, comprising
-about 30 acres. Other smaller patches of set are scattered
-along the river almost up to its source.</p>
-
-<p>About 50 men derive an income from these flats. Some $1,200 is
-invested, and the annual product exceeds 15,000 bushels, valued at
-$12,750.</p>
-
-<p>The town of Essex has realized the importance of the clam problem,
-and has attempted through legislation to deal with it. The selectmen
-are empowered to grant to citizens of the town an area consisting of
-an acre or less on flats already barren, for the purpose of raising
-clams, and in this manner partially restock the flats. A rental of
-$2 is charged, covering a period of five years, and an additional fee
-of 50 cents is required for recording. In spite of inadequate protection,
-the experiment has been conducted long enough to prove that
-these flats can be made profitable to the clammers.</p>
-
-<p>The history of the clam industry at Essex is one of extensive decline.
-There is every reason to believe that the greater part at least of the
-waste area was once very productive. Prof. James L. Kellogg in the
-United States Fish Commission Bulletin for 1899, says:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>We have much evidence that the clam industry in Essex has, in the past,
-been extensive.... Much more testimony of a similar character may be
-had to show that the flats once very productive have almost entirely failed.</p></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td></td>
-    <th>1879.</th>
-    <th>1907.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production (bushels),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$4,500</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$12,750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Price (cents),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-    <td class="tdr">85</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$12,750</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">125</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">650</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">325</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$120,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Gloucester.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The far-celebrated deep sea fisheries of Gloucester overshadow her
-humble shellfish industry; but within her tidal flats lie undeveloped
-resources, which if properly brought out would form no inconsiderable
-factor in her annual revenue. Even now her clam fishery attains considerable
-proportions, though by no means what it once was, or what
-it might be were suitable cultural methods employed.</p>
-
-<p>The main areas of clam-producing territory lie in the Annisquam
-River and in the Essex River in West Gloucester. The grounds in the
-Annisquam are the more productive. This river is some 4 miles long,
-and is bordered for the greater part of this distance with tidal flats. Of
-these the sand flats predominate, though there are large areas of mud
-and extensive beds of mussels. On the extreme head of the river, known
-as the Dumfudgeon region, dredging operations for the Gloucester
-canal have somewhat impaired the flats, but as a whole the river seems
-in every way suitable for the production of an abundant harvest of
-clams.</p>
-
-<p>The flats of West Gloucester, including a portion of the Essex Spit,
-are largely unproductive. The Spit is the only flat of any extent in this
-region which is at present of real economic value; the remaining flats,
-scattered along the south shore of the Essex River and its tributary
-creeks, are for the most part practically barren.</p>
-
-<p>The total area of clam flats in Gloucester approximates 550 acres. Of
-this, some 250 acres are sand, 200 mud, while there are about 100 acres
-of mussels and eel grass, which cannot be considered at all adapted for
-clam culture. Only a fraction of the whole, 75 acres, more or less, is
-good clamming; a scant 100 acres produces scattering clams; 275 acres<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span>
-are barren, though capable of producing clams; while 100 acres may
-never be made productive.</p>
-
-<p>Eight men dig regularly on these flats the year round, and 23 others
-work intermittently. The capital invested amounts to over $600, and
-the annual output exceeds 6,000 bushels, valued at $8,000. Most of
-the clams produced at Gloucester are shucked either for market or bait.</p>
-
-<p>Local legislation has no bearing on the shellfish question, and no
-effort is being made either to better conditions in the clam industry or
-to check its steady decline.</p>
-
-<p>The industry has fallen off greatly in the past few years. In 1875
-there were 90 regular clammers, and a man could dig 6 bushels to a
-tide, where now 8 regular and 23 intermittent clammers find it difficult
-to get from 1&frac12; bushels to 3 bushels per tide.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span></p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th>YEAR.</th>
-    <th>Production (Bushels).</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-    <th>Men.</th>
-    <th>Capital Invested.</th>
-    <th>Price.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">13,978</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">92</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$0.40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">31</td>
-    <td class="tdr">600</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1.33</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">31</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$600</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$8,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">550</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">275</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$70,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Manchester.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Manchester has a coast line so much exposed, and consequently so
-small a territory of tidal flats, that it is not surprising to find its clam
-industry of very insignificant proportions. Affairs are in much the
-same state of apathy as at Beverly, though Manchester does not possess
-the resources of the former town, and could not, in the nature of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span>
-case, carry on any extensive clam business. Its facilities, however, poor
-as they are, are very imperfectly utilized; hence the present state of
-depletion, verging on absolute exhaustion.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Beverly.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Beverly has practically no clam industry. The area of tidal flats,
-comprising nearly 50 acres, is at present unprofitable and nearly
-worthless. As at Swampscott, some clams still continue to be dug for
-bait and for local clam bakes, but any evidence of a systematic business
-has long ceased to exist. Thirty years ago clams were far more
-abundant, though there was never an extensive industry. The town
-authorities require no licenses and make no efforts to revive the industry.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Salem.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Salem has far better natural advantages for clam culture than the
-other towns in its immediate vicinity, and leads in clam production,
-though the industry is of very inferior proportions. Seven men are at
-present employed in digging the harbor flats, where the clams have
-very recently seeded in. Many of these clams, though rather small,
-are shucked, and the remainder are sold in the local markets. The
-entire value of the annual production does not exceed $200, and the
-capital invested amounts to but $75. This is rather poor showing for
-100 acres of flats for the most part comparatively good, and capable
-of yielding $11,000 annually. The Salem clammers dig also in the
-Danvers River in the town of Danvers.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">70</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$11,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Lynn.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The city of Lynn has within its tidal flats the latent resources of an
-important industry. Its clam grounds could, if properly utilized, yield
-a great increase over their present inconsiderable return. No legislation
-on the part of the city authorities has intervened to improve the shellfish
-production or to prevent the depletion of valuable territory which has
-been allowed to gradually lapse into an unsanitary desert. While at
-low tide about 400 acres of flats spread over the broad harbor or border
-the banks of the Saugus River, but 40 acres of this wide expanse yield
-any appreciable revenue. The principal part of the digging is done
-on the mud flats of the Saugus River. Here 7 fishermen work intermittently
-to supply the local market during the summer months. There
-is some good territory at the mouth of the river toward the north, and
-scattering clams occur along the eastern shores, but the main flats of
-the harbor are for the most part barren.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The deposit of sewage from the city drainage has undoubtedly had a
-prejudicial effect on much of this area, as the unpleasing scum which
-covers the soft, sticky mud and eel grass bears abundant witness.
-Whether measures undertaken to reclaim this lost area would in the
-long run yield profitable returns is an undecided question, but much
-might be done, by the employment of judicious cultural methods, to
-increase the yield of those flats which are properly productive. No
-exact returns of the annual clam harvest for this region are obtainable,
-as most of the output is disposed of at retail, but it cannot exceed 1,000
-bushels, and probably falls far short of that figure; $1,000, then, or
-thereabouts, represents the total monetary income from this fishery.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">90</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">160</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$26,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Saugus.</i></h3>
-
-<p>At Saugus conditions in many respects parallel those at Lynn. The
-clam grounds, while they by no means equal those of the neighboring
-city in area, are on the whole better, as they are freer from contaminating
-sewage. Of the 250 acres which comprise the normal tide flat
-area, only 100 acres, or 40 per cent., can be said to be strictly barren.
-The remaining 150 acres is an undeveloped asset, as its value lies far
-more in its prospects than in its present productivity. While scattering
-clams occur throughout, no more than 25 acres can be accounted paying
-property. This remunerative territory lies chiefly in the Saugus River
-and in the vicinity of the Point of Pines. Here 10 men dig quite
-regularly, particularly in the summer, though none of them depend
-wholly upon this source of revenue for a livelihood. The annual output
-equals that of Lynn, both in amount and valuation. To these flats,
-with their undeveloped resources, local legislation gives practically no
-attention.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$22,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Nahant.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Although Nahant has a large area of tidal flats, it is not on the whole
-favorably located, and much that would otherwise be available is necessarily
-waste. The territory which borders the western coast is not
-barren, but most of it is not productive enough to be profitable.</p>
-
-<p>A few scattered sections repay the clammer for his labor, and from
-these sections perhaps 300 bushels a year are dug for home consumption.
-Four or five men are employed at intervals in the summer
-months, but no one of them depends upon this source of income for
-more than transient employment, as the entire value of the yearly
-harvest does not exceed $300. As there are nearly 250 acres of flats
-in Nahant, this would be a revenue of $1.60 per acre, on an average.
-However, this is not a fair comparison, for much of the territory
-apparently available is, as has been stated, properly waste. Nevertheless,
-an industry of far greater proportions than at present could
-be attained if wise legislation were directed to that end.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span></td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$25,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Boston Harbor.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Owing to the danger arising from sewage contamination the State
-Board of Health, on Dec. 6, 1906, requested the Department of Fisheries
-and Game to prohibit the digging of clams for market in Boston harbor.
-The region closed by this law lies to the west of an imaginary line running
-from Point Shirley through Deer Island to the northeastern end
-of Peddocks Island; thence in a southwesterly direction to the extreme
-point of Hough's Neck. This territory includes Winthrop, Chelsea,
-Charlestown, Everett, Somerville, Cambridge, Boston, East Boston,
-South Boston, Dorchester, Neponset and Quincy. For convenience all
-the prescribed territory is treated under the head of "Boston harbor."</p>
-
-<p>The action of the State Board of Health in closing Boston harbor
-was necessitated by a due regard for the public health, as it seemed
-inexpedient to allow clams dug from this territory and subject to
-sewage contamination to be marketed for food. Necessary as this act
-may have been, the closing of 5,000 acres of flats for the production of
-edible shellfish made valueless an important source of revenue, and
-threw a large number of clammers out of employment. Some alleviation
-of these conditions has resulted through the granting of permits
-to take shellfish for bait from the prescribed waters, thus furnishing
-a number of men with transient employment. The value of the law,
-however, is almost completely nullified, for the danger to the public
-health is actual, and not imaginary. Under present conditions it is
-well-nigh impossible to make the necessary surveillance so complete as
-would be necessary to prove that clams "dug for bait" are not used
-as food. Further, even in the digging and handling of shellfish in
-polluted waters there is positive danger of transmitting the germs by
-hands of the digger to his own mouth or to other persons.</p>
-
-<p>The nature of the flats permit the division of Boston harbor into
-three sections: (1) the north shore, (2) the south shore, (3) and the
-islands.</p>
-
-<p>(1) The northern coast of the harbor has extensive mud and sand
-flats, covered for the most part with eel grass or scattered mussel beds.
-Much of the surface is a variety of pebbly gravel, while but little of
-it appears to be good clam ground. The mud flats are mostly covered
-with a sewage scum which renders them unsuitable for clams. Scattering
-clams are found throughout the entire region.</p>
-
-<p>The immediate vicinity of Snake Island in Winthrop and the cove
-on Point Shirley furnish fairly good clamming, while clams are found
-in a greater or less degree upon the extensive flats of Winthrop harbor.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[Pg 197]</a></span>
-The flats of the Mystic River, which are of a tenacious mud rather
-unwholesome in appearance, in so far as they have not been encroached
-upon for building purposes, possess scattered patches of very good
-digging, and furnish transient employment to 20 or more men. The
-flats in the Charles and Chelsea rivers likewise furnish fair clamming.</p>
-
-<p>(2) The south shore of the harbor is much like the north, except that
-the mud type of soil predominates. The large flats, mainly mud, are
-not entirely barren though most of the clams are found in a narrow
-strip of beach along the shore. At South Boston as well as in Dorchester
-Bay clams are found in considerable numbers, though nowhere
-are there any large areas of good clamming.</p>
-
-<p>(3) The islands in the harbor are fringed with pebbly beach, where
-scattering clams are usually found. Apple Island and Governor's
-Island are surrounded with quite extensive flats, which are, however,
-but sparsely productive. Much digging for bait is carried on constantly
-on these pebbly beaches.</p>
-
-<p><i>History.</i>&mdash;Boston harbor has been in the past a good clamming
-region, as the magnitude of its available flats has rendered possible
-an extensive production. Naturally, the closing of the harbor by the
-State Board of Health has limited the annual production of clams
-from this vicinity, as now the only legal digging is for bait. Owing
-to this partial closed season the clams are said to have been on the
-increase during the last two years. Nevertheless, before the passage
-of this act the fishery had already greatly declined. The decline of
-the clam industry has been going on for years, as even in 1879 Mr.
-Ernest Ingersoll mentions:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>In Boston harbor clams are much depleted, owing to the fact that they
-are remorselessly dug the year through, chiefly by a class of ignorant
-foreigners who go down the harbor for the purpose. July and August are
-the most productive months, there being a large demand for the "clam
-bakes" which picnic parties from the cities indulge in on the various
-beaches. All the clams got in Boston harbor are very small, because they
-are allowed little chance to grow; in March and April they are hardly
-worth eating.</p></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison with 1879.</span></p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td></td>
-    <td class="tdr">1897.</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1907.</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">90</td>
-    <td class="tdr">350</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Annual production:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$20,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$6,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of dories,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,350</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,250</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>In 1879 A. Howard Clark states:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>The towns around Boston usually charge a license fee of $2 a year for
-the privilege of taking clams. The clams are in some cases bought up by<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[Pg 198]</a></span>
-small operators, who team them into the city, though the diggers sometimes
-bring them to the city and sell them to the dealers direct from their boats
-at the wharves.</p></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of licenses,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">350</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">900</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$330,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Weymouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Weymouth, with its two rivers, possesses an area of flats aggregating
-250 acres. The shores of Fore River are stony, but in spite of the hard
-digging clams are found in fair numbers. The shores of Back River
-are similar, except for the mud flats on the channel, which are either
-barren or but sparsely productive. A few clams are dug for bait and
-home consumption.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">80</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">170</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$11,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Hingham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Hingham has an area of tidal flats comprising nearly 650 acres. The
-characteristic soil is of two kinds: a marginal strip of pebbly beach
-extending the full length of the shore, and the broad flats of Hingham
-harbor and Weir River, with their extensive areas of mud, eel grass
-and mussels. The clamming territory is confined for the most part
-to this narrow strip fringing the shore, though scattering clams are
-found in diminished numbers on the mud flats.</p>
-
-<p>The shellfish industry of the town consists mostly in procuring clams,
-mussels and cockles for bait. Clams are dug to some extent for home
-consumption and for the hotels at Nantasket; but the fishery is carried
-on in a desultory manner by a few men who dig when other work fails,
-and who do not wholly depend on clamming for a livelihood.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,.</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">450</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">650</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">550</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$20,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Hull.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The stony shores of Hull offer but little suitable clam area, though
-fair digging is found in the vicinity of Hog Island and in Weir River.
-The usual type of flat is a pebbly or gravel beach, while near White
-Head and Weir River there are large mud areas. Clams are dug only
-for home consumption or for bait.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span></td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">225</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">425</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres)</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres)</td>
-    <td class="tdr">325</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$15,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Cohasset.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Cohasset, though possessing sufficient suitable area to support a
-clam fishery, has no industry of any importance. The greater part
-of the tidal flats are barren, while the remainder are far from fertile.
-The region immediately about White Head and the territory opposite
-extending along Barson's beach are the most productive, while scattering
-clams are found in Little Harbor.</p>
-
-<p>The total acreage of available flat exceeds 100 acres. Of this, 90
-acres are wholly unproductive, and the remainder, 10 acres, is not very
-valuable. The main type of soil is sand, though areas of mud are found
-in the coves. There are no regular clammers, though many clams are
-dug by the citizens of the town for their own use. There has never
-been a clam industry worthy of the name at Cohasset, and the present
-state of apathy appears to be normal. No local regulations of any
-kind govern the fishery.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$6,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Scituate.</i></h3>
-
-<p>There is no clam industry at Scituate. The selectmen of the town
-have forbidden all exportation of clams for market, and consequently
-the few clams dug are utilized for home consumption.</p>
-
-<p>The possibilities of a future clam industry at this town, while not
-alluring, give indications of some promise. Occasional clams are found
-on the shores of Scituate harbor, as well as its tributary creeks. The
-main undeveloped resource lies, however, along the broad flats of the
-North River. These flats undoubtedly constitute a considerable asset
-in the communal wealth, and the action of the selectmen in maintaining
-a close season will tend to the restocking and consequent utilization
-of this territory.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">45</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$8,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Marshfield.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Affairs at Marshfield are in practically the same state of inactivity
-as at Scituate. The town has considerable natural advantages, since
-the North River, which formerly made a wide sweep to the south before
-emptying into the ocean, has opened a new channel within the
-last ten years, forming many acres of excellent clam ground. A close
-season is maintained, although there has been considerable discontent
-on the part of certain individuals relative to this policy of the selectmen.
-A considerable quantity of clams, probably not exceeding 200
-bushels per annum, are dug for home consumption. There are no shipments
-for market.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$9,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Duxbury.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The clam industry at Duxbury has a peculiar interest, owing to the
-many perplexing problems which it presents. A vast extent of tidal
-flats, far exceeding in area those of any other town in the State, and
-in a measure suitable for the production of clams, lie almost wholly
-barren. The enormous territory comprised in these flats exceeds 3,500
-acres, or, roughly, 5&frac12; square miles. This is greater than the combined
-clam area of Salisbury, Newburyport, Ipswich, Essex and Gloucester,
-which is the finest territory in the State, and produces most of the
-Massachusetts clams. Duxbury, with a greater area than all these towns,
-dug in 1907 about 700 bushels of clams,&mdash;an amount which could well
-have been produced from 2 acres of ground. An investigation into the
-history of the town shows us that this state of barrenness has not always
-existed. There was a time when Duxbury was justly celebrated for
-her shellfish, as is still shown by the allusions to Duxbury clams on
-the menus of many hotels and restaurants. The dealers at Taunton,
-Fall River and other Massachusetts cities formerly sent to Duxbury
-large orders for clams, which were always forthcoming. Now, as far
-as can be ascertained, not a single barrel is shipped out of the town
-from year to year.</p>
-
-<p>This transition from a state of prosperity to one of almost total
-barrenness is replete with interest, and is difficult of solution. Doubtless
-several causes may have contributed to this general decline. In the
-first place, it is evident that the Duxbury flats were never in so flourishing
-a state of production as those of the Cape Ann district. This
-assumption is amply supported by historical records, and it is also
-supplemented, at least, by the fact that a great per cent. of the
-present territory is largely unfit for the production of clams in any<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[Pg 203]</a></span>
-quantity. As these flats have changed scarcely at all for many years,
-is it unreasonable to suppose that they ever have been very suitable
-since the first settlement of the country?</p>
-
-<p>As for the historical records referred to, the weight of evidence
-everywhere tends to prove that many years ago there was a fairly
-large output of clams yearly from Duxbury. But while this output was
-large in itself, it was, in proportion to the possible area, exceedingly
-small. Mr. Ernest Ingersoll states that in 1879 there were yearly
-exported from Duxbury 5,000 bushels of clams. At that time, he
-says, the industry had declined. Clamming was then prosecuted with
-no such vigor as at the present time, for the price was low, and the
-demand, except for bait, by no means excessive. Clams had not yet
-come to be looked on as such important articles of food as at present,
-and the business of digging them as carried on then could have made
-little inroad on well-stocked flats. The great probability is that only
-a small percentage of the whole territory was ever very productive.
-An observer at the present time, viewing from an eminence the flats of
-Duxbury at low tide, could not help being struck with the singular
-appearance which they present. He would see spread out before him
-a broad expanse apparently of green meadows, with long, narrow
-streams of water winding in and out among them. These seeming
-meadows, stretching on mile after mile, broken here and there by a
-patch of clear sand, are the tidal flats of Duxbury, more than 2,700
-acres of which are covered with a thick growth of eel grass.</p>
-
-<p>How many years this eel grass has covered the flats no one knows.
-It shifts somewhat, as the ice in winter sometimes plows up an immense
-surface, stripping it of its green covering. For the most part it seems
-to grow steadily year after year, until the roots, decaying stalks and the
-fine sediment which they have collected build up a spongy crust over the
-true bed of the flat. It is this spongy, clayey soil which is the predominant
-type in the eel-grass region, though a large area is soft mud
-with little patches of hard sand. It does not seem surprising that clams
-are not abundant in this soggy medium, covered with its thick matting
-of grass. Clams do exist, however, for occasionally when the ice in
-the winter storms has scraped bare a section of these flats, scattering
-large clams can be found.</p>
-
-<p>Whether anything can be done with these eel-grass flats on a sufficiently
-large scale to render the undertaking profitable, and whether
-they would prove good ground for clam culture if the eel grass were
-removed, is a problem. However, the sand flats free from eel grass
-comprise nearly 800 acres,&mdash;an area sufficient in itself to furnish a
-very large industry for the town. Smooth, hard and unshifting, they
-have the appearance of being in every way suitable for the production
-of an enormous amount of shellfish. Yet, barring cockles, mussels and
-razor clams, shellfish are rare on most of these flats, which, in spite
-of their inviting appearance, are practically barren.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[Pg 204]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The only places where clams are dug in any quantity is along the
-shore. Here little scattered patches, remnants perhaps of the former
-large supply, repay the clammer's toil with a scant return. Little or
-no effort is made to dig them on the main flats, and few are so dug
-unless they happen to be unearthed by accident when the men are
-searching for razor clams for bait. The supply is hardly adequate
-for home consumption and the demands for bait by local fishermen.</p>
-
-<p>Whether all the great tidal territory of Duxbury can ever be reconstructed
-into profitable clam ground is a difficult question. There exist,
-however, no known reasons why a fishery at least as flourishing as that
-of twenty years ago could not be re-established and indefinitely developed.
-A great industry was once in evidence here. Outside the boggy
-eel-grass marshes (doubtful territory at best) are wide expanses of
-clean sand flats, suitable in every way for the cultivation of clams.
-That the ingenuity of man properly administered can build up an
-enormous industry on these sand flats alone, no thoughtful person can
-doubt, and then utilization of these great barren Duxbury wastes will
-partially, at least, be accomplished.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th>YEAR.</th>
-    <th>Production (Bushels).</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">700</td>
-    <td class="tdr">600</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$60</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">700</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$600</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,700</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,685</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$83,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Kingston.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The condition of the clam industry at Kingston is in many respects
-parallel to that at Duxbury. The clam flat area (some 600 acres) is
-very much smaller, but the character of the soil is essentially the same,
-consisting for the most part of clay, soft mud and eel-grass marshes,
-with a relatively small proportion of really suitable ground.</p>
-
-<p>The two main flats of the town are Egobert's and Gray's. Egobert's,
-the larger of the two, has an area of about 275 acres. Most of this is
-practically waste, owing to a thick growth of eel grass; but a triangular
-piece on the mid-southern section is bare. This portion of smooth,
-unshifting sand comprises about 80 acres. A few patches of clams
-are scattered along the outer edge, near the channel, but hardly any of
-these patches produce clams enough to make it profitable to dig them.
-The great bulk of this territory is entirely barren.</p>
-
-<p>Gray's flat is of an entirely different type. It is a long flat, with a
-fairly uniform width of about 100 yards. It runs through its entire
-length parallel to the shore, while on the other side it is separated
-from Egobert's by a 300-foot channel. Like Egobert's, it is covered
-for the most part by eel grass, but it is essentially different in the
-nature of its soil, which is mud throughout. Although the total area
-of the flat is about 115 acres, an irregular section of bare mud on the
-southeastern side, comprising 30 acres, is the only available clam territory.
-This section is composed of soft mud on the north and south,
-rather poorly suited for clam culture; but the mid section contains
-several acres of hard mud, which seems well adapted, and here clams
-are found in sufficient quantities to keep several men digging intermittently
-through the summer months.</p>
-
-<p>Along the shore a few clam grants have been given to individuals
-by the local authorities. These are managed with fair success, though
-no business other than that of supplying the local demand is carried
-on. The possibilities of forming a clam industry here of importance
-is evident, though through lack of available territory it could never
-give promise of such a development as might be looked for from Duxbury
-or Plymouth.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$450</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">450</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">600<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span></td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">440</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$18,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Plymouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The clam industry at Plymouth is at a low ebb. The same problems
-which baffle progress at Duxbury and Kingston are present here with
-all their complications. The combined available territory, exceeding
-1,600 acres, save for a few unimportant sections, is wholly barren.
-While it is true that fully two-thirds of this great area is eel-grass
-waste, and in its present state of little value for the production of
-clams, there remains over 500 acres of good flats, for the most part
-sand well adapted for shellfish culture. It is certain that a flourishing
-industry has existed here in former times. From the earliest history
-of the colony, records tell of the excellent clam flats at Plymouth; and
-we learn that the Pilgrims during the darkest hours of the early settlement
-depended in large measure upon these flats for support. As late
-as 1879 Ernest Ingersoll reports an annual output of 5,000 bushels of
-clams, and states that the industry had then greatly declined. It
-appears to have gone down steadily ever since, until now it merely
-furnishes transient employment to 4 or 5 men, who dig at rather uncertain
-intervals for local markets.</p>
-
-<p>The best clamming, probably because the most inaccessible, is around
-Clark's Island. Scattering clams occur on Wind flat, the Oyster grant,
-and in patches along the shore. But no considerable extent of good
-clamming occurs anywhere, and the bulk of the territory is wholly
-barren.</p>
-
-<p>The town of Plymouth has endeavored in several ways to develop
-the industry. It has appropriated money to restock the flats, a close
-season has been tried, and an attempt made to solve the problem by the
-giving of private grants. While these grants have not always been
-run in as energetic a manner as could be desired, the experiment has
-proved conclusively that there are great possibilities in such a system.
-In short, there can be little doubt that in the proper administration of
-private grants lies the key to the solution of the problem which confronts
-this whole region. As clams were once abundant in Plymouth
-harbor, and as no apparent causes other than excessive digging appear
-to have brought about the decline, there seems to be no logical reason
-why this amount of territory (500 acres) should not yield its proper
-harvest. As for the vast extent of eel-grass flats, with all their undetermined
-possibilities, they can well afford to wait until the more immediate
-and pressing problems of the flats already available for clam
-culture have been solved.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th>YEAR.</th>
-    <th>Production (Bushels).</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$60</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,600</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">440</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$58,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Barnstable.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The clam industry at Barnstable, while not so extensive as at Ipswich
-or Essex, is nevertheless of special interest. The immensely long coast
-line, stretching for many miles on both the north and south shores of
-Cape Cod, gives the town a shellfish area both in Cape Cod Bay and
-Vineyard Sound which renders it unrivalled throughout the State for
-variety of marine life and diversity of natural environment. These
-conditions, as they affect clam culture, are best suited on the northern
-or bay side of the town, where the clam industry flourishes more extensively,
-as the southern shore is almost wholly given up to the rival
-quahaug, oyster and scallop fisheries.</p>
-
-<p>On the northern shore a large harbor, nearly 5 miles long and about
-2 miles broad at its widest part, extends in a general westerly direction,
-ending in a vast waste of salt marshes interwoven with a network of
-creeks. Up this harbor the tides rush with great velocity, and when
-they sweep out to sea leave a broad expanse of flats, sandy on the
-north and central portions and muddy on the south. These flats cover
-an aggregate area of 400 acres, comprising 200 acres of hard sand and
-150 acres of soft mud. Large stretches of these mud flats on the south<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span>
-are waste, and covered for the most part with eel grass. Other sections
-elsewhere are likewise waste for various causes, and are to be excluded
-as unprofitable or barren; yet the total available area remaining after
-making these deductions exceeds 350 acres. This is the theoretical condition,&mdash;the
-real condition is far otherwise: 20 acres at the most
-yield clams, and of these only 10 acres produce them in marketable
-quantities.</p>
-
-<p>The explanation of these conditions is interesting. In the winter
-the ice and the force of storms tear out great pieces of the tough marsh
-surf, and the tides sweep them down the harbor. Some of these huge
-masses are torn to pieces and washed away, others find lodgment on the
-broad surface of some tidal flat; these, becoming stationary, accumulate
-sediment; the grass grows upon them through the summer, and gradually
-a little island is formed. Surrounding these islands and oftentimes
-growing over their entire surface, bedded in among the roots of
-the marsh grass, we find a very thick set of clams. In short, all the
-digging of any kind is in the immediate vicinity of these islands.</p>
-
-<p>The deductions to be made from these facts are apparently simple.
-In the spawning season, when the microscopic clam larv&aelig; are in their
-floating stage, they are carried here and there by the currents. Later,
-when they tend normally to settle in some fertile tract of flat, they are
-prevented from so doing by reason of the remarkable swiftness of the
-tides, which sweep strongly over the broad, smooth flats, and give
-the little clams no opportunity of lodgment. Only in the firm thatch of
-low-lying islands can they find anything to cling to, and here, with
-their slender byssus threads attached to unyielding grass or roots, they
-are able to withstand the wash of the current. Thus the clams are
-gathered in great numbers in these natural collectors, later are washed
-on the neighboring flat, and finally a little colony grows up about every
-island of this sort.</p>
-
-<p>That this is actually what happens is largely borne out both by
-observation and facts. It makes little difference where these islands
-are located; clams grow nearby, while all about may stretch smooth,
-hard flats, perfectly adapted for clams, yet altogether barren. In view
-of the somewhat incomplete investigations made in this region, it is perhaps
-too sweeping to point out any single factor as the sole cause for
-these waste areas; but undoubtedly the swift tides and smooth, hard flats,
-which offer no resting place for the young larv&aelig;, constitute the main
-causes.</p>
-
-<p>Another odd circumstance in connection with the Barnstable clam industry
-is the local regulations which control the industry. Almost all
-digging is carried on in the winter, as a local by-law forbids the digging
-of clams in summer in any quantity exceeding 6 bushels per week for
-family use. This somewhat curious by-law is designed wholly for the
-benefit of the majority of the clammers, and to give them employment
-in that season of the year when work is most difficult to obtain. While<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span>
-interfering somewhat with summer clam bakes, the law appears to meet
-the approval of the townspeople.</p>
-
-<p>The south shore of Barnstable possesses many of the features of
-Buzzards Bay, and produces clams only in numbers sufficient for home
-consumption.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">700</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$550</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">330</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$39,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Yarmouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The clam industry at Yarmouth, never extensive, has steadily declined,
-until now it barely supplies the demands of home consumption. Barnstable
-bar on the northern coast twenty years ago produced clams in
-considerable quantities, but the soil was never well adapted for this
-shellfish. Scattering clams are now found there, but the grounds are
-very much exposed, and cannot properly rank as clam-producing area.
-Sea clams abound there at certain seasons, and furnish a transient
-business; also razor clams, which are used extensively for bait.</p>
-
-<p>The best clam territory is in Mill Creek, on the south shore of the
-town. Scattered patches of clams also occur along the shore of Bass
-River, but the whole area really available does not exceed 50 acres,
-and this is not at all well improved. There are no regular clammers,
-but intermittent digging produces about 600 bushels of clams annually,
-which are used either for home consumption or for bait.</p>
-
-<p>No effort has been made on the part of the town authorities to better
-conditions, although the advisability of giving clam grants, at least
-on the northern or bay side, has been discussed. No permits are
-required, and local legislation does not in any way concern itself with
-the clam industry.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">600</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$6,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Orleans.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Orleans is one of the few towns in the State which shows an advance
-in the clam industry. This is largely due to an increased production
-on the rich flats of Nauset harbor, as the remaining available territory
-in the town is declining in value. The output of 1907 is an increase of
-nearly 40 per cent. over the yield of the previous year, which shows
-an encouraging development.</p>
-
-<p>The clam flat area of the town is divided into four rather distinct
-divisions, three on the east or Atlantic side and one on the Bay or
-western side. The grounds which have been dug for the longest time
-and yielded uniformly the best results lie in the waters of Town Cove.
-Here a strip of gravelly sand and mud about 30 feet wide extends
-along the shores of this cove for 2 or 3 miles. Clams are scattered
-throughout this strip, and are dug constantly.</p>
-
-<p>The second division includes the bars of Nauset harbor, which at
-present furnish the best digging in town. The increased value of the
-town's industry is largely due to the recent development of these flats.
-Clams have seeded in abundantly during the past two or three years,
-and now furnish very good digging.</p>
-
-<p>The third section comprises that portion of the clam flat area bordering
-the coast of Pleasant Bay which crosses the town boundaries on
-the southeast. Here clams are rather scarce, though dug occasionally.
-This section is economically the least important of the four.</p>
-
-<p>The fourth section extends along the western coast, on a belt of sand
-bars well out in Cape Cod Bay. Clams are found on a strip about a
-quarter of a mile in width, and lying over half a mile from shore. This
-is a very exposed location. Billingsgate Point, projecting out from the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span>
-Wellfleet coast, offers some protection from northwest winds, and the
-hills of the Cape break the force of the easterly gales; but the full
-force of storms from the west and southwest sweeps these bars, and
-would seem to render them unsuitable for the growth of clams. Clams
-are here, however, in considerable numbers, though not so numerous
-as three or four years ago, and are dug to some extent.</p>
-
-<p>The greater part of the digging is done by intermittent clammers,
-who obtain perhaps 2&frac12; bushels per day. No permits are required, as
-there are no town by-laws regulating the industry.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">125</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$27,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Eastham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The town of Eastham is a sparsely settled community, and the clam
-fishery, while not large, plays a rather important part in its business
-activity. Six men depend quite largely upon it for a livelihood, while
-some 30 others dig intermittently through the summer. The same
-peculiar condition as at Orleans exists on the western coast. Here far
-from shore clams are found in considerable numbers on the shifting
-bars. The main source of supply, however, comes from the productive
-sand flats of Nauset harbor.</p>
-
-<p>These flats have seeded in only in the past two or three years, but
-they have already shown latent possibilities of a future increase.
-In the so-called "Salt Pond" 2 men are employed nearly the year
-round in digging clams under water by a method of "churning," locally
-known as "rootling."</p>
-
-<p>The total available area in Eastham is about 200 acres. More than
-half of this is sand, which includes almost all the good digging, while
-the mud flats are interspersed with stretches of gravel and scattering
-patches of eel grass.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The same abuses which have nearly ruined the Swansea fishery have
-begun here. Small seed clams are exported in considerable quantities
-to supply the summer demand of the New Bedford and Fall River
-districts. While this system has not yet made its ravages apparent, a
-glance at the Swansea report will serve to convince the most casual
-reader that unless some steps are taken to check this evil, the practical
-annihilation of the Eastham clam industry must follow. As it is, local
-legislation seems powerless to cope with the problem, and no laws of
-any kind relating to the clam fishery are in force.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">36</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$4,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$30,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Wellfleet.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Although possessing extensive flats, Wellfleet produces at present
-a relatively small amount of clams. The inhabitants realize that these
-flats are capable of producing a large harvest of clams if properly
-planted, and that in this way an extensive industry can be developed,
-and have undertaken to restock the flats, appropriating in 1906 for this
-purpose the sum of $1,000.</p>
-
-<p>At Billingsgate Island there are fair clam flats, but they are not
-easily accessible, as they lie at a distance of 5 miles from town. Clams
-can also be obtained in more or less abundance in the thatch which
-borders the flats of Blackfish Creek, Herring River and Duck Creek.
-A few clams are scattered over the flats of Blackfish Creek, particularly
-toward the head of the creek. Two patches of clams covering perhaps
-an acre are on the flats in front of the town: one in the stone and
-gravel east of Commercial wharf; the other, a more extensive area,
-just west of Mercantile wharf.</p>
-
-<p>Wellfleet possesses many acres of flats which, though now barren,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span>
-are capable of excellent production if properly planted. Wellfleet
-flats extend from Duck Creek to Herring River and from Herring River
-along the shores of Great Island for a distance of 4&frac12; miles, and cover
-an area of 400 acres. The Great Island flats are not especially adapted
-for clams, and only parts of these can ever be successfully cultivated,
-while possibly all the area between Duck Creek and Herring River can
-be reclaimed. South Wellfleet flats, which comprise an area of 200
-acres, are much poorer flats, consisting for the most part of mud and
-shifting sand. Only the firmer portions, about 50 acres, can be made
-productive by planting with clams.</p>
-
-<p>At Wellfleet the soft clam fishery can hardly be styled an industry.
-In the winter a few men go clamming when there is nothing else to do.
-The majority prefer razor clamming, which is a considerable winter
-industry, owing to the demand for this bait at Provincetown. Three
-men clam during the summer, doing practically all their digging at
-Billingsgate, while 8 others are in this work during the winter.</p>
-
-<p>The flats of Wellfleet were never very productive, but formerly were
-capable of furnishing a far greater production than at present. This
-decline is only accounted for by overdigging, which has brought about
-the present scarcity.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">11</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$640</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">450</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">605</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">12</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">340</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$28,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Truro.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The clam flats at Truro are confined principally to the Pamet River.
-At the mouth of this river near the head of the harbor bar is a sand
-flat comprising several acres, where the bulk of the clams are produced.
-In South Truro, Stony Bar and other similar patches of rocky beach
-are fairly well bedded with clams. Scattering clams are found over
-the shifting bars which skirt the main land on the bay side, but
-nowhere are clams sufficiently abundant to warrant any serious attempt<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span>
-at exportation. Fifteen to twenty years ago clams were everywhere
-much more abundant in this region than now, and in those days some
-market digging was carried on. At present the needs of the home
-market are with difficulty supplied from the local production, and 100
-bushels per year would cover all clams dug both for food and bait. No
-effort has at any time been made by the town authorities to increase the
-industry, though the clam fishery, at least in the sheltered coves of
-Pamet River, is not without possibilities of development.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$60</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">47</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td>&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Provincetown.</i></h3>
-
-<p>For the last five years the flats of Provincetown have produced only
-a small amount of clams. Wherever clams have set in abundance they
-have been quickly dug by fishermen for bait, thus checking their natural
-propagation.</p>
-
-<p>Clams are found in the drains among the thatch beds on the southwest
-side of the harbor and in Race Run, while a considerable set is
-scattered between the wharves of the town. All the extensive flats at
-the southwest end of the harbor are entirely barren of clams, owing
-chiefly to the shifting nature of the sand, although on certain parts of
-these, especially near the thatch, clams would grow if planted. As it
-is, the shifting sand makes it impossible for the young clams to set
-on this area.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$320<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[Pg 215]</a></span></td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">194</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$21,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Chatham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Chatham can no longer be considered as the best clam-producing town
-of southern Massachusetts. In 1879 Chatham produced a greater
-quantity of soft clams than all the rest of the Cape; to-day all has
-changed, and the annual output is far less than several other towns of
-the Cape district.</p>
-
-<p>The town of Chatham is situated in the southeastern portion of Cape
-Cod, and includes that part which is commonly called the "elbow" of
-the Cape. It is surrounded on the north, east and south sides by the
-ocean, while on the south the peninsula known as Monomoy Island
-extends for 9 miles.</p>
-
-<p>The clamming territory of Chatham is situated in Stage harbor,
-Pleasant Bay and at Monomoy Point.</p>
-
-<p>In Stage harbor clams are found along the sides of the Mill Pond,
-comprising possibly an acre, and in the eastern end of the harbor
-toward the dike, where about 3 acres of flats are thickly set.</p>
-
-<p>An extended area of sand flats are found in Pleasant Bay. But
-small parts of this area furnish good clamming, and the Common Flats
-on the inside of Monomoy Island, where once there were acres of good
-clams, now lie entirely barren except for a small patch of set just
-north of Brant Island, comprising about 1/5 of an acre. Here are
-about 100 acres of barren flats which only need planting to be made
-productive.</p>
-
-<p>The commercial clam fishery, of the town is carried on at Monomoy
-Point, where 5 acres of the best clamming in Massachusetts is found.
-The Powder Hole flats, formed of coarse, clean sand, are thickly set
-with clams of all sizes, and furnish excellent digging. A good clammer
-can obtain from 5 to 6 bushels per tide from these flats.</p>
-
-<p>Clams are dug at Chatham during the fishing season chiefly for bait.
-Such digging lasts through the fall and winter. In the summer, clams
-are dug only for food, as no cod fishing is conducted in the warm
-months. From 10 to 15 men were engaged in clamming during the
-summer of 1907, travelling from Chatham to Monomoy Point in power
-or sail dories. Practically all the clams dug came from the Powder Hole<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[Pg 216]</a></span>
-flats at Monomoy Point. These were purchased at Chatham wharf by
-fish firms at the price of $2 per barrel.</p>
-
-<p>The winter clam fishery of Chatham was once an important industry,
-which started in 1875 when clams were in great demand as fish bait.
-The following table shows how this industry has declined:&mdash;</p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td></td>
-    <th>1879.</th>
-    <th>1907.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Annual production (bushels),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">35,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value of production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$12,250</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Price per bushel (cents),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">35</td>
-    <td class="tdr">80</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>Owing to the large amount of clams dug by fishing vessels, the following
-restrictions were incorporated in 1881 as a State law, which
-reads as follows:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>No fisherman or any other person shall take from the towns of Chatham
-and Nantucket any shellfish, for bait or other use, except clams and a shellfish
-commonly known by the name of horse feet, and no quantity exceeding
-seven bushels of clams, including shells or one hundred of said horse feet
-shall be taken in one week for each vessel or craft, nor in any case without
-a permit being first obtained from the selectmen of the town.</p></div>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">330</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">360</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$44,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Harwich.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The town of Harwich possesses but little clam area. A few clams
-are obtainable on the shores of Pleasant Bay and Mud Creek in limited
-localities, while in the southern waters of the town there is some digging
-in Wychmere harbor and in Herring River. The total area of clam
-flats is not more than 1&frac12; acres.</p>
-
-<p>There are no regular clammers engaged in the business, all the clams
-dug being used only for home consumption.</p>
-
-<p>In 1905 there was a town law restricting the digging in Wychmere
-harbor, except for bait, to one day in the week.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span></p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th>YEAR.</th>
-    <th>Production (Bushels).</th>
-    <th>Value.</th>
-    <th>Men.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,125</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$80</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">14</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,400</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Dennis.</i></h3>
-
-<p>As the town of Dennis has mutual fishery rights with the town of
-Yarmouth, the clam flats of Bass River, which lie between the towns,
-are free to any inhabitant of Dennis. A few clams are also dug in
-Swan Pond River.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$45</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$4,200</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Mashpee.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The clam fishery at Mashpee is of hardly sufficient proportions to
-rank as an industry. The shores of the Popponesset River furnish
-perhaps favorable conditions for the growth of this shellfish, but the
-available territory is small, not exceeding 50 acres, and of this only a
-small percentage, comprising scattered patches of gravel-mud, produces
-clams in any abundance.</p>
-
-<p>No effort is made at exportation for market, and under the present
-circumstances it is doubtful if a greater yield than that required to
-supply home consumption could be expected. No effort is made on the
-part of local legislation to control the industry or foster it in any way.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$45</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,400</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Buzzards Bay.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The section of Massachusetts bordering the shores of Buzzards Bay
-supports a flourishing quahaug, oyster and scallop fishery, capable of
-great development. The clam industry, however, never very extensive,
-is of very slight significance at present, and can never attain the same
-degree of importance as the other shellfisheries, owing to the limited
-area available for clams. To those familiar with the harbors of Newburyport
-and Duxbury and their vast tidal flats with their latent possibilities,
-the shores of Buzzards Bay present indeed a notable contrast.
-Bluff and hilly for the most part, and frequently rocky, nowhere do
-they show extensive flats suitable for clam culture. That clams grow
-wherever opportunity permits is evident, for they are found on gravelly
-stretches or among rocks all along the coast, except in those localities
-openly exposed to the full force of the sea. But allowing for all
-possible favorable features, the lack of any considerable territory is a
-disadvantage that will forever act as a barrier to any expansion.
-Falmouth and Dartmouth on the east and west sides of Buzzards Bay
-respectively differ materially from the remaining towns of the district,
-in the fact that the characteristic soil of their clam grounds is sand;
-while the other towns have little in the shape of available territory
-except gravel stretches along the shores of coves, small areas of mud,
-and the rocky beaches of points and headlands. The yearly output
-hardly anywhere suffices for the needs of home consumption. Nowhere
-is any attempt at exportation possible. The business, such as it is,
-is carried on in a very intermittent fashion, chiefly in the summer,
-with but a small investment of capital.</p>
-
-<p>Special local regulation seems to remain aloof from the problem of
-insuring a future clam supply. That the combined area of all the
-towns of Buzzards Bay does not equal that of a single town in the
-Cape Ann district is an undeniable truth; but the fact nevertheless
-remains that an industry far more considerable than exists at present
-could be supported, and it is truly to the interest of the towns of this
-region to make the best possible use of their limited advantages.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Falmouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Falmouth has a long coast line not only on Buzzards Bay but also on
-Vineyard Sound. The flats at North and West Falmouth on the bay
-side are similar to those of Wareham and Bourne, though there are
-several small patches of quite good digging. On the southern shore
-there are clams scattered along the coasts of the various indentations,
-particularly at Waquoit Bay.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[Pg 220]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$175</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$6,400</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Bourne.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The clam industry at Bourne is practically extinct. Scarcely any
-clamming is carried on by the inhabitants of the town, even for their
-own use, as clams have become so scattering that it hardly pays to dig
-them. The territory is much the same in extent and general character
-as that of Wareham, but it has been over-dug to a greater degree, and
-has become nearly barren.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$6,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[Pg 221]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Wareham.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Wareham leads the towns of Buzzards Bay in the production of
-clams, although its annual output is only 600 bushels. This clearly
-shows the low ebb to which the industry has fallen in this region.</p>
-
-<p>There are no true tide flats in Wareham, but the total area of the
-mud-gravel and rocky bottom between high and low water mark where
-scattering clams are found is nearly 100 acres. There are no regular
-fishermen, but some half dozen quahaugers dig clams from time to
-time, chiefly during the summer, to supply the home market.</p>
-
-<p>The industry, such as it is, appears to be about stationary at present,
-though in production it has declined notably during the last twenty
-years. The town officials have attempted no measures to revive the
-failing fishery, and no town laws affect it in any way.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$10,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Marion.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The wealthy summer residents at Marion create a demand for clams
-at a very substantial price. In spite of the increased price, there is
-little inducement to engage in this industry as a livelihood, and only
-1 man digs steadily through the summer months, though intermittent
-digging is done by others to supply the local market.</p>
-
-<p>The best clamming is on the east coast of Great Neck and in Wing's
-Cove. These grounds are difficult of access, and consequently have not
-been so much overworked as the nearer shores of Ram's Island, Allan's
-Point and Blankinship's Cove. The total area does not exceed 10 acres,
-and this for the most part is very poor territory; while the clams coming
-from these rock and gravel beaches are not of very good quality, the
-shells being usually gnarled and crooked.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[Pg 222]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>There is no town legislation relating to this industry, and though it is
-becoming of less consequence every year, nothing is done to revive it.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Mattapoisett.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The coast of Mattapoisett, more open and exposed than that of Fairhaven,
-does not offer equal advantages to the cultivation of clams. A
-similar strip of gravel-mud or sand occurs along the more sheltered
-portions of the coast, and wherever an indentation in the mainland
-offers shelter clams may be found, though never in sufficient quantities
-to make digging profitable. There is really no industry at all; the few
-clams that are dug go for home trade or are used as bait, and the
-prospects of any decided improvement appear to be slight.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[Pg 223]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Fairhaven.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The clam industry at Fairhaven suffers from the unsanitary condition
-of the flats, though in a lesser degree than at New Bedford. The finest
-clam grounds of this town lie in the proscribed district of the Acushnet
-River, and handling or eating shellfish from this area is a positive
-menace to the public health.</p>
-
-<p>A strip of gravel-mud about 100 feet in average width fringes the
-shores of Priest's Cove, and this strip furnishes at present the best
-digging. Scattered patches of clams occur along the indentations of
-Sconticut Neck, around West Island and along the coast of Little Bay.
-No men are regularly employed in digging clams, though a rather
-inefficient attempt is made at times to supply the local demand.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$7,500</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>New Bedford.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The clam industry at New Bedford was never of any great importance,
-but the unwise methods of sewage disposal of the city,
-whereby the effluent enters the harbor in close proximity to the clam
-flats, renders the taking of shellfish a positive menace to the public
-health. The action of the State Board of Health in closing the Acushnet
-River and Clark's Cove to the clam digger virtually annihilated the
-remnant of the industry. Now practically all the available territory
-of the city is proscribed, and no clams are allowed to be taken from this
-area except for use as bait. Licenses are also required to take clams
-even for bait from this proscribed territory. Three hundred and
-twenty of these licenses have been issued since the passage of the act
-in 1904. The annual yield of clams for this purpose cannot be accurately
-ascertained, but probably does not exceed 250 bushels. No
-important clam industry would ever have been possible at New Bed<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[Pg 224]</a></span>ford,
-under any circumstances, but the slight possibilities which once
-existed have been swept away and can never return under the present
-conditions, though shellfish grown in this region could, if suitable
-legislation were enacted, be transplanted to a sanitary environment,
-where in a month all danger of spreading typhoid germs would be
-avoided.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Licenses for bait,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">320</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels (for bait),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">300</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$225</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Dartmouth.</i></h3>
-
-<p>The town of Dartmouth possesses a wide expanse of territory, but
-the actual amount of available clam ground is not as large as it would
-appear at first sight. Clams are found in more or less abundance at
-the following places: (1) Rickerson's Point (2/3 acre); (2) Apponagansett
-River (6 acres); (3) Apponagansett harbor (1 acre); (4)
-Nonquit (1/10 acre); (5) Round Hill Point (1/5 acre); (6) Salter's Point
-(3/4 acre); (7) Smith's Neck (3/5 acre); (8) Little River (7-1/2 acres);
-(9) Slocum's River (6 acres); comprising a total of 23 acres. The best
-clamming is obtained on the flats of Little and Slocum's rivers. In
-Apponagansett River clams are dug in the summer for the Padanaram
-clam bakes.</p>
-
-<p>A town by-law placing a closed season on Slocum's River was in
-force during the years 1904 and 1905. In 1906 Dartmouth, by a State
-law, required permits for clamming. These permits are issued by the
-selectmen free of charge.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$160</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span>Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>The Fall River District (Narragansett Bay).</i></h3>
-
-<p>The section of country bordering on Narragansett Bay and the
-Rhode Island line comprises a territory remote from the other clam-producing
-districts of the State, and possessing many characteristics
-not found in any other locality. Six towns of this region enjoy the
-privileges of a clam industry, situated as they are on the shores of Mt.
-Hope Bay and its tributary streams, the Cole, Lee and Taunton rivers.
-Beginning with the most westerly and taking them in order, these
-towns comprise Swansea, Somerset, Dighton, Berkley, Freetown and
-Fall River. These towns differ only in extent of resources or development
-of the industry, while the general nature of the clam flats and the
-methods employed in carrying on the business are essentially alike for
-all. The area in this region suitable for clam culture possesses some of
-the distinguishing features of the typical north shore flats, some of the
-Buzzards Bay variety and some peculiar to itself. There are scarcely
-any sand flats, and the prevailing type of soil is mud, as at Newburyport,
-or gravel, as in Buzzards Bay; while the greater part of the clam
-supply comes from a large and rather indefinite area, which is not
-properly tide flat at all, but lies continuously submerged.</p>
-
-<p>The methods employed in carrying on this industry include both wet
-and dry digging. On the tide flats the clams are dug as elsewhere on
-the south shore, with hoes or the common digger. Where, however,
-clams are dug in 2 or 3 feet of water, as is most frequently the case,
-an ordinary long-handled shovel and wire basket are employed. The
-soil containing the clams is shoveled into the baskets, and then the clams
-are sifted out under water. Several years ago an attempt was made
-to dig clams by machinery. An enterprising oysterman spent several
-hundred dollars in constructing a machine which was designed to farm
-the under-water districts more quickly and successfully than could be
-done by hand. The device had some of the principles of a suction
-pump, and theoretically the clams on the submerged flats could be
-washed out from the soil and collected in a receptacle. The machine
-worked well enough in extracting the clams from the mud, but failed<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span>
-completely when it came to collecting them. In short, after a thorough
-trial it was pronounced a failure and had to be abandoned.</p>
-
-<p>The main peculiarity of this region, and a far more important one
-than the type of soil or the methods of digging, is the nature of the
-clams which are produced. The inadequate territory and the constantly
-increasing demands of the Fall River markets have led to abuses which
-have had a most disastrous effect on the clam industry, and unless
-checked, and soon, these abuses will certainly cause its complete annihilation.
-The abuses in question are the universal custom of digging small
-seed clams for food. So importunate have the markets of Fall River
-and the vicinity become, that when the supply of suitable clams proves
-inadequate they demand and will gladly take "anything with a shell
-on," as the dealers say, so that it is no uncommon sight to see exposed
-for sale in the city markets clams of only 1 inch in length. This
-deplorable condition is fostered by the custom of digging under water,
-for the fine mesh of the woven-wire baskets retains even the smallest
-clams, which are saved for market.</p>
-
-<p>No quicker or surer way of destroying the industry completely could
-have been devised than this method of digging seed clams for food.
-One barrel of these clams would produce 10 to 15 barrels of marketable
-clams if left for one year under favorable circumstances. Thus, when
-a clammer digs 1 barrel of these clams he is in reality destroying 10 or
-more barrels. This is truly reaping the "seed" before it has had any
-time to mature the proper harvest. Also, these "seed" clams are so
-immature that in many cases they have not spawned, and thus the
-clammer by destroying the clams in this manner damages irrevocably
-all chances of restocking the flats.</p>
-
-<p>From the inherent difficulties of the problem, however, local regulation
-seems powerless to cope with the evil. The short-sighted clammers,
-while they know that these methods, if pursued very far, will ultimately
-destroy the industry, seem willing, nevertheless, to sacrifice the future
-for the present. The other clammers are inevitably brought into line
-on this mistaken policy, as they cannot but argue that if a few will
-persist in exploiting a natural resource it is the right of every man
-to have an equal chance, and take his share of the proceeds as long
-as they last. Another potent factor in this wastefulness is the irresponsible
-foreign element of the mill districts, who dig clams for their
-own use, large or small, with entire indifference. It might perhaps
-prove unjust and difficult to enforce laws preventing individuals
-digging "seed" clams for their own use; but legislation could possibly
-be enacted preventing the sale of such seed in the public market. This
-would strike a blow at the abuse sufficient to rob it of its worst
-features. The most casual glance at the facts in the case prove that
-there is a pressing need for some legislative action. The history of the
-clam industry in this region is one of steady and rapid decline. Any
-clammer of the vicinity is willing to acknowledge that conditions at<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span>
-present are in a very unsatisfactory state. The output of clams has
-greatly diminished, both in the consensus of opinion of those interested
-in the business, and also according to statistical figures. Furthermore,
-the end of the industry, as far as any economic importance is concerned,
-is plainly in sight, and at the present rate of destruction cannot
-long be delayed. It would seem that here was a striking example of
-the need of prompt and wise legislation for the protection and development
-of an industry which has made large profits for the community,
-and might yield still greater returns if properly regulated.</p>
-
-<p>The towns of this region can never compete with the towns of the
-Newburyport district in the production of clams, for the reason that
-they have by no means an equal acreage of suitable flats. The Taunton
-River is also a considerable factor, as its contaminated waters impair
-the quality of clams grown along its shores. There remains, however,
-a considerable extent of suitable territory which might yield a large
-product if rightly controlled, and this territory, with its inherent
-possibilities depleted to the verge of exhaustion by unwise and wasteful
-methods, it is for the interest of the Commonwealth to protect and
-improve.</p>
-
-
-<h3><i>Swansea.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Swansea, the most western town of this district, is by far the most
-favorably located, and has the greatest possibilities of clam production.
-Situated on the northern shore of Mt. Hope Bay, and containing the
-majority of the flats in the Cole and Lee rivers, it possesses a greater
-available territory free from the contaminating influences of the
-Taunton River than any other town in this region.</p>
-
-<p>Altogether, 200 acres comprise the possibly available clam area of
-this town. The best of this area is located in Cole's River, and includes
-Long Beach flat, the best flat of the district. Situated on the east
-shore of the river just below the railroad bridge, this flat stretches south
-in a broad triangle comprising some 20 acres of smooth, semihard mud.
-Over the main flat is sprinkled a very thick set of &frac12; inch to 1 inch
-clams, interspersed with some of larger growth. While this is the best
-flat, other flats extend along both shores far up the river until the
-clams become too "fresh" to be very good. Flats also occur in the
-Lee River, and there is a large and rather indeterminate amount of
-under-water territory. The total area suitable for culture is not far
-from 150 acres; of this, about 20 acres are gravel and the rest practically
-all mud.</p>
-
-<p>No permits are necessary to dig clams on tidal flats, but permits are
-required to "churn" clams under water. Twenty of these permits
-were issued last year. Usually in digging under water two men work
-together, one shovelling the mud into the wire baskets and the other
-sifting out the clams. About 75 per cent. of the clams produced come
-from these under-water areas, as the tide flats are for the most part
-nearly exhausted.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The season lasts all the year round, though most of the clams are
-dug in the summer time. Of late years it has become increasingly
-hard for a man to earn a living by clamming, as only 1 to 1&frac12; bushels
-now comprise an average day's work under the most favorable circumstances.
-Many of the clammers are leaving the business and seeking a
-livelihood in other employments.</p>
-
-<p>The history of the industry is one of marked decline. The most
-conservative clammer estimates that at the present rate the passing of
-five years will witness the complete annihilation of the industry.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$24,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Somerset.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Somerset, the next town in order, joins Swansea on the east and
-extends several miles up the left bank of the Taunton River. Its flats
-on the south and west, particularly in the Lee River, produce some
-clams, though the industry is practically run out. The total clam area
-comprises about 75 acres. This is mostly mud, though gravel stretches
-along the shore aggregate perhaps 10 acres. The development of latent
-possibilities in this territory is largely curtailed by the disastrous effects
-of the Taunton River upon the clams. This water, contaminated by
-the manufacturing plants of Taunton, makes the clams grown in the
-northern part of the town of inferior taste and quality.</p>
-
-<p>Six licenses, costing $1 apiece, were issued last year for "churning"
-clams. No permits other than these are required.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$50<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[Pg 229]</a></span></td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$4,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Dighton.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Dighton has a very limited area of clam flat, comprising only about
-10 acres. Clams extend but little beyond the southern boundary of the
-town on the Taunton River and about &frac34; mile up the Segregansett
-River on the west. Practically no business is made of clamming by the
-citizens of the town except for local consumption. About 40 bushels
-were "churned" last year by outsiders. No permits are issued.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">8</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Berkley.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Berkley, on the right bank of the Taunton River, opposite Dighton,
-has a very similar clam territory both in extent and characteristics.
-But little use is made of the clam except for bait, as the river water
-renders them very unsatisfactory as food.</p>
-
-<p>There is practically no industry, and there never could be any of
-importance, owing to the very limited area and the contamination of
-the waters.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[Pg 230]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">6</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,400</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Freetown.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Freetown, joining Berkley on the south near the Fall River line,
-possesses a number of clam flats, aggregating 25 acres. Very little
-business is carried on, although conditions are better than in Berkley
-or Dighton. The clams, too, are of better quality, being freer from the
-disagreeable flavor of clams grown farther up the river. The possibilities
-for clam culture in this town are not attractive, but the present
-conditions can be vastly improved.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></div>
-
-
-<h3><i>Fall River.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Fall River has no clam territory on the south, owing to the wharves
-and other obstructions. On the more open waters of the north towards
-Freetown there is an extent of clam ground occupying about 25 acres.
-The foreign element in the city dig here for food, and some clams are
-likewise dug for bait, but the industry on the whole is of little consequence.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$75</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">10</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$3,500</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Nantucket.</i></h3>
-
-<p>At present Nantucket does not possess a clam industry of any importance.
-Years ago it is claimed that clams were abundant, and that
-quantities were dug for food or for bait. Now the reverse is true, and
-the fisherman often finds it difficult to procure clams even for bait.
-Indeed, Nantucket furnishes an excellent illustration of the decline of
-the clam industry.</p>
-
-<p>Practically all the flats of Nantucket are shore flats <i>i.e.</i>, narrow flats
-along the shores of the harbor and on the sides of the creeks. Thus the
-area, though extending for many miles, is not great, and the clam
-industry of the island, though capable of development, nevertheless can
-never assume the importance of the quahaug and the scallop fisheries.
-In Nantucket harbor clams are found in the creeks, and particularly
-in Polpis harbor, although scattering clams are found all along the
-south shore of the harbor. A few clams are found on the north side
-in Coatou Creek and in First and Second Bend. The flats in Nantucket
-harbor are all coarse sand or a fine gravel, except in the creeks,
-where they become muddy. On the eastern and southern sides clams
-are found in scattering quantities in Maddequet harbor, on the north
-side of Tuckernuck and in the cove on the south side of Muskeget.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[Pg 232]</a></span></p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span></p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th><span class="smcap">Production.</span></th>
-    <th>1879.</th>
-    <th>1907.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">2,253</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$872</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$350</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$40</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">400</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$350</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">25</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">5</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">15</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">130</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$18,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<h3><i>Edgartown.</i></h3>
-
-<p>Although Edgartown possesses 200 acres of clam flats, it is not in a
-true sense a clam-producing town. The reason for this small production
-is due to the nature of the flats, which are mostly under water at low
-tide, making clamming difficult. Naturally Edgartown devotes its
-energies to the more profitable quahaug and scallop fisheries.</p>
-
-<p>The clam flats of the town are situated along the shores of Cape
-Poge Pond and in the lower part of Katama Bay, where many acres
-of flats are continually submerged. The shore flats are of small area,
-owing to the light rise and fall of the tide, less than 3 feet at this part
-of the coast.</p>
-
-<p>(1) <i>Cape Poge Pond.</i>&mdash;Scattering clams are found all along the
-shore flats, except for a &frac34;-mile strip on the west side. The soil is of a
-coarse sand or gravel.</p>
-
-<p>(2) <i>Katama Bay.</i>&mdash;The best clam flats of the town are situated in
-Katama Bay, and extend over a considerable territory. These flats,
-consisting of a coarse, sandy soil, lie continually submerged. Here the
-clams are dug by means of a "sea horse." This "animal" is nothing
-more than an elongated clam hoe with a belt attachment, whereby the
-clammer can "churn" out the clams at a depth of 2 to 3 feet.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The clam industry of Edgartown has fallen off considerably since
-1879. However, the clammers say that it has improved during the last
-fifteen years. The following comparison is made between the production
-of 1879 and 1907:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span></p>
-
-<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <th>YEAR.</th>
-    <th>Production for Food<br />(Bushels).</th>
-    <th>Production for Bait<br />(Bushels).</th>
-    <th>Production<br />(Bushels).</th>
-    <th>Value of<br />Production.</th>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,570</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">625</td>
-    <td class="tdr">575</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>The general shellfish regulations which govern the other shellfisheries
-of the town apply to the clam fishery; but the industry has never been
-considered important enough to need special legislation, and but slight
-attention has been given to it.</p>
-
-<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
-</p>
-
-<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
-  <tr>
-    <td>Number of men,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">7</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Capital invested,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">150</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">200</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">20</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">100</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">50</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
-    <td class="tdr">30</td>
-  </tr>
-  <tr>
-    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
-    <td class="tdr">$33,000</td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>In the opinion of many, doubtless, this report may appear unduly
-lengthy, and to include many seemingly trivial facts and unnecessary
-repetitions. To the trained observer, however, it seems of the greatest
-importance in dealing with such a practical and important problem
-to place on record all facts and opinions which may become of value,
-and to emphasize by frequent repetitions certain fundamental facts.</p>
-
-<p class="center">Respectfully submitted,
-</p>
-
-<p class="right">D. L. BELDING.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span></p>
-
-<p>The preceding report is intended to be a reliable statement
-of facts, and suggestions for consideration. On such a basis of
-facts the future policy of developing the shellfisheries must be
-based. It is the purpose of the Commissioners on Fisheries and
-Game to hold a series of public hearings in the different sections
-of the State for the purpose of giving personal expositions of
-the shellfish conditions and possibilities, and of giving a better
-opportunity for exchanging, discussing and weighing opinions.
-Meantime, in considering the conditions of the shellfisheries of
-Massachusetts, and the laws necessary to improve these conditions,
-the following points are of importance.</p>
-
-<p>The present shellfish laws are based upon the principle of
-"public" fisheries, and were made at times and at places where
-there was such a superabundance that the natural increase was
-sufficient to meet the market demands. Artificial cultivation was
-unnecessary. The fundamental laws were made in the colonial
-days. Since then the demand for shellfish as food has enormously
-increased, and for many years the annual natural increase
-has been entirely inadequate to meet these demands. We
-have outgrown the conditions which the original conception of
-that law covered. Under parallel conditions it has been found
-necessary to sell or lease the public lands, in order that the yield
-of food may be increased by cultivation under the immediate
-direction and responsibility of individual citizens, and under
-protection of State and national laws. When it was learned that
-the yield of a cultivated oyster bed far exceeded the natural
-product both in quantity and quality, the oyster laws were so
-modified that an important industry was built up, until to-day
-practically the entire oyster yield of Massachusetts, Rhode
-Island and Connecticut is from cultivated beds, and the total
-product is many times the total catch from the natural beds in
-their palmiest days. To-day not only is it necessary to so modify
-the oyster laws as to increase the opportunities for better utilizing
-our bays and estuaries for oyster growing on a more extensive
-scale than is done at present, but also for developing similar
-methods of growing clams and quahaugs, and perhaps also
-scallops. The tidal flats must, as well as the deeper waters, be
-made to produce food and money by securing a larger yield per<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[Pg 235]</a></span>
-acre, and by the utilization of thousands of acres which are now
-practically idle, but which either are now adapted for growing
-shellfish or can readily be made so.</p>
-
-<p>Our present shellfish laws are a heterogeneous, conflicting
-patchwork, devised to meet temporary and local conditions,
-utterly inadequate to-day to permit the fishermen to secure a
-just return for their labor, and completely sacrificing the public
-interests. In many cases the responsible tax-paying citizen
-cannot find a place to dig a family supply of clams or quahaugs,
-neither can the industrious native fisherman get a fair day's pay
-for his labor.</p>
-
-<p>An entirely new code of shellfish laws is necessary, based upon
-the general principles (1) that in selling the shores the State
-reserved the right of fishing as "far as the tide doth ebb and
-flow," and (2) that the State may now lease these fishing rights
-under such conditions and restrictions as to secure to every
-citizen so desiring and so deserving an opportunity to cultivate
-such a definite area as may meet his needs and powers. Experience
-has proved conclusively that it is a correct economic principle
-for the State to give a secure title to certain carefully
-defined lands to a capable man, and to say: "This land is yours.
-You may raise potatoes, corn, hay or anything you choose.
-Every plant, fruit or tree growing on this property is yours.
-You have become responsible for its right and proper use. You
-have full and complete rights in this property, and can develop
-it by investing your labor and your money according to your own
-judgment, and the State will protect you in these rights as long
-as you do not interfere with the rights of other persons."
-Equally so it is an indubitable economic fact that the landowner
-finds it more profitable to plant or transplant corn, potatoes,
-grass, strawberries, etc., rather than to depend upon the natural
-methods and yield. Similarly, it is equally logical for the State
-to give to the fisherman equal opportunities with the farmer.
-The State should guarantee the tenure of the fisherman in his
-definitely bounded shellfish garden, and should protect his interests
-and the property on that garden as securely as if it were
-potatoes or corn, and should, so far as possible, guard him from
-local jealousy or the effects of petty politics so long as he con<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[Pg 236]</a></span>tinues
-wisely to improve his grant in conformity to the spirit
-and letter of laws which are found by experience to give the
-greatest good to the greatest number.</p>
-
-<p>Further, the State should protect the fishermen and the consumers
-of shellfish by defining the areas which from a sanitary
-point of view are (1) totally unsuitable for shellfish cultivation;
-(2) those where shellfish may be grown but not eaten; and,
-finally, (3) definite areas from which alone shellfish may be sold
-for food. Provide suitable penalties for sale of shellfish which
-have not been kept for the required time (at least thirty days) in
-sanitary surroundings before going to market. The entire
-question of pollution of streams and estuaries must be carefully
-considered in view of the public rights and of the commercial
-interests of the fishermen. Further, the laws must be so carefully
-drawn that the respective rights and interests of individual
-fishermen, shore owners, summer cottagers and the transient
-public at the seashore are completely safeguarded against the
-dangers of predatory wealth monopolizing the opportunities for
-cultivating shellfish in the waters and the tidal flats.</p>
-
-<p>The situation is extremely complicated on account of the
-diverse conditions and the numerous conflicting interests, oystermen,
-quahaugers, clammers and scallopers, native and alien
-fishermen, owners of shore property, town and State rights,
-local interests and petty politics, and careful judicial consideration
-is necessary not alone as to the substance of the necessary
-laws, but upon the methods of administering these laws.</p>
-
-<p class="center">Respectfully submitted,
-</p>
-
-<p style="margin-left: 75%;">
-G. W. FIELD.<br />
-J. W. DELANO.<br />
-G. H. GARFIELD.
-</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_17_17" id="Footnote_17_17"></a><a href="#FNanchor_17_17"><span class="label">[17]</span></a> Licenses.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_18_18" id="Footnote_18_18"></a><a href="#FNanchor_18_18"><span class="label">[18]</span></a> Licences for bait.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_19_19" id="Footnote_19_19"></a><a href="#FNanchor_19_19"><span class="label">[19]</span></a> Licenses.</p></div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a name="Footnote_20_20" id="Footnote_20_20"></a><a href="#FNanchor_20_20"><span class="label">[20]</span></a> Statistics of the number of men engaged were unobtainable.</p></div></div>
-
-
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[Pg 238]</a><br /><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span></p>
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-
-
-
-<h2><a name="INDEX" id="INDEX">INDEX.</a></h2>
-
-<p>
-Barnstable:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_207">207</a>-209</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_147">147</a>-149</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_52">52</a>, <a href="#Page_53">53</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_96">96</a>-98</span><br />
-<br />
-Berkley:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_229">229</a>, <a href="#Page_230">230</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
-<br />
-Beverly, clam industry, <a href="#Page_192">192</a><br />
-<br />
-Boston harbor, clam industry, <a href="#Page_196">196</a>-198<br />
-<br />
-Bourne:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_220">220</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_153">153</a>, <a href="#Page_154">154</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_53">53</a>, <a href="#Page_54">54</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_98">98</a>, <a href="#Page_99">99</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Brewster, scallop industry, <a href="#Page_99">99</a><br />
-<br />
-Buzzard's Bay district:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_219">219</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_150">150</a>-152</span><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Capital, <a href="#Page_36">36</a><br />
-<br />
-Chatham:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_215">215</a>, <a href="#Page_216">216</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_144">144</a>-146</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_55">55</a>, <a href="#Page_56">56</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_99">99</a>-101</span><br />
-<br />
-Clam:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Decline, <a href="#Page_165">165</a>, <a href="#Page_166">166</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Distribution, <a href="#Page_159">159</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Farming, <a href="#Page_167">167</a>-176</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Growth, <a href="#Page_171">171</a>-173</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">History in Massachusetts, <a href="#Page_176">176</a>-178</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Industry in Massachusetts, <a href="#Page_178">178</a>-180</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Production for Massachusetts since 1880, <a href="#Page_178">178</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Remedy for decline, <a href="#Page_167">167</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Seed, <a href="#Page_174">174</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Statistics of industry in Massachusetts, <a href="#Page_161">161</a>-164</span><br />
-<br />
-Cohasset, clam industry, <a href="#Page_200">200</a><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Dartmouth:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_224">224</a>, <a href="#Page_225">225</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_56">56</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_103">103</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Dennis:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_217">217</a>, <a href="#Page_218">218</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_146">146</a>, <a href="#Page_147">147</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_56">56</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_101">101</a>-103</span><br />
-<br />
-Dighton:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_229">229</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
-<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Duxbury, clam industry, <a href="#Page_202">202</a>-204</span><br />
-<br />
-Eastham:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_211">211</a>, <a href="#Page_212">212</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_144">144</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_56">56</a>,57</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_103">103</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Edgartown:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_232">232</a>, <a href="#Page_233">233</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_58">58</a>-60</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_103">103</a>-105</span><br />
-<br />
-Essex, clam industry, <a href="#Page_188">188</a>-190<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Fairhaven:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_223">223</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_60">60</a>, <a href="#Page_61">61</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_105">105</a>, <a href="#Page_106">106</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Fall River, clam industry, <a href="#Page_231">231</a><br />
-<br />
-Fall River district:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_225">225</a>-227</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_106">106</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Falmouth:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_219">219</a>, <a href="#Page_220">220</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_149">149</a>, <a href="#Page_150">150</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_61">61</a>, <a href="#Page_62">62</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_106">106</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Fishing rights of the public, <a href="#Page_26">26</a><br />
-<br />
-Food value of shellfish, <a href="#Page_92">92</a><br />
-<br />
-Freetown:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_230">230</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Gloucester, clam industry, <a href="#Page_190">190</a>, <a href="#Page_191">191</a><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Harwich:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_217">217</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_146">146</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_62">62</a>, <a href="#Page_63">63</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_106">106</a>, <a href="#Page_107">107</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Hingham, clam industry, <a href="#Page_199">199</a><br />
-<br />
-Hull, clam industry, <a href="#Page_199">199</a>, <a href="#Page_200">200</a><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Ipswich, clam industry, <a href="#Page_185">185</a>-188<br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Kingston, clam industry, <a href="#Page_205">205</a>, <a href="#Page_206">206</a><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Laws:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster, <a href="#Page_127">127</a>-132</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug, <a href="#Page_50">50</a>, <a href="#Page_51">51</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop, <a href="#Page_92">92</a>, <a href="#Page_93">93</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Shellfish, <a href="#Page_25">25</a>-30</span><br />
-<br />
-Lynn, clam industry, <a href="#Page_193">193</a>, <a href="#Page_194">194</a><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Manchester, clam industry, <a href="#Page_191">191</a>, <a href="#Page_192">192</a><br />
-<br />
-Marion:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_221">221</a>, <a href="#Page_222">222</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_63">63</a>, <a href="#Page_64">64</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_107">107</a>, <a href="#Page_108">108</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Marshfield, clam industry, <a href="#Page_201">201</a>, <a href="#Page_202">202</a><br />
-<br />
-Mashpee:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_218">218</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_149">149</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_64">64</a>, <a href="#Page_65">65</a></span><br />
-<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_108">108</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Mattapoisett:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_222">222</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_65">65</a>, <a href="#Page_66">66</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_108">108</a>, <a href="#Page_109">109</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Methods of work, <a href="#Page_16">16</a><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam, <a href="#Page_160">160</a>, <a href="#Page_161">161</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster, <a href="#Page_117">117</a>, <a href="#Page_118">118</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug, <a href="#Page_38">38</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop, <a href="#Page_81">81</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Monopoly, <a href="#Page_36">36</a><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Nahant, clam industry, <a href="#Page_195">195</a>, <a href="#Page_196">196</a><br />
-<br />
-Nantucket:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_231">231</a>, <a href="#Page_232">232</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_158">158</a>, <a href="#Page_159">159</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_66">66</a>-69</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_109">109</a>-111</span><br />
-<br />
-Narragansett Bay:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_225">225</a>-227</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
-<br />
-New Bedford:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_223">223</a>, <a href="#Page_224">224</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_69">69</a>, <a href="#Page_70">70</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_111">111</a>-113</span><br />
-<br />
-Newbury, clam industry, <a href="#Page_184">184</a>, <a href="#Page_185">185</a><br />
-<br />
-Newburyport, clam industry, <a href="#Page_182">182</a>, <a href="#Page_183">183</a><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Orleans:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_210">210</a>, <a href="#Page_211">211</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_144">144</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_70">70</a>-72</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_113">113</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Overfishing, <a href="#Page_23">23</a><br />
-<br />
-Oyster:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Enemies, <a href="#Page_155">155</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Grants, <a href="#Page_119">119</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Natural beds, <a href="#Page_119">119</a>-123</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Statistics, <a href="#Page_136">136</a>-138</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Spat collecting, <a href="#Page_133">133</a>, <a href="#Page_134">134</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Oystermen v. quahaugers, <a href="#Page_152">152</a><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Plymouth, clam industry, <a href="#Page_206">206</a>, <a href="#Page_207">207</a><br />
-<br />
-Pollution, water, <a href="#Page_23">23</a>-25, <a href="#Page_236">236</a><br />
-<br />
-Protection, <a href="#Page_26">26</a>, <a href="#Page_27">27</a><br />
-<br />
-Provincetown:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_214">214</a>, <a href="#Page_215">215</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_72">72</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_113">113</a></span><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Quahaug:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Decline, <a href="#Page_38">38</a>-40</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Distribution, <a href="#Page_36">36</a>, <a href="#Page_37">37</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Farming, <a href="#Page_40">40</a>-43</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Growth, <a href="#Page_42">42</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">History in Massachusetts, <a href="#Page_49">49</a>, <a href="#Page_50">50</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Industry, <a href="#Page_43">43</a>-49</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Rakes, <a href="#Page_44">44</a>, <a href="#Page_45">45</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Spat collecting, <a href="#Page_43">43</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Statistics, <a href="#Page_51">51</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Quahaugers v. oystermen, <a href="#Page_152">152</a><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span>Resources, unimproved, <a href="#Page_19">19</a><br />
-<br />
-Salem, clam industry, <a href="#Page_193">193</a><br />
-<br />
-Salisbury, clam industry, <a href="#Page_180">180</a>-182<br />
-<br />
-Sanitary conditions, <a href="#Page_236">236</a><br />
-<br />
-Saugus, clam industry, <a href="#Page_194">194</a>, <a href="#Page_195">195</a><br />
-<br />
-Scallop:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Decline, <a href="#Page_82">82</a>-84</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Distribution, <a href="#Page_80">80</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Dredges, <a href="#Page_86">86</a>-88</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">"Eye," <a href="#Page_88">88</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">History in Massachusetts, <a href="#Page_93">93</a>, <a href="#Page_94">94</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Improvements, <a href="#Page_84">84</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Industry, <a href="#Page_85">85</a>-91</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Maine, <a href="#Page_90">90</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Market, <a href="#Page_90">90</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Openers, <a href="#Page_88">88</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Outfit, <a href="#Page_90">90</a>, <a href="#Page_91">91</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">"Pusher," <a href="#Page_85">85</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Season, <a href="#Page_91">91</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Shanties, <a href="#Page_88">88</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Soaking, <a href="#Page_89">89</a>, <a href="#Page_90">90</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Statistics, <a href="#Page_95">95</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Scituate, clam industry, <a href="#Page_201">201</a><br />
-<br />
-Sectional jealousy, <a href="#Page_31">31</a><br />
-<br />
-Shellfisheries:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Abuses, <a href="#Page_25">25</a>-33</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Decline, <a href="#Page_20">20</a>-25</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Development, <a href="#Page_19">19</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Production since 1879, <a href="#Page_20">20</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Remedy, <a href="#Page_33">33</a>-35</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Statistics, <a href="#Page_19">19</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Somerset:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_228">228</a>, <a href="#Page_229">229</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
-<br />
-Statistical summaries:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_161">161</a>-164</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_136">136</a>-138</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_51">51</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_95">95</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Shellfish industry, <a href="#Page_19">19</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Swansea:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_227">227</a>, <a href="#Page_228">228</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_72">72</a></span><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Tisbury, scallop industry, <a href="#Page_113">113</a><br />
-<br />
-Town jealousy, <a href="#Page_31">31</a><br />
-<br />
-Truro:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_213">213</a>, <a href="#Page_214">214</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_72">72</a></span><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Wareham:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_221">221</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_154">154</a>-156</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_72">72</a>-74</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_114">114</a>, <a href="#Page_115">115</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Waste of competition, <a href="#Page_31">31</a><br />
-<br />
-<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span>Wastefulness, historical, <a href="#Page_17">17</a>-19<br />
-<br />
-Wellfleet:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_212">212</a>, <a href="#Page_213">213</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_138">138</a>-143</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_74">74</a>-79</span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_115">115</a></span><br />
-<br />
-Weymouth, clam industry, <a href="#Page_198">198</a><br />
-<br />
-<br />
-Yarmouth:&mdash;<br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_209">209</a>, <a href="#Page_210">210</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_146">146</a>, <a href="#Page_147">147</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_79">79</a>, <a href="#Page_80">80</a></span><br />
-<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_115">115</a>, <a href="#Page_116">116</a></span><br />
-</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[Pg 244]</a><br /><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[Pg 245]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 258px;">
-<a href="images/i_247.jpg"><img src="images/i_247thumb.jpg" width="258" height="400" alt="" /></a>
-<div class="caption"><a href="images/i_247.jpg">The above map of the coast line of Massachusetts, with its numbered sections,
-furnishes an index to the following series of shellfish areas.</a></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[Pg 246]</a><br /><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_249.jpg" width="700" height="405" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>The above characters, as used on the following maps, indicate
-the position and relative quantities of the various shellfish
-in their respective localities. No attempt is made to give the
-relative abundance of scallops and oysters, while the present
-productive value of the different clam and quahaug areas is indicated
-by different standards of marking.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[Pg 248]</a><br /><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 498px;">
-<img src="images/i_251.jpg" width="498" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 1.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[Pg 250]</a><br /><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 580px;">
-<img src="images/i_253.jpg" width="580" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 2.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[Pg 252]</a><br /><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_255.jpg" width="700" height="657" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 3.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[Pg 254]</a><br /><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_257.jpg" width="700" height="537" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 4.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[Pg 256]</a><br /><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[Pg 257]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 555px;">
-<img src="images/i_259.jpg" width="555" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 5.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[Pg 258]</a><br /><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[Pg 259]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_261.jpg" width="700" height="471" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 6.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[Pg 260]</a><br /><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[Pg 261]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 451px;">
-<img src="images/i_263.jpg" width="451" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 7.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[Pg 262]</a><br /><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[Pg 263]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 564px;">
-<img src="images/i_265.jpg" width="564" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 8.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[Pg 264]</a><br /><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[Pg 265]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_267.jpg" width="700" height="475" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 9.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[Pg 266]</a><br /><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[Pg 267]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_269.jpg" width="700" height="523" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 10.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[Pg 268]</a><br /><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[Pg 269]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 483px;">
-<img src="images/i_271.jpg" width="483" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 11.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[Pg 270]</a><br /><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[Pg 271]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 560px;">
-<img src="images/i_273.jpg" width="560" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 12.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[Pg 272]</a><br /><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[Pg 273]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_275.jpg" width="700" height="547" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 13.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[Pg 274]</a><br /><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[Pg 275]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 575px;">
-<img src="images/i_277.jpg" width="575" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 14.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[Pg 276]</a><br /><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[Pg 277]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_279.jpg" width="700" height="503" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 15.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[Pg 278]</a><br /><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[Pg 279]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 609px;">
-<img src="images/i_281.jpg" width="609" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 16.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[Pg 280]</a><br /><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[Pg 281]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_283.jpg" width="700" height="556" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 17.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[Pg 282]</a><br /><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[Pg 283]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_285.jpg" width="700" height="484" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 18.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[Pg 284]</a><br /><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[Pg 285]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_287.jpg" width="700" height="576" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 19.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[Pg 286]</a><br /><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[Pg 287]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 551px;">
-<img src="images/i_289.jpg" width="551" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 20.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[Pg 288]</a><br /><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[Pg 289]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_291.jpg" width="700" height="522" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 21.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[Pg 290]</a><br /><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[Pg 291]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 629px;">
-<img src="images/i_293.jpg" width="629" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 22.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[Pg 292]</a><br /><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[Pg 293]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 556px;">
-<img src="images/i_295.jpg" width="556" height="700" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 23.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[Pg 294]</a><br /><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[Pg 295]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_297.jpg" width="700" height="450" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p>Map 24.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[Pg 296]</a><br /><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[Pg 297]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_299.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>The Scallop Pusher.</b>&mdash;This implement consists of a wooden pole, from 8 to 9 feet long, attached to a rectangular iron framework, 3 by 1&frac12; feet,
-fitted with a netting bag, 3 feet in depth. The scalloper, wading in the shallow water, gathers the scallops from the flats by shoving the pusher
-among the eel grass. The photograph shows the correct position of the pusher in operation. Only a small part of the pole is shown.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[Pg 298]</a><br /><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[Pg 299]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_301.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>The Box Scallop Dredge.</b>&mdash;This dredge consists of a rectangular framework, 27 by 12 inches, with an oval-shaped iron bar extending backward
-as a support for the netting bag, which is attached to the rectangular frame. To the sides of this frame is joined a heavy iron chain about 4
-feet long, to which the drag rope is fastened. This style of dredge is used only at Chatham and the neighboring towns of Cape Cod.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[Pg 300]</a><br /><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[Pg 301]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_303.jpg" width="700" height="392" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Scallop Dredge</b>,&mdash;"<b>The Scraper.</b>"&mdash;This implement has the form of a triangular iron framework, with a curve of nearly 90&deg; at the base, to
-form the bowl of the dredge. On the upper side a raised cross bar connects the two arms, while at the bottom a strip of iron 2 inches wide extends
-across the dredge. This narrow strip acts as a scraping blade, and is set at an angle so as to dig into the soil. The top of the net is fastened to the
-cross bar and the lower part to the blade. The usual dimensions of the dredge are: arms, 2&frac12; feet; upper cross bar, 2 feet; blade, 2&frac12; feet. The net
-varies in size, usually running from 2 to 3 feet in length and holding between 1 and 2 bushels. Additional weights can be put on the cross bar
-when the scalloper desires the dredge to "scrape" deeper. A wooden bar 2 feet long buoys the net. The scraper used at Nantucket has the entire
-net made of twine, whereas in other localities the lower part consists of interwoven iron rings.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[Pg 302]</a><br /><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[Pg 303]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_305.jpg" width="700" height="427" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>The Oyster Dredge.</b>&mdash;This is the type of oyster dredge used on the large gasolene boats. The photograph was taken on board the oyster boat
-of Mr. James Monahan of Wareham. The dredge consists of a net of woven iron rings attached to an iron framework. From each corner of the
-framework rods extend, converging at a point some feet away, where the drag rope is attached. The blade, resting horizontally on the surface, is
-armed with large teeth which rake the oysters into the bag. When this bag, which holds from 8 to 15 bushels, is full, the dredge is raised by a gasolene
-hoist.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[Pg 304]</a><br /><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[Pg 305]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_307.jpg" width="700" height="420" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>The Basket Quahaug Rake.</b>&mdash;This style of basket rake is used at Edgartown and Nantucket. The whole rake is made of iron, no netting
-being required, as thin iron wires 1/3 of an inch apart encircle lengthwise the entire basket, preventing the escape of any marketable quahaugs, while
-at the same time allowing mud and sand to wash out. This rake has 16 steel teeth, 1&frac12; inches long, fitted at intervals of 1 inch on the scraping bar.
-The depth of the basket is about 8 inches. Short poles not exceeding 30 feet in length are used, as the raking is carried on in water which does not
-exceed 25 feet in depth. Only the iron framework of the rake is shown.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[Pg 306]</a><br /><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[Pg 307]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_309.jpg" width="700" height="425" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>The Claw Quahaug Rake.</b>&mdash;This rake varies greatly in size and length. Its use is chiefly confined to Nantucket. The general style has a
-handle 6 feet long, while the iron part, in the form of a claw or talon, with prongs 1 inch apart, is 10 inches wide. A heavier rake, as here shown,
-is sometimes used in the deeper water.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[Pg 308]</a><br /><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[Pg 309]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_311.jpg" width="700" height="420" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>The Scallop Rake.</b>&mdash;The use of this rake is confined almost exclusively to the town of Chatham. Both scallops and quahaugs can be taken with
-it. The bowl is formed by a curve of the prongs, which are held together by two long cross bars at the top and bottom of the basket, while the ends
-are enclosed by short strips of iron. Handles from 15 to 20 feet long are generally used with this rake.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[Pg 310]</a><br /><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[Pg 311]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_313.jpg" width="700" height="398" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Rowley Reef Clam Set.</b>&mdash;This photograph shows the surface of Rowley Reef, one of the flats of Plum Island Sound. In the summer of 1906 a
-heavy set of clams was found on this flat, averaging 1,500 to the square foot of surface. These rapidly diminished, and one year later, Aug. 27, $1
-when this photograph was taken, the clams numbered about 400 to the square foot. This area furnished an excellent illustration of the great destruction
-of natural clam set. Only 5 per cent. of these clams reached maturity, and the remaining 95 per cent., destroyed by natural agencies, could have
-been saved if proper measures had been taken. At least 100 acres of the barren flats of Rowley could have been planted with the "seed" from this
-flat, and after two years the crop would have been worth $30,000. The present shellfish laws of the Commonwealth are alone to blame for this waste.
-The clam hoe shown in the foreground is the typical digger or "hooker" of the North Shore clammer.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[Pg 312]</a><br /><a name="Page_313" id="Page_313">[Pg 313]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_315.jpg" width="700" height="421" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Rowley Reef.</b>&mdash;This photograph, taken on the same date as the preceding, shows another section of the reef, where the clam set has been torn
-up and destroyed by horse-shoe crabs and cockles.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_314" id="Page_314">[Pg 314]</a><br /><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[Pg 315]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_317.jpg" width="700" height="422" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Rowley Reef.</b>&mdash;A photograph, natural size, of a thickly set part of the same flat. The broken shells on top show clams which have been crowded
-out of the sand and destroyed. In this way nature regulates the number of clams in a given area.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[Pg 316]</a><br /><a name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[Pg 317]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_319.jpg" width="700" height="424" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Castle Neck Flat</b> (<b>Essex River</b>).&mdash;A scene at low tide, Aug. 28, 1907, showing the area turned over by two clammers in one hour. At this date
-there was a heavy set of small clams on this flat.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[Pg 318]</a><br /><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[Pg 319]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_321.jpg" width="700" height="421" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Plymouth Harbor.</b>&mdash;This photograph was taken at low tide, from the boat house of Mr. Frank Cole. In the foreground are a few of the experimental
-clam beds of the Massachusetts department of fisheries and game. Note the large tracts of eel grass covering the flats.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[Pg 320]</a><br /><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[Pg 321]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_323.jpg" width="700" height="427" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Cole's Clam Grant.</b>&mdash;This photograph shows a portion of the grant leased to Mr. Frank Cole by the town of Kingston for the propagation of
-clams. Several of the experimental beds of the Massachusetts department of fisheries and game were situated on this grant.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[Pg 322]</a><br /><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[Pg 323]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_325.jpg" width="700" height="425" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Clam Spat Box.</b>&mdash;This box was suspended from a raft during the summer of 1907. The small clams which were caught in it are heaped before
-the box. These clams vary in size from &frac12; to 2 inches in length, showing that the spawning season is at least of two months' duration. The spat box
-was put down May 15 and taken up October 15. Note the barnacles, silver shells (<i>Anomia</i>), etc., on the box and rope.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[Pg 324]</a><br /><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[Pg 325]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_327.jpg" width="700" height="421" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>A Clam Shanty.</b>&mdash;The shanty of Samuel Kilbourn, an experienced Ipswich clammer. The large heap of shells is the result of six weeks of steady
-digging. Numerous shanties of this sort are used for "shucking out" clams when marketed by the gallon. This photograph also shows the clam sifter
-which was used in obtaining the small "seed" clams from Rowley Reef for the experimental beds.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_326" id="Page_326">[Pg 326]</a><br /><a name="Page_327" id="Page_327">[Pg 327]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_329.jpg" width="700" height="422" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><b>Taking up One of the Clam Gardens of the Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Game.</b>&mdash;The bed was planted Nov. 15, 1905,
-in Essex River, on a sand flat locally known as "Newfoundland." When the bed was planted the flat was considered barren, as it produced practically
-no clams. The photograph was obtained Nov. 15, 1907, when the bed was taken up, and shows the clammers at work. Note the heaps of marketable
-clams which were taken from the bed.</div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_328" id="Page_328">[Pg 328]</a><br /><a name="Page_329" id="Page_329">[Pg 329]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_331.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Yield in Two Years of the Garden shown in the Preceding Photograph.</b>&mdash;Note the amount of clams planted, compared with the marketable
-clams taken out. The size of the bed was 1/100 of an acre. The clams had increased in size so that 8 quarts were obtained for every quart planted.
-This shows what could be done with many barren flats if individuals had the privilege of cultivating clam farms.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_330" id="Page_330">[Pg 330]</a><br /><a name="Page_331" id="Page_331">[Pg 331]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_333.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>The Winkle or Cockle</b> (<b>Lunatia heros and duplicata</b>).&mdash;An enemy of the clam, which it destroys by boring a hole through the shell and
-sucking out the contents.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_332" id="Page_332">[Pg 332]</a><br /><a name="Page_333" id="Page_333">[Pg 333]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_335.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><b>Clam Growth.</b>&mdash;This photograph gives a comparison between the growth of small and large clams from a single bed under the same natural conditions.
-The large clam shows a much slower growth than the small. Both clams were notched when planted on the "Spit" in Essex River, April
-18, 1907. They were dug Aug. 28, 1907.</div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_334" id="Page_334">[Pg 334]</a><br /><a name="Page_335" id="Page_335">[Pg 335]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_337.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Soft-shelled Clam</b> (<b>Mya arenaria</b>).&mdash;This large clam shell, measuring 5&frac34; inches in length, was found on Grey's Flat, Kingston. Where the
-flat has been worn away by erosion the ground is white with thousands of these shells in an upright position in the soil, showing that sudden destruction
-had overtaken them at some time in the past.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_336" id="Page_336">[Pg 336]</a><br /><a name="Page_337" id="Page_337">[Pg 337]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_339.jpg" width="700" height="428" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Quahaugs from an Experimental Bed at Monomoy Point, showing Two Years' Growth.</b>&mdash;The two notches or file marks on the shells
-indicate the growth per year. The photograph is two-thirds life size. These quahaugs have shown rapid growth, having gained nearly 1 inch a
-year in length, which is the best growth thus far found in any of the experimental beds.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_338" id="Page_338">[Pg 338]</a><br /><a name="Page_339" id="Page_339">[Pg 339]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_341.jpg" width="700" height="429" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><b>Gathering "Seed" Oysters in the Weweantit River, Wareham, May 6, 1908.</b>&mdash;The natural beds of the town of Wareham had been closed
-for seven years, and on this date were opened for the period of one week for the inhabitants of the town to gather "seed" oysters, the photograph
-was taken on the opening day, and shows the oystermen at work tonging the "seed" oysters. In the foreground is a loaded skiff, ready to have its
-contents estimated by the inspector, who declares the number of bushels. The tongers pay the town 10 cents per bushel for the privilege of gathering
-the oysters, and sell them for 35 cents per bushel to the planters, thus realizing a profit of 25 cents.</div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_340" id="Page_340">[Pg 340]</a><br /><a name="Page_341" id="Page_341">[Pg 341]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_343.jpg" width="700" height="403" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Typical Steam Dredger.</b>&mdash;The oyster boat of Mr. James Monahan of Wareham, showing oyster dredge and hoist. The large cans aboard the
-boat contain young flatfish from the Woods Hole Hatchery of the United States Fish Commission. Mr. Monahan is distributing these in Wareham
-river.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_342" id="Page_342">[Pg 342]</a><br /><a name="Page_343" id="Page_343">[Pg 343]</a></span></p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
-<img src="images/i_345.jpg" width="700" height="426" alt="" />
-<div class="caption"><p><b>Typical Oyster Schooner.</b>&mdash;Oyster schooner loaded with 1,935 bushels of Wareham "seed" for L. Dodge, Providence River. This "seed" was
-taken in May, 1908, from the natural oyster bed in the Agawam River, which had been closed for the past three years.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<div class="transnote">
-<div class="chapter"></div>
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-
-
-
-<h2><a name="Transcribers_Notes" id="Transcribers_Notes">Transcriber's Notes:</a></h2>
-
-
-<p>Simple spelling, grammar, and typographical errors were silently corrected.</p>
-
-<p>Anachronistic and non-standard spellings retained as printed.</p>
-
-<p>Contents added by transcriber.</p>
-
-</div>
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-<pre>
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+      The Project Gutenberg eBook of A Report Upon the Mollusk Fisheries of Massachusetts, by David Belding.
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+<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 48195 ***</div>
+
+<div class="tnotes covernote">
+  <p>The cover image was created by the transcriber and is placed in the public domain.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="titlepage">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[Pg 1]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<h1><span class="xlarge">The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.<br />
+
+A REPORT<br /></span>
+<span class="small">UPON</span><br />
+<span class="smcap">The Mollusk Fisheries</span><br />
+<span class="small">OF</span><br />
+MASSACHUSETTS.</h1>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 498px;">
+<img src="images/signet.jpg" width="498" height="667" alt="" />
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="large">BOSTON:<br />
+WRIGHT &amp; POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,<br /></span>
+<span class="smcap">18 Post Office Square</span>.<br />
+1909.</p>
+</div>
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Approved by<br />
+The State Board of Publication.</span>
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[Pg 2]</a></span></p>
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="The_Commonwealth_of_Massachusetts" id="The_Commonwealth_of_Massachusetts">The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.</a></h2>
+
+
+<p class="right">
+<span class="smcap">Commissioners on Fisheries and Game,<br />
+State House, Boston</span>, Jan. 15, 1909.</p>
+
+<p>
+<i>To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives.</i><br />
+</p>
+
+<p>We herewith transmit a special report upon the mollusk
+fisheries of Massachusetts, as ordered by chapter 49, Resolves
+of 1905, relative to scallops; chapter 73, Resolves of 1905,
+relative to oysters; chapter 78, Resolves of 1905, relative to
+quahaugs; and chapter 93, Resolves of 1905, relative to clams.</p>
+
+<p class="center">Respectfully submitted,
+</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+G. W. FIELD,<br />
+<i>Chairman</i>.<br />
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span></p>
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h2>CONTENTS</h2>
+<p>
+
+<!-- Autogenerated TOC. Modify or delete as required. -->
+
+<a href="#The_Commonwealth_of_Massachusetts"><span class="smcap">The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.</span></a><br />
+<a href="#REPORT_ON_THE_MOLLUSK_FISHERIES_OF"><span class="smcap">Report on the Mollusk Fisheries of Massachusetts.</span></a><br />
+<a href="#Introduction"><span class="smcap">Introduction.</span></a><br />
+<a href="#THE_SHELLFISHERIES_OF_MASSACHUSETTS_THEIR"><span class="smcap">The Shellfisheries of Massachusetts: Their Present Condition and Extent.</span></a><br />
+<a href="#Quahaug_Venus_mercenaria"><span class="smcap">Quahaug</span> (<i>Venus mercenaria</i>).</a><br />
+<a href="#Scallop_Pecten_irradians"><span class="smcap">Scallop</span> (<i>Pecten irradians</i>).</a><br />
+<a href="#Oyster_Ostrea_Virginiana"><span class="smcap">Oyster</span> (<i>Ostrea Virginiana</i>).</a><br />
+<a href="#Clam_Mya_arenaria"><span class="smcap">Clam</span> (<i>Mya arenaria</i>).</a><br />
+<a href="#INDEX"><span class="smcap">Index.</span></a><br />
+<a href="#Transcribers_Notes"><span class="smcap">Transcriber's Notes</span></a><br />
+
+<!-- End Autogenerated TOC. -->
+
+</p>
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<p class="ph1"><a name="REPORT_ON_THE_MOLLUSK_FISHERIES_OF" id="REPORT_ON_THE_MOLLUSK_FISHERIES_OF">REPORT ON THE MOLLUSK FISHERIES OF
+MASSACHUSETTS.</a></p>
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="Introduction" id="Introduction"><span class="smcap">Introduction.</span></a></h2>
+
+
+<p>The general plan of the work was outlined by the chairman
+of the Commission on Fisheries and Game, who has given attention
+to such details as checking up scientific data, editing,
+revising, and confirming results, reports, etc. The work has
+been under the direct charge and personal supervision of the
+biologist to the commission, Mr. D. L. Belding. The able
+services of Prof. J. L. Kellogg of Williams College were early
+enlisted, and many valuable results which we are able to offer
+are the direct outcome of the practical application of the
+minute details discovered by Professor Kellogg in his careful
+study and original investigations of the anatomy and life histories
+of the lamellibranch mollusks.</p>
+
+<p>Of the other workers who, under the direction of Mr. Belding,
+have contributed directly, special mention should be made of
+Mr. J. R. Stevenson of Williams College, W. G. Vinal of Harvard
+University, F. C. Lane of Boston University, A. A. Perkins
+of Ipswich and C. L. Savery of Marion. Those who
+have for a briefer time been identified with the work are R.
+L. Buffum, W. H. Gates and K. B. Coulter of Williams College,
+and Anson Handy of Harvard University.</p>
+
+<p>In addition to the results here given, much valuable knowledge
+has been acquired, particularly upon the life histories of
+the scallop and of the quahaug, and the practical application of
+this knowledge to the pursuit of sea farming. It is hoped
+that the commission will later be enabled to publish these results.</p>
+
+<p>The present report is limited to a statement of the condition
+of the shellfish in each section of our coast, and to consideration
+of practical methods for securing increased opportunities<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span>
+for food and livelihood by better utilization of naturally productive
+lands under water. Since the chief purpose of legislative
+action under which this work was undertaken was to
+ascertain how the best economic results could be secured, we
+have thought it wise to embody the results of our investigation
+in a plan which is suggested as a basis for appropriate legislation
+for making possible a suitable system of shellfish cultivation
+similar to that which already exists in Rhode Island, Connecticut
+and many other coast States, and which has been carried
+on for more than two thousand years on the shores of the
+Mediterranean Sea.</p>
+
+<p>The following tentative outlines are offered, and it is intended
+to subject each topic to an unprejudiced examination
+and discussion:&mdash;</p>
+
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">A Proposed System of Culture for the Tidal Flats and
+Waters of Massachusetts.</span></h3>
+
+<p><i>The Purpose.</i>&mdash;The proposed system of shellfish culture
+aims to develop the latent wealth of the tidal waters, to increase
+the output of tidal flats already productive, and to make
+possible the reclamation of large portions of the waste shore
+areas of our Commonwealth. It is further designed to foster
+dependent and allied industries; to extend the shellfish market,
+both wholesale and retail; to multiply opportunities for the
+transient visitors and shore cottagers to fish for clams and
+quahaugs for family use, and to ensure fishermen a reliable
+source of bait supply; to increase the earnings of the shore
+fishermen, and to furnish work to thousands of unemployed;
+to increase the value of shore property; to add to the taxable
+property of the shore towns and cities of the State; to secure
+to all the citizens of the State a proper return from an unutilized
+State asset; to furnish the consuming public with a greater
+quantity of sea food of guaranteed purity; and in every way,
+both in the utilization of present and in the creation of new
+resources to build up and develop the fast-declining shellfish
+industries of the Commonwealth.</p>
+
+<p><i>Private v. Public Ownership of Tidal Flats.</i>&mdash;The first difficulty
+confronting this proposed system is the too frequently
+accepted fallacy that all lands between the tide marks now are<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span>
+and should be held in common by the inhabitants of the shore
+communities, to the exclusion of citizens from other sections
+of the State,&mdash;an assumption which is directly contrary to
+the more ancient law, supported by decisions of the highest
+courts, that the right of taking shellfish is a public right, freely
+open to any inhabitant of the State. Such unwarranted assumption
+of exclusive rights in the shellfisheries by individuals,
+corporations or towns sacrifices the rights of the majority.
+The disastrous effect of this policy is plainly demonstrated in
+the history of the rise and decline of the shellfisheries of Massachusetts.</p>
+
+<p>Secondly, this fallacious assumption is contrary to the fundamental
+principles of all economic doctrines. It may be safely
+affirmed that the individual ownership of property has proved
+not only a success but even is a necessary condition of progress,
+and has in fact at length become the foundation of all society.
+It inevitably follows that if the system is justifiable in the case
+of farm lands it is equally justifiable in the case of the tidal
+flats, for the same principle is involved in each. It is therefore
+fair to assume that if private ownership of farm land has
+proved to be for the best interests of human progress, so private
+ownership of the tidal flats will also be a benefit to the public.</p>
+
+<p>It is not our purpose to discuss the underlying principle involved
+in private ownership of property,&mdash;it is simply our
+purpose to call attention to two facts: (1) if individual control
+of real estate is just, private ownership of tidal flats and waters
+is likewise just; (2) that individual control of such areas is
+the only practical system yet devised capable of checking the
+alarming decline in the shellfisheries and of developing them
+to a normal state of productiveness, and rendering unnecessary
+an annually increasing mass of restrictive legislation.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Present System.</i>&mdash;The present system of controlling
+the shellfisheries is based on the communal ownership of the
+tidal flats. Ownership by the Commonwealth has degenerated
+into a system of town control, whereby every coast community
+has entire jurisdiction over its shellfisheries, to the practical
+exclusion of citizens of all other towns. Thus at the present
+time the mollusk fisheries of Massachusetts are divided into a
+number of separate and disorganized units, which are incapable<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span>
+of working together for the best interests of the towns or of the
+public. This communistic system is distinctly unsound, and
+is in direct opposition to the principles of social and economic
+development. The man who advocates keeping farm lands untilled
+and in common, for the sake of the few wild blackberries
+they might produce, would be considered mentally unbalanced;
+but it is precisely this system which holds sway over our relatively
+richer sea gardens. With no thought of seed time, but
+only of harvest, the fertile tidal flats are yearly divested of their
+fast-decreasing output by reckless and ruthless exploitation,
+and valuable territories when once exhausted are allowed to
+become barren. All hopes for the morrow are sacrificed to
+the clamorous demands of the present. The more the supply
+decreases, the more insistent becomes the demand; and the
+greater the demand, the more relentless grows the campaign of
+spoliation. The entire shore front of the Commonwealth is
+scoured and combed by irresponsible aliens and by exemplars
+of the "submerged tenth" who are now but despoilers, but who
+if opportunity were present might become cultivators of the
+flats rather than devastators. The thoughtful fisherman, who
+would control the industry in a measure, is under present conditions
+overruled by his selfish or short-sighted fellow workers,
+and is of necessity forced to join their ranks by the clinching
+argument that if the shellfisheries are to be ruined anyway, he
+might as well have his share as long as they last. The theory
+of public ownership of shellfisheries has been weighed in the
+balance and found wanting. The necessity for some radical
+change in the present system is becoming more and more apparent,
+and a system of private control, with certain modifications,
+is the logical result.</p>
+
+<p><i>Need of Reform.</i>&mdash;The shellfish supply of Massachusetts
+is steadily declining. So extensive is this decline that it is
+unnecessary to mention the abundant proofs of almost complete
+exhaustion in certain localities and of failing output in
+others. While the apparent cause of this decrease is overfishing
+and unsystematic digging, the real cause can be readily
+traced to the present defective system of town control, which
+has made possible, through inefficiency and neglect, the deplorable
+condition of this important industry. Unless the de<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span>cline
+is at once checked, within a very few years our valuable
+shellfisheries will be exhausted to the point of commercial extinction.
+The legislation of former years, essentially restrictive
+and prohibitory in character, has unfortunately been constructed
+on a false economic basis. Its aim has been to protect
+these industries by restricting the demand rather than by
+increasing the supply. What the future requires is not merely
+protective or restrictive legislation, but rather constructive laws
+for developing the shellfisheries. The system of shellfish culture
+here presented appears to be the only practical method
+for improving the condition of these industries in such a way
+as to protect all vested interests of both private and public
+rights, and at the same time to make possible adequate utilization
+of the natural productive capacity.</p>
+
+<p>In brief, the proposed system of shellfish culture is based
+upon a system of leases to individuals. These leases should be
+divided into two classes: (1) those covering the territory between
+the tide lines, and consisting of small areas, from 1
+to 2 acres; (2) the territory below low-water mark, comprised
+of two classes of grants, which differ only in size and distance
+from the shore,&mdash;the smaller (<i>a</i>), from 1 to 5 acres, to include
+the shore waters, small bays and inlets, and the larger (<i>b</i>), of
+unrestricted size, to be given in the deeper and more exposed
+waters. The owners of all grants shall be permitted to plant and
+grow all species of shellfish, and shall have exclusive control
+of the fisheries area covered by such lease. The large and more
+exposed grants, which cannot be economically worked without
+considerable capital, should be available for companies; while
+the smaller holdings, for which but small capital is required, are
+restricted to the use of the individual shore fishermen. For
+the tidal flats and shore waters but one-half of the whole territory
+in any one township shall be leased, the other half still
+remaining public property.</p>
+
+<p><i>Success of this System.</i>&mdash;The system of private control by
+leased grants is by no means a new and untried theory. In
+actual operation for many years in this and other States, in
+spite of lack of protection and other drawbacks which would
+be eliminated from a perfected system, it has proved an unqualified
+success. The rapid depletion and even extermination<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span>
+of the native oyster beds necessitated legislative consideration,
+and for years the oyster industry above and below low-water
+mark in this and other States has been dealt with by a similar
+system. The plan here suggested would be but a direct extension
+of a well-tested principle towards the cultivation of
+other species of mollusks. The financial value to the fishermen
+of such a step has been proved beyond all question in this
+State during the past three years by the demonstrations of the
+Massachusetts department of fisheries and game. These experiments
+have proved that tidal flats, with small outlay of
+capital and labor, will yield, acre for acre, a far more valuable
+harvest than any upland garden.</p>
+
+<p>This system has the further element of success by being
+based on individual effort, in contrast to the present communal
+regulation of shellfisheries. In all business individual initiative
+and effort furnish the keynote of success, and the future
+wellfare of the shellfisheries depends upon the application of
+this principle.</p>
+
+<p>Nature cannot without the aid and co-operation of man repair
+the ill-advised, untimely and exhaustive inroads made in
+her resources. This is shown in the thousands of acres of good
+farm lands made unproductive by unwise treatment, and by
+the wasteful destruction of our forests. It is as strikingly
+shown in the decline of our shellfisheries. The fisherman exhausts
+the wealth of the flats by destroying both young and
+adults, and returns nothing. The result is decrease and ultimate
+extermination. The farmer prepares his land carefully
+and intelligently, plants his seed and in due time reaps a harvest.
+If the fisherman could have similar rights over the
+tidal areas, he could with far less labor and capital and with
+far greater certainty year by year reap a continuous harvest
+at all seasons. The success of the leasing system in other
+States, notably Louisiana, Rhode Island and others, is definite
+and conspicuous.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Obstacles to this Proposed System.</i>&mdash;Before the proposed
+system of titles to shellfish ground can be put in actual
+operation, it is absolutely necessary to have all rights and special
+privileges pertaining to shore areas revested in State control
+by repeal of certain laws. In this centralization of author<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span>ity
+four main factors must be carefully considered: (1) communal
+rights to fisheries in tidal areas, as in the colonial beach
+law of 1641-47; (2) the theory, practice and results of town
+supervision and control; (3) the rights of riparian owners;
+(4) the rights of the fishermen and of all other inhabitants
+of the State. So important are all four that it is necessary to
+discuss each in turn.</p>
+
+<p>(1) <i>Communal Fishery Rights of the Public.</i>&mdash;The fundamental
+principle upon which the shellfish laws of the State
+are founded is the so-called beach or free fishing right of the
+public. While in other States shore property extends only to
+mean high water, in Massachusetts, Maine and Virginia, the
+earliest States to enact colonial laws, the riparian property holders
+own to mean low-water mark. But by specific exception
+and according to further provisions of this same ancient law
+the right of fishing (which includes the shellfisheries) below
+high-water mark is free to any inhabitant of the Commonwealth.
+The act reads as follows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Section 2.</span> Every inhabitant who is an householder shall have free
+fishing and fowling in any great ponds, bays, coves and rivers, so far
+as the sea ebbs and flows within the precincts of the town where they
+dwell, unless the freemen of the same town or the General Court have
+otherwise appropriated them.</p></div>
+
+<p>It is necessary that some change be made in this law, which
+at present offers no protection to the planters. Its repeal is
+by no means necessary, as the matter can be adjusted by merely
+adding "except for the taking of mollusks from the areas set
+apart and leased for the cultivation of mollusks."</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>Results of Town Administration of Mollusk Fisheries.</i>&mdash;All
+authority to control mollusk privileges was originally vested
+in the State. The towns, as the ancient statutes will show, derived
+this authority from the higher State authority, developed
+their systems of local regulations or by-laws only with the
+State permission, and even now they enjoy the fruits of these
+concessions solely with the active consent of the Legislature.
+Thus the State has ever been, and is at present, the source of
+town control. The towns have no rights of supervision and control
+over shellfisheries except as derived from the General Court.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span>
+The State gave them this authority in the beginning. It follows,
+therefore, that the Legislature can withdraw this delegated
+authority at any time when it is convinced that it is for
+the benefit of the State so to do. To those few who are directly
+profiting at the expense of the many, this resumption of authority
+by the State may seem at first sight a high-handed proceeding,
+but a brief survey of the facts will prove it to be justly
+warranted and eminently desirable. The present system of
+town control has had a sufficient trial. It is in its very essentials
+an un-business-like proceeding. A large number of towns
+acting in this matter as disorganized units working independently
+of one another could not in the nature of things evolve
+any co-ordinated and unified system which would be to the
+advantage of all. The problems involved are too complicated,
+requiring both broad and special knowledge, which cannot be
+acquired in a short term of experience. Lastly, the temptations
+of local politics have been found to be too insistent to
+guarantee completely fair allotment of valuable privileges.</p>
+
+<p>The Legislature has not only acted unwisely in allowing the
+towns in this respect thus to mismanage their affairs, but it
+has not fulfilled its duty to the Commonwealth as a whole. The
+Legislature has unwittingly delegated valuable sources of wealth
+and revenue, the fruits of which should have been enjoyed at
+least in some degree, directly or indirectly, by all citizens of
+the Commonwealth alike as well as by those of the coast towns.
+Many of the coast cities and towns have dealt with this opportunity
+very unwisely, and few have developed or even maintained
+unimpaired this extremely valuable asset of the State.
+It cannot be too strongly emphasized that such important sources
+of wealth as the shellfisheries are not the property of the coast
+towns alone; they are the property of the whole Commonwealth,
+and the whole Commonwealth should share in these benefits.
+In allowing these valuable resources to be mismanaged and
+dissipated by the shore towns, the Legislature has done a great
+injury to all the inland communities, and, indeed, even to those
+very coast towns for whose benefit such legislation was enacted.
+The Legislature was not justified, in the first place, in granting
+jurisdiction over these important industries belonging
+equally to the whole Commonwealth and to the coast towns.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span>
+It was but an experiment. Inasmuch as these towns have
+grossly mismanaged the trust placed in them, the Legislature
+is doubly under the obligation to take advantage of the knowledge
+gained by this experimental delegation of the State authority
+to cities and towns. The completely obvious obligation
+of the Legislature is to remove what is either tacitly or frankly
+acknowledged by many city and town authorities to be an impossible
+burden upon the city or town, and to restore to State
+officers the general administrative control and supervision of
+the public rights in the shellfisheries.</p>
+
+<p>(3) <i>Riparian Ownership does not include Exclusive Fishing
+Rights.</i>&mdash;The third objection is that in the assumption of
+State control is involved the much-discussed and vaguely understood
+question of riparian ownership. To make plain the
+conditions relative to the fisheries, including the shellfisheries
+on the tidal flats, it should be borne in mind that in only four
+States, Virginia and Maryland, Massachusetts and Maine, does
+the title of the riparian owner extend to low-water mark, but
+in these States the right of fishing, fowling and boating are
+specifically mentioned as not included in the title. Under the
+existing laws owners of seashore property in Massachusetts
+possess certain rights (though perhaps not in all cases clearly
+defined) over the tidal areas within 100 rods of the mean high-water
+mark. As the proposed system of shellfish grants deals
+with this territory between high and low water marks, it is
+necessary to see in what manner, if any, the rights at present
+possessed by riparian owners would be impaired by the leasing
+of certain rights of fishing. While the riparian owner has in
+a measure authority over the territory which borders his upland,
+there are certain specific limitations to this authority.
+He does not have exclusive rights of hunting, boating and fishing
+between the tide lines on his own property, but participates
+in these rights equally with every citizen of this Commonwealth.
+The courts have distinctly held that shellfish are fish, and that
+a man may fish&mdash;<i>i.e.</i>, dig clams&mdash;on the tidal flats adjoining
+the shore without the consent of the riparian owner.</p>
+
+<p>(4) <i>Rights of the Fishermen and of All Citizens.</i>&mdash;The
+fishermen as a class are best located to benefit most from an
+opportunity to lease exclusive fishing rights, whether they chance<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span>
+to be riparian owners or not, though every other citizen of this
+Commonwealth who so desired would not be excluded from an
+opportunity to secure a similar lease. The personnel of the
+fisher class has vastly changed in the past decade. There are
+to-day two distinct types: The permanent resident, usually native
+born, bound to a definite locality by ties of home and kin
+and of long association,&mdash;a most useful type of citizen. Contrasted
+with this is the other, a more rapidly increasing class,&mdash;foreign
+born, unnaturalized, nomadic, a humble soldier of fortune,
+a hanger-on in the outskirts of urban civilization, eking
+out an existence by selling or eating the shellfish from the public
+fishing grounds. Too ignorant to appreciate the importance
+of sanitary precaution, the alien clammer haunts the
+proscribed territory polluted by sewage, and does much to keep
+the dangerous typhoid germ in active circulation in the community.</p>
+
+<p>The public mollusk fisheries only foster such types of non-producers,
+and prevent them from becoming desirable citizens.
+The best class of fishermen and citizens has no advantage over
+the worst, but is practically compelled to engage in the same
+sort of petty buccaneering and wilfully destructive digging, in
+order to prevent that portion and privilege of fishing which the
+law says shall belong to every householder and freeman of the
+Commonwealth from being appropriated by these humble freebooters,
+who are at once the annoyance, the terror and the despair
+of cottagers and shore dwellers.</p>
+
+<p>All these conditions would be almost completely corrected
+by the lease of the flats to individuals, thus removing from the
+fishermen stultifying competition and compelling these irresponsible
+wandering aliens to acquire definite location. But
+most particularly a system of leasing would permit each person
+to profit according to his industry, perseverance, thrift and
+foresight.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Grants.</i>&mdash;As previously stated, the grants should be
+made into two divisions: (1) including suitable areas between
+the high and low water marks; (2) territory below mean low-water
+mark. The privilege of planting and growing all shellfish
+should be given for both classes of grants. Class 1
+would be primarily for the planting of clams, with additional<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span>
+rights over oysters and quahaugs; class 2 would be primarily
+for the planting of quahaugs and oysters, with possible rights
+over clams and scallops.</p>
+
+<p>The grants should be leased for a limited period of years,
+with the privilege of renewal provided the owner had fulfilled
+the stipulated requirements of the lease. In order, however,
+that these leases should not degenerate into deeds, to be handed
+down from father to son, it might be necessary to assign a
+maximum time limit during which a man might remain in
+control of any particular lease. This would be merely fair
+play to all concerned, for it would not be just to allow one man
+to monopolize a particularly fine piece of property, while his
+equally deserving neighbor had land of far less productive value.
+In connection with this clause should follow some provisions
+for payment of the value of improvements. Should there be
+more than one claimant for lease of any particular area, some
+principle of selection, such as priority of application, highest
+bid, etc., should be established.</p>
+
+<p>That there may be no holding of grants for purposes other
+than those stipulated in the agreement, there should be a certain
+cultural standard of excellence to be decided upon relative
+to the use made of the granted areas. A clause of this kind
+is necessary in order to keep the system in a proper state of
+efficiency, and to insure the development of the shellfish industries.</p>
+
+<p>All taxes on the capital invested in these grants and taxes
+upon the income should go to the town in which the leasehold
+is situated. In addition, there should be a just and equable
+revenue assessed by the State on every grant, as rent for the
+same. This rent should be apportioned according to a fixed
+scale in determining the relative values of the grants, and
+should be paid annually, under penalty of forfeiture. The
+revenue might be divided into two parts: one part to go to
+the State department having the control of the shellfisheries, for
+the maintenance of a survey, control and protection of property
+on leased areas, and other work; the second part to go to the
+town treasury of the community in which the grant is located,
+to be expended under the direction and control of responsible
+State officials in restocking barren flats and otherwise develop<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span>ing
+the shellfish upon its unleased territory which is open for
+free public use.</p>
+
+<p><i>Grants to be Nontransferable.</i>&mdash;These grants, while designed
+for the use of all citizens of the Commonwealth, should
+be made especially available for the poor man with little capital.
+In order to assure the poor man of the enjoyment of his
+privilege, it is necessary to guard against the possibility of undue
+monopolization. Leases must, therefore, be strictly nontransferable.
+Neither should areas be rented to another individual
+under any consideration whatever. Every grant must
+be for the benefit of its individual owner. He should be at
+liberty to hire laborers to assist him in working his grant, but
+not to transfer it in any way. Any attempt on his part to do
+so should not only immediately result in the forfeiture of his
+grant, but should also subject him to a heavy penalty.</p>
+
+<p><i>Survey.</i>&mdash;In order to guard against confusion and to maintain
+an orderly system, an accurate survey of all granted areas
+should be made. The ranges of every grant should be determined
+and recorded. The plots should be numbered and properly
+staked or buoyed, and a record of the same, giving the
+name of the owner, yearly rental and value, should be kept on
+file at the proper town and State offices. The same system
+which is now in operation in the oyster industry of other
+States should be applied to all the mollusk fisheries of Massachusetts.</p>
+
+<p><i>Administration.</i>&mdash;The department of the State government
+under whose jurisdiction this system of leases may come should
+be indued with full authority, properly defined, to supervise
+the grants, furnish them with adequate protection by the employment
+of State or town police, oversee the survey, allot the
+grants, and to exercise such other powers as may be necessary
+to develop the system, remedy its defects and strengthen its
+efficiency.</p>
+
+<p><i>Protection of Property and of the Rights granted by the
+Lease.</i>&mdash;No system of shellfish grants is possible without absolute
+protection. The lessee must be permitted to cultivate
+his grant free from outside interference, and thus, with reasonably
+good fortune, he can enjoy the fruits of his labors. This
+protection, which is the greatest and most vital need of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span>
+entire system, and the foundation upon which depends its whole
+success, must be insured by proper legislation rigorously enforced,
+and accompanied by severe penalties.</p>
+
+<p><i>Leasing of the Grants.</i>&mdash;Every citizen of the Commonwealth
+is entitled to participate in this system, but for obvious reasons
+an inhabitant of any coast town should be given first choice of
+grants within the boundary of his particular town. The first
+grants might be given by allotment, but after the system had
+become well established, they could be issued in the order of
+their application.</p>
+
+<p><i>Water Pollution.</i>&mdash;The sanitary condition of the marketed
+shellfish taken from contaminated waters is not only at present
+to some extent endangering the public health, but is placing an
+undeserved stigma upon a most reputable and valuable source
+of food supply for the public. The public should demand laws
+closing, after proper scientific investigation, these polluted
+areas, and conferring the power to thoroughly enforce such
+laws. The danger arising from contamination should be reduced
+to a minimum by prescribing some definite regulations
+for transferring shellfish from these polluted waters to places
+free from contamination, where the shellfish may in brief season
+be rendered fit for the market.</p>
+
+<p>It should be unlawful to use any brand, label or other device
+for designation, intended to give the impression that certain
+oysters offered for sale were grown at specified places, <i>e.g.</i>, Cotuit,
+Wellfleet, Wareham, etc., unless such oysters were actually
+planted, grown or cultivated within the towns or waters
+designated, for a period of at least three months immediately
+previous to the date of marketing. Furthermore, there should
+be appointed proper inspectors, whose duties would be to guarantee
+by certificates, labels and stamps the purity of shellfish
+placed upon the market, and likewise have the power of enforcing
+severe penalties on violators.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span></p>
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="THE_SHELLFISHERIES_OF_MASSACHUSETTS_THEIR" id="THE_SHELLFISHERIES_OF_MASSACHUSETTS_THEIR">THE SHELLFISHERIES OF MASSACHUSETTS: THEIR
+PRESENT CONDITION AND EXTENT.</a></h2>
+
+
+<p class="center">By <span class="smcap">D. L. Belding</span>, assisted by <span class="smcap">F. C. Lane</span>.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+<span class="smcap">Dr. George W. Field</span>, <i>Chairman, Commission on Fisheries and Game</i>.<br />
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Sir</span>:&mdash;I herewith submit the following report upon the present
+extent and condition of the shellfish industries of Massachusetts. The
+following biological survey was made in connection with the work done
+under chapters 49, 73, 78 and 93, Resolves of 1905, and chapter 74,
+Resolves of 1906. The statistics and survey records which furnish the
+basis of the report were obtained by D. L. Belding and F. C. Lane.</p>
+
+<p class="center">Respectfully submitted,
+</p>
+
+<p class="right"><span class="smcap">David L. Belding</span>,<br />
+<i>Biologist</i>.</p>
+
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">Introduction.</span></h3>
+
+<p>When money was first appropriated in 1905 for a three-year investigation
+of the life, habits and methods of culture of the clam, quahaug,
+oyster and scallop, provision was made for a survey of the present
+productive and nonproductive areas suitable for the cultivation of these
+four shellfish. The following report embodies the results of this survey.</p>
+
+<p><i>A. Method of Work.</i>&mdash;In making this survey two objects were in
+view, which permit the grouping of the work under two main heads:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(1) A survey of the productive and nonproductive shellfish areas
+of the State was undertaken, showing by charts the location, extent and
+abundance of each of the four shellfish, as well as the biological conditions
+of the waters and soils of the areas along the entire coast which
+could be made more productive under proper cultural methods. Wherever
+possible, information as to the production of certain areas was
+obtained from the shellfishermen as a supplement to the survey work.</p>
+
+<p>(2) Statistical records of the four shellfish industries were formulated,
+showing their value and extent as regards (<i>a</i>) production, (<i>b</i>)
+capital invested, (<i>c</i>) men employed. Data for these records were obtained
+from town records, from market reports and from the dealers
+and shellfishermen, both by personal interviews and by tabulated forms
+of printed questions. Owing to the present chaotic condition of the
+shellfisheries, it has been impossible to obtain absolutely exact data.
+The statistics that have been obtained are to all purposes correct, and
+are the most exact figures ever published on the subject.</p>
+
+<p><i>B. Value of the Survey.</i>&mdash;Before any reform measures of practical
+value can be advanced, accurate and comprehensive knowledge of
+the present shellfish situation in Massachusetts is absolutely essential.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span>
+Up to this time there have been only vague and inaccurate conjectures
+as to the value of the shellfisheries, and even the fisherman, outside
+his own district, has little knowledge of their extent and their economic
+possibilities. The consumer has far less knowledge. For the first time
+this problem of the Massachusetts shellfisheries has been approached
+from the point of view of the economic biologist. This survey is intended
+to present a concise yet detailed account of the present status of
+the shellfisheries of Massachusetts, and is therefore the first step
+towards the preservation of our shellfisheries by providing a workable
+basis for the restocking of the barren and unproductive areas. It is
+hoped that it will be of interest both to the fishermen and consumers.</p>
+
+<p><i>C. Presentation of the Report.</i>&mdash;The first part of the report presents
+the general results of the survey, <i>i.e.</i>, the present condition of the
+shellfisheries, while the second part deals directly with details of the
+survey. The report is divided into four parts, each shellfish being considered
+separately. Under each is grouped (1) the industry as a whole;
+(2) a statistical summary of the industry for the whole State; (3) the
+towns of the State and their individual industries. A series of charts
+showing the shellfish areas of the State makes clear the description of
+the survey.</p>
+
+<p><i>Geographical Situation.</i>&mdash;The peculiar geographical situation of
+Massachusetts renders possible the production of the four edible
+shellfish&mdash;clam, oyster, quahaug and scallop,&mdash;in great abundance.
+Cape Cod forms the dividing line between the northern and the southern
+fauna, which furnish the coast of Massachusetts with a diversity of
+molluscan life. Zo&ouml;logically, the Massachusetts coast is the point where
+the habitats of the northern (the soft clam, <i>Mya arenaria</i>) and the
+southern clam (the quahaug, hard clam or little neck, <i>Venus mercenaria</i>)
+overlap. Nature has favored Massachusetts with a coast indented
+with bays, estuaries and inlets which are especially adapted for the
+growth of marine food mollusks.</p>
+
+<p><i>Former Natural Abundance.</i>&mdash;If we compare the natural shellfish
+areas of to-day with those of former years, we find a great change.
+All four shellfish formerly throve in large numbers in the numerous
+bays and indentations of our coast line. The area between tide marks
+was formerly inhabited by quantities of soft clams, and the muddy
+patches just below low-water mark produced great numbers of quahaugs.
+In the estuaries were extensive natural oyster beds. On our
+shoals it was possible to gather many thousand bushels of scallops.
+Now thousands of acres once productive lie barren, and we have but
+a remnant of the former abundant yield.</p>
+
+<p><i>Historical Wastefulness.</i>&mdash;History tells us that the Pilgrims at
+Plymouth "sucked the abundance of the seas" and found health and
+wealth. But between the lines of history we can read a tale of wastefulness
+and prodigality with hardly a parallel, and to-day we find the
+natural heritage of the shellfisheries almost totally wasted through
+the careless indifference of our forefathers. Prof. James L. Kellogg, in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span>
+the introduction to his "Notes on Marine Food Mollusks of Louisiana,"
+gives the following excellent account of the exploiting of natural resources:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>As one looks over the record of the settling of this country, and notes
+how a continent was reclaimed from a state of nature, he can hardly fail
+to be impressed with the reckless wastefulness of his ancestors in their use
+of the treasures which nature, through eons of time, had been collecting.
+In thousands of cases, natural resources, which, carefully conserved, would
+have provided comfort and even luxury for generations of men, have been
+dissipated and destroyed with no substantial benefit to any one. They scattered
+our inheritance. Such knowledge dulls a feeling of gratitude that may
+be due to them for their many beneficent acts,&mdash;though the truth probably
+is that few of them ever had a thought of their descendants. Men
+seldom seem to have a weighty sense of responsibility toward others than
+those who immediately follow them. The history of the prodigality of our
+ancestors since their occupation of this great continent has not fully been
+written,&mdash;and it should be, in such a way that the present generation
+might know it; for sometimes it seems as if the present generation were as
+criminally careless of the natural resources that remain to it as were any
+of those that are gone. Perhaps it is hardly that. We have learned some
+wisdom from the past, because our attention has recently been drawn to the
+fact of the annihilation of several former sources of subsistence. Rapidly
+in America, in recent years, the struggle to obtain support for a family has
+become more severe to the wage earner. In thirty years the increasing
+fierceness of competition has resulted in a revolution of business methods.
+In every profession and in every line of business only the most capable are
+able to obtain what the mediocre received for their honest labor in the last
+generation.</p>
+
+<p>But it is easier to condemn the past for its failures than to recognize
+and condemn those of our own generation. The average man really has a
+blind and unreasoning faith in his own time, and to laud only its successes
+is to be applauded as an optimist. In the present stage of our
+national life we certainly have no room for the pessimist, who is merely a
+dyspeptic faultfinder; nor for the optimist, who blinds his eyes to our faults
+and mistakes, and so fails to read their priceless lessons. Instead, our intelligence,
+as a race, has reached that degree of development which should
+give it the courage to consider "things as they are."</p>
+
+<p>Considering things as they are, we must admit that we are not realizing
+our obligations to future generations in many of the ways in which we are
+misusing our natural resources. This waste is often deliberate, though usually
+due to the notion that nature's supplies, especially of living organisms,
+are limitless. The waste of 70 or 80 per cent, in lumbering the Oregon
+"big trees," and the clean sweep of the Louisiana pine, now in progress, is
+deliberately calculated destruction for present gain,&mdash;and the future may
+take care of itself. In making millionaires of a very few men, most of
+whom are still living, a large part of the lower peninsula of Michigan was
+made a hopeless desert. To "cut and come again" is not a part of the
+moral codes of such men. It seems to mean sacrifice; and yet they are woefully
+mistaken, even in that.</p>
+
+<p>But most often, no doubt, the extinction of useful animals and plants,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span>
+that we have so often witnessed, has been due to the ignorant assumption
+that, under any circumstances, the supply would last forever. This idea
+seems especially to prevail concerning marine food animals. The fact that
+the sea is vast might naturally give the impression that its inhabitants are
+numberless.... But when a natural food supply nears complete annihilation,
+men begin to think of the necessity of a method of artificial culture.<a name="FNanchor_1_1" id="FNanchor_1_1"></a><a href="#Footnote_1_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a></p></div>
+
+<p><i>Present Unimproved Resources.</i>&mdash;In spite of the wastefulness of
+former generations, many areas can again be made to produce the
+normal yield if proper and adequate measures are promptly taken to
+restore to the flats, estuaries and bays of Massachusetts their normal
+productive capacity. In spite of the fact that some of the natural beds
+have entirely disappeared, either "fished out" or buried under the
+d&eacute;bris of civilization, and others are in imminent danger of becoming
+exhausted, Massachusetts still possesses a sufficient natural supply to
+restock most of these barren areas.</p>
+
+<p><i>Possibilities of Development.</i>&mdash;Opportunities for development
+are alluring. The shellfisheries could be increased, in these days of rapid
+transit and marketing facilities, into industries which would furnish
+steady employment for thousands of men and women, both directly
+and indirectly, resulting in a product valued at a minimum of $3,000,000
+annually, with possibilities of indefinite expansion. At present the idea
+of marine farming attracts popular attention. The conditions are
+parallel to agriculture, except that in the case of marine farming the
+crops are more certain,&mdash;<i>i.e.</i>, are not subject to so many fatalities.
+The experiments of the Department of Fisheries and Game for the
+past three years have proved that cultivation of shellfish offers great
+inducements and profit to both individuals and towns. When the present
+waste areas are again made productive, the value of the annual
+catch should be increased tenfold.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Statistical Summary of the Shellfisheries for 1907.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th rowspan="2"><span class="smcap">Name of Mollusk.</span></th>
+    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Production.</span></th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Area in Acres.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Capital invested.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Men employed.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Clam,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">153,865</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$150,440</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,111</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$18,142</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,361</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Oyster,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">161,182</td>
+    <td class="tdr">176,142</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">268,702</td>
+    <td class="tdr">159</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaug,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">144,044</td>
+    <td class="tdr">194,687</td>
+    <td class="tdr">28,090</td>
+    <td class="tdr">94,260</td>
+    <td class="tdr">745</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Scallop,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">103,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">164,436</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30,900</td>
+    <td class="tdr">121,753</td>
+    <td class="tdr">647</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">562,091</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$685,705</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">66,501</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$502,857</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">2,912</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>In the above table the areas for the scallop, clam and quahaug are
+only approximate. The scallop and quahaug fisheries cover nearly the
+same areas, and employ to a great extent the same men and capital.</p>
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span></p>
+<p class="center"><i>Annual Yields (in Bushels) of the Shellfisheries of Massachusetts since
+1879, from United States Fish Commission Reports.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th><span class="smcap">Year.</span></th>
+    <th>Clam.</th>
+    <th>Quahaug.</th>
+    <th>Oyster.</th>
+    <th>Scallop.</th>
+    <th>Totals.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">158,621</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11,050</td>
+    <td class="tdr">36,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10,542</td>
+    <td class="tdr">216,218</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1887,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">230,659</td>
+    <td class="tdr">35,540</td>
+    <td class="tdr">43,183</td>
+    <td class="tdr">41,964</td>
+    <td class="tdr">351,346</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1888,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">243,777</td>
+    <td class="tdr">26,165</td>
+    <td class="tdr">45,631</td>
+    <td class="tdr">26,168</td>
+    <td class="tdr">341,741</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1898,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">147,095</td>
+    <td class="tdr">63,817</td>
+    <td class="tdr">101,225</td>
+    <td class="tdr">128,863</td>
+    <td class="tdr">441,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1902,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">227,941</td>
+    <td class="tdr">106,818</td>
+    <td class="tdr">103,386</td>
+    <td class="tdr">66,150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">504,295</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1905,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">217,519</td>
+    <td class="tdr">166,526</td>
+    <td class="tdr">112,580</td>
+    <td class="tdr">43,872</td>
+    <td class="tdr">540,497</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1907,<a name="FNanchor_2_2" id="FNanchor_2_2"></a><a href="#Footnote_2_2" class="fnanchor">[2]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">153,865</td>
+    <td class="tdr">144,044</td>
+    <td class="tdr">161,182</td>
+    <td class="tdr">103,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">562,091</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>Massachusetts fishermen to-day receive an annual income of $685,705
+from the shellfisheries, which approximately cover a productive area
+of 40,000 acres. Under the present methods of production, the average
+value per acre is only $17; each acre, if properly farmed, should furnish
+an annual production of at least $100, or six times the present
+yield. The shellfish areas of Massachusetts which are at present
+utilized are giving almost a minimum production, instead of the enormous
+yield which they are capable of furnishing. All that is necessary
+to procure the maximum yield is the application of systematic cultural
+methods, instead of relying on an impoverished natural supply. Not
+only are the productive areas furnishing far less than they are capable
+of producing, but also Massachusetts possesses 6,000 acres of barren
+flats, which should become, under the proper cultural methods, as valuable
+as the productive areas. (This has been experimentally demonstrated
+by the commission.) While it is possible to develop, through
+cultural methods, these latent natural resources, it will take years to
+bring them to a high degree of development. It can be partially accomplished,
+at least, in the next few years, and the present production increased
+several times, <i>as nature responds to the slightest intelligent
+effort of man, and gives large returns</i>.</p>
+
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">Decline of the Shellfisheries.</span></h3>
+
+<p><i>A. Is there a Decline?</i></p>
+
+<p>(1) So obvious is the general decline of the shellfisheries that almost
+every one is aware, through the increasing prices and difficulty of supplying
+the demand, that the natural supply is becoming exhausted.</p>
+
+<p>(2) Statistical figures of the shellfish production not only show a decline,
+but conceal a rapid diminution of the supply.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>(3) Production statistics alone should never be taken as typifying
+the real conditions of an industry, as such figures are often extremely
+deceiving. For instance:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(4) The increased prices, stimulated by an increasing demand, have
+caused a greater number of men, equipped with the best modern implements,
+to swell the production by overworking shellfish areas which
+in reality are not one-fourth so productive as they were ten years ago.</p>
+
+<p>While the general decline of the shellfisheries is a matter of public
+knowledge, specific illustrations of this decline have been lacking. The
+present report calls attention to actual facts as proofs of the decline
+of each shellfishery, by a comparison of the present conditions in various
+localities with the conditions of 1879. The only past record of
+Massachusetts shellfisheries of any importance is found in the report
+of the United States Fish Commission for 1883, and, although this is
+very limited, it is sufficient to furnish many examples of the extinction
+or decline of the shellfisheries in certain localities.</p>
+
+<p>In a general consideration of the shellfisheries, it is noticeable that in
+certain localities the extinction of the industry has been total, in others
+only partial, while others have remained unchanged or have even improved.
+This last class is found either where the natural advantages
+are so great that the resources have not been exploited, or where men
+have, through wise laws and cultural methods (as in the oyster industry),
+preserved and built up the shellfisheries.</p>
+
+<p><i>1879</i> v. <i>1907</i>.&mdash;In comparing the present condition of the shellfisheries
+with that of 1879, it will be seen that many changes have taken
+place. Even twenty-five years ago inroads were being made upon the
+natural supply; from that time to the present can be traced a steady
+decline. During the past five years the production has been augmented
+by additional men, who have entered into the business under the attraction
+of higher prices, and the extension of the quahaug and oyster
+fisheries. Though the annual catch is greater, a disproportionately
+greater amount of time, labor and capital is required to secure an
+equal quantity of shellfish.</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <th>1907.</th>
+    <th>1879.</th>
+    <th>Gain.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production (bushels),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">562,991</td>
+    <td class="tdr">264,818</td>
+    <td class="tdr">297,273</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,912</td>
+    <td class="tdr">910</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,092</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$502,857</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$165,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$337,857</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">66,501</td>
+    <td class="tdr">66,501</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>The following instances illustrate specific decline in the various natural
+shellfisheries:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(1) Oyster industry, natural beds: Wareham, Marion, Bourne, Wellfleet,
+Charles River.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>(2) Sea clam industry: Dennis, Chatham, Nantucket.</p>
+
+<p>(3) Scallop industry: Buzzards Bay and north side of Cape Cod
+(Barnstable).</p>
+
+<p>(4) Clam industry: Essex, Plymouth, Duxbury, Buzzards Bay, Annisquam,
+Wellfleet, Nantucket.</p>
+
+<p>(5) Quahaug industry: Chatham, Buzzards Bay, Fall River district.</p>
+
+<p>These are only a few of the more prominent cases. Similar cases will
+be found all along the coast of Massachusetts, and no one can deny
+that the natural supply is rapidly becoming exhausted, and that methods
+are needed to increase the production, or at least to save the little that
+remains.</p>
+
+<p><i>B. Causes of the Decline.</i></p>
+
+<p>I. <i>An Increasing Demand.</i>&mdash;The indirect cause of the decline of the
+shellfisheries is the increased demand. To-day more shellfish are consumed
+than ever before, and the demand is much greater each succeeding
+year. It is an economic principle that there must be an equilibrium between
+supply and demand. If the demand is increasing, either the supply
+has to increase to meet the demand, or the price of the commodity
+goes up and a new equilibrium is established. The supply must equal
+the demand of the market. This increasing demand has worked havoc
+with the shellfisheries. There was a time when the natural supply was
+of such abundance that the moderate demand of those early days could
+be met without injury to the fishery. Soon this limit was passed, and
+with a steadily increasing demand came a corresponding drain on the
+natural resources, which little by little started a decline, the result of
+which is to-day apparent.</p>
+
+<p>The ill-advised policy of the past has been to check the demand by
+various devices, such as closed seasons, limited daily production, etc.
+These not only have proved without benefit to the fisherman, but also
+have hurt the consumer by the increased price. The demand can be
+checked by raising the price, but this tends towards a class distinction
+between the rich and the poor. The poor man should be able to enjoy
+"the bounties of the sea" as well as the rich. The policy of the future
+should be not to check the demand, but rather to increase the supply.</p>
+
+<p>Several causes contribute to this demand, which has unlimited possibilities
+of expansion:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(1) The popularity of shellfish as an article of diet is steadily increasing,
+not merely for its nutritive value, but for variety and change
+in diet. Fashionable fads, <i>i.e.</i>, the "little neck" of the restaurants and
+hotels, contribute to the popularity of these shellfish.</p>
+
+<p>(2) In the present age, transportation facilities and cold storage
+make possible shipments to all parts of the United States, and continually
+widen the market for sea foods.</p>
+
+<p>(3) The influx of summer people to the seashore not only causes an
+additional summer demand, but also widens the popular knowledge of
+these edible mollusks.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>(4) Advertising and more attractive methods of preserving and
+selling sea food by the dealers still further increase the demand.</p>
+
+<p>II. <i>Overfishing.</i>&mdash;The immediate and direct cause of the decline is
+<i>overfishing</i>. Increased demand causes a severe drain upon the shellfish
+beds, which soon leads to <i>over</i>fishing. It is not merely the hard working
+of the beds, but the continuous unmethodical and indiscriminate fishing
+which has caused the total extermination of once flourishing beds in certain
+localities. Under present methods a bed is worked until all its
+natural recuperatory power is exhausted, and then it is thrust aside as
+worthless, a barren area. Prof. Jacob Reighard, in "Methods of
+Plankton Investigation in their Relation to Practical Problems,"<a name="FNanchor_3_3" id="FNanchor_3_3"></a><a href="#Footnote_3_3" class="fnanchor">[3]</a> aptly
+sums up the situation in his opening paragraph:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>In this country the fisherman as a rule continues to fish in any locality
+until fishing in that locality has become unprofitable. He then moves his
+operations to new waters until these in turn are exhausted. He is apt to
+look upon each new body of water as inexhaustible, and rarely has occasion
+to ask himself whether it is possible to determine in advance the amount of
+fish that he may annually take from the water without soon depleting it.</p></div>
+
+<p>In this way the shellfish beds have become exhausted through the indifference
+and lack of knowledge on the part of the fishing public. In
+colonial days the resources of the shellfisheries were apparently inexhaustible.
+The conviction that man could ever exhaust the resources
+of nature took firm hold of the Puritan mind, and even in the present
+generation many still cling to this illogical doctrine, although proof to
+the contrary can be seen on all sides. This idea has caused great harm
+to the shellfisheries, stimulating men to wreck certain localities by overfishing.</p>
+
+<p>III. <i>Pollution of Harbors and Estuaries and the Ill Effects upon
+Public Health through the Shellfisheries.</i>&mdash;The unscientific disposal of
+sewage, sludge, garbage and factory waste may tend to rapidly fill up
+the harbor channels, as well as the areas where the currents are not so
+rapid.</p>
+
+<p>Competent authorities scout the idea that Boston harbor is at present
+filling up to any considerable degree with sewage sludge, but the problem
+must be met in the not distant future. This sewage sludge upon
+entering salt or brackish water precipitates much more rapidly than in
+fresh water or upon land, and becomes relatively insoluble, hence the
+accumulation in harbors, <i>e.g.</i>, Boston and New Bedford harbors and
+the estuaries of the Merrimac, Taunton and other rivers. This sludge,
+instead of undergoing the normal rapid oxidation and nitrification, as it
+does when exposed to the air on land, undergoes in the sea water a
+series of changes, mainly putrefactive, which results in the production
+of chemical substances which in solution may (1) drive away the fish<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span>
+which in incredible quantities formerly resorted to that place; (2)
+impair the vitality and even kill whatever fish spawn or fry may be
+present; (3) check the growth of or completely destroy the microscopic
+plants and animals which serve as food for the young fish and shellfish;
+(4) by developing areas of oily film floating upon the surface of the
+water, enormous numbers of the surface-swimming larv&aelig; of clams,
+quahaugs, scallops, oysters, mussels and other marine animals may be
+destroyed annually. But most serious of all is the fact that all the
+edible mollusks, notably the clam, quahaug, oyster and mussel, act as
+living filters, whose function is to remove from the water the bacteria
+and other microscopic plants and animals. Most of these microscopic
+organisms serve as food for the mollusk; and in instances where the mollusk
+is eaten raw or imperfectly cooked, man is liable to infection, if the
+bacillus of typhoid fever or other disease chances to be present in the
+mollusk. Though the chance of such infection is remote, it is nevertheless
+actually operative. Many typhoid epidemics in this country and
+abroad have been found to be directly referable to shellfish from sewage-polluted
+waters. For these reasons approximately 1,500 acres in
+Boston harbor and 700 acres in New Bedford harbor have become unsuitable
+for the growth of shellfish; and the State Board of Health,
+after investigation, decided that clams, oysters and quahaugs found
+within these areas are likely to be the direct cause of a dangerous epidemic
+of typhoid. For this reason the taking of these shellfish for any
+purpose was very properly prohibited; but at the last session of the
+Legislature a bill was passed which permitted the taking of such shellfish
+for bait, upon securing permits from the Board of Health, and providing
+heavy penalties for both buying and selling. As a matter of fact,
+however, it is well-nigh impracticable to properly enforce this law, for
+the reason that it is possible only in very rare instances to keep any one
+lot of clams known to have been dug under these conditions under surveillance
+from the time of digging until they are placed upon the hook
+as bait. Complete prevention of the <i>taking</i> of such shellfish is the only
+method by which the public health can be properly safeguarded. Even
+though in our opinion the annual financial loss to the public from the
+destruction of this public fishery by the dumping of city sewage into the
+water is not less than $400,000, the public health is of greater
+consequence, and should not be jeopardized, as is the fact under present
+conditions. Until such a time as the public realize that economic disposal
+of sewage must take place on land rather than in water, laws
+absolutely preventing any contact with the infected shellfish should be
+enforced without exception. In instances like these it is greatly to be
+deplored that but rarely under our system of government can legislation,
+which the best knowledge and common-sense demand for the public
+weal, be passed in its adequate and beneficial entirety, but is so frequently
+emasculated in the selfish interests of a few persons.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>IV. <i>Natural Agencies.</i>&mdash;The above causes are given as they are
+obviously important, but by no means are they to be considered the only
+reasons. Geographic and climatic changes often explain the extinction
+of shellfish in certain localities.</p>
+
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">The Present Abuses of the Shellfisheries.</span></h3>
+
+<p>Not only has this survey shown by specific examples the alarming but
+actual decline of the natural shellfish supply (in spite of deceptive production
+statistics), but it has brought to light numerous evils of various
+kinds. These abuses have developed gradually with the rise of the
+shellfisheries, until at the present day they cannot be overlooked or considered
+unimportant. So closely are these connected with the present
+status of our shellfishery that upon their abolition depends its future
+success or failure. Some need immediate attention; others will require
+attention later. After a thorough and competent investigation, remedies
+for the correction of each evil should be applied.</p>
+
+<p>In the future Massachusetts will have to utilize all her wealth of
+natural resources, to keep her leading position among the other States
+of the Union. To do this she should turn to her sea fisheries,
+which have in the past made her rich, and hold forth prospects of
+greater wealth in the future. Untold possibilities of wealth rest with
+her shellfisheries, if obsolete methods and traditions can be cast aside.
+In any age of progress the ancient and worthless must be buried beneath
+the ruins of the past, while the newer and better take their place.
+There is no more flagrant example of obsolete methods and traditions
+holding in check the development of an industry than with the shellfisheries,
+and it is time that Massachusetts realized these limitations.</p>
+
+<p>The shellfisheries of Massachusetts are in a chaotic state, both legally
+and economically. The finest natural facilities are wasted, and thousands
+of acres of profitable flats are allowed to lie barren merely for a
+lack of initiative on the part of the general public. This chaotic and
+unproductive state will exist until both the consumer and the fishermen
+alike understand the true condition of affairs, and realize that in the
+bays, estuaries and flats of Massachusetts lies as much or more wealth,
+acre for acre, as in the most productive market gardens.</p>
+
+<p>In Rhode Island the clam and scallop fisheries have almost disappeared.
+Five or ten years from now the shellfisheries of Massachusetts
+will be in a similar condition, and beyond remedy. Now is the time for
+reform. The solution of the problem is simple. Shellfish farming is the
+only possible way in which Massachusetts can restore her natural supply
+to its former abundance.</p>
+
+<p>I. <i>The Shellfish Laws.</i>&mdash;The first evils which demand attention are
+the existing shellfish laws. While these are supposed to wisely regulate
+the shellfisheries, in reality they do more harm than good, and are
+direct obstacles to any movement toward improving the natural re<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span>sources.
+Before Massachusetts can take any steps toward cultivating
+her unproductive shellfish areas, it will be necessary to modify the worst
+of these laws.</p>
+
+<p><i>A. Fishery Rights of the Public.</i>&mdash;The fundamental principle
+upon which the shellfish laws of the State are founded is the so-called
+beach or free fishing rights of the public. While in other States property
+extends only to mean high water, in Massachusetts the property
+holders own to extreme low-water mark. Nevertheless, according to
+further provisions of this ancient law, the right of fishing (which includes
+the shellfisheries) below high-water mark is free to any inhabitant
+of the Commonwealth.</p>
+
+<p>(1) <i>Origin.</i>&mdash;The first authentic record of this law is found under
+an act of Massachusetts, in 1641-47, by which every householder was
+allowed "free fishing and fowling" in any of the great ponds, bays,
+coves and rivers, as far "as the sea ebbs and flows," in their respective
+towns, unless "the freemen" or the General Court "had otherwise
+appropriated them." From this date the shellfisheries were declared
+to be forever the property of the whole people, <i>i.e.</i>, the State, and have
+been for a long period open to any inhabitant of the State who wished
+to dig the shellfish for food or for bait.</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>Early Benefits.</i>&mdash;In the early days, when the natural supply
+was apparently inexhaustible and practically the entire population resided
+on or near the seacoast, it was just that all people should have
+common rights to the shore fisheries. As long as the natural supply
+was more than sufficient for the demand, no law could have been better
+adapted for the public good.</p>
+
+<p>(3) <i>Present Inadequacy.</i>&mdash;Two hundred and fifty years have passed
+since this law was first made. The condition of the shellfisheries has
+changed. No longer do the flats of Massachusetts yield the enormous
+harvest of former years, but lie barren and unproductive. The law
+which once was a benefit to all has now become antiquated, and incapable
+of meeting the new conditions.</p>
+
+<p>(4) <i>Evil Effects.</i>&mdash;If this law were merely antiquated, it could be
+laid aside unnoticed. On the contrary, as applied to the present conditions
+of the shellfisheries it not only checks any advancement, but
+works positive harm. From the mistaken comprehension of the so-called
+beach rights of the people, the general public throughout the State is
+forced to pay an exorbitant price for sea food, and the enterprising
+fishermen are deprived of a more profitable livelihood. The present
+law discriminates against the progressive majority of fishermen in
+order to benefit a small unprogressive element.</p>
+
+<p>(5) <i>Protection.</i>&mdash;If shellfish farming is ever to be put on a paying
+basis, it is essential that the planter have absolute <i>protection</i>. No man
+is willing to invest capital and labor when protection cannot be guaranteed.
+What good does it do a man to plant a hundred bushels of
+clams, if the next person has a legal right to dig them? Since the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span>
+law absolutely refuses any protection to the shellfish culturist, Massachusetts
+can never restock her barren flats and re-establish her shellfisheries
+until this law is modified to meet the changed conditions.</p>
+
+<p>(6) <i>Who are the Objectors?</i> Objectors to any new system are always
+found, and are not lacking in the case of shellfish culture. These
+would immediately raise the cry that the public is being deprived of
+its rights. To-day the public has fewer rights than ever. The present
+law causes class distinctions, and a few are benefited at the expense of
+the public. The industrious fisherman suffers because a few of the
+worthless, unenterprising class, who have no energy, do not wish others
+to succeed where they cannot. In every seacoast town in Massachusetts
+the more enlightened fishermen see clearly that the only way to preserve
+the shellfisheries is to <i>cultivate the barren areas</i>.</p>
+
+<p>Hon. B. F. Wood, in his report of the shellfisheries of New York, in
+1906, clearly states the case.<a name="FNanchor_4_4" id="FNanchor_4_4"></a><a href="#Footnote_4_4" class="fnanchor">[4]</a></p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>There is, unfortunately, in some of the towns and villages upon our coast
+an unprogressive element, composed of those who prefer to reap where they
+have not sown; who rely upon what they term their "natural right" to rake
+where they may choose in the public waters. They deplete, but do not build
+up. They think because it may be possible to go out upon the waters for a
+few hours in the twenty-four (when the tide serves) and dig a half peck of
+shellfish, that it is sufficient reason why such lands should not be leased by
+the State to private planters. It might as well be said that it is wrong for
+the government to grant homestead farms to settlers, because a few blackberries
+might be plucked upon the lands by any who cared to look for them.</p></div>
+
+<p>The following is taken from the report of the Massachusetts Commissioners
+on Fisheries and Game for 1906:<a name="FNanchor_5_5" id="FNanchor_5_5"></a><a href="#Footnote_5_5" class="fnanchor">[5]</a>&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>There are at least four distinct classes within our Commonwealth, each
+of which either derive direct benefits from the mollusk fisheries of our
+coast, or are indirectly benefited by the products of the flats:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(1) The general public,&mdash;the consumers, who ultimately pay the cost,
+who may either buy the joint product of the labor and capital invested
+in taking and distributing the shellfish from either natural or artificial
+beds, or who may dig shellfish for food or bait purposes for their own
+or family use.</p>
+
+<p>(2) The capitalist, who seeks a productive investment for money or
+brains, or both. Under present laws, such are practically restricted to
+<i>distribution</i> of shellfish, except in the case of the oyster, where capital may
+be employed for <i>production</i> as well,&mdash;an obvious advantage both to capital
+and to the public.</p>
+
+<p>(3) The fishermen, who, either as a permanent or temporary vocation,
+market the natural yield of the waters; or, as in the case of the shellfisheries,
+may with a little capital increase the natural yield and availability by
+cultivating an area of the tidal flats after the manner of a garden.</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span>
+<p>(4) The owners of the land adjacent to the flats, who are under the present
+laws often subjected to loss or annoyance, or even positive discomfort,
+by inability to safeguard their proper rights to a certain degree of freedom
+from intruders and from damage to bathing or boating facilities, which
+constitute a definite portion of the value of shore property.</p>
+
+<p>All of these classes would be directly benefited by just laws, which would
+encourage and safeguard all well-advised projects for artificial cultivation
+of the tidal flats, and would deal justly and intelligently with the various
+coincident and conflicting rights of the fishermen, owners of shore property,
+bathers and other seekers of pleasure, recreation or profit, boatmen,
+and all others who hold public and private rights and concessions.</p>
+
+<p>That any one class should claim exclusive "natural valid rights," over
+any other class, to the shellfish products of the shores, which the law states
+expressly are the property of "the people," is as absurd as to claim that any
+class had exclusive natural rights to wild strawberries, raspberries, cranberries
+or other wild fruits, and that therefore the land upon which these
+grew could not be used for the purpose of increasing the yield of these
+fruits. This becomes the more absurd from the fact that the wild fruits
+pass to the owner of the title of the land, while the shellfish are specifically
+exempted, and remain the property of the public.</p>
+
+<p>The class most benefited by improved laws would be the fishermen, who
+would profit by better wages through the increased quantity of shellfish they
+could dig per hour, by a better market and by better prices, for the reason
+that the control of the output would secure regularity of supply. Moreover,
+when the market was unfavorable the shellfish could be kept in the
+beds with a reasonable certainty of finding them there when wanted, and
+with the added advantage of an increased volume by growth during the
+interval, together with the avoidance of cold-storage charges. Thus the diggers
+could be certain of securing a supply at almost any stage of the
+tide and in all but the most inclement weather, through a knowledge of
+"where to dig;" moreover, there would be a complete elimination of the
+reasoning which is now so prolific of ill feelings and so wasteful of the
+shellfish, viz., the incentive of "getting there ahead of the other fellow."</p></div>
+
+<p><i>B.</i> All the shellfish laws should be revised, to secure a unity and
+clearness which should render graft, unfairness and avoidable economic
+loss impossible, and be replaced with a code of fair, intelligent
+and forceful laws, which would not only permit the advancement of the
+shellfish industry through the individual efforts of the progressive shellfishermen,
+but also protect the rights of the general public.</p>
+
+<p><i>C.</i> The majority of the shellfish laws of the State are enacted by
+the individual towns. In 1880 the State first officially granted to each
+town the exclusive right to control and regulate its own shellfisheries,
+as provided under section 68 of chapter 91 of the Public Statutes. This
+was slightly modified by the Acts of 1889 and 1892 to read as follows
+(now section 85 of chapter 91 of the Revised Laws):&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Section 85.</span> The mayor and aldermen of cities and the selectmen of
+towns, if so instructed by their cities and towns, may, except as provided in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span>
+the two preceding sections, control, regulate or prohibit the taking of eels,
+clams, quahaugs and scallops within the same; and may grant permits prescribing
+the times and methods of taking eels and such shellfish within such
+cities and towns and make such other regulations in regard to said fisheries
+as they may deem expedient. But an inhabitant of the commonwealth, without
+such permit, may take eels and the shellfish above-named for his own
+family use from the waters of his own or any other city or town, and may
+take from the waters of his own city or town any of such shellfish for bait,
+not exceeding three bushels, including shells, in any one day, subject to the
+general rules of the mayor and aldermen and selectmen, respectively, as to
+the times and methods of taking such fish. The provisions of this section
+shall not authorize the taking of fish in violation of the provisions of sections
+forty-four and forty-five. Whoever takes any eels or any of said
+shellfish without such permit, and in violation of the provisions of this section,
+shall forfeit not less than three nor more than fifty dollars.</p></div>
+
+<p>Responsibility has thus been transferred from the State to the towns,
+and they alone, through their incompetence and neglect, are to blame
+for the decline of the shellfisheries. The town laws are miniature copies
+of the worst features of the State laws. While a few towns have succeeded
+in enacting fairly good laws, the majority have either passed no
+shellfish regulations at all, or made matters worse by unintelligent and
+harmful laws. It is time that a unified system of competent by-laws
+were enacted and enforced in every town.</p>
+
+<p>The ill-advised features which characterize the present town laws are
+numerous, and are best considered under the following headings:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(1) <i>Unintelligent Laws.</i>&mdash;One of the worst features of our town
+shellfish laws is their extreme unfitness. Numerous laws which are absolutely
+useless for the regulation and improvement of these industries
+have been made by towns, through men who knew nothing about the
+shellfisheries. These laws were made without any regard for the practical
+or biological conditions underlying the shellfish industry. It is to
+be expected that laws from such a source would often be ill-advised
+and unintelligent, but under the present system it cannot be avoided.
+Until sufficient knowledge of the habits and growth of shellfish is acquired
+by the authorities of State and town, Massachusetts can never
+expect to have intelligent and profitable shellfish laws. While the majority
+of these unintelligent laws do no harm, there are some that work
+hardship to the fishermen and are an injury to the shellfisheries.</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>Unfairness; Town Politics.</i>&mdash;Town politics offers many chances
+for unscrupulous discrimination in the shellfish laws. Here we find one
+class of fishermen benefiting by legislation at the expense of the other,
+as in the case of the quahaugers <i>v.</i> oystermen. In one town the oystermen
+will have the upper hand; in another, the quahaugers. In every
+case there is unfair discrimination, and a resultant financial loss to
+both parties. The waters of Massachusetts are large enough for both<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span>
+industries, and every man should have a "square deal," which is frequently
+lacking under the present r&eacute;gime.</p>
+
+<p>Besides party discrimination, there is discrimination against certain
+individuals, as illustrated in giving oyster grants. Town politics plays a
+distressing part here. Favoritism is repeatedly shown, and unfairness
+results. All this shows the unpopularity and impracticability of such
+regulations and the method of making them.</p>
+
+<p>(3) <i>Present Chaotic State.</i>&mdash;The present town laws are in a chaotic
+condition, which it is almost impossible to simplify. No one knows
+the laws, there is merely a vague impression that such have existed.
+Even the selectmen themselves, often new to the office and unacquainted
+with the shellfisheries, know little about the accumulated shellfish laws
+of the past years, and find it impossible to comprehend them. The only
+remedy is to wipe out all the old and replace them with unified new
+laws.</p>
+
+<p>(4) <i>Unsystematic Laws.</i>&mdash;The present laws are unsystematized.
+Each town has its own methods, good and bad, and the result is a
+heterogeneous mixture. Often there are two or three laws where one
+would definitely serve. To do absolute justice there should be a definite
+system, with laws elastic enough to satisfy the needs of all.</p>
+
+<p>(5) <i>Nonenforcement.</i>&mdash;The worst feature of allowing town control of
+the shellfisheries is the nonenforcement of the laws already passed. We
+find in many towns that good by-laws have been made, but from inattention
+and lack of money these have never been enforced and have
+become practically nonexistent. The 1&frac12;-inch quahaug law of several
+towns is an instance of this. In but one town in the State, Edgartown,
+is any effort made to enforce this excellent town by-law, although several
+of the other towns have passed the same. The proper enforcement
+of laws is as important as the making, as a law might as well not be
+made if not properly enforced. The only way that this can be remedied
+is either to take the control completely out of the hands of the town, or
+else have a supervisory body which would force the town to look after
+violators.</p>
+
+<p>Besides the town by-laws there are other evils which result from the
+present system of town control.</p>
+
+<p>II. <i>Lack of Protection in Oyster Industry.</i>&mdash;In no case is the management
+by towns more inefficient and confusing than in the case of
+the oyster industry. As this subject will be taken up in the oyster report
+which follows, it is only necessary here to state that there is great
+need of a proper survey of grants, fair laws, systematic methods, etc.
+Protection is necessary for the success of any industry, and is especially
+needed for the oyster industry. The oyster industry of Massachusetts
+will never become important until adequate protection is guaranteed to
+the planters. Under the present system, uncertainty rather than protection
+is the result.</p>
+
+<p>III. <i>Town Jealousy.</i>&mdash;The evil of town jealousy, whereby one<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span>
+town forbids its shellfisheries to the inhabitant of neighboring towns,
+is to-day an important factor. It is fair that a town which improves
+its own shellfisheries should not be interfered with by a town which
+has allowed its shellfisheries to decline. While this is true perhaps
+of the clam, quahaug and oyster, it does not hold true of the scallop.
+The result of this close-fisted policy has resulted in the past in a great
+loss in the scallop industry. The town law in regard to scallops is all
+wrong. The scallop fisheries should be open to all the State, and no
+one town should "hog the fishing," and leave thousands of bushels to
+die from their dog-in-the-manger attitude.</p>
+
+<p>IV. <i>Sectional Jealousy.</i>&mdash;Another evil, which in the past has been
+prominent, but is becoming less and less as the years go by, is the
+jealousy of the north shore <i>v.</i> the south shore, Cape Cod <i>v.</i> Cape Ann.
+In the past this has been a stumbling block against any advance, as any
+plan initiated on the south shore would be opposed from sheer prejudice
+by the north shore representatives, and <i>vice versa</i>. The cry of "entering
+wedge" has been raised again and again whenever any bill was introduced
+for the good of the shellfisheries by either party. Merely for
+political reasons good legislation has been defeated. However, the last
+few years have shown a decided change. The jealous feeling has in a
+large measure subsided; the shellfisheries need intelligent consideration,
+and all parties realize that united effort is necessary to insure the future
+of these industries.</p>
+
+<p>V. <i>Quahaugers</i> v. <i>Oystermen</i>.&mdash;On the south shore the worst evil
+which at present exists is the interclass rivalry between the quahaugers
+and oystermen. This has caused much harm to both parties, through
+expensive lawsuits, economic loss, uncertainty of a livelihood, as well as
+retarding the proper development of both industries.</p>
+
+<p>VI. <i>Waste of Competition.</i>&mdash;At the present day the utilization of
+waste products in all industries is becoming more and more important.
+In this age material which was considered useless by our forefathers
+is made to play its part in the economic world. Through science industrial
+waste of competition is being gradually reduced to a minimum,
+although in any business which deals with perishable commodities, such
+as fish, fruit, etc., there is bound to be a certain amount of loss.</p>
+
+<p>Under the present system the shellfisheries suffer from the effects of
+waste resulting from competition. Both the fisherman and the consumer
+feel the effects of this, in different ways,&mdash;the fisherman through
+poor market returns, the consumer through poor service. As long as
+the shellfisheries are free to all, there is bound to be that scramble to
+get ahead of "the other fellow," which not only results in the destructive
+waste of the actual catch, but also causes a "glutted" market,
+which gives a low return to the fisherman. Thousands of dollars are
+thus lost each year by the fishermen, who are forced to keep shipping
+their shellfish, often to perish in the market, merely because the present
+system invites ruthless competition. The fishermen in this respect alone<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span>
+should be the first to desire a new system, which would give to each a
+shellfish farm and the privilege of selecting his market.</p>
+
+<p>VII. At the present moment there are two evils which demand
+attention, and which can be lessened by the passage of two simple
+laws:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(1) During the past three years many thousands of bushels of
+quahaugs under 1&frac12; inches have been shipped out of the State, merely
+passing into the hands of New York oystermen, who replanted, reaping
+in one year a harvest of at least five bushels to every one "bedded."
+Through the inactivity of town control, the incentive to get ahead of
+the other fellow and the ignorance that they are wasting their own
+substance have caused many quahaugers in the past to do this at many
+places.</p>
+
+<p>The 1&frac12;-inch quahaug law has been for years a law for many towns
+in the State. It has been practically a dead letter in all but Edgartown,
+where it is enforced thoroughly. There should be a State law restricting
+the size of the quahaugs taken.</p>
+
+<p>(2) The enforcement of a 1&frac12;-inch clam law, especially in the towns
+of Fall River and Swansea, where the digging has reduced the clams
+to a small size, likewise deserves immediate attention.</p>
+
+<p>All the present evils have each contributed their share toward the
+ruin of the shellfisheries, and can be best summed up under one head,
+<i>i.e.</i>, the abuse of nature. All the above evils have either directly or
+indirectly worked towards this end. This "abuse of nature" has resulted
+in several ways: (1) indiscriminate fishing, restricted by no laws,
+augmented by unwise laws; (2) overfishing in certain localities until
+the supply is exhausted, as, among other instances, with the Essex
+clam flats and the natural oyster beds of the Weweantit River; (3)
+exploiting and wasting the natural resources, so that nature cannot
+repair the inroads. Nature cannot cope with despoiling man,&mdash;man
+must assist nature.</p>
+
+<p>In the past there has been much feeling, especially among the clammers
+of the north shore, against the Fish and Game Commission. It
+therefore is necessary to correct a mistaken impression, which has
+arisen among the clammers, that "the State is going to take the clam
+flats away from us." This idea is on the face of it absurd. The Massachusetts
+Fish and Game Commission is seeking only to have this question
+solved in such a manner as to yield the most satisfactory results for
+the public good. At the present time it would be highly undesirable to
+take the complete control of the shellfisheries from any town, as long as
+that town shows itself capable of regulating them wisely. At the present
+day but few towns show any signs of this. What is necessary and
+desirable is to have an intelligent supervisory body, with power to compel
+each town to take proper care of its shellfisheries. It is advisable
+that there be a central power, co-operating with the town control in all<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span>
+matters pertaining to the shellfisheries, whether it be regulations or the
+restocking of barren areas. A board of arbitration, a committee of
+appeal for any grievance under the town control, and a commission
+that would act for the interests of the whole State, are what is most
+desirable at the present time. Such an arrangement would not be
+changing radically the present system of town control, but it would
+free it from its existing evils, place it on a firm and just basis, and give
+the shellfisheries a chance for improvement.</p>
+
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">The Fisherman and Laws.</span></h3>
+
+<p>The fisherman of to-day, though nominally his own master, is in
+reality subject to the demands of the market. To gain a living he is
+forced to work in all kinds of weather, at cold, disagreeable work.
+Under the present system he is oppressed by useless special town laws,
+which merely increase his daily labors without benefiting the fishery in
+the least. A few good laws only are necessary for the shellfisheries. It
+is time that the fisherman, one of the great factors in the commercial
+supremacy of Massachusetts, should be freed from all unnecessary
+burdens through a new system of satisfactory laws.</p>
+
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">The Remedy.</span></h3>
+
+<p>In spite of all the existing evils of the town shellfisheries, the outlook
+is far from hopeless. To-day the shellfisheries of Massachusetts, owing
+to great natural resources, are as good or better than those of any
+other coast States, and only await development under proper methods
+to ensure a bright future. The Commissioners on Fisheries and Game
+can only point the way of reform; the result lies in the hands of the
+intelligent voters of this Commonwealth, whose action decides the
+future success or failure of the shellfisheries. It should be the object
+of every thinking voter, whether he be fisherman or consumer, to see
+that the right action be taken in regard to the shellfisheries.</p>
+
+<p>As shown in the preceding pages of this report, the attempted remedy
+has been based upon the false economic basis of attempting to check
+the demand by prohibiting digging for certain periods (closed seasons),
+limiting the amount to be legally dug by any one person, etc. It would
+be quite as logical for a town or city to prohibit by by-laws the use or
+digging of potatoes or any other food crop, when the supply was short,
+rather than to attempt to <i>increase</i> the supply. An increasing demand
+cannot be checked by any such ill-advised measures, but can be met only
+by a corresponding increase in the natural production. The only remedy
+that can be applied successfully is shellfish culture, which means
+the utilizing of thousands of acres of barren shore area for the planting
+of farms which will furnish harvests of shellfish. In this way the
+latent potentialities of nature, which it is criminal to neglect, will be
+utilized for the good of the entire population of the State.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span></p>
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+
+<p>We learn from the dictionaries that a farm is defined to be a tract of
+land under one control, devoted to agriculture, etc.; and that agriculture is
+the cultivation of the soil for food products or other useful or valuable
+growths. All this is very familiar knowledge, as applied to the dry land;
+but that there may fairly be brought within these definitions the operations
+of an industry in which lands covered by the salt waters of our bays and
+harbors are tilled, cultivated, raked, harrowed and planted with seedling
+bivalves, and harvests of a valuable product garnered, constituting a superb
+food for the masses, is less familiar, and to many may seem quite astonishing.
+It is within a comparatively few years that this unique style of farming
+has had its growth and development, until now many thousands of acres
+of land under water have been carefully surveyed, and the boundaries
+marked by buoys and stakes.<a name="FNanchor_6_6" id="FNanchor_6_6"></a><a href="#Footnote_6_6" class="fnanchor">[6]</a></p></div>
+
+<p>To bring the shellfisheries of Massachusetts to their maximum production
+will take years, but within five years the production can be
+nearly doubled, if work in the right direction is begun at once. Patience
+will be required to overcome the obstacles which must be met,
+and the change must necessarily be gradual.</p>
+
+<p>Every year the difficulties of reform increase. Owing to a steadily
+increasing demand, the natural supply is becoming smaller, and consequently
+the difficulty of increasing it becomes so much the harder.
+Soon the line of possibility will be crossed, and the shellfisheries will
+become an industry of the past. A few shellfish will always remain,
+but as an important industry, the shellfisheries, if no remedy is applied,
+in twenty-five years will be commercially extinct. While there is
+still time, let action be taken.</p>
+
+<p>The utilization of the barren shellfish areas, wise laws, good regulations
+and systematic methods of culture are necessary, in order to
+obtain the maximum production from these sea farms. The sea farm
+possesses one advantage over the ordinary farm,&mdash;the soil never becomes
+exhausted, as the shellfish derive their sustenance from the
+water, utilizing indirectly the waste nitrates of the land. To do this it
+is necessary that shellfish culture be at once begun, either by individuals
+or by towns.</p>
+
+<p>Three methods of shellfish culture offer ways of approach towards
+the utilization of the waste areas:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(1) To leave the matter wholly in the hands of the town. This is
+the poorest way, as has been shown in the past. Unless the town officials
+were well informed about the shellfisheries, it would be an absurd
+farce to entrust the future of this important industry wholly in their
+hands.</p>
+
+<p>(2) Place all power with the State, instead of with the town.
+Have a unified and simplified system, whereby shellfish farms and
+grants can be leased by the individuals. This plan, much better than<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span>
+the first, and possibly the final solution, is, however, not practical of
+application to the existing conditions. Later, when these conditions
+are removed, it may prove the best solution of the problem.</p>
+
+<p>(3) The present system of town control to remain. The appointment
+of the Fish and Game Commission, or a similar commission, to
+have complete advisory power over the towns, and power to force each
+town to properly protect its shellfish. A State law would be passed,
+legalizing grants to individuals and dividing the flats into two equal
+parts,&mdash;public and private. The leasing of grants would be in the
+hands of the town authorities, but subject to appeal for any grievance
+to the Fish and Game Commission.</p>
+
+<p>In the chapter relating to each shellfish will be given the practical
+methods of cultivation for reclaiming the waste areas. These methods
+have been proved by the experimental work of this commission, the
+results of which may be published in a subsequent scientific report upon
+the shellfish. The commission has definitely shown that shellfish culture
+in Massachusetts is a possibility, and, moreover, a remunerative possibility.</p>
+
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">Who Would Benefit?</span></h3>
+
+<p>(1) Under the proposed system of practical shellfish culture, many
+classes of people would be benefited. The person who would be primarily
+benefited is the fisherman. In the following ways the condition of
+the industrious fisherman would be bettered: (<i>a</i>) his work would be
+steady, not uncertain; (<i>b</i>) he would know his exact annual income, and
+could govern his living expenses accordingly; (<i>c</i>) he would receive more
+money, with less hardship; (<i>d</i>) he would ensure steady market returns,
+which under the present system are very uncertain; (e) he would be his
+own master, and not forced to work for poor pay, under the stress of
+wasteful competition.</p>
+
+<p>(2) The shellfisheries are not for any particular class, but should benefit
+all, and any improvement in the industry affects all people. A second
+class would also be benefited by an increase in the shellfish
+industries. This class can be divided into two groups: (<i>a</i>) those directly
+influenced; (<i>b</i>) those indirectly. In the first group are the middlemen,&mdash;dealers.
+By an increased trade, more firms enter the business, more
+men are hired, etc. Comprising the second group are teamsters, coopers,
+shop owners, sailors, transportation lines,&mdash;an indefinite list, which
+would be indirectly benefited by an increase in the shellfish industry.</p>
+
+<p>(3) Thirdly, the consumer would receive the benefit of improved
+quality of goods, reasonable prices, etc. Through increased transportation
+facilities the inland consumer would have the pleasure of
+partaking of sea food, and what were once the luxuries of the rich could
+be had by all.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">Capital.</span></h3>
+
+<p>Capital is needed for the best success of any business. In a broad
+sense, the tools, implements, etc., of the shellfisherman are capital. In
+the future, if the shellfisheries are to become a great industry, money
+as working capital is indispensable. Blind objection to the employment
+of capital on the part of the fishermen works against the best
+interests of the shellfisheries.</p>
+
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">Shellfish Monopoly.</span></h3>
+
+<p>For years the fishermen have feared that the shellfisheries would fall
+into the hands of a few companies or trusts, and the individual fisherman
+thereby lose his independence. As the present age tends toward
+the formation of monopolies in all business, the fears of the fishermen
+are not altogether groundless in this respect; nevertheless, while there
+are certain chances of monopoly in the shellfisheries, these chances are
+very small. In the first place, a monopoly of a raw edible product,
+such as shellfish, is hardly possible. Never can it be possible for any
+one company to control all or the majority of a shellfish supply, which
+possesses unlimited possibilities of expansion.</p>
+
+<p>Secondly, there are but two ways in which a monopoly of the shellfisheries
+can be obtained: one is the control of the market by buying
+up all the shellfish,&mdash;a thing far easier under the present conditions;
+the other, by buying through contract the rights of the individual
+planters. The success of such an enterprise would depend wholly
+upon the personnel of the shellfishermen, and such a result could never
+become possible if each shellfisherman would refuse to sell his rights.</p>
+
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">Summary.</span></h3>
+
+<p>This survey has shown (1) that the shellfisheries have declined (an
+established fact); (2) that the causes of the decline are overfishing
+and unwise laws; (3) that the remedy is, not to check the demand, as
+has been previously attempted, but to increase the production by the
+utilization of vast areas of barren flats, which have been experimentally
+proved capable of yielding a great harvest; (4) that the present
+chaotic laws render this impossible; (5) that there is a need of reform,
+or else the shellfisheries will soon disappear; (6) that the first step is
+the removal of these laws to permit the application of proper cultural
+methods.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_1_1" id="Footnote_1_1"></a><a href="#FNanchor_1_1"><span class="label">[1]</span></a> Gulf Biologic Station, Cameron, La., Bulletin No. 3, 1905.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_2_2" id="Footnote_2_2"></a><a href="#FNanchor_2_2"><span class="label">[2]</span></a> Returns of Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Game.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_3_3" id="Footnote_3_3"></a><a href="#FNanchor_3_3"><span class="label">[3]</span></a> United States Fish Commission Pamphlet, 1898.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_4_4" id="Footnote_4_4"></a><a href="#FNanchor_4_4"><span class="label">[4]</span></a> New York Shellfish Report, p. 7.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_5_5" id="Footnote_5_5"></a><a href="#FNanchor_5_5"><span class="label">[5]</span></a> Report on the Shellfisheries, pp. 33-35.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_6_6" id="Footnote_6_6"></a><a href="#FNanchor_6_6"><span class="label">[6]</span></a> Forest, Fish and Game Commission Bulletin, Shellfish Culture in New York, 1905. By
+B. Frank Wood.</p></div></div>
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="Quahaug_Venus_mercenaria" id="Quahaug_Venus_mercenaria"><span class="smcap">Quahaug</span> (<i>Venus mercenaria</i>).</a></h2>
+
+
+<p>Inhabiting common waters with the scallop, the northern range of
+the quahaug (the hard-shell clam or "little neck") in Massachusetts is
+Plymouth. Commercially it is found both on the north and south
+side of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay, the principal fisheries
+being at Wellfleet, Orleans, Edgartown, Nantucket and in Buzzards Bay.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The quahaug, while essentially a southern and warm-water form,
+being found in the United States along the Atlantic seacoast as far
+south as the Gulf of Mexico, practically reaches its northern range in
+Massachusetts. In a few sheltered bays on the Maine coast quahaugs
+are sometimes found, but in small quantities. However, at Prince
+Edward Island there is said to be an abundance.</p>
+
+<p>Along the coast of Massachusetts north of Boston very few quahaugs
+are found, although they were formerly taken near Salem. The black
+quahaug (<i>Cyprina islandica</i>), so called from its dark epidermis, is often
+caught in the trawls, but this is a deep-sea form, and by no means a
+true quahaug. In Essex and Ipswich rivers and on Plum Island experimental
+beds have shown that quahaugs grow in these waters, but no
+spawn has yet been noticed, though ripe eggs were developed in the
+planted quahaugs. Owing to the swift currents, which carry the
+spawn perhaps for miles, it is impossible to determine accurately
+whether any set has taken place.</p>
+
+<p>During the past three years, as outlined by chapter 78, Resolves of
+1905, the Fish and Game Commission has conducted a series of experiments
+upon the quahaug, designated to furnish sufficient data concerning
+the growth of this mollusk under a variety of conditions, to demonstrate
+the possibilities and value of practical quahaug farming. The results of
+these investigations upon the life, habits and culture of the quahaug
+are to be published in a later scientific report. It is necessary here to
+say that all statements in this report concerning the growth and culture
+of quahaugs have been proved by experiments, the results of which are
+on file at the office of the department of fisheries and game.</p>
+
+<p>It is the object of this report to present both to the fishermen and
+consumers (1) actual statistical figures of the industry of the State for
+1907; (2) a biological survey of the quahauging areas, outlined by
+maps and descriptions; (3) a description of the industry. This survey
+should furnish a basis for determining any decline or advance in the
+quahaug industry of the future, as well as affording comparison with
+the United States Fish Commission survey of 1879, made by Ernest
+Ingersoll.</p>
+
+<p>Massachusetts, situated at the northern limit of the quahaug industry
+of the United States, is handicapped in comparison with other States,
+as only the southern waters of the State are given to this industry.
+Nevertheless, though possessing only a partial industry, Massachusetts
+ranks the fourth State in quahaug production, according to the 1906
+report of the United States Fish Commission.</p>
+
+<p>The same natural conditions which suit so well the shallow-water
+scallop are also adapted to the growth of the quahaug. In nearly all
+the sheltered bays, inlets and rivers of the southern coast of Massachusetts
+the quahaug can be found in varying abundance. Technically,
+there is more territory which admits the possibility of quahaug growth
+than of any other shellfish. The bathymetric range of the quahaug<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span>
+is extensive, as the quahaug is raked in all depths of water up to 50
+feet. In spite of the vast territory nature has provided for the quahaug
+in the waters of Massachusetts, the commercial fishery is found only
+in small parts of this large area. Scattered quahaugs are found over
+the rest of the area, but in paying quantities only in limited places.</p>
+
+<p>The possibilities of developing this great natural tract of quahaug
+ground are especially alluring,&mdash;far more so than any of the other
+shellfisheries. The quahaug has a greater area, greater possible expansion
+and a more profitable market. Nature has equipped southern
+Massachusetts with numerous bays with remarkable facilities for the
+production of quahaugs; it only remains for man to make the most of
+these.</p>
+
+<p><i>Method of Work.</i>&mdash;The method of work used in preparing this portion
+of the report varied but little from that relating to the other shellfish,
+though several features made it harder to obtain accurate information.
+There is a more general obscurity about the history of the quahaug
+than about any of the other shellfish, even though the quahaug industry
+is commercially the youngest of all. This is due, perhaps, to the gradual
+rise of the industry through the discovery of new territory. The only
+historical record obtainable is E. Ingersoll's report on the quahaug, in
+1879, in which he deals briefly with the industry in Massachusetts.
+Town records help but little in determining the history of the industry,
+as only of late years have the towns required the taking of permits.</p>
+
+<p>In making the biological survey, the difficulty arises of defining what
+constitutes quahaug ground, since scattering quahaugs are found over
+vast territories, but only limited areas are commercially productive. The
+estimates of the quahaugers, both historically and in regard to production
+and areas, are often erroneous and vary greatly. By the use of
+market reports, express shipments, estimates of dealers, estimates of
+several reliable quahaugers, and all methods at our command, the facts
+of the industry were compiled and errors eliminated as far as possible.
+The home consumption is hard to determine, and is merely an estimate.
+The area of the quahaug territory was plotted on the map, and
+calculations made from the plots. Whenever personal inspection was
+not possible, as in Falmouth, the estimates of several quahaugers were
+taken.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Results.</i></h3>
+
+<p>1. <i>Is the Quahaug Fishery declining?</i>&mdash;The decline of the quahaug
+fishery is well recognized. Even the production figures, which, when
+stimulated by high prices, usually give a deceptive appearance of prosperity
+to a declining industry, since more men enter the fishery, show
+a decline in the last few years. When such a point is reached,&mdash;when,
+in spite of higher prices and more men, the annual production
+becomes less and less,&mdash;not many years will pass before the industry
+will collapse completely.</p>
+
+<p>Increased prices show either an increase in demand or a falling off<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span>
+of the supply. Both are perhaps true of the quahaug industry. The
+demand, especially for "little necks," has been steadily on the increase,
+and a broad inland market is gradually opening, since the quahaug is
+capable of long transportation without perishing. So the increased
+prices are a sign of the diminution of the supply, as well as of an increased
+demand, the indeterminable factor being what ratio the one bears
+to the other.</p>
+
+<p>The only way to determine accurately the decline in the natural supply
+is to compare the amount the average quahauger could dig ten or
+twenty years ago with the amount dug to-day. Even this comparison
+is unfair, as the better rakes, improved methods, etc., of the present
+time tend to increase the daily yield of the quahauger.</p>
+
+<p>This decline can best be shown by taking special localities:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(1) <i>Buzzards Bay.</i>&mdash;The quahaug industry in Buzzards Bay has
+shown a great decline in the past ten to twenty years, and the industry
+is now at a low ebb, especially in the towns of Marion and Mattapoisett.
+Wareham, Bourne and Fairhaven still manage to ship about
+27,000 bushels annually, employing over 200 men; but this is hardly up
+to their former standard. To-day at Wareham the daily catch per man
+is one-fifth of what it was twenty years ago; in 1887 a man could dig
+5 bushels to a catch of 1 bushel now. Buzzards Bay perhaps has shown
+the greatest quahaug decline.</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>South Side of Cape Cod.</i>&mdash;While not so marked a decline has
+taken place as in Buzzards Bay, every quahauger agrees that the industry
+is gradually failing. In Bass River, at Hyannis, and in Chatham,
+there is a marked decrease, while at Cotuit and Osterville the
+industry has remained stationary.</p>
+
+<p>(3) <i>North Side of Cape Cod.</i>&mdash;The best quahaug fishery of Massachusetts,
+except at Edgartown, is found on the north side of Cape Cod,
+in the towns of Wellfleet, Eastham and Orleans. These three towns
+give an annual yield of 75,000 bushels. Only about fifteen years old
+commercially, the industry has passed its prime and is on the decline.
+This decline is shown both by production figures and by the gradual
+moving to deeper water. As the quahaugs were thinned out in shallow
+water, the fishermen moved farther and farther out, using long rakes,
+until 60-foot rakes are now used at a depth of 50 feet. Probably the
+60-foot limit will never be exceeded, unless a method of dredging is
+devised; and it will be only a question of years when the industry will
+become extinct.</p>
+
+<p>(4) <i>Nantucket.</i>&mdash;The industry here has generally declined, though
+in the last few years there has been a slight increase in production.</p>
+
+<p>(5) <i>Edgartown.</i>&mdash;The quahaug industry at Edgartown has declined
+little, if any, while the fishery has been carried on for many years. The
+natural resources have not been seriously impaired, owing to the efficient
+town management; and Edgartown can be congratulated on being
+the only town in the State that can boast of a protected industry.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Although the quahaug industry has not openly shown the tendency
+to decline that the soft clam has manifested in southern Massachusetts,
+the danger is nevertheless very great, and the disaster would be far
+worse. The fishermen of Cape Cod realize that the clam industry has
+practically gone; but they are blind to the fact that a far more important
+one&mdash;the quahaug industry&mdash;is in as grave danger, and only
+when it is too late will they wake to a realization of the situation.</p>
+
+<p>The clam industry on Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay will never assume
+the importance it possesses on the north shore, owing to lack of extensive
+flats. Rather the quahaug industry is the main shellfish industry
+of the south shore, as it is more valuable, more important, and capable
+of vast expansion. The development of the quahaug industry should
+bring many hundred thousand dollars to Cape Cod.</p>
+
+<p>II. <i>Causes of the Decline.</i>&mdash;The direct cause is overfishing. The
+quahaug is hardy, little harmed by climatic changes, and has but few
+natural enemies. Man alone has caused the decline of the natural
+supply. Not satisfied with taking the mediums and large quahaugs,
+but spurred on by the high prices offered for the "little neck," the
+quahaug fisherman has cleaned up everything he can get, and the natural
+supply has suffered greatly. If the market demands the capture of the
+"little neck," it is necessary to leave the large quahaugs as "spawners."
+At the present time, by the capture of both the industry is being ruined.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>The Remedy.</i>&mdash;<i>Quahaug Farming.</i></h3>
+
+<p>There is only <i>one way</i> in which the present decline can be checked,
+and that is, to increase the natural supply by cultural methods to meet
+the demands of the market. The only way to accomplish this increase
+is to plant and raise quahaugs,&mdash;in fact, have a system of <i>quahaug
+farming</i> for the whole south shore of Massachusetts. In considering
+quahaug farming, many questions naturally arise: (1) Is quahaug
+farming an established fact, or a mere theory? (2) Possibilities of
+quahaug farming. (3) What is the growth of the quahaug, and how
+long does it take to raise a crop? (4) What is the value of a quahaug
+farm? (5) What benefits would the quahaug industry receive from
+such a system?</p>
+
+<p>(1) <i>Quahaug Farming an Established Fact,&mdash;not a Theory.</i>&mdash;It is
+not the object of this report to go into a scientific treatise upon experiments
+in quahaug culture. For the past three years the Commission
+on Fisheries and Game has been conducting experiments upon the
+growth and culture of quahaugs, the results of which will be published
+in a subsequent report. These experiments have shown that quahaug
+farming is no theory, but an established fact, and that, if taken up, it
+will make the quahaug fishery the most important shellfish industry
+of the State. These experiments, consisting of small beds one one-thousandth
+of an acre in area, were located at different places along
+the coast. Various conditions in regard to food, current, tide, soil, etc.,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span>
+were tested. The results from nearly every bed were excellent, and
+showed the ease of culture and the great profit which would result if
+larger areas were thus worked.</p>
+
+<p>The results obtained from the experiments of the commission alone
+are sufficient to prove the practicability of quahaug farming, even if
+there were no other proofs. As it is, there have been many tests made
+by the oystermen, both outside and inside the State. Some years ago
+the oystermen near New York realized the possibilities of raising quahaugs
+on their oyster grants, and to-day Massachusetts ships many
+barrels of "seed" quahaugs out of the State to these far-sighted business
+men, who reap large returns by replanting these small "little
+necks." The Massachusetts oystermen have not been slow to realize
+the large returns afforded by quahaug culture, and some have planted
+many bushels of the "seed," thus turning their grants into partial
+quahaug farms. These men have proved that this style of farming is
+practical, and that as a money-making proposition the quahaug is far
+ahead of the oyster.</p>
+
+<p>As affairs exist to-day in Massachusetts, a few men alone have the
+privilege of raising quahaugs, while the rest stand idle. Theoretically
+and legally, no one has the right to plant and raise quahaugs in the
+State; but practically and secretly it is done with great success. Who
+can blame the oysterman for raising quahaugs with his oysters, in
+view of the fast-declining quahaug industry? Rather by so doing he
+is helping perpetuate the natural supply. The objection to this present
+system of secret quahaug farming is its unfairness. A few men
+are enjoying the privileges that many others should likewise enjoy.
+There is plenty of room, and quahaug farming might as well be carried
+on openly, to the benefit of all.</p>
+
+<p>While the oystermen have made a move toward general quahaug farming,
+and have shown the great possibilities that this system possesses,
+the quahaugers have also exhibited a tendency in a similar direction.
+The originators of the town law in Eastham, Orleans and Wellfleet,
+which provides for the leasing of 5,625 square feet of flat for bedding
+the catch, and thus makes possible the advantage of a favorable market,
+probably did not imagine that this was the first great step on the part
+of the quahaugers towards shellfish farming. The success of this scheme
+has here opened the eyes of the intelligent quahaugers to the even
+better possibilities of quahaug culture, and any well-devised scheme
+of shellfish farming will be favorably received.</p>
+
+<p>The main impulse that makes people turn to quahaug culture is the
+steady decline of the industry, especially during the last few years. In
+the previous pages of this report there have been shown: (1) the
+actuality of the decline; (2) the causes of this decline. The proof of
+the decline is so generally apparent that it has created a popular demand
+for a fair system of quahaug farming, to check the diminution
+of the present supply.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>Possibilities of Quahaug Farming.</i>&mdash;The quahaug has a wide
+range; it is found in all depths of water, from high tide line to sixty
+feet, and in various kinds of mud and sand bottom. This natural
+adaptability gives the quahaug a wider area than any other shellfish,
+as it will live in nearly any bottom, although the rate of growth depends
+essentially upon its location in respect to current. This permits
+the utilization of vast areas which to-day are unproductive, and which
+can all be made into profitable quahaug farms. Quahaugs will grow
+on thousands of acres of flats, such as the Common Flats of Chatham,
+if they are planted. There are indefinite possibilities of expansion in
+quahaug farming through the reclamation of this unproductive sea
+bottom.</p>
+
+<p>(3) <i>Rate of Growth of Quahaug.</i>&mdash;The rate of growth of the quahaug
+varies greatly in regard to its location in respect to the current.
+The quahaugs which have the better current or circulation of water
+show the faster growth. The fastest growth recorded by the experiments
+of the Department on Fisheries and Game was a gain of 1 inch
+a year; <i>i.e.</i>, 1&frac12;-inch quahaugs attained in one year a length of 2&frac12;
+inches. The average growth is between &frac12; and &frac34; inch a year, or a
+yield of 3 to 5 bushels for every bushel planted, or the return in one
+year of $4 for every $1 invested. In the more favorable localities there
+would be the enormous gain of $8 for every dollar invested. All this
+can be done in six months, as the quahaug grows only during the six
+summer months. The above figures are taken from experiments which
+have been conducted on Cape Cod, in Buzzards Bay and at Nantucket.</p>
+
+<p>(4) <i>Value of a Quahaug Farm.</i>&mdash;An acre of "little-neck" quahaugs
+has a high market value. A conservative estimate of 10 per square foot
+gives the yield in one year of 2&frac12;-inch quahaugs as 600 bushels per
+acre; This means that 120 bushels of 1&frac34;-inch quahaugs were planted
+to the acre. The price paid for the same would be $600, at the high
+price of $5 per bushel. The price received for the same, at $3 per
+bushel, would bring $1,800, or a gain of $3 for every $1 invested. This
+is a conservative estimate on all sides. Quahaugs could be planted
+two or three times as thick, seed might be purchased for less money,
+more money might be received for private shipments, and faster growth
+can be obtained. The only labor necessary is gathering the quahaugs
+for market. The quahaug farm requires no such care as the agricultural
+farm, and offers far more profit.</p>
+
+<p>(5) <i>Advantage of Quahaug Culture.</i>&mdash;The quahaug is the most
+remunerative of any of our shellfish. It possesses several advantages
+over the oyster: (1) it is hardier,&mdash;less influenced by climatic conditions;
+(2) it has fewer enemies, as it lies protected under the sand;
+(3) it possesses a market the whole year; (4) there is more money
+for the planter in raising "little necks" than in raising oysters. If
+oyster culture has succeeded in Massachusetts, there is no question that,
+given a proper chance, quahaug culture can be put on a firm basis, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span>
+made the leading shellfish industry of Massachusetts. The value of
+the present quahaug industry lies chiefly in the production of "little
+necks." Under a cultural system of quahaug farms, this could be made
+a specialty. Old quahaugs would be kept as "seeders," and "little
+necks" alone raised for the market. The advantage of furnishing
+"little necks" of uniform size would lead to increased prices; steady
+customers would be obtained and certainty of production guaranteed.
+All the advantages lie with quahaug farming, as opposed to the present
+method of "free-for-all" digging.</p>
+
+<p>The quahaug industry of the future, if put on a cultural basis, will not
+only check the decline of a valuable industry, but will increase the present
+production many fold. A far larger supply, work for more men
+and better prices for the consumer will result.</p>
+
+<p>(6) <i>Spat Collecting.</i>&mdash;The main obstacle that stands in the way of
+permanent quahaug culture is a lack of sufficient young "seed" quahaugs.
+While several heavy sets have been recorded, the "seed"
+quahaugs are never found in vast quantities, as are the young of the
+soft clam (<i>Mya arenaria</i>). The set of quahaugs is usually scattering
+and slight. A method of spat collecting, <i>i.e.</i>, catching the spawn and
+raising the small quahaugs, is alone necessary for the complete success
+of quahaug culture. While nothing of practical importance has yet
+been found, indications are favorable that some means will be devised
+in the next few years, and that quantities of young quahaugs can be
+raised. Experiments have already shown that as many as 75 can be
+caught per square foot in box spat collectors; but a more practical
+method than this must be found to make the business profitable.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>The Quahaug Industry.</i></h3>
+
+<p><i>Methods of Capture.</i>&mdash;Several methods of taking quahaugs are in
+vogue in Massachusetts, some simple and primitive, others more advanced
+and complex, but all modifications of simple raking or digging.
+These methods have arisen with the development of the industry, and
+record the historical changes in the quahaug fishery, as each new fishery
+or separate locality demands some modification of the usual methods.</p>
+
+<p>(1) "<i>Treading.</i>"&mdash;The early settlers in Massachusetts quickly
+learned from the Indians the primitive method of "treading" quahaugs,
+which required no implements except the hands and feet. The "treader"
+catches the quahaug by wading about in the water, feeling for them
+with his toes in the soft mud, and then picking them up by hand. Nowhere
+in Massachusetts is it used as a method of commercial fishery.</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>Tidal Flat Fishery.</i>&mdash;Often quahaugs are found on the exposed
+tidal flats, where they can sometimes be taken by hand, but more often
+with ordinary clam hoes or short rakes. Owing to the scarcity of quahaugs
+between the tide lines, this method does not pay for market fishing,
+and is only resorted to by people who dig for home consumption.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>(3) <i>Tonging.</i>&mdash;In most parts of Buzzards Bay and in a few places
+on Cape Cod quahaugs are taken with <i>oyster tongs</i>. This method is
+applicable only in water less than 12 feet deep, as the longest tongs
+measure but 16 feet. Four sizes of tongs are used, 8, 10, 12 and 16
+feet in length. Tonging is carried on in the small coves and inlets,
+where there is little if any rough water. A muddy bottom is usually
+preferable, as a firm, hard soil increases the labor of manipulating
+the tongs, which are used in the same manner as in tonging oysters.</p>
+
+<p>(4) <i>Raking.</i>&mdash;The most universal method of taking quahaugs is with
+rakes. This method is used in every quahaug locality in Massachusetts,
+each town having its special kind of rake. Four main types of rakes
+can be recognized:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(<i>a</i>) <i>The Digger.</i>&mdash;In some localities, chiefly in Buzzards Bay, the
+ordinary potato digger or rake, having four or five long, thin prongs, is
+used. Usually it has a back of wire netting, which holds the quahaugs
+when caught by the prongs. As the digger has a short handle of 5
+feet, it can be used only in shallow water, where the quahauger, wading
+in the water, turns out the quahaugs with this narrow rake. This method
+yields but a scanty return, and is more often used for home consumption
+than for market.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>b</i>) <i>The Garden Rake.</i>&mdash;The ordinary garden rake, equipped with
+a basket back of wire netting, is in more general use in shallow water,
+either by wading or from a boat, as it has the advantage of being wider
+than the potato digger.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>c</i>) <i>The Claw Rake.</i>&mdash;This type of rake varies in size, width and
+length of handle. It is used chiefly at Nantucket. The usual style has a
+handle 6 feet long, while the iron part in the form of a claw or talon
+is 10 inches wide, with prongs 1 inch apart. Heavier rakes with longer
+handles are sometimes used for deep water, but for shallow water the
+usual form is the short-claw rake.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>d</i>) <i>The Basket Rake.</i>-The greater part of the quahaug production
+is taken from deep water, with the basket rake. These rakes have handles
+running from 23 to 65 feet in length, according to the depth of
+water over the beds. Where the water is of various depths, several
+detachable handles of various lengths are used. At the end of these long
+handles is a small cross-piece, similar to the cross-piece of a lawn mower;
+this enables the quahauger to obtain a strong pull when raking. The
+handles are made of strong wood, and are very thin and flexible, not
+exceeding 1&frac12; inches in diameter. The price of these handles varies
+according to the length, but the average price is about $2. As the long
+handles break very easily, great care must be taken in raking.</p>
+
+<p>Three forms of the basket rake are used in Massachusetts. These
+rakes vary greatly in form and size, and it is merely a question of
+opinion which variety is the best, as all are made on the same general
+principle,&mdash;a curved, basket-shaped body, the bottom edge of which
+is set with thin steel teeth.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span></p>
+
+<p><i>The Wellfleet and Chatham Rake.</i>&mdash;This rake is perhaps the most
+generally used for all deep-water quahauging on Cape Cod, and finds
+favor with all. It consists of an iron framework, forming a curved
+bowl, the under edge of which is set with thin steel teeth varying
+in length from 2 to 4 inches, though usually 2&frac12;-inch teeth are the
+favorite. Formerly these teeth were made of iron, but owing to the
+rapid wear it was found necessary to make them of steel. Over
+the bowl of this rake, which is strengthened by side and cross pieces
+of iron, is fitted a twine net, which, like the net of a scallop dredge,
+drags behind the framework. An average rake has from 19 to 21
+teeth, and weighs from 15 to 20 pounds.</p>
+
+<p><i>Edgartown Basket Rake.</i>&mdash;The basket rake used at Edgartown and
+Nantucket is lighter and somewhat smaller than the Wellfleet rake.
+The whole rake, except the teeth, is made of iron. No netting is required,
+as thin iron wires 1/3 inch apart encircle lengthwise the whole
+basket, preventing the escape of any marketable quahaug, and at the
+same time allowing the mud to wash out. This rake has 16 steel teeth,
+1&frac12; inches long, fitted at intervals of 1 inch in the bottom scraping bar,
+which is 16 inches long; the depth of the basket is about 8 inches. Much
+shorter poles, not exceeding 30 feet in length, are used with this rake,
+and the whole rake is much lighter. The price of this rake is $7.50,
+while the poles cost $1.50.</p>
+
+<p>The third form of basket rake is a cross between the basket and
+claw rakes. This rake is used both at Nantucket and on Cape Cod, but
+is not so popular as the other types. The basket is formed by the curve
+of the prongs, which are held together by two long cross-bars at the top
+and bottom of the basket, while the ends are enclosed by short strips
+of iron. This rake exemplifies the transition stage between the claw
+and basket types, indicating that the basket form was derived from the
+former. Handles 20 to 30 feet long are generally used with these rakes.</p>
+
+<p><i>Shallow v. Deep Water Quahauging.</i>&mdash;Two kinds of quahauging
+are found in Massachusetts,&mdash;the deep and the shallow water fisheries.
+This arbitrary distinction also permits a division of localities in regard
+to the principal methods of fishing. Although in all localities there
+exists more or less shallow-water fishing, the main quahaug industry of
+several towns is the deep-water fishery. In all the Buzzards Bay towns
+except Fairhaven and New Bedford the shallow-water fishery prevails;
+this is also true of the south side of Cape Cod. On the north side of
+Cape Cod the opposite is true, as the quahauging at Wellfleet, Eastham,
+Orleans and Brewster is practically all deep-water fishing. At Edgartown
+and Nantucket, although there is considerable shallow-water digging,
+the deep-water fishery is the more important.</p>
+
+<p>The deep-water fishery is vastly more productive than the shallow-water
+industry, furnishing annually 118,500 bushels, compared to
+23,227 bushels, or more than 5 times as much. The deep-water fishery,
+<i>i.e.</i>, the basket-rake fishery, is the main quahaug fishery of the State,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span>
+and each year it is increasing, because of the opening of new beds.
+On the other hand, the shallow-water grounds are rapidly becoming
+barren from overfishing.</p>
+
+<p>The deep-water quahauging is harder work, requires considerable
+capital but has fewer working days. Naturally the earnings from this
+fishery should surpass those of the shallow-water industry. The deep-water
+quahauger averages from $5 to $8 for a working day, while the
+shallow-water fisherman earns only from $2 to $3 per day.</p>
+
+<p><i>Deep-water Quahauging.</i>&mdash;Both power and sail boats are used in
+deep-water quahauging, though power is gradually replacing the old
+method of sailing, because of its increased efficiency and saving of time.
+When the quahaug grounds are reached, the boat is anchored at both
+bow and stern, one continuous rope connecting both anchors, which are
+from 500 to 600 feet apart, in such a way that the bow of the boat is
+always headed against the tide. A sufficient amount of slack is required
+for the proper handling of the boat, which can be moved along this
+anchor "road" as on a cable, and a large territory raked. The rake
+is lowered from the bow of the boat, the length of the handle being
+regulated by the depth of the water, and the teeth worked into the sandy
+or muddy bottom. The quahauger then takes firm hold of the cross-piece
+at the end of the handle, and works the rake back to the stern of
+the boat, where it is hauled in and the contents dumped on the culling
+board or picked out of the net. In hauling in the net the rake is turned
+so that the opening is on top, and the mud and sand is washed out before
+it is taken on board. The long pole passes across the boat and
+extends into the water on the opposite side when the rake is hauled in.
+This process is repeated until the immediate locality becomes unprofitable,
+when the boat is shifted along the cable.</p>
+
+<p>The usual time for quahauging is from half ebb to half flood tide,
+thus avoiding the extra labor of high-water raking. Deep-water raking
+is especially hard labor, and six hours constitute a good day's work.</p>
+
+<p><i>Boats.</i>&mdash;Nearly all kinds of boats are utilized in the quahaug fishery,
+and are of all values, from the $10 second-hand skiff to the 38-foot
+power seine boat, which costs $1,500. The shallow-water industry requires
+but little invested capital. Dories and skiffs are the principal
+boats, costing from $10 to $25. Occasionally a sail or power boat
+may be used in this fishery. The deep-water industry requires larger and
+stronger boats. These are either power or sail boats, often auxiliary
+"cats," and their value runs anywhere from $150 to $1,500. The
+average price for the sail boats is $250, while the power boats are
+assessed at $350. At Orleans several large power seine boats, valued at
+about $1,500, are used in the quahaug fishery. These seine boats are
+30 to 38 feet over all, have low double cabins, and are run by 8 to 12
+horse-power gasolene engines. The ordinary power boats have gasolene
+engines from 2 to 6 horse-power. In this way each method of
+quahauging has its own boats, which are adapted for its needs.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span></p>
+
+<p><i>Dredging.</i>&mdash;So far as known, dredging is never used in quahauging
+in Massachusetts, although it is sometimes used on sea-clam beds. It has
+been tried, but without success, chiefly because of the uneven nature of
+the bottom. The invention of a suitable dredge is necessary, and there
+can be little doubt that in the future, if this difficulty is overcome,
+dredging will be used in the quahaug fishery. In 1879 Mr. Ernest
+Ingersoll reports in Rhode Island the use of a quahaug dredge similar
+in structure to our rake. Evidently this form was never especially
+successful, possibly because these dredges could not be dragged by
+sail boats.</p>
+
+<p><i>Outfit of a Quahauger.</i>&mdash;The implements and boats used in quahauging
+have already been mentioned. The outfit of the average
+quahauger in each fishery is here summarized:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Deep-water Quahauging.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Boat,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">2 rakes,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">3 poles,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$326</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Shallow-water Quahauging.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Boat,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Tongs or rakes,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Baskets,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$25</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p><i>Season.</i>&mdash;The quahaug fishery is essentially a summer fishery, and
+little if any is done during the winter. The season in Massachusetts
+lasts for seven months, usually starting the last of March or the first
+of April, and ending about the first of November. The opening of the
+spring season varies several weeks, owing to the severity of the weather;
+and the same is true of the closing of the season.</p>
+
+<p>As a rule, the Buzzards Bay industry, where digging is done in the
+shallow waters of protected bays and coves, using short rakes and tongs,
+has a longer season than the quahaug industry of Cape Cod, where the
+fishery is carried on in deep and open waters. With the former, the
+cold work and hardship alone force the quahaugers to stop fishing, a
+long time after storms and rough weather have brought the latter industry
+to an end.</p>
+
+<p>The actual working days of the deep-water quahauger number hardly
+over 100 per season, while those of the shallow-water fishermen easily
+outnumber 150. The deep-water quahauger's daily earnings are two or
+three times the daily wages of the shallow-water quahauger, but the
+additional number of working days in part make up this difference.</p>
+
+<p>The quahaug season can be divided arbitrarily into three parts: (1)
+spring; (2) summer; (3) fall. The spring season lasts from April 1
+to June 15, the summer season from June 15 to September 15, and the
+fall season from September 15 to November 1. These seasons are
+marked by an increase in the number of quahaugers in the spring and
+fall. The men who do summer boating quahaug in the spring before the
+summer people arrive, and in the fall after the summer season is over.
+The opening of the scallop season, in towns that are fortunate enough
+to possess both industries, marks the closing of the quahaug season.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span>
+These two industries join so well, scalloping in the winter and quahauging
+in the summer, that a shellfisherman has work practically all
+the year.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Principal Markets.</i>&mdash;The principal markets for the sale of
+Massachusetts quahaugs are Boston and New York. In 1879 the Boston
+market, according to Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, sold comparatively few. At
+the present time the Boston market disposes of many thousand bushels
+annually, but nevertheless the greater part of the Massachusetts quahaugs
+are shipped to New York. This, again, is due to the better market
+prices offered by that city. Besides passing through these two main
+channels, quahaugs are shipped direct from the coast dealers to various
+parts of the country, especially the middle west. This last method
+seems to be on the increase, and the future may see a large portion of
+the quahaug trade carried on by direct inland shipments.</p>
+
+<p><i>Shipment.</i>&mdash;Quahaugs are shipped either in second-hand sugar or
+flour barrels or in bushel bags. The latter method is fast gaining popularity
+with the quahaugers and dealers, owing to its cheapness, and is
+now steadily used in some localities. When quahaugs are shipped in
+barrels, holes are made in the bottom and sides of the barrel, to allow
+free circulation of air and to let the water out, while burlap is used
+instead of wooden heads.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Culls.</i>"&mdash;Several culls are made for the market. These vary in
+number in different localities and with different firms, but essentially
+are modifications of the three "culls" made by the quahaugers: (1)
+"little necks;" (2) "sharps;" (3) "blunts." The divisions made by
+the firm of A. D. Davis &amp; Co. of Wellfleet are as follows: (1) "little
+necks," small, 1&frac12;-2&frac14; inches; large, 2&frac14;-3 inches; (2) medium
+"sharps," 3-3&frac34; inches; (3) large "sharps," 3&frac34; inches up; (4) small
+"blunts;" (5) large "blunts."</p>
+
+<p><i>Price.</i>&mdash;The prices received by the quahaugers are small, compared
+with the retail prices. "Little necks" fetch from $2.50 to $4 per bushel,
+sharps and small blunts from $1.10 to $2, and large blunts from 80
+cents to $1.50, according to the season, fall and spring prices necessarily
+being higher than in summer. The price depends wholly upon the
+supply in the market, and varies greatly, although the "little necks"
+are fairly constant, as the demand for these small quahaugs is very
+great. To what excess the demand for "little necks" has reached can
+best be illustrated by a comparison between the price of $3 paid to the
+quahauger per bushel, and the actual price, $50, paid for the same by
+the consumer in the hotel restaurants.</p>
+
+<p><i>Bedding Quahaugs for Market.</i>&mdash;By town laws in Orleans, Eastham
+and Wellfleet, each quahauger may, upon application, secure from the
+selectmen a license, giving him not more than 75 feet square of tidal
+flat upon which to bed his catch of quahaugs. While no positive protection
+is guaranteed, public opinion recognizes the right of each man
+to his leased area, and this alone affords sufficient protection for the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span>
+success of this communal effort, which is the first step by the people
+toward quahaug farming.</p>
+
+<p>The quahauger needs only to spread his catch on the surface, and
+within two tides the quahaugs will have buried themselves in the sand.
+Here they will remain, with no danger of moving away, as the quahaug
+moves but little. The quahauger loses nothing by this replanting, as
+not only do the quahaugs remain in a healthy condition, but even grow
+in their new environment.</p>
+
+<p>The result of this communal attempt at quahaug culture is beneficial.
+While the market price for "little necks" is almost always steady, the
+price of the larger quahaugs fluctuates considerably, and the market
+often becomes "glutted." This would naturally result in a severe loss
+to the quahauger if he were forced to keep shipping at a low price. As
+it is, the fortunate quahauger who possesses such a grant merely replants
+his daily catch until the market prices rise to their proper level.
+An additional advantage is gained by the quahauger, who at the end of
+the season has his grant well stocked, as higher prices are then offered.
+As many as 1,000 barrels are often held this way at the end of the
+season.</p>
+
+<p><i>Food Value.</i>&mdash;See food value table in scallop report.</p>
+
+<p><i>Uses.</i>&mdash;Besides its many uses as a food, raw, cooked and canned, the
+quahaug is of little importance in Massachusetts.</p>
+
+<p>(1) For bait the soft clam (<i>Mya arenaria</i>) is generally preferred,
+and but few quahaugs are used for this purpose.</p>
+
+<p>(2) The shell was once prized by the Indians for their wampum; now
+it is occasionally used for ornamental purposes.</p>
+
+<p>(3) Oystermen use it for cultch when they can get nothing better;
+though more fragile shells are usually preferred, so that the masses of
+oyster "set" can be easily broken apart.</p>
+
+<p>(4) Shell roads are occasionally made from quahaug shells. Possibly
+lime could be profitably obtained.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>History of Quahaug Industry in Massachusetts.</i></h3>
+
+<p>South of Plymouth harbor quahaugs have always been plentiful along
+the shores of Cape Cod, Buzzards Bay and the islands of Nantucket and
+Martha's Vineyard. Frequent shell heaps show that the Indians were
+accustomed to use this mollusk as a food, and even indulged in an occasional
+clam bake. Colonial records show us that the early colonists
+were not slow in learning to "tread out" this mollusk from the mud
+flats. The shells of the quahaug were much prized by the Indians for
+wampum beads, because of their purplish color.</p>
+
+<p>Although reckoned inferior by many to the soft clam (<i>Mya arenaria</i>),
+the quahaug was dug for home consumption for years in Massachusetts,
+and but little attempt was made to put it on the market. The commercial
+quahaug fishery started on Cape Cod, about the first of the
+nineteenth century, growing in extent until about 1860. From 1860<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span>
+to 1890 the production remained about constant. The production in
+1879 for Massachusetts, as given by A. Howard Clark, totaled 11,050
+bushels, valued at $5,525. It is only in the last fifteen to twenty years
+that the actual development of the quahaug fishery has taken place.
+The present production of Massachusetts is 144,044 bushels, valued
+at $194,687. To the popular demand for the "little neck" can be
+attributed the rapid development of the quahaug industry during the
+last ten years. This development has furnished employment for hundreds
+of men, and has given the quahaug an important value as a sea
+food. What it will lead to is easily seen. The maximum production
+was passed a few years ago, constant overfishing caused by an excessive
+demand is destroying the natural supply, and there will in a few
+years be practically no commercial fishery, unless measures are taken
+to increase the natural supply. Quahaug farming offers the best solution
+at the present time, and gives promise of permanent success.</p>
+
+<p>The following statistics, taken from the United States Fish Commission
+reports, show the rapidity of the development of the quahaug
+fishery:&mdash;</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th><span class="smcap">Date.</span></th>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+    <th>Price (Cents).</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11,050</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,525</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50.0</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1887,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">35,540</td>
+    <td class="tdr">21,363</td>
+    <td class="tdr">60.0</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1888,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">26,165</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14,822</td>
+    <td class="tdr">56.5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1898,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">63,817</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50,724</td>
+    <td class="tdr">79.5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1902,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">106,818</td>
+    <td class="tdr">131,139</td>
+    <td class="tdr">124.0</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1905,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">166,526</td>
+    <td class="tdr">288,987</td>
+    <td class="tdr">155.0</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>Not only has there been an increase in production, but also an increase
+in price, as can be seen from the above table, which shows that
+the price has more than doubled between 1888 and 1902. This increase
+in price has alone supported a declining fishery in many towns, making
+it still profitable for quahaugers to keep in the business, in spite of a
+much smaller catch. The advance in price is due both to the natural
+rise in the value of food products during the past twenty-five years and
+also to the popular demand for the "little neck," or small quahaug.</p>
+
+<p><i>State Laws.</i>&mdash;There are no State laws governing the quahaug fishery,
+except the regulations of the State Board of Health in regard to sewage
+pollution in Acushnet River and Boston Harbor.</p>
+
+<p><i>Town Laws.</i>&mdash;Regulation of the quahaug fishery was given to each
+town by the State under the general shellfish act of 1880; the industry
+is therefore entirely governed under the by-laws of the town.</p>
+
+<p>An interesting comparison can be made between the quahaug regulations
+of the different towns. Good, useless and harmful laws exist
+side by side. One town will pass excellent regulations, and enforce
+them; another town will make the same, but never trouble to see that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span>
+they are observed. Edgartown enforces the 1&frac12;-inch quahaug law;
+Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet have the same law, but fail to enforce
+it. Many towns allow the small seed quahaugs to be caught and
+shipped out of the State, thus losing $4 to every $1 gained. These
+towns refuse to make any regulation, such as a simple size limit,
+which would remedy this matter, and have no thought for the future of
+their quahaug industry. All that can be said is that the quahaug laws
+are the best of the town shellfish regulations, and that is but faint
+praise.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Statistics of the Quahaug Fishery.</i></h3>
+
+<p>In the following table the towns are arranged in alphabetical order,
+and the list includes only those towns which now possess a commercial
+quahaug fishery. In giving the number of men, both transient and
+regular quahaugers are included. In estimating the capital invested,
+the boats, implements, shanties and gear of the quahauger are alone
+considered, and personal apparel, such as oilskins, boots, etc., are not
+taken into account. The value of the production for each town is based
+upon what the quahaugers receive for their quahaugs, and not the price
+they bring in the market. The area of quahaug territory given for
+each town includes all ground where quahaugs are found, both thick
+beds and scattering quahaugs.</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th rowspan="2"><span class="smcap">Town.</span></th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Number of Men.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Capital invested.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Number of Boats.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2" class="br">Number of Dories and Skiffs.</th>
+    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">1907 Production.</span></th>
+    <th rowspan="2" class="bl">Area in Acres.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Value of Yield per Acre.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barnstable,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$850</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,700</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">950</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3.95</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Bourne,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">46</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">46</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5,400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8,400</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.36</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Chatham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,750</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">6,700</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dennis,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">950</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4.75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Eastham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">4,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.87</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Edgartown,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">70</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">42</td>
+    <td class="tdr">18</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">20,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">32,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">17.77</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Fairhaven,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">115</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">15,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">16,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">3,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5.50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Falmouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">115</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.29</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Harwich,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,550</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25.50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Marion,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">19</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">19</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Mashpee,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">70</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">285</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.71</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Mattapoisett,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">28</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">28</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">750</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Nantucket,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">48</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,750</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">6,294</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8,487</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5,290</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.60</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Orleans,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">33,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">41,350</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">27.56</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Wareham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">6,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8.08</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Wellfleet,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">145</td>
+    <td class="tdr">27,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">33,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">41,350</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">16.54</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Yarmouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">240</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td rowspan="0" class="tdc">Totals,</td>
+    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bt">745</td>
+    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bt">94,260</td>
+    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bt">250</td>
+    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bt">378</td>
+    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bl bt">144,044</td>
+    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bt">194,687</td>
+    <td rowspan="0" class="tdr bl bt">28,090</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">Average</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">$6.93</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Barnstable.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Barnstable, with its extensive bays both on the north or bay side
+and on the south or Vineyard Sound side, offers great possibilities for
+quahaug production. Although the quahaug ranks, in productive value,
+the third shellfish industry of Barnstable, the natural resources permit
+an expansion under cultural methods which would place the quahaug
+ahead of the oyster, which at the present time is the leading shellfish
+industry of the town.</p>
+
+<p>In Barnstable harbor, on the north coast of the town, a few quahaugs
+are found scattered in isolated patches. (See Map No. 9.) These are
+relatively of small importance commercially, and no regular fishery is
+carried on. In the future the vast barren flats of this harbor may be
+made productive of quahaugs as well as clams, although at present the
+total area of quahaug grounds is hardly 5 acres.</p>
+
+<p>The greater part of the quahaug industry of Barnstable is conducted
+on the south shore of the township, which is especially adapted, with
+its coves and inlets, for the successful growth of this shellfish. The
+principal fishery is in Cotuit harbor and West Bay, and is chiefly shared
+by the villages of Osterville, Marston's Mills and Cotuit, which lie on
+the east, north and west sides, respectively, of the bay.</p>
+
+<p>While the greater part of Cotuit harbor is taken up by oyster grants,
+there are certain parts, though limited in area, which are set aside for
+quahauging. The principal area for quahauging is the flat which runs
+along Oyster Island. This was originally an oyster grant taken out
+by Wendell Nickerson, and thrown open to quahaugers to protect the
+quahaug interests from the oyster planters. This territory, which comprises
+70 acres, is mostly hard sand. Directly west in the center of
+the harbor lies a strip of 80 acres of mud and eel grass, where both
+quahaugs and scallops abound. The depth of water on quahauging
+grounds varies from 1 to 14 feet.</p>
+
+<p>Scattering quahaugs are found also in Osterville harbor, West Bay,
+Popponesset River and East Bay. This bottom is practically all sand,
+and comprises a total of 1,650 acres. This cannot all be considered
+good quahaug ground, although quahaugs can occasionally be found.</p>
+
+<p>At Hyannis the quahaug grounds are confined to Lewis Bay, where
+they cover an area of 800 acres. The quahaugs lie in scattered patches
+over this area, but in no place is there especially good quahauging.
+The bottom is hard, usually sandy, with patches of eel grass, while
+the average depth of water is hardly more than 6 feet.</p>
+
+<p>In Osterville Bay about 20 men, in Lewis Bay about 5, using the
+same number of dories, make a business of quahauging in the summer
+months. Three styles of implements are used: (1) oyster tongs, varying
+from 8 to 16 feet, according to the depth of water; (2) large
+basket rakes, with 30-foot handles; (3) ordinary garden rakes, with
+wire basket, for shallow-water digging.</p>
+
+<p>At Cotuit the quahaugs run one-third "little necks," one-third<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span>
+mediums and one-third large. Here several men, using long-handled
+rakes, make from $3 to $5 per day in favorable weather. The markets
+are principally New York and Boston, where the quahaugs are shipped,
+mostly in sacks, which is a cheaper and better way than shipment in
+barrels. Here the quahaug season lasts from April 1 to November 1,
+most of the work being done in the summer, when the oyster business
+is at a standstill.</p>
+
+<p>There are no town laws governing the quahaug fishery, other than
+forbidding a non-resident of the town the right of quahauging; and
+no licenses are required.</p>
+
+<p>No records of the history of the quahaug industry at Barnstable
+can be found. A. Howard Clark in 1879 makes the following brief
+statement, which is the only record obtainable:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>Both soft clams and quahaugs are found in the harbor [Osterville harbor],
+but no considerable fishing for them is carried on.</p></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">950</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$350</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,700</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,700</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,700</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Bourne.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The town of Bourne was formerly included in the town of Sandwich,
+and many old laws relating to shellfish, such as oyster regulation
+in Barlow River, were enacted by the town of Sandwich. Situated at
+the head of Buzzards Bay, and separated from the adjacent town of
+Wareham by Cohasset Narrows, Bourne has many advantages for
+a profitable quahaug industry. It possesses nearly twice as much quahaug
+territory as Wareham, but, as most of this lies unproductive,
+has a smaller annual output. The territory includes over 2,500 acres of
+ground, most of which consists of flats of mud, sand and eel grass,
+covered with shallow water. It is very sparsely set with quahaugs.
+Outside the oyster grants practically the entire stretch of coast from<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span>
+Buttermilk Bay to Wings Neck is quahauging ground, as can be seen
+on Map No. 17. Other quahaug grounds lie between Basset's Island,
+Scraggy Neck and Handy's Point. It is our opinion that this large
+territory, which to-day yields on the average less than $3.50 per acre,
+in the future, under cultivation, can be made to yield an average of
+$100 per acre, thereby bringing into the town of Bourne a yearly
+income of at least $250,000, and furnishing labor for hundreds of men.</p>
+
+<p>About 46 men are engaged in the quahaug fishery of Bourne, using
+the same number of skiffs and dories, which represent approximately
+an investment of $875. The fishery lasts usually seven months during
+the summer, April 1 to November 1, while the winter digging is of
+small account. Practically all the digging is done in comparatively
+shallow water, with short-handled rakes or tongs. Rather more than
+a third of the quahaugs appear to be "little necks," while the mediums
+constitute one-tenth of the total catch. "Blunts" are of little consequence.</p>
+
+<p>The selectmen issue permits for the taking of quahaugs and clams.
+In 1906, 46 permits were issued, entitling the holder to 10 bushels
+of clams and 10 bushels of quahaugs per week.</p>
+
+<p>There is little to be said concerning the history of the Bourne quahaug
+industry, as no early records exist. Its development has been similar
+to that of the industries of the other Buzzards Bay towns. During
+the last few years the Bourne fishery, unlike most of the towns on
+Buzzards Bay, has shown signs of increasing. This is not due, however,
+to any increase in the natural supply, but to the decline of the
+oyster industry, which gives more opportunity to the quahaugers. The
+same antagonistic feeling that is prevalent in Wareham exists here
+between the oystermen and quahaugers.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">46</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">46</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$875</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$125</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$8,400</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Chatham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Chatham is favorably situated in regard to the quahaug fishery, as
+this shellfish is found in the waters on the north and south sides of
+the town. The grounds are extensive, covering about 2,000 acres,
+the greater part of which consists of the vast area south of the town
+known as the "Common Flats."</p>
+
+<p>The quahauging grounds are in four localities: (1) Pleasant Bay;
+(2) Mill Pond; (3) Stage Harbor; (4) Common Flats.</p>
+
+<p>(1) Part of the waters of Pleasant Bay belong to the town of
+Chatham. In an arm of this bay, known as Crows Pond, the best
+Pleasant Bay fishery is carried on in water varying from 6 to 16 feet
+in depth.</p>
+
+<p>(2) An excellent "little neck" fishery is carried on in the upper
+part of the Mill Pond, in comparatively shallow water, comprising
+an area of 3 acres. On these bars in 1905 there was a very heavy set of
+small quahaugs, which were rapidly taken up before they had a chance
+to attain to a fair size.</p>
+
+<p>(3) Quahaugs are raked on the west side of Stage Harbor in 5
+to 15 feet of water, in an area of 4 acres of muddy bottom.</p>
+
+<p>(4) The Common Flats comprise 1,700 acres, and are covered at
+low tide by a depth of only 1 to 2 feet of water. Quahaugs are found
+throughout this territory in scattering quantities, but practically all
+is good quahaug ground except the shifting outer part of the flat.
+The soil varies from a pure sand to a sandy mud, and in parts is
+thickly covered with eel grass, which makes raking hard. This area
+offers one of the best opportunities for successful quahaug planting in
+the State. The area is large, seed can be obtained easily and quahaugs
+grow well in this locality. If it were not for the lack of protection,
+Chatham could establish one of the best quahaug industries in the State
+by leasing out the Common Flats for planting purposes.</p>
+
+<p>Quahaugs are taken at Chatham only with rakes. In the deep water
+in Crows Pond and in Stage Harbor basket rakes are used; but in the
+shallow water on the Common Flats and in the Mill Pond the usual
+implement is an ordinary garden rake, with wire netting basket. Handles
+from 20 to 25 feet in length are used with the basket rakes.</p>
+
+<p>The quahaug industry has existed in Chatham for the past twelve
+years.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$350</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$400<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span></td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:-</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$4,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,700</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$10,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Dartmouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The quahaug industry of Dartmouth is of little consequence. In
+1907, 320 permits were granted, mostly to New Bedford fishermen for
+"bait."</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Dennis.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The quahauging grounds of Dennis are practically all in Bass River,
+where Dennis has equal fishery rights with Yarmouth. The area of
+these grounds is 200 acres, with a maximum depth of 6 feet of water
+over the beds. The history of the industry is the same as that of
+Yarmouth, as the two industries are closely associated, and a similar
+decline has resulted. The laws for both towns are the same.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men (transient),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$950</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Eastham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Eastham is similar to Orleans in situation, possessing a good coast
+line on both the east and west, which affords excellent opportunities
+for the quahaug fishery.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>On the west or bay side are extensive beds of quahaugs, for the
+most part blunts, extending into deep water for nearly 3 miles. This
+quahauging territory comprises about 4,000 acres, which is open to the
+quahaugers of both Wellfleet and Orleans. While scattering quahaugs
+are found over approximately all this territory, the fishery is conducted
+in only certain definite places.</p>
+
+<p>In Nauset harbor on the east side during the season of 1906 numerous
+beds of "little necks," about the 1&frac12;-inch size, were discovered. It is
+thought that these came from the spawn of certain quahaugs which the
+life savers were accustomed to bed in the harbor for their own use.
+These quahaugs were torn up and scattered by the ice during a severe
+winter, and in this way the nucleus of a new fishery was formed. Two
+men who discovered the best of these beds cleared $60 in one week.</p>
+
+<p>On the west coast of the town 25 men commonly dig with long-handled
+rakes. These fishermen work at quahauging about 100 days in
+the year, and average from 5 to 6 bushels per day. Power boats are
+used for the most part, although the boats are not so large or expensive
+as those of the Orleans fishermen, for the Eastham quahauger digs in
+the more sheltered waters of Wellfleet Bay.</p>
+
+<p>The production for 1906 was 10,000 bushels, but this does not give
+the true yield of the Eastham flats, as the Wellfleet and Orleans fishermen
+rake to a great extent in Eastham waters, and so many more
+bushels are actually taken within the town limits.</p>
+
+<p>The town laws of Eastham are the same as those of Wellfleet. (See
+Wellfleet.) The history of the Eastham quahaug industry is so closely
+connected with that of Orleans and Wellfleet that no additional features
+require mention.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$7,375</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$625</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">9,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$9,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$11,500</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Edgartown.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The finest "little neck" fishery in Massachusetts is found in Katama
+Bay, in the town of Edgartown. Two-fifths of the entire catch are
+"little necks." The most productive grounds are situated in the lower
+part of Katama Bay, while quahaugs are also found in Edgartown
+harbor and in Cape Poge Pond, the total area of these localities comprising
+1,800 acres.</p>
+
+<p>The fishing is mostly done from power dories or sail boats with
+basket rakes. Poles from 20 to 25 feet long are used, as the water over
+the beds is less than 20 feet deep. Some quahaugs are taken in the
+shallow water with small claw rakes. The catch is shipped to the New
+York and Boston markets.</p>
+
+<p>The quahaug industry of Edgartown is the best-regulated shellfish
+industry in Massachusetts. If excellent care had not been taken of the
+"little neck" fishery of Katama Bay by enforcing a size limit of 1&frac12;
+inches, through the employment of a special shellfish warden, the quahaug
+fishery of Edgartown would have been ruined long ago by the
+exportation of small "seed" quahaugs. To-day the number of small
+quahaugs which are returned to the water greatly exceeds the amount
+of marketable quahaugs taken. This is the only case in Massachusetts
+where the quahaug fishery, by careful regulations of the town, has
+maintained an undiminished supply. If other towns had taken similar
+care of their quahaug fisheries in the past, the general decline of the
+industry in this State would never have become so serious.</p>
+
+<p>The following is a copy of the shellfish permit, which every Edgartown
+quahauger is required to take out, at the cost of $2, before he
+can rake quahaugs for market. Any man over sixty years old obtains
+his permit free. This permit should serve as a model for other towns.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Shellfish Permit.</span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Town of Edgartown, Selectmen's Office,</span> 190_.
+</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>In consideration of having received from ____ of Edgartown the
+sum of $2, permission is hereby granted to him to take from any of the
+waters of this town daily, between sunrise and sunset, twenty-five bushels of
+scallops or clams, including shells, and four bushels, including shells, of
+quahaugs; of these four bushels, not more than two bushels are to be of the
+size known as "little necks."</p>
+
+<p>The acceptance of this permit constitutes an agreement by the holder
+thereof that he will, and that any other person who for the time being has
+or shall have in his custody or possession any building, boat, barrel, box, tub,
+crate or other vessel or receptacle containing or suitable for or capable of
+containing shellfish, and belonging to or under the control of the holder
+of this permit, shall, at any time or place when requested so to do by either
+of said selectmen or by their authorized agent, or by any constable or fish
+warden of said town, or by any other officer authorized to enforce the laws
+relating to shellfish or shellfisheries in said town, open any such building,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span>
+boat, barrel, box, tub, crate or other vessel or receptacle, and fully expose
+to them or either of them the contents thereof for inspection; and if the
+holder of this permit or such other person as aforesaid, when so requested,
+refuses or neglects so to do, said selectmen may revoke this permit or suspend
+the same for any stated time, at their discretion.</p>
+
+<p>The holder of this permit is subject to the regulations for the taking of
+eels and shellfish as made and posted by the selectmen, and also to any
+additional regulations which said board may hereafter make and publish.</p>
+
+<p>If the person having this permit for the taking of shellfish violates any
+law of the Commonwealth or any regulation now or hereafter made by said
+selectmen, relating to shellfish or shellfisheries in said town, said selectmen
+may revoke said permit, or suspend the same for any stated time at their
+discretion.</p>
+
+<p>No person is allowed by law to take from the waters of said town, or to
+sell or offer for sale, or to have in his possession, any "little neck" clams
+or quahaugs measuring less than one and one-half inches across the widest
+part. Any person violating this provision of law is liable to a fine of not less
+than ten nor more than one hundred dollars.</p>
+
+<p>This permit will expire April 1, 190&nbsp;, unless sooner revoked.</p></div>
+
+<p class="right"><i>Selectmen of Edgartown.</i></p>
+
+<p>Ernest Ingersoll in 1879 makes the following statement concerning
+the quahaug fishery of Martha's Vineyard:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>Martha's Vineyard used to be bordered by good quahaug ground, but I am
+not aware that many are caught there now. In an old book I find the following
+allusion to it: "The poquau (<i>Venus mercenaria</i>) is found in Old
+Town Harbor, at Cape Poge, and in Menemsha Pond: great quantities are
+exported."</p></div>
+
+<p>A. Howard Clark in 1879 says:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>Soft clams and quahaugs are abundant in the harbor, and are used by the
+fishermen for bait.... Three hundred bushels of quahaugs and sea clams,
+valued at $150, were taken during the year 1879.</p></div>
+
+<p>If such were the conditions in 1879, the industry has had a great
+development. To-day Edgartown is one of the best quahaug towns
+of the State, and produces the finest "little necks." Comparing the
+production figures of 1879 and 1907, a great increase is noted:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production, 1879.</i></p>
+
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$150</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<p class="center"><i>Production, 1907.</i></p>
+
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$32,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">70</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">42</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$10,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">18</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$450</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,050</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$20,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$12,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$32,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Fairhaven.</i></h3>
+
+<p>At Fairhaven the quahaug industry is of considerable importance,
+and the output from this town alone is nearly half the entire production
+of Buzzards Bay.</p>
+
+<p>Some 3,000 acres are more or less bedded with quahaugs. Of this,
+probably not more than one-tenth is very productive. The best
+quahauging is in Acushnet River, where digging for market has been
+forbidden because of sewage pollution (see New Bedford), and in
+Priests Cove as far as Sconticut Neck. In these grounds "little necks"
+are numerous. The grounds around West Island and Long Island, once
+very productive, are now largely dug out. Little Bay and the east
+coast of Sconticut Neck are fairly productive, while the west coast
+yields only a small amount. Most of the quahaugs now dug come
+from the deep water west-southwest of Sconticut Neck. Here, with
+rakes having handles from 40 to 60 feet long, the quahaugers dig
+in water 7 fathoms or more in depth. The quahaugs, mostly large
+sharps, are in bluish mud or sticky bottom, and are all large. A number
+of blunts are found with these large sharps. In the Acushnet River,
+owing to the enforced closed season, there are a large number of "little
+necks."</p>
+
+<p>About 115 men are employed now in quahauging. Before the Acushnet
+River was closed by law, over twice that number are reported to
+have been engaged in the business. Six power boats and five cat boats,
+besides a considerable number of skiffs and dories, are used in the
+fishery.</p>
+
+<p>No permits are required for ordinary quahauging except in the pre<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span>scribed
+territory of Acushnet River, where permits to catch a certain
+amount for bait are given as in New Bedford.</p>
+
+<p>The production for 1879, as given by A. Howard Clark in "The
+Fisheries of Massachusetts," was 3,000 bushels, which is just one-fifth
+of the present production. The supply of quahaugs has decreased the
+last few years, though new territory is constantly being opened up,
+as the quahaugers go out further into the deeper water. The increased
+price, however, probably more than counterbalances the decline in
+production.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">115</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,600</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$900</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$14,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$16,500</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Falmouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>There is practically no quahaug industry in Falmouth. Hardly 100
+bushels are dug annually, and those only for home consumption. A
+few quahaugs are perhaps shipped by the oystermen.</p>
+
+<p>This town, with its numerous inlets, bays and brackish water ponds,
+offers perhaps as fine an opportunity for shellfish culture, especially
+for quahaugs, as exists in Massachusetts. There is no reason why
+the water of Waquoit Bay and the other brackish ponds should not
+produce a great supply of quahaugs, if properly worked.</p>
+
+<p>Quahaugs are found mostly in scattering quantities over a large area
+in Waquoit Bay and in small quantities on the north and west side
+of Great Pond, comprising a total of nearly 400 acres. Not all this
+ground, which is the greater part mud, is capable of producing quahaugs,
+but many parts could produce good harvests. On the bay
+side of the town small patches of good quahaugs are found at North
+Falmouth, Squeteague Pond, West Falmouth harbor on the southeast
+side, and a few are found in Hadley harbor, Naushon. These, together<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span>
+with the small patches in Great Pond, comprise about 1 acre of good
+quahaug ground, and are mostly dug by summer people.</p>
+
+<p>In the past twenty-five years there has been a great decline in the
+quahaug industry, especially in Waquoit Bay, which to-day barely produces
+50 bushels. A. Howard Clark states, in 1879:<a name="FNanchor_7_7" id="FNanchor_7_7"></a><a href="#Footnote_7_7" class="fnanchor">[7]</a>&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>Quahaugs are plenty in Waquoit Bay, and are gathered and eaten by the
+villagers, but none are shipped. It is estimated that about 500 bushels of
+quahaugs are annually consumed by the people of Falmouth town.</p></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of dories,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">90</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$90</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$115</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Harwich.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The quahaug fishery of the town of Harwich is carried on in that
+part of Pleasant Bay which lies within the town limits. In the
+southern waters of the town, on the Sound side, scattering quahaugs
+are found in certain localities, but are not of any commercial importance.
+The most important of those localities are off Dean's Creek
+and in Herring River, where quahaugs are dug for home consumption.</p>
+
+<p>Harwich shares with Chatham and Orleans the quahaug fishery of
+Pleasant Bay, but has a more limited territory, as only a small portion
+of Pleasant Bay lies within the town limits. Practically all this territory,
+comprising 100 acres, is quahauging ground, though the commercial
+quahauging is prosecuted over an area of 10 acres only. Scattering
+quahaugs are found over an area of 100 acres.</p>
+
+<p>As the waters of Pleasant Bay are sheltered, the fishing is all done
+from dories, with basket rakes having 20 to 25 foot poles. The depth
+of water over the quahaug beds is from 6 to 16 feet.</p>
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span></p>
+<p>In regard to the quahaug fishery in Pleasant Bay, Mr. Warren J.
+Nickerson of East Harwich, who has been acquainted with the industry
+for many years, says:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>Pleasant Bay is and has been a very valuable quahaug ground. Some
+fifty years ago there were shipped in vessels to New Haven and other places
+13,000 bushels in one year from its waters. Since then there has been more
+or less taken from these waters by fishermen from the towns of Orleans,
+Chatham and Harwich. During the last few years there have been 25 regular
+fishermen and perhaps 12 transient. Probably 8,000 bushels a year for
+the last five years would be a fair estimate of the catch. Thirty per cent
+of these were "little necks."</p></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">700</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,550</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Marion.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The town of Marion, situated on the western side of Buzzards Bay,
+possesses a spacious harbor, the waters of which furnish excellent quahaug
+grounds.</p>
+
+<p>This territory, comprising a total of 400 acres, is chiefly confined to
+Marion harbor, running in a narrow strip parallel to the shore from
+Aucoot Cove all along the coast to Planting Island. Almost all the
+head of the harbor and all of Blankinship's and Planting Island Cove
+is quahaug area. Small grounds are also found at Wing's Cove and
+in the Weweantit River.</p>
+
+<p>The town law requires each year the possession of a permit costing
+$1 before a person is entitled to dig quahaugs for sale. Nineteen of
+these licenses were issued in 1906, but not more than 2 or 3 of these
+went to men who depend upon quahauging for a living. The remaining
+16 engage in the fishery to a greater or lesser extent in the
+summer season.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The annual production for 1906 was 800 bushels, valued at $1,500,
+as about half were "little necks." Mediums are not numerous, and are
+bought by the quahaug dealers at $1.25 per bushel and sold by them
+at so much per hundred.</p>
+
+<p>In Marion the quahaug industry once flourished to a marked degree,
+but at present is very much on the decline. The coves, which once were
+bedded with "little necks" and quahaugs, are now nearly exhausted.
+No reasons exist for this condition of affairs, so far as known, except
+overdigging. Gradually for many years the supply has perceptibly
+declined, until now it is at a very low ebb. Where a thousand barrels
+were formerly produced, it is doubtful if a thousand bushels are now
+dug during the entire season, and the overworked beds are becoming
+each year more depleted. A. Howard Clark, in his report on the
+fisheries of Marion, estimates the quahaug production in 1880 as 2,000
+bushels. The yield for 1906 is only 800 bushels, which shows an alarming
+decline in production. If once the waters of Marion could produce
+a large amount of quahaugs, there is no reason why they cannot again
+be made to produce the same, or more.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">19</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">19</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,500</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Mashpee.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The quahaug industry at Mashpee is at a low ebb. Natural facilities
+are favorable, but a lack of initiative on the part of the inhabitants
+causes a small production. The best grounds are found in Popponessett
+Bay and River, where a territory of 200 acres includes several
+oyster grants which are worked but little. On the east side of Waquoit
+Bay scattering quahaugs are found in Mashpee waters.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>There are 3 regular and 4 intermittent quahaugers, with an invested
+capital of $70, who are obliged by the town laws to have a permit costing
+$1. The quahaug industry of the town has remained about the
+same for the last twenty-five years, and now a good quahauger can
+scarcely average 1&frac12; to 2 bushels per day.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$20</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$60</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">225</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$225</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$285</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Mattapoisett.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The town of Mattapoisett, situated to the west of Marion, receives
+but little income from her shellfisheries, as the waters are for the most
+part too open and exposed for shellfish culture. The quahaug fishery
+is the most important shellfish industry of the town, but even this,
+when compared with the quahaug fishery of other towns, is rather unimportant,
+as most of the suitable territory is nonproductive.</p>
+
+<p>Quahaugs are very unevenly distributed over 800 acres. The best
+quahaugs are found in Aucoot Cove and at Brants. In the main harbor
+quahaugs are found, though scattering, as indicated on the map.</p>
+
+<p>No licenses or permits are required of the 28 men and boys who add
+to their income from time to time by quahauging. Most of these depend
+on other sources of employment for their main support. The
+industry as a whole is gradually declining, as overfishing has made it
+impossible for the natural supply to perpetuate itself.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">28</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">28</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$425</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$75</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,500</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Nantucket.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The quahaug industry of Nantucket ranks second to the main shellfish
+industry, the scallop fishery, and brings annually about $8,000 to
+the island. Nantucket is especially adapted for quahaugs, as Nantucket
+harbor, Maddequet harbor and the Island of Tuckernuck possess
+extensive territory. In spite of these natural advantages, which are
+as fine as any in the State, Nantucket produces only 6,000 bushels
+annually, whereas her resources, under proper cultural methods, warrant
+an annual production exceeding even that of Wellfleet, which is
+at present shipping 33,000 bushels.</p>
+
+<p>The quahauging territory of Nantucket is divided into three sections:
+(1) Nantucket harbor; (2) Maddequet harbor; and (3) Tuckernuck.</p>
+
+<p>In Nantucket harbor quahaugs are found over an area of 2,290 acres,
+both scattering and in thick patches. The principal areas are situated
+as follows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(1) Near the town between Monomoy Heights and the wharves is
+a territory of 240 acres. In the deep water directly out from the
+wharves there has been good quahauging although the bed was discovered
+only a few years ago.</p>
+
+<p>(2) On the east side of the harbor, between Abram's Point and Pocomo
+Head, including Polpis harbor, are extensive grounds, comprising
+about 900 acres, of scattering quahaugs.</p>
+
+<p>(3) On the opposite side of the harbor lies a strip of quahaug territory
+of 250 acres, which extends between Third Point and Bass Point.</p>
+
+<p>(4) At the head of the harbor on both sides quahaugs are found over
+an area of 900 acres.</p>
+
+<p>Maddequet harbor on the western end of the island has approximately
+300 acres suitable for quahaugs, running from Broad Creek to
+Eel Point.</p>
+
+<p>On the eastern end of Tuckernuck Island is a bed of quahaugs covering
+about 200 acres; while on the west side, between Muskeget and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span>
+Tuckernuck, is a large area of 2,500 acres, which is more or less productive.
+The Tuckernuck fishery is largely "little necks," and it is from
+here that the shipment of small "seed" quahaugs has been made.</p>
+
+<p>In the spring and fall men who have been boatmen during the summer
+work at quahauging. While 48 men work irregularly, about 18
+men are engaged in the fishery during the entire summer, though probably
+never more than 30 are raking at any one time.</p>
+
+<p>The production in 1906, from April I to November I, was 2,159
+barrels, or 6,477 bushels; value, $7,557.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Production, 1907.<a name="FNanchor_8_8" id="FNanchor_8_8"></a><a href="#Footnote_8_8" class="fnanchor">[8]</a></span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Production, 1907">
+  <tr>
+    <th rowspan="2">MONTHS.</th>
+    <th colspan="4">QUAHAUGS.</th>
+    <th colspan="4" class="bl">"LITTLE NECKS."</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <th> Barrels.</th>
+    <th> Average price per Barrel.</th>
+    <th> Bushels.</th>
+    <th> Value.</th>
+    <th class="bl"> Barrels.</th>
+    <th> Average price per Barrel.</th>
+    <th> Bushels.</th>
+    <th> Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>April</td>
+    <td class="tdr">138</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3.50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">414</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$483</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">--</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>May</td>
+    <td class="tdr">257</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">771</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,028</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$14.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$56</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>June</td>
+    <td class="tdr">460</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,380</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,840</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">13</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">39</td>
+    <td class="tdr">182</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>July</td>
+    <td class="tdr">355</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,065</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,060</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">33</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">90</td>
+    <td class="tdr">462</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>August</td>
+    <td class="tdr">312</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">936</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,092</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">60</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>September</td>
+    <td class="tdr">302</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.42</td>
+    <td class="tdr">906</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,032</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">22</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">66</td>
+    <td class="tdr">220</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>October</td>
+    <td class="tdr">123</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">369</td>
+    <td class="tdr">492</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">9</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">27</td>
+    <td class="tdr">90</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>November</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">--</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td> Total</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">1,997</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$3.60</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">5,991</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$7,177</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt bl">101</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$12.97</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">303</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$1,310</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks"</td>
+    <td class="tdr">101</td>
+    <td rowspan="2"></td>
+    <td class="tdr">303</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,310</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td> Grand total</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">2,098</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">6,294</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$8,487</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>The month of June shows the largest production, as the summer
+people do not arrive in any numbers until July. The men who do
+the summer boating are engaged in the quahaug fishery during this
+month, naturally increasing the production.</p>
+
+<p>The principal method is raking from a boat or dory with a long-handled
+basket rake, very similar in form to the rake used on Cape
+Cod. The second method, applicable only in shallow water, employs
+the use of a claw rake with a much shorter handle. The quahauger uses
+this rake in the shallow water, where he can wade at low tide. The
+largest claw rakes are often wider than the basket rakes, and are much
+cheaper.</p>
+
+<p>At Nantucket about 5 per cent. of the entire catch is "little necks,"
+which are found mostly at Tuckernuck. The quahauger usually makes
+three culls of his catch: (1) "little necks"; (2) medium; (3) large.
+A few blunts are obtained. The quahaugs are shipped chiefly to New<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span>
+York and Boston markets, either directly by the quahaugers or through
+Nantucket firms.</p>
+
+<p>The boats used in the industry, numbering 24 sail, 6 power and 10
+single dories, and approximating $6,150 in value, are in a way transitory
+capital, and are used in the winter for scalloping and other fishing.
+Nevertheless, it is necessary to class them as capital used in the quahaug
+fishery.</p>
+
+<p>No special town laws are made for the regulation of the Nantucket
+quahaug fishery, although at any time by vote of the town suitable
+regulations and by-laws can be made.</p>
+
+<p>Quahaugs have probably always been abundant at Nantucket, as over
+fifty years ago they were reported as plentiful. It is only of late years
+that the fishery has assumed any great importance, when the increasing
+prices, especially for the "little necks," made it profitable for men to
+enter the business. As it is, many men now quahaug only when they
+have nothing else to do.</p>
+
+<p>From the statistics of the United States Fish Commission for 1879
+we find that the annual catch for that year amounted to 150 bushels,
+valued at $75. As a striking contrast to this, the present production
+of 6,294 bushels, valued at $8,487, shows the great development of the
+fishery, which has been caused by more men entering the business, the
+opening up of new beds, such as the "little neck" beds of Tuckernuck,
+and the improved methods of raking in the deep water.</p>
+
+<p>It is rather difficult to state definitely, from lack of past statistical
+figures, whether Nantucket industry is declining or improving. Between
+1879 and 1906 no records are obtainable. The production figures for
+1906 show 6,477 bushels, as compared with 6,144 bushels in 1907.
+Whether there was merely a sudden temporary increase in the supply
+by the opening up of new beds in 1906, or whether there is a steady
+decline, can only be determined by the production of future years.
+Many indications point to the latter, in spite of the assurance of the
+quahaugers that 1907 was a good season, because of high market prices.</p>
+
+<p>The last few years have witnessed a change in the quahaug fishery,&mdash;a
+realization that there is more money in planting and raising quahaugs
+than in oyster culture. The out-of-State oystermen, especially
+in New York, have been the first to realize this, and have been
+buying, at the rate of $4 to $5 per bushel, all the small quahaugs they
+can procure, merely replanting, to reap the following year a yield of
+3 to 6 bushels for every bushel planted.</p>
+
+<p>Under the stimulus of the high prices offered, many bushels of small
+quahaugs have been shipped from the town, which thus lost what the
+planters gained. There is much feeling against such a practice, but
+so far nothing has been done by the town to stop this shipping of
+"seed" quahaugs. As the town has full control of its shellfisheries,
+it has only to pass a simple law allowing no quahaugs under 2 inches<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span>
+to be taken, and see that it is properly enforced. Such a matter should
+be attended to at once, as not only is the actual value of the catch
+diminished, but the industry is seriously impaired by the capture of
+these small quahaugs before they can spawn.</p>
+
+<p>The only other way to remedy this difficulty is to grant licenses allowing
+the replanting of these small quahaugs on the barren parts of the
+harbor until they have obtained a proper size. The results obtained
+from the experiments of the commission in Polpis harbor show that quahaugs
+will grow rapidly when thus replanted in suitable places, and
+that a gain of &frac12; to &frac34; of an inch, or 3 to 6 bushels for every bushel
+bedded, can be obtained during the six summer months (May to
+November).</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,290</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">48</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$350</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of gear,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$600</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">303</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,310</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,991</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$7,177</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,294</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$8,487</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>New Bedford.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The quahaug industry of New Bedford was practically annihilated
+by the law of 1905, which closed the Acushnet River and Clark's Cove
+to both clammer and quahauger. Good beds of quahaugs, particularly
+"little necks," exist in both these waters, but can be taken only for
+bait. As several sewers run into the Acushnet River, and the public
+health was endangered by the consumption as food of the quahaugs
+taken from the river and the waters near its mouth, nearly 400 acres of
+quahaug territory were closed by the State Board of Health. What
+little available territory there is outside the prescribed area, off Clark's
+Point, is free to all.</p>
+
+<p>A license is required to dig quahaugs for bait in this territory, and
+such is issued free of charge. The maximum amount permitted to be
+dug is 2 bushels per week of clams or quahaugs, or of both. Some<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span>
+320 permits have been issued since the law was passed, in 1905. Eleven
+of these have been since revoked for unlawful conduct on the part of
+the possessors. For the first offence the license is merely revoked, for
+the second a fine of $10, and for the third $100 is imposed.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Orleans.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Although Orleans is well represented by all four main types of shellfish,
+the quahaug fishery is the leading industry of the town. A favorable
+coast line, fronting on the west the waters of Cape Cod Bay and
+bounded on the east by Pleasant Bay, provides excellent facilities for
+the quahaug fishery.</p>
+
+<p>The main quahauging territory is in Cape Cod Bay. While the west
+coast of Orleans is only about a mile long, the privileges which allow
+the citizens of Orleans free fishing in Eastham waters, according to
+the act of incorporation in 1792, "whereby the benefits of the shellfishery
+were to be mutually shared," opens up an extensive tract of
+quahaug territory, from 2 to 3 miles in width, extending north as far
+as Billingsgate Island and the Wellfleet line. The actual Orleans quahaug
+territory consists only of 1,000 acres, which furnish but poor
+quahauging, while the water is several fathoms deep.</p>
+
+<p>On the east side an entirely different condition prevails. Here in
+the waters of Pleasant Bay is a bed of quahaugs which, though
+worked for a long time, is still in excellent condition. The proportion
+of "little necks" is larger than on the west side, running about one-half
+the entire catch; neither is the water as deep here, rarely having
+a greater depth than 12 feet, and by no means as rough as the more
+exposed waters of Cape Cod Bay. The quahauging grounds here comprise
+500 acres.</p>
+
+<p>Although there are 1,500 acres of quahaug territory in the town of
+Orleans, only a small part of this is commercially productive, and the
+larger part of the fishery is carried on in Eastham waters.</p>
+
+<p>The possession of two entirely different quahaug grounds, one on the
+east, the other on the west coast, makes practically two different industries,
+each of which will have to be considered separately.</p>
+
+<p>(1) <i>Cape Cod Bay Industry.</i>&mdash;In Cape Cod Bay 50 men rake quahaugs
+whenever the weather will permit. Owing to the great depth of
+water, the work is difficult, requiring rakes with handles often 60 feet
+long. Two men generally go in one boat, the usual type being an
+elongated dory, some 30 to 32 feet over all, carrying from 4 to 12 horse-power
+gasolene engines. These boats are built to stand rough weather,
+and cost from $700 to $1,000 apiece. Thirty boats are employed in this
+business in the bay.</p>
+
+<p>The quahauger averages perhaps 100 working days in a year, as in
+a strong wind and choppy sea it is impossible to rake in the deep water.
+A good fisherman expects to rake from 2 to 3 barrels of quahaugs a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span>
+day. Five to ten years ago as many as 15 barrels were dug in a day by
+one man, but this is impossible now. Even as it is, the profits are large.
+The best quahauger in Orleans cleared in 1906 over $1,600, while several
+others made nearly $1,400. As at Wellfleet, the Orleans quahaugers
+receive licenses to replant their quahaugs along the shore, and it is customary
+to thus keep them until the New York or Boston markets offer
+suitable prices. Nearly two-thirds of these deep-water quahaugs are
+blunts, and perhaps one-tenth of the catch is "little necks."</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>Pleasant Bay Industry.</i>&mdash;About 25 men dig here from ordinary
+dories, using short rakes and tongs. The average wages are $2 to
+$3 per day, which is considerably less than the high wages of the Cape
+Cod Bay fishery; but many more days can be utilized during the year,
+while the work is much easier and the necessary outlay of capital is
+slight. Here the quahaugs run about one-half "little necks," and the
+proportion of blunts is small.</p>
+
+<p>Little evidence of decline can be seen in Pleasant Bay, where the
+bed of quahaugs, although raked for a long time, still shows few signs
+of decrease. On the Cape Cod Bay side the reverse is true, and the
+supply is gradually diminishing.</p>
+
+<p>The same town laws for regulation of the quahaug fishery apply
+for Wellfleet, Eastham and Orleans. (See Wellfleet.)</p>
+
+<p>The main historical features of the quahaug industry at Orleans have
+been similar to Wellfleet, the industry lying practically dormant until
+1894, when it rapidly reached its present production. Unfortunately,
+but little data can be obtained for comparison of the industry of 1879
+with 1907. Ernest Ingersoll reports, in 1879:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>At Orleans, some few men who go mackereling in summer stay at home
+and dig clams in winter, getting perhaps 50 barrels of quahaugs among
+others, which are peddled in the town.</p></div>
+
+<p>Comparing the two years by table, we find:&mdash;</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <th>1879.</th>
+    <th>1907.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Annual production,</td>
+    <td>150 bushels,</td>
+    <td>33,000 bushels.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of production,</td>
+    <td>$82.50,</td>
+    <td>$41,350.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td>A few,</td>
+    <td>75.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Location, quahaug beds,</td>
+    <td>Pleasant Bay,</td>
+    <td>Cape Cod Bay and Pleasant Bay.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Market,</td>
+    <td>Home consumption,</td>
+    <td>New York and Boston.</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <th>Cape Cod Bay.</th>
+    <th>Pleasant Bay.</th>
+    <th>Total.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$23,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$23,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdc"><i>Production.</i></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,700</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,700</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$6,750</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$7,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$13,750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">24,300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">27,300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$24,300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$27,600</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">27,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">33,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$31,050</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$10,300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$41,350</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Provincetown.</i></h3>
+
+<p>No commercial quahaug fishery is carried on at Provincetown. A
+few quahaugs, chiefly "little necks," are found in the tide pools among
+the thatch on the northwestern side of the harbor.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Swansea.</i></h3>
+
+<p>A quahaug fishery existed in Swansea until three years ago. Since
+that time there has been no commercial fishery, though a few quahaugs
+are still dug for home consumption.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Truro.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Occasionally a few scattering quahaugs are found on the bars, which
+extend out one-quarter of a mile from shore on the bay side. No
+quahaug fishery is carried on.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Wareham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The town of Wareham, situated on the northeast side of Buzzards
+Bay and separated from the adjoining town of Bourne by Cohasset
+Narrows, has a coast line indented with numerous small inlets, bays
+and rivers, which afford excellent opportunities for the growth of the
+quahaug. The villages of Onset, Wareham and part of Buzzards Bay
+enjoy the privileges of this fishery.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Quahaugs are found over practically the entire territory, and comprise
+a total area of about 1,300 acres. Although much of this area
+is barren, the commercial fishery is maintained by small isolated beds
+which occur here and there.</p>
+
+<p>The two principal centers of the industry are in the Wareham River
+and in Onset Bay. At Onset the whole bay, except the oyster grants,
+as included between the southeast end of Mashnee Island and Peters
+Neck, is used for quahauging. A few quahaugs are found in Broad
+Cove, and fair digging is obtained in Buttermilk Bay and Cohasset
+Narrows. The Wareham River, outside the oyster grants, and a narrow
+shore strip from Weweantit River to Tempe's Knob, comprise the
+rest of the territory. In Onset Channel a fine bed exists in deep water,
+2 to 4 fathoms, but the ground is so hard that not much digging is
+done.</p>
+
+<p>It will be seen from the map that practically 75 per cent. of the
+quahaug territory is taken up by oyster grants, especially in the Wareham
+River and Onset Bay. Town sentiment is in a chaotic state over
+the oyster and quahaug deadlock, and much friction naturally exists
+between the opposing factions, the quahaugers and oystermen. The
+struggle between these two parties was at its height several years ago,
+and the enmity still continues, though not so openly, owing to the decline
+of the quahaug industry. Rightly managed, affairs ought to be so
+arranged that prosperity might be brought to both factions; but town
+customs and town laws, poorly enforced at the best, are hardly able
+to cope with this evil, which has resulted in much expense legally and
+financially to both parties, and both industries are badly crippled in
+consequence,&mdash;the oyster industry by lack of protection and the quahaug
+industry by loss of grounds. It is hoped that in the future suitable
+arrangements can be made for both industries, and that the quahaug
+industry, which is at present declining, can be put on an equal footing
+with the oyster industry, by granting licenses to plant and grow quahaugs.</p>
+
+<p>Most of the digging is done with garden rakes, potato diggers or
+by hand. Some tongs are used, but few if any long-handled basket
+rakes, since the digging is chiefly confined to the shallow water, not
+more than 10 feet deep, except in Onset Channel, where it ranges from
+12 to 24 feet.</p>
+
+<p>No information or statistical records of the quahaug fishery of Wareham
+can be obtained, and it is therefore impossible to draw any comparison
+between the present industry and the industry of twenty-five
+years ago.</p>
+
+<p>The decline of the quahaug fishery in Wareham is an established
+fact. The production of 6,000 bushels for 1906 is far less than the
+production of five years ago. Since 1901 the output has steadily declined,
+and where the quahauger once was able to rake 5 bushels at a
+tide, to-day he can rake scarcely 1 bushel in the same time. It is only<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span>
+a question of a few years when the natural supply will be completely
+exterminated. The only salvation of the industry in Wareham is to
+increase the natural supply by quahaug farming.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$7,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$10,500</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Wellfleet.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The town of Wellfleet possesses the finest quahaug industry in Massachusetts.
+More men are engaged in the business and the annual production
+is larger than that of any other town of the State.</p>
+
+<p>In colonial days the towns of Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet were
+incorporated as one town,&mdash;the town of Eastham. In 1763 an act
+was passed incorporating the North Precinct of Eastham into a district
+by the name of Wellfleet, "Reserving to the inhabitants of said town
+the privileges by them heretofore enjoyed of all ways to and of erecting
+houses on the beaches and islands for the convenience of the fishery
+of all kinds, and of anchorage and of landing all goods or wares at
+any of their common landing places in any of the harbors of said
+Eastham in like manner as they might have done if this act had never
+been made and passed." By this act were created the two independent
+towns of Eastham and Wellfleet, which held in common all fisheries,
+thus giving the mutual right of the shellfisheries to both towns.</p>
+
+<p>In 1797 another act of incorporation, separating Orleans from Eastham,
+was enacted, which provided that the benefits of the shellfisheries
+of these two towns were to be mutually enjoyed.</p>
+
+<p>The result of these two acts was to give Eastham and Wellfleet and
+at the same time Eastham and Orleans mutual rights of the shellfishery,
+but forbidding mutual shellfisheries between Wellfleet and Orleans.
+While this may seem to give theoretically the advantage to Eastham,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span>
+actually the town gains nothing in the quahaug fishery, as Orleans has
+practically no productive grounds on the bay side, and the Orleans
+quahaugers fish in the Eastham waters.</p>
+
+<p>The quahaug territory of Wellfleet comprises about 2,500 acres, and
+approximately takes up all the harbor, wherever there are no oyster
+grants, running from the "Deep Hole" between Great Island and Indian
+Neck southward to the Eastham line. Outside of these limits a
+few quahaugs are found on the flats of Duck Creek and along the shore
+flats of the town. They are more abundant on the north side of Egg
+Island, where they are taken in shallow water with ordinary hand
+rakes. The best quahauging is found in the channel extending from an
+imaginary line between Lieutenant's Island and Great Beach Hill south
+to Billingsgate. The greatest depth at low tide is 4&frac12; fathoms and the
+general average is about 3 fathoms. In this channel are found most
+of the "little necks," small blunts and small sharps.</p>
+
+<p>Outside of the oyster grants, quahaugs are found south of Great
+Island, north of Billingsgate Island on the west side of the harbor, on
+Lieutenant's Island bar and at the mouth of Blackfish Creek. A few
+quahaugs, both sharps and blunts, are raked with 25-foot rakes in the
+shallow water 6 to 8 feet near the beach, usually on a sandy bottom.</p>
+
+<p>The principal market for Wellfleet quahaugs is New York, though
+many are sent to Boston and other parts of the country, even to the
+middle west. Quahaugs have been shipped from Wellfleet to Milwaukee
+and arrived in good condition after ten days.</p>
+
+<p>The annual production is 33,000 bushels, one-sixth of these, 5,500
+bushels, being "little necks." There were 140 men engaged in the
+fishery in 1906, and 145 permits were granted in 1907. The average
+yield for a day's raking is 4 bushels, although an exceptional quahauger
+can sometimes rake 7 bushels.</p>
+
+<p>Practically all the raking is done in deep water, with rakes the
+handles of which are often 47 feet long. Each quahauger has a set of
+handles of various lengths for different depths of water. Both power
+boats and "cats" are used here in quahauging, the power boats possessing
+considerable advantage over the sail boat. Thirty-eight power boats
+and 62 sail boats, both single and double manned, are used at Wellfleet.</p>
+
+<p>At present there is every indication of a declining fishery. Until
+the last three years the industry has been steadily on the increase since
+1894. The maximum production was reached a few years ago, and the
+industry is slowly on the decline, unless the opening up of new beds
+gives it a fresh start. Unfortunately, all the quahaugers do not realize
+the possibility of this seemingly inexhaustible supply giving out, and
+believe it will continue forever; but any one can see that it is impossible
+for the natural supply to continue when such inroads are yearly
+made, and that it is only a question of time when the best business
+asset of the town will become extinct.</p>
+
+<p>For years there has been an antagonistic feeling between the qua<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span>haugers
+and the oystermen, due to the conflicting interests of these
+industries. Although the quahaug territory has been narrowed down
+by the giving of oyster grants in the harbor, the quahaug fishery has not
+suffered severely, as the poorer quahaug grounds were alone granted,
+with the idea that more money could be made by using these for oyster
+culture. Although these grants were laid out in good faith, injustice in
+many instances has been done the quahaug industry; but on the whole
+the change has been for the benefit of the town. In the broad waters of
+Wellfleet harbor there is room for both industries, and there is no reason
+why both should not prosper if wisely regulated, without the intervention
+of town politics. At present this antagonism has hurt the
+interests of both, and it is manifestly unfair that either should drive
+the other out while there is room for both to prosper.</p>
+
+<p>Wellfleet is the only town that can boast of a quahaug club. This
+club was formed in 1904, and had an enrollment of practically all the
+quahaugers.</p>
+
+<p>Permits are required of every man engaged in the quahaug fishery.
+These cost $1 apiece, and are granted on application to any one who
+has been a resident of the town for six months. These permits are to
+be obtained each year, on or before May 1, after which date an additional
+charge of 50 cents is made for collecting. No person without a
+regular permit is allowed to catch quahaugs for market. Permits were
+first issued in 1904.</p>
+
+<p>Section 2 of chapter 269 of the Acts of 1904 is as follows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Section 2.</span> No inhabitant of said towns shall sell or offer for sale little
+neck clams or quahaugs which measure less than one and one-half inches
+across the widest part, and no person shall in any of said towns sell or offer
+for sale little neck clams or quahaugs which measure less than one and
+one-half inches across the widest part.</p></div>
+
+<p>This excellent law was passed for the towns of Eastham, Orleans
+and Wellfleet, but has never been enforced. Although enacted and
+technically lived up to, no measures are made for its enforcement, which
+would necessitate a shellfish inspector. This furnishes an example of
+the nonenforcement of one of the few good town laws.</p>
+
+<p>Section 4 of chapter 269 of the Acts of 1904 is as follows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Section 4.</span> The selectmen of the said towns may, in their respective
+towns, grant licenses or permits for such periods, not exceeding two years,
+and under such conditions as they may deem proper, not however covering
+more than seventy-five feet square in area, to any inhabitants of the town
+to bed quahaugs in any waters, flats and creeks within the town at any
+place where there is no natural quahaug bed, not impairing the private
+rights of any person or materially obstructing any navigable waters. It
+shall be unlawful for any person, except the licensee and his agents, to take
+any quahaugs in or remove them from the territory covered by any such
+license.</p></div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The above should receive well-deserved praise, as it is one of the
+most useful town laws ever enacted in Massachusetts. Each quahauger
+is thus enabled to stake off a little plot 75 feet square on the flats,
+whereon he can bed his catch whenever the market price is too low for
+shipment. This not only makes steadier work for the quahaugers, since
+a dull market does not stop digging, as before, but also enables him
+to obtain a better price for his quahaugs, and he is not forced to lose
+through the wastes of competition.</p>
+
+<p>Quahaugs have always been abundant at Wellfleet. Forty years ago
+about 15 men were engaged in the business, and shipped their catch to
+Boston by packet boats, quahaugs then wholesaling at 50 cents per
+bushel.</p>
+
+<p>In 1879 (report of the United States Fish Commission) Ernest Ingersoll
+gives the following account of the quahaug industry at Wellfleet,
+which furnishes such an excellent comparison with the present industry
+that it is given here:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>The early productiveness of Cape Cod is shown by the presence of numerous
+shellfish heaps, particularly in Wellfleet and Barnstable harbors, filled
+up by the Indians, and consisting almost wholly of the shells of this mollusk.
+Though in greatly depleted numbers, the quahaug still survives along
+the inside of the Cape, and at Wellfleet has been raked from early times
+by the settlers. Mr. F. W. True contributes some notes on this place, from
+which I learn that the quahaug fishery as a business there dates from the
+beginning of the nineteenth century. It grew in extent until 1863, and
+from that time until 1868 the trade was at its height, since when it has
+diminished year by year, owing to lack of good market rather than failure
+of the supply. Between 1863 and 1869 the average catch each year was
+not less than 2,500 bushels. Of this amount a comparatively small part
+was consumed at Wellfleet, and the rest were shipped to Boston, Provincetown,
+Salem, Newport, Manchester and a few other New England ports.
+From 1870 to 1876 the quantity of quahaugs taken per year decreased from
+2,500 bushels to 1,800 bushels, and this latter amount has remained constant
+to the present year. Of the total catch in 1878, fully one-half, or 900
+bushels, was consumed in Wellfleet, and the remaining 900 bushels were
+shipped to Boston and other neighboring towns. For three years, beginning
+with 1876, 75 bushels of quahaugs have been annually shipped to New
+York City.</p>
+
+<p>Quahaugs are found in all parts of Wellfleet Bay except in a small spot
+near the wharves, called the "Deep Hole," and a similar one on the west
+side of the bay. Both of these places are covered with a thick, soft mud.
+It is not usual, however, to fish in parts of the bay where the average depth
+at low water exceeds 8 feet. Most of the raking is done on the western side.
+In ordinary years, quahaug raking is begun the last of March and continues
+until the first of October. As a general thing, no raking is done
+through the winter months, although in some years a small amount has been
+done through holes cut in the ice. The fishermen rake about four tides per
+week, beginning at half-ebb and raking to half-flood. The boats used are
+either cat boats or yawls rigged with two sails. Each boat carries 1 man.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span>
+The rake employed at Wellfleet is described by Mr. True as similar in form
+to an oyster rake, but made of steel instead of iron. In former days this
+instrument was of iron, the tips of the teeth only being of steel. An
+average rake has seventeen teeth, and weighs about 12 pounds. The handle
+or tail is of wood, and is about 23 feet long. The baskets in which the
+quahaugs are collected and measured are of ordinary manufacture, and hold
+about a bushel each; and the whole outfit of a quahaug fisherman does
+not cost over $150, and the total amount of capital invested in apparatus
+at the present time in Wellfleet does not exceed $800. This amount is
+about evenly divided between 5 men, none of whom are engaged in this
+fishery more than a part of their time.</p>
+
+<p>Quahaugs are sent to market always in the shell, and packed in second-hand
+flour or sugar barrels. The wholesale price of quahaugs for many years
+averaged 60 cents per bushel, but in 1879 it fell to 55 cents. One dollar
+and seventy-five cents is the average wholesale price per barrel. Quahaugs
+retail in Wellfleet at 80 cents per bushel. The usual method of transportation
+is by packet, at a cost of 25 cents per barrel.<a name="FNanchor_9_9" id="FNanchor_9_9"></a><a href="#Footnote_9_9" class="fnanchor">[9]</a></p></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1879 With 1907.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <th>1879.</th>
+    <th>1907.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Annual production,</td>
+    <td>1,800,</td>
+    <td>33,000.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Annual value,</td>
+    <td>$990,</td>
+    <td>$41,250.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Average price per bushel,</td>
+    <td>55 cents,</td>
+    <td>$1.25.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td>5,</td>
+    <td>145.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital,</td>
+    <td>$800,</td>
+    <td>$25,950.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Market,</td>
+    <td>Boston and New York,</td>
+    <td>New York, Boston, and other cities.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Season,</td>
+    <td>April 1 to October 1,</td>
+    <td>April 1 to October 1.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Boats,</td>
+    <td>5 sail boats,</td>
+    <td>100 boats, one-third power, two-thirds sail.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Deepest water,</td>
+    <td>8 feet,</td>
+    <td>40 feet.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Longest rake,</td>
+    <td>23 feet,</td>
+    <td>47 feet.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Best quahaug beds,</td>
+    <td>West side of harbor,</td>
+    <td>Channel.</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>From the account of Mr. Ingersoll the above table has been formulated,
+showing the vast increase in the quahaug business of Wellfleet
+since 1879, as well as certain changes in the industry. This by no means
+proves that the quahaug industry is on the increase; it merely shows
+that it has taken a tremendous development since 1879, and the fact
+that the quahaug industry of Wellfleet has passed its maximum production
+a few years ago and is now on the decline should not be overlooked
+in consulting this table, which otherwise would give an erroneous
+impression. The changing of the quahaug grounds from shallow to
+deeper water alone is a sign of the decline of the industry. The quahaug
+industry has developed to its present extent only since 1894, and is<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span>
+comparatively recent. By the opening of the great beds of "little
+necks" and quahaugs in the channel and deep water the industry
+suddenly became important.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">145</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">38</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$14,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">62</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$10,300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,200</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$13,850</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">27,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$27,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">33,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$41,350</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Yarmouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The quahaug grounds, which lie mostly in Bass River, are free to
+the inhabitants of Dennis and Yarmouth, as these two towns have common
+fishery rights. Quahaugs are found in four localities: (1) Bass
+River; (2) Mill Creek; (3) Barnstable Bar on the north shore; and
+(4) Lewis Bay. The total area is 1,000 acres, which includes all grounds
+where there are any quahaugs, as there are now no thick beds. The
+average depth of water over the quahaug grounds is 4 feet.</p>
+
+<p>The town law governing the quahaug fishery reads thus:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>All persons other than the inhabitants of the towns of Dennis and Yarmouth
+are prohibited from taking clams and quahaugs from the shores and
+waters of the town of Yarmouth. Inhabitants of the Commonwealth not
+residents of Dennis and Yarmouth may obtain permits of the selectmen to
+take sufficient quantity of said shellfish for their family use.</p></div>
+
+<p>The history of the quahaug industry of Yarmouth is one of decline.
+The industry has existed for fifteen years, starting in 1892. Mr. Edgar
+N. Baker, who has been interested in the business ever since it started,
+says:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>In the last ten years it is safe to say that the catch has fallen off fully
+75 per cent., and nothing but the constant advance in prices and lack of
+profitable employment has prompted men to give their attention to this
+method of obtaining their "bread and butter." The most conservative
+estimate would not put it below 50 per cent.</p></div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Area of quahaug territory (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men (transient),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$140</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Production.</i>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>"Little necks":&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$4,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_7_7" id="Footnote_7_7"></a><a href="#FNanchor_7_7"><span class="label">[7]</span></a> "The Fisheries of Massachusetts," United States Fish Commission Report, Section II.,
+p. 253.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_8_8" id="Footnote_8_8"></a><a href="#FNanchor_8_8"><span class="label">[8]</span></a> Returns of Special Agent Wm. C. Dunham.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_9_9" id="Footnote_9_9"></a><a href="#FNanchor_9_9"><span class="label">[9]</span></a> "The Oyster, Scallop, Clam, Mussel and Abalone Industries," by Ernest Ingersoll.
+United States Fish Commission Report, Section V., Vol. 2, p. 603.</p></div></div>
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="Scallop_Pecten_irradians" id="Scallop_Pecten_irradians"><span class="smcap">Scallop</span> (<i>Pecten irradians</i>).</a></h2>
+
+
+<p>The common shallow-water scallop is unknown commercially on the
+north shore, occurring only south of Boston. It is usually found in
+abundance along the southern shore of Cape Cod, in Buzzards Bay,
+and about the islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard.</p>
+
+<p>For the past three years investigations in regard to its growth, habits
+and culture have been carried on by the Commissioners on Fisheries
+and Game. These investigations are now practically completed. In
+another report the whole life history of this bivalve will be given, showing
+the application of this scientific study to the existing conditions of
+the industry.</p>
+
+<p>The scallop fishery in Massachusetts is only a partial industry, as
+it does not concern the whole coast line, but merely the Vineyard Sound
+and Buzzards Bay shore. Compared with other States, the production
+of Massachusetts is favorable, New York alone exceeding it in output.
+The southern coast of Massachusetts is especially adapted for this
+shellfish. Its bays, sheltered harbors and inlets afford excellent ground
+for the scallop, which requires protection against the heavy seas. Thousands
+of acres of eel-grass flats from 1 to 60 feet under water were
+formerly covered by beds of scallops, and in parts are still thickly set.
+While the extent of the scalloping area is large, only portions are ever
+productive at any one time. A set may be in one part this year, and the
+next year's spawn may catch in a different place. Thus, while all the
+ground is suitable for scallops, only a small part is in productive
+operation each year.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>While the possibilities of future development are not as alluring as
+in the other shellfisheries, yet much can be done to assist nature and
+help preserve the supply. Wise laws and well-directed efforts can save
+many bushels of the young scallops which yearly die on the exposed
+flats where they have set in unfavorable places.</p>
+
+<p><i>Scope of the Report.</i>&mdash;The object of this report is to present certain
+information concerning the scallop industry which will be of use to the
+scallop fishermen, and of interest to the general public and the consumers.
+While the scallop is well known as an article of food, the
+majority of people know little about the animal. It will therefore be
+necessary in the following report to give brief descriptions of the various
+methods used in the capture of this bivalve, in order to make clear
+the more technical portions.</p>
+
+<p>The first part of the report considers the general results of the survey,
+the history of the industry, the scallop laws, the methods of scalloping
+and the statistics of the industry. The second part gives a more
+detailed description, the following points being considered under each
+town: (1) survey; (2) statistics of industry; (3) town laws; (4)
+history.</p>
+
+<p><i>Methods of Work.</i>&mdash;Several difficulties stand in the way of procuring
+exact information concerning the scallop industry, especially in regard
+to historical data which should show the improvement or decline
+of the fishery. The town records are incomplete, lost, or furnish but
+slight information. Little has been written about this industry, and
+we were thus forced to rely upon the scallopers for information concerning
+the history and former production of each town. Fortunately,
+the scallop industry is of recent origin (thirty years), and the information
+is very nearly correct. By the use of town records, market
+reports, records of express shipments, personal surveys and estimates
+by the various scallopers, and by all other methods at our command, the
+facts of the last few years have been obtained in an approximately
+correct form.</p>
+
+<p>The area of the scallop territory was obtained by personal inspection
+and calculated by plottings on the maps. In designating the area suitable
+for scallops in any town by a certain number of acres or by plottings
+on the map, it does not mean that scallops are found each year
+over all this territory. Allowances must be made for the uncertainty
+of the scallop supply. Some years there will be no scallops; in other
+years, plenty. Even when scallops are plentiful, they rarely cover the
+whole territory, but are found only in certain parts in different years.
+The designation of an area as scallop territory means that scallops have
+been found in the past over this territory, and that the natural conditions
+of the territory appear favorable for scallops.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h3><i>The Decline.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The most important questions which first come to mind when considering
+the scallop industry of to-day are these three: (1) Has there
+been any decline in the industry? If so, how extensive? (2) What
+are the causes of the decline? (3) How can the fishery be improved?</p>
+
+<p>I. <i>Extent of the Decline.</i>&mdash;There is no question but that the industry
+as a whole has declined. This decline has made itself manifest,
+especially in certain localities, <i>e.g.</i>, Buzzards Bay, where until
+1907 the entire fishery, except at New Bedford and Fairhaven, had
+been totally extinct for the past seven years.</p>
+
+<p>Along the south side of Cape Cod, at Edgartown and Nantucket,
+the supply has on the average remained the same. Of course there is
+varying abundance each year, but as a whole the industry in these localities
+can hardly be said to have declined.</p>
+
+<p>On the other hand, on the north side of Cape Cod we find a marked
+decline. A scallop fishery no longer exists at Plymouth, Barnstable
+harbor, Wellfleet and Provincetown, though twenty-five years ago these
+places boasted of a valuable industry.</p>
+
+<p>So we have to-day in Massachusetts three localities, two of which
+show a marked decline in the scallop fishery, while the other shows
+some improvement. Of the two depleted areas, the one (north of the
+Cape) may never revive the industry; the other (Buzzards Bay) gives
+indications that the industry can once more be put on a very profitable
+footing. The only thing necessary is perpetual precaution on the part
+of the fishermen, in order to prevent this decline. Massachusetts must
+not allow the industry to become extinct, as in Rhode Island.</p>
+
+<p>II. <i>Causes of the Decline.</i>&mdash;The causes of the decline of this industry
+can be grouped under three heads: (1) natural enemies; (2)
+overfishing by man; (3) adverse physical conditions.</p>
+
+<p>The natural enemy of the scallop which works the greatest mischief
+is the starfish, or "five finger," as it is often called. The starfish
+destroys the scallop in the same manner as it attacks the oyster. The
+decline of the scallop fishery in Buzzards Bay is attributed by the
+fishermen to the inroads of this pest. Undoubtedly the starfish was the
+chief apparent cause, since, according to report, dredges full of starfish
+could be hauled up. In other localities in Massachusetts the starfish
+has not been so plentiful.</p>
+
+<p>While the main cause of the decline of the natural clam, quahaug and
+oyster beds is overfishing by man, the decline of the scallop fishery
+cannot be so considered. The scallop has a short life, hardly 25 per
+cent. passing the two-year limit; so it does no harm to capture the
+marketable scallops which are over sixteen months old, as the scallop
+spawns when one year old, and dies a natural death usually before it
+reaches a second spawning season. When only old scallops are taken,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span>
+as is generally the case, it is probably <i>impossible</i> for man to exterminate
+the scallops by <i>overfishing</i>. Unfortunately, in certain localities in the
+past there has been a large capture of the "seed" scallop, viz., the
+scallop less than one year old, which has not spawned. This has worked
+the ruin of the scalloping in these localities. The capture of the
+spawners for another year merely makes the next year's set so much
+smaller, and causes a rapid decline.</p>
+
+<p>As a rule, it is hardly profitable to catch the "seed" scallop, owing
+to its small size. But a direct relation can be established between a high
+market price and the capture of seed. When the market price is high
+and scallops scarce, it becomes profitable to catch the young "seed."
+The present scallop law now defines a "seed" scallop, and forbids its
+capture. By protecting the "seed" scallop the State has done all that
+at present appears expedient to insure the future of the industry; the
+rest lies in the hands of the towns.</p>
+
+<p>So, while the scallop has declined in certain localities, and the decline
+has been hastened by unwise capture of the "seed" scallop, the main
+decline of the fishery cannot be attributed to wholesale overfishing, as
+it is impossible to overfish if only the old scallops (over one year old)
+are taken; for, unlike most other animals, the scallop usually breeds
+but once, and its natural period of life is unusually brief. These
+scallops, if not taken, will die, and prove a total loss; so every fisherman
+should bear in mind that, as long as the "seed" scallops are protected,
+severe fishing of large scallops is not likely to injure the future
+scallop industry.</p>
+
+<p>The principal causes of the decline of the fishery, besides the inroads
+of man, are best termed "adverse physical conditions." Severe winters,
+storms, anchor frost, etc., work destruction upon the hapless scallop.
+The "infant mortality" is especially great.</p>
+
+<p>As the scallop dies before reaching its second birthday, only one set
+of scallops spawn in any one season. There are never two generations
+of scallops spawning at one time. I quote from Ernest Ingersoll in
+this connection:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>This represents a case where the generations follow one another so rapidly
+that there are never two ranks, or generations, in condition to reproduce
+their kind at once, except in rare individual instances, since all, or nearly
+all, of the old ones die before the young ones have grown old enough to
+spawn. If such a state of affairs exists, of course any sudden catastrophe,
+such as a great and cold storm during the winter, or the covering of the
+water where they lie for a long period with a sheet of ice, happening
+to kill all the tender young (and old ones, too, often) in a particular district,
+will exterminate the breed there; since, even if the older and tougher
+ones survive this shock, they will not live long enough, or at any rate,
+will be unable to spawn again, and so start a new generation.<a name="FNanchor_10_10" id="FNanchor_10_10"></a><a href="#Footnote_10_10" class="fnanchor">[10]</a></p></div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The set of young scallops is abundant in shallow water upon the
+eel-grass flats, which often, as is the case of the Common Flats at
+Chatham, are exposed at extremely low tides. A severe winter often
+kills off all the "seed" thus exposed. In this case no spawn is obtained
+the following summer, causing the suppression of the scallop
+fishery in that locality for at least a few years, and possibly its permanent
+extinction.</p>
+
+<p>III. <i>Improvement; restocking Barren Areas.</i>&mdash;The scallop industry,
+unlike the clam and quahaug, offers but little inducement to private
+enterprise. For successful private culture small bays or coves would
+be needed, and suitable areas are very scarce. The scallop offers better
+opportunity for communal culture, <i>i.e.</i>, by towns.</p>
+
+<p>There is but one way now known of artificial propagation for the
+scallop industry, and that is by transplanting in the fall the abundant
+set from the exposed places to the deeper water before the seed is killed
+by the winter. It is merely assisting nature by preventing a natural
+loss, and in no sense can properly be termed propagation. It is merely
+a preventive, and money used in this way to preserve the scallops is
+well expended. Usually the set is abundant, and can be transferred
+in large numbers. This is the only practical method now known of
+increasing our scallop supply, though it is hoped in the future that
+other methods may be devised.</p>
+
+<p>In connection with the above comes the question, if we can thus
+preserve scallops doomed to destruction, will it not be profitable to
+transplant scallops to places where the scalloping has been exterminated
+by various causes, and by means of these "seeders" furnish succeeding
+generations which may populate the barren areas? This plan is practical
+and feasible, and should be given due consideration. Why should
+not scallops be transplanted to our Buzzards Bay harbors, to again
+restock these areas? Often the attempt might fail, but there is bound
+to be success if there is perseverance. The best time to plant these
+scallops is in the fall, as a double service will be given: (1) preservation
+from destruction of the seed scallops; (2) furnishing spawn and
+young in the barren locality. Ingersoll speaks of the restocking of
+Oyster Bay in 1880:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>In the spring of 1880 eel grass came into the bay, bringing young scallops
+[the eel grass carries the scallops attached to it by the thread-like
+byssus]; thus the abundance of that year was accounted for, though there
+had not been a crop before in that bay since 1874.</p></div>
+
+<p>If such a restocking can be accomplished by nature, it can be done
+with more certain effect with man's assistance.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h3><i>The Industry.</i></h3>
+
+<p>I. <i>The Methods.</i>&mdash;The methods of scalloping follow the historical
+rise of the fishery. As the industry grew more and more important,
+improvements became necessary in the methods of capture, and thus,
+parallel with the development of the industry, we can trace a corresponding
+development in the implements used in the capture of the
+scallop.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>a</i>) <i>Gathering by Hand.</i>&mdash;When the scallop was first used as an
+article of food, the primitive method of gathering this bivalve by hand
+was used. This method still exists on the flats of Brewster, and often
+in other localities after heavy gales wagons can be driven to the beach
+and loaded with the scallops which have been blown ashore.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>b</i>) <i>Scoop Nets.</i>&mdash;This hand method was not rapid enough for the
+enterprising scallopers, and the next step in the industry was the use
+of scoop nets, about 8 inches in diameter, by which the scallops could
+be picked up in the water. These nets were attached to poles of various
+lengths, suitable to the depth of water. "This method," writes
+Ingersoll, "was speedily condemned, however, because it could be
+employed only where scallops are a foot thick and inches in length,
+as one fisherman expressed it."</p>
+
+<p>(<i>c</i>) <i>The Pusher.</i>&mdash;The next invention was the so-called "pusher."
+The "pusher" consists of a wooden pole from 8 to 9 feet long, attached
+to a rectangular iron frame 3 by 1&frac12; feet, upon which is fitted
+a netting bag 3 feet in depth. The scalloper, wading on the flats
+at low tide, gathers the scallops by shoving the "pusher" among the
+eel grass. When the bag is full, the contents are emptied into the dory
+and the process repeated. The scallopers who use the "pusher" go
+in dories, which are taken to the various parts of the scalloping ground
+and moved whenever the immediate locality is exhausted. This method
+is in use to-day, but is applicable only to shallow flats, and can be
+worked only at low tide, where dredging is impossible. It is hard
+work, and not as profitable as the better method of dredging. This
+method of scalloping is used chiefly at Chatham, Dennis and Yarmouth;
+occasionally it is used at Nantucket and other towns.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>d</i>) <i>Dredging.</i>&mdash;The greater part of the scallop catch is taken by
+dredging, which is the most universal as well as the most profitable
+method. The dredge, commonly pronounced "drudge," consists of
+an iron framework about 3 by 1&frac12; feet, with a netting bag attached,
+which will hold from one to two bushels of scallops. Cat boats, carrying
+from 6 to 10 dredges, are used for this method of scalloping. These
+boats, with several "reefs," cross the scallop grounds pulling the
+dredges, which hold the boat steady in her course. A single run with
+all the dredges overboard is called a "drift." The contents of all
+the dredges is said to be the result or catch of the "drift."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>When the dredges are hauled in they are emptied on what is known
+as a culling board. This board runs the width of the boat, projecting
+slightly on both sides. It is 3 feet wide, and has a guide 3 inches
+high along each side, leaving the ends open. The scallops are then
+separated from the rubbish, such as seaweed, shells, mud, etc., while
+the refuse and seed scallops are thrown overboard by merely pushing
+them off the end of the board. Each catch is culled out while the dredges
+are being pulled along on the back "drift," and the board is again
+clear for the next catch. The culled scallops are first put in buckets
+and later transferred either to bushel bags or dumped into the cockpit
+of the boat.</p>
+
+<p>Two men are usually required to tend from 6 to 8 dredges in a large
+cat boat, but often one man alone does all the work. This seems to
+be confined to localities, as at Nantucket nearly all the cat boats have
+two men. At Edgartown the reverse is true, one man to the boat,
+though in power dredging two men are always used.</p>
+
+<p>Several styles of dredges are used in scalloping, as each locality has
+its own special kind, which is best adapted to the scalloping bottom
+of that region. Four different styles are used in Massachusetts, two of
+which permit a subdivision, making in all six different forms. Each
+of these dredges is said by the scallopers using them to be the best;
+but for all-round work the "scraper" seems the most popular.</p>
+
+<p>(1) <i>The Chatham or Box Dredge.</i>&mdash;As this dredge was first used in
+Chatham, the name of the town was given to it, to distinguish it from
+the other styles. At the present time its use is confined to Chatham and
+the neighboring towns of the Cape. With the exception of a very few
+used at Nantucket, it is not found elsewhere in Massachusetts.</p>
+
+<p>The style of the box dredge is peculiar, consisting of a rectangular
+framework, 27 by 12 inches, of flat iron 1 by &frac14; inches, with an oval-shaped
+iron bar extending back as a support for the netting bag, which
+is attached to the rectangular frame. To the side of the rectangular
+frame is attached a heavy iron chain about 4 feet long, to which is
+fastened the drag rope.</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>The Scraper.</i>&mdash;As can be seen by the illustration, this style
+of dredge consists of a rigid iron frame of triangular shape, which
+has a curve of nearly 90&deg; at the base, to form the bowl of the dredge.
+Above, a raised cross bar connects the two arms, while at the bottom
+of the dredge a strip of iron 2 inches wide extends from arm to arm.
+This strip acts as a scraping blade, and is set at an angle so as to dig
+into the bottom. The top of the net is fastened to the raised cross bar
+and the lower part to the blade.</p>
+
+<p>The usual dimensions of the dredge are: arms, 2&frac12; feet; upper
+cross bar, 2 feet; blade, 2&frac12; feet. The net varies in size, usually
+holding about a bushel of scallops, and running from 2 to 3 feet in
+length. Additional weights can be put on the cross bar when the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span>
+scalloper desires the dredge to scrape deeper. A wooden bar, 2 feet
+long, buoys the net.</p>
+
+<p>Two styles of this dredge are in use. At Nantucket the whole net
+is made of twine, while at Edgartown and in Buzzards Bay the lower
+part of the net is formed of a netting of iron rings, the upper half
+of the net being twine. The iron rings are supposed to stand the wear
+better than the twine netting. This difference seems to be merely a
+matter of local choice. The "scraper" is perhaps the dredge most
+generally used, as, no matter what style is in use, a scalloper generally
+has a few "scrapers" among his dredges.</p>
+
+<p>(3) <i>The "Slider."</i>&mdash;The principle of the "slider" is the reverse
+of the "scraper," as the blade is set either level or with an upward
+incline, so the dredge can slide over the bottom. This dredge is used
+on rough bottom and in places where there is little eel-grass. In some
+dredges the blade is rigid, but in the majority the blade hangs loose.</p>
+
+<p>The "slider" used at Edgartown differs from the "scraper" by having
+perfectly straight arms and no curved bowl, the blade being
+fastened to the arms in a hook-and-eye fashion. The dimensions of
+this dredge are the same as those of the "scraper," although occasionally
+smaller dredges are found.</p>
+
+<p>(4) <i>The "Roller" Dredge.</i>&mdash;This style of dredge is used only in the
+town of Mattapoisett, where the scallopers claim it is the most successful.
+The dredge is suitable for scalloping over rough ground, as the
+blade of the dredge is merely a line of leads, which roll over the surface
+of the ground gathering in the scallops.</p>
+
+<p>The dredge consists of an oval iron frame, 32 by 20 inches, which
+acts as the arms, and is attached to another iron frame, 32 by 3 inches.
+The blade of the dredge consists of a thin rope with attached leads.
+The net is made wholly of twine, and is about 2&frac12; feet long.</p>
+
+<p><i>Scalloping with Power Boats.</i>&mdash;The season of 1907 has witnessed
+in Massachusetts the first use of auxiliary power in the scallop fishery.
+At Edgartown the main part of the scalloping is now done by power,
+which, in spite of the additional expense of 5 gallons of gasolene per
+day, gives a proportionately larger catch of scallops. The Edgartown
+scallopers claim that their daily catch, using power, is from one-third
+to one-half better than under the old method of dredging by sail. Not
+only can they scallop when the wind is too light or too heavy for successful
+scalloping by sail, but more "drifts" can be made in the same
+time. A slight disadvantage of scalloping with power is the necessity
+of having two men, as the steering of the power boat demands much
+closer attention than the sail boat, which is practically held to a fixed
+course by the dredges. A power boat for scalloping possesses only the
+disadvantage of additional cost; but it is only necessary to look forward
+a few years, when expedition rather than cheapness will be in demand,
+to a partial revolution in the present methods of scalloping, whereby<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span>
+the auxiliary cat boat will take the place of the sail boat in the scallop
+fishery.</p>
+
+<p>II. <i>Preparing the Scallop for Market.</i> (1) <i>The "Eye."</i>&mdash;The
+edible part of the scallop is the large adductor muscle. The rest of
+the animal is thrown away, though in certain localities it is used as
+fish bait and in others for fertilizer. Why the whole of the animal
+is not eaten is hard to say. Undoubtedly all is good, but popular
+prejudice, which molds opinion, has decreed that it is bad, so it is
+not used as food. This is perhaps due to the highly pigmented and
+colored portions of the animal. Nevertheless, there is a decided possibility
+that in the future we shall eat the entire scallop, as well as the
+luscious adductor muscle.</p>
+
+<p>The adductor muscle is called by the dealers and fishermen the "eye,"
+a name given perhaps from its important position in the animal, and
+its appearance. The color of the "eye," which has a cylindrical form,
+is a yellowish white.</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>The Shanties.</i>&mdash;The catch of scallops is carried to the shanty
+of the fisherman, and there opened. These shanties are usually grouped
+on the dock, so the catch can be readily transferred. Inside of these
+shanties, usually 20 by 10 feet or larger, we find a large bench 3
+to 3&frac12; feet wide, running the length of the shanty, and a little more
+than waist high. On these benches the scallops are dumped from the
+baskets or bags, and pass through the hands of the openers. Under
+the bench are barrels for the shells and refuse.</p>
+
+<p>(3) <i>The Openers.</i>&mdash;The openers are usually men and boys, though
+occasionally a few women try their hand at the work. Of late years
+there has been a difficulty in obtaining sufficient openers, and the scallopers
+often are forced to open their own scallops. The openers are
+paid from 20 to 30 cents per gallon, according to the size of the
+scallops. One bushel of average scallops will open 2&frac12; to 3 quarts
+of "eyes." An opener can often open 8 to 10 gallons in a day, making
+an excellent day's work. The price now paid is more than double that
+paid in 1880, which was 12&frac12; cents per gallon. Some openers are
+especially rapid, and their deft movements cause a continual dropping
+of shells in the barrel and "eyes" in the gallon measure.</p>
+
+<p>(4) <i>Method of opening the Scallop.</i>&mdash;The opening of a scallop requires
+three movements. A flat piece of steel with a sharp but rounded
+end, inserted in a wooden handle, answers for a knife. The scallop
+is taken by a right-handed opener in the palm of the left hand, the
+hinge line farthest away from the body, the scallop in its natural resting
+position, the right or smooth valve down. The knife is inserted
+between the valves on the right-hand side. An upward turn with a cutting
+motion is given, severing the "eye" from the upper valve, while
+a flirt at the same moment throws back the upper shell. The second
+motion tears the soft rim and visceral mass of the scallop and casts
+it into the barrel, leaving the "eye" standing clear. A third move<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span>ment
+separates the "eye" from the shell and casts it into a gallon
+measure. Frequently the last two movements are slightly different.
+The faster openers at the second motion merely tear off enough of the
+rim to allow the separation of the "eye" from the shell, and on the
+third movement cast the "eye" in the measure, while the shell with
+its adhering soft parts is thrown into the refuse barrel. These last
+two motions can hardly be separated, so quickly are they accomplished.</p>
+
+<p>(5) <i>"Soaking."</i>&mdash;The "eye" is then usually put through the following
+course of treatment before marketing; the treatment is what
+is familiarly known as "soaking." It has been noticed that whenever
+salt water products are allowed to soak in fresh water, an increase
+of bulk is found. This is due to a change, called osmosis, which causes
+the swelling of the tissues. The "eye" can be increased, by the process
+of osmosis, to a gain of more than one-third its natural size; that is,
+4&frac12; gallons of scallop "eyes" can be increased to 7 gallons by judicious
+"feeding" with fresh water. Also, a change has taken place in the
+scallops after a few hours' soaking. No longer do we find the poor
+yellow-colored small "eye" of the freshly opened scallop, but a beautiful
+white, plump "eye," which at once tempts the purchaser. While
+these changes have added to the salable properties of the scallop by
+beautifying its appearance and increasing its size, the scallop has lost
+much of its sweet flavor and freshness.</p>
+
+<p>Practically every scallop sold in the markets or shipped from any
+scalloping center is soaked, as the "soaking," if not already done by
+the fishermen, is administered by the retail dealers. There are scallopers
+who are ready to ship the unsoaked scallops at a proportionate price
+the moment the market demands them; but the consumer, through ignorance,
+demands the large, nice-appearing "eyes," and thus unwittingly
+favors the practice. However, as long as pure water is used and other
+sanitary precautions taken, no actual harm may arise from soaking
+scallops.</p>
+
+<p>Two methods of swelling scallops are in use. When the scallops
+are shipped in kegs, which usually contain 7 gallons, the following
+method is applied: 4&frac12; to 5 gallons of "eyes" are placed in each keg,
+and are allowed to stand over night in fresh water; in the morning
+before shipment more water is added and the keg closed, and by the
+time of arrival to the New York or Boston market the scallops have
+increased to the full amount of 7 gallons.</p>
+
+<p>The second method of "soaking" is slightly more elaborate. The
+eyes are spread evenly in shallow wooden sinks 5 by 3 feet, with just
+enough fresh water to cover them, and left over night. In the morning
+a milky fluid is drawn off, and the "soaked" scallops are packed for
+market in kegs or butter tubs.</p>
+
+<p>(6) <i>Shipment.</i>&mdash;The kegs in which the scallops are shipped cost
+30 cents apiece, and contain about 7 gallons. A full keg is known
+as a "package." The butter tubs are less expensive, but hold only<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span>
+4 to 5 gallons. Indeed, anything which will hold scallops for shipment
+is used to send them to market.</p>
+
+<p>When the scallops get to the market they are strained and weighed,
+9 pounds being considered the weight of a gallon of meats. In this
+way about 6 gallons are realized from every 7-gallon keg. With the
+improved methods of modern times scallops can be shipped far west
+or be held for months in cold storage, for which purpose unsoaked
+scallops are required. Certain firms have tried this method of keeping
+the catch until prices were high, but it has not been especially successful.</p>
+
+<p>(7) <i>Market.</i>&mdash;One of the greatest trials to the scallop fisherman
+is the uncertainty of market returns when shipping. He does not
+know the price he is to receive; and, as the price depends on the supply
+on the market, he may receive high wages or he may get scarcely anything.
+The wholesale market alone can regulate the price, and the
+fisherman is powerless. While this is hard on the scalloper, it does
+not appear that at the present time anything can be done to remedy
+the uncertainty of return. The scallop returns from the New York
+market are usually higher than from the Boston market. The result
+of this has been to give New York each year the greater part of the
+scallop trade, and practically all the Nantucket and Edgartown scallops
+are shipped to New York.</p>
+
+<p>Either from a feeling of loyalty, or because the market returns are
+sooner forwarded, or because the express charges are less, Cape Cod
+still ships to the Boston market, in spite of the better prices offered
+in New York. Why so many Cape scallopers should continue to ship
+to Boston, and resist the attractions of better prices, is impossible to
+determine, and appears to be only a question of custom.</p>
+
+<p>(8) <i>The Price.</i>&mdash;The price of scallops varies with the supply. The
+demand is fairly constant, showing a slight but decided increase each
+year. On the other hand, the supply is irregular, some years scallops
+being plentiful, in other years scarce.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Maine or Deep-sea Scallop.</i>&mdash;In the Boston market the shallow-water
+scallop has a formidable rival in the giant scallop of the Maine
+coast, which is nearly twice as large. Nevertheless, the Cape scallop
+maintains its superiority and still leads its larger brother in popular
+favor, wholesaling at 50 to 70 cents more a gallon. There is no doubt
+that this competition has had a tendency to lower the price of the Cape
+scallop, possibly accounting for the higher market price in New York.</p>
+
+<p><i>Outfit of a Scalloper.</i>&mdash;While we have traced the scallop from its
+capture among the eel-grass to its final disposition, we have not considered
+the equipment of the scalloper. The average capital invested
+in the business can best be summed up under these two heads,&mdash;the
+boat fisherman and the dory fisherman.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Boat Fisherman.</i></p>
+
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Boat,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$500.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dory,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Six dredges,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Rope and gear,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Culling board,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Incidentals,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Shanty,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$625.00</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<p class="center"><i>Dory Fisherman.</i></p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dory,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$20.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Oars,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Pusher,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Shanty,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$49.00</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>III. <i>The Scallop Season.</i>&mdash;There is considerable diversity of opinion
+among the scallopers as to when the scallop season should open.
+Some advocate November 1 as the opening date, instead of October 1,
+as the present law reads; and many arguments are put forth by both
+sides.</p>
+
+<p>The class of fishermen who desire November 1 are those who are
+engaged in other fishing during the month of October, and either have
+to give it up or lose the first month of scalloping. Naturally, they wish
+a change, putting forth the additional argument of better prices if
+the season begins later. The scalloper who is not engaged in other
+fishing of course desires the law to remain as it is at the present time,
+claiming that the better weather of October gives easier work, more
+working days, and allows no chance of loss if the winter is severe.</p>
+
+<p>Under the present law, the town can regulate the opening of its
+season to suit the demands of the market and the desire of the inhabitants.
+This does away with the necessity of any State law on this
+point, which, under the present system of town control, would be
+inadvisable.</p>
+
+<p>The general opinion of the fishermen is in favor of the present date,
+October 1. As nearly as could be determined, about 75 per cent. favor
+October 1 and 25 per cent. November 1. This sentiment is divided by
+localities, as more men were in favor of November 1 at Nantucket
+and Edgartown than on Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay, where very few
+favored a change.</p>
+
+<p>IV. <i>The Utilization of Waste.</i>&mdash;While it seems an enormous waste
+that out of a bushel of scallops only 2&frac12; to 3 quarts of edible meats
+are obtained, it is not all absolute loss. Oyster growers buy the shells
+for cultch to catch the oyster seed, paying from 3 to 5 cents per bushel.
+Other uses are found, such as ornaments and in making shell roads.
+The refuse is used for fish bait, and often barrels of it are salted for
+this purpose. It is also used in some places for manure for agricultural
+purposes.</p>
+
+<p>In the last year a new use for scallop shells has developed. Similar
+to the souvenir postal card, scallop shells bound together with ribbon<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span>
+and containing miniature photographic views have been put on the
+market. Three firms near Boston make a business of this, and use only
+the lower or bright valve of the scallop. Certain scallopers furnish
+these scallop shells, cleaned of meat, at the rate of $6 per barrel; and,
+though it takes considerable time to separate the shells when opening,
+the excellent price makes this new industry pay. The question of the
+future is to find new and more important uses for our waste sea products.
+Some day what is now waste in the scallop industry may be
+utilized for the benefit of the public.</p>
+
+<p>V. <i>Food Value.</i>&mdash;As a food the scallop stands ahead of all the
+other shellfish, containing much more nourishment than the oyster. The
+following figures are from the tables of Professor Atwater, rearranged
+by C. F. Langworthy:<a name="FNanchor_11_11" id="FNanchor_11_11"></a><a href="#Footnote_11_11" class="fnanchor">[11]</a>&mdash;</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Food Value">
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <th>Refuse, Bone, Skin, etc. (Per Cent.).</th>
+    <th>Salt (Per Cent.).</th>
+    <th>Water (Per Cent.).</th>
+    <th>Protein (Per Cent.).</th>
+    <th>Fat (Per Cent.).</th>
+    <th>Car&shy;bo&shy;hy&shy;drates (Per Cent.).</th>
+    <th>Mineral Matter (Per Cent.).</th>
+    <th>Total Nutrients (Per Cent.).</th>
+    <th>Fuel Value per Pound (Per Cent.).</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Oysters, solids,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">88.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6.1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.9</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11.7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">235</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Oysters, in shell,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">82.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15.4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.2</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.6</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Oysters, canned,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">85.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7.4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.9</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14.7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Scallops,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">80.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14.7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.2</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">19.7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">345</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Soft clams, in shell,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">43.6</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">48.4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4.8</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.6</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8.0</td>
+    <td class="tdr">135</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Soft clams, canned,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">84.5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">9.0</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.9</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15.5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">275</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs, removed from shell,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">80.8</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10.6</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5.2</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">19.2</td>
+    <td class="tdr">340</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs, in shell,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">68.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">27.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.9</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4.4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">65</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Quahaugs, canned,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">83.0</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10.4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.8</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.0</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.8</td>
+    <td class="tdr">17.0</td>
+    <td class="tdr">285</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Mussels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">49.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">42.7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4.4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.0</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8.0</td>
+    <td class="tdr">140</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>General average of mollusks (exclusive of canned).</td>
+    <td class="tdr">60.2</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">34.0</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.2</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">.9</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5.8</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<h3><i>The Laws.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The State laws regulating the fishery were made for the benefit of
+the industry and for the preservation of the "seed" scallop, which
+is the only requirement necessary for insuring the future supply.</p>
+
+<p>Each town has charge over its scallop fishery, under the general
+shellfish act of 1880, which entrusted all regulation of the shellfisheries
+to the selectmen of the towns. The town laws governing the scallop
+fishery are by far the most satisfactory of the shellfish laws of the
+towns. Although in many respects beneficial, they have certain disadvantages.</p>
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span></p>
+<p>The main disadvantage of the town laws is found in the jealousy
+of neighboring towns. One town may make a law to oppose another
+town, and will often injure its own interests thereby. In this connection
+the condition at Dennis, during the winter of 1904-05, was an instance.
+As scallops were remarkably abundant, the town made by-laws intended
+to exclude from its scallop fisheries the residents of other towns.
+At the close of the scalloping season, when the ice came, the scallops
+were still abundant. The inhabitants of the town thought they could
+get the rest next season. They did not know that the scallop does not
+live two years. The next year not a single scallop of that set was to
+be found; they had died. If other scallopers had been allowed to
+go there, thousands of dollars could have been saved, and many scallopers
+given employment. This one case illustrates the disadvantages
+of town jealousy; and Dennis is by no means to blame, as it merely
+protected itself against the similar restrictions of neighboring Cape
+Cod towns.</p>
+
+<p>The town laws which benefit the scallop industry are made each year
+according to the condition of the industry. Edgartown and Nantucket
+have perhaps the best-governed scallop industries. Laws requiring
+licenses, regulating the opening of the season and restricting at proper
+times the catch, so as to get the best market prices instead of overstocking
+the market when the prices are low, are to be recommended
+on account of their benefit to the scallopers.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>History.</i></h3>
+
+<p>In considering the rise of a fishing industry, it is often difficult to
+state exactly the year when the industry started, as there are differences
+of opinion as to how large a fishery should be before it could be justly
+considered an industry. The scallop fishery has existed for years, but
+did not become an established industry of the State before the year
+1872. At that time there was hardly any demand for scallops, and the
+catch was with difficulty marketed. Since then the market demand
+for the scallop has steadily increased, until the supply can hardly meet
+the popular demand. It seems almost incredible that the scallop as
+an article of food should once have been scorned and practically unknown.</p>
+
+<p>During the years of 1876 and 1877 the industry took a sudden spurt.
+At this time the introduction of the dredge on Cape Cod revolutionized
+the industry, and made it possible to open up the deep-water fields.
+The industry on Cape Cod first started at Hyannis, where a number
+of men entered the new business; and for several years the production
+increased rapidly, with the opening of new territories and improved
+methods of capture. While the natural supply has remained the same
+or declined in certain localities, as has been shown in a previous part
+of this report, the value of the industry, in regard to the number of
+men engaged and capital invested, has steadily increased.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Scallop Production for Massachusetts.<a name="FNanchor_12_12" id="FNanchor_12_12"></a><a href="#Footnote_12_12" class="fnanchor">[12]</a></span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th><span class="smcap">Year.</span></th>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+    <th>Gallons.</th>
+    <th>Price per Gallon.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10,542</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,514</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7,028</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$0.50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1887,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">41,964</td>
+    <td class="tdr">38,933</td>
+    <td class="tdr">27,976</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.39</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1888,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">26,168</td>
+    <td class="tdr">43,202</td>
+    <td class="tdr">17,446</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.48</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1898,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">128,863</td>
+    <td class="tdr">85,383</td>
+    <td class="tdr">85,908</td>
+    <td class="tdr">0.99</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1902,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">66,150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">89,982</td>
+    <td class="tdr">44,100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.04</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1905,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">43,872</td>
+    <td class="tdr">98,712</td>
+    <td class="tdr">29,248</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3.37&frac12;</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>These figures show that the price of scallops varies greatly, dependent
+largely upon the amount caught that season; also that there
+has been, in spite of the irregularity of the catch, a gradual rise in
+prices since 1879, due to a more extensive market.</p>
+
+<p>In considering the scallop industry the following points should be
+noted: (1) It has been necessary to record as scallop area any grounds
+where scallops have ever been found, in spite of the fact that only
+a portion of this total area is in any one year productive. (2) The
+boats engaged in the scallop fishery are but transitory capital, which
+is utilized, outside of the scallop season, in other fisheries. (3) The
+quahaug and scallop fisheries in many towns supplement each other,
+as the same men and boats are engaged in both industries. (4) The
+length of the season varies in the different localities. In New Bedford
+and Fairhaven the scallops are mostly caught in a few weeks, as many
+boats enter the business temporarily. This necessarily gives an excess
+of invested capital and a small production. In these two towns the
+number of scallop licenses are recorded as showing the number of men
+engaged in the fishery, while as a fact but a small part of these are
+steadily engaged in the industry.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span></p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th rowspan="2">TOWN.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2" class="br">Number of Men.</th>
+    <th colspan="2" class="br smcap">Boats.</th>
+    <th colspan="2" class="br smcap">Extra Dories.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2" class="br">Value of Gear.</th>
+    <th colspan="2" class="br smcap">Production 1907-08.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Area of Grounds (Acres).</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <th>Number.</th>
+    <th class="br">Value.</th>
+    <th>Number.</th>
+    <th class="br">Value.</th>
+    <th>Gallons.</th>
+    <th class="br">Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barnstable</td>
+    <td class="tdr">39</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">23</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$8,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">$575</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,530</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,004</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Bourne</td>
+    <td class="tdr">38</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">12,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15,720</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Chatham</td>
+    <td class="tdr">107</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">35</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10,650</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">61</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,430</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,185</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">34,615</td>
+    <td class="tdr">45,345</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dennis</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">9</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,230</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">9</td>
+    <td class="tdr">180</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">368</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,950</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,865</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Edgartown</td>
+    <td class="tdr">39</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">26</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">550</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">17,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">22,270</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Fairhaven</td>
+    <td class="tdr">73<a name="FNanchor_13_13" id="FNanchor_13_13"></a><a href="#Footnote_13_13" class="fnanchor">[13]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,703</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Harwich</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,350</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">280</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,170</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,843</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">3,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Marion</td>
+    <td class="tdr">44</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">16</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,300</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">24</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">580</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">7,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">9,170</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Mattapoisett</td>
+    <td class="tdr">22</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">19</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,900</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">760</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,550</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Nantucket</td>
+    <td class="tdr">99</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">47</td>
+    <td class="tdr">13,250</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">700</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">20,245</td>
+    <td class="tdr">26,539</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">4,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>New Bedford</td>
+    <td class="tdr">38<a href="#Footnote_13_13" class="fnanchor">[13]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">600</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">700</td>
+    <td class="tdr">917</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Tisbury</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">8</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">6</td>
+    <td class="tdr">90</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">3,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,930</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Wareham</td>
+    <td class="tdr">45</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">36</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10,800</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,300</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">13,100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Yarmouth</td>
+    <td class="tdr">41</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,750</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">475</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">8,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10,480</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">647</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl bt">341</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$108,730</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl bt">130</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$2,650</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl bt">$10,373</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl bt">125,510</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$164,436</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl bt">30,900</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Barnstable.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The principal scalloping grounds of the town of Barnstable are
+found in Hyannis bay and at Cotuit. Scallops are said to have once
+been abundant in Barnstable harbor, on the north side of Cape Cod.
+At the present day the scallop is unknown commercially in this locality,
+and few are found on the sand flats of the harbor. A. Howard
+Clark, in his report on the fisheries of Massachusetts, in 1880, makes
+the following statement concerning this industry in Barnstable harbor:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>Scallops are abundant along the shores of the harbor, and in 1876 a
+party of men from Hyannis established themselves here for the purpose
+of gathering them. In 1877 the price of scallops declined very greatly,
+forcing these men to abandon their enterprise. The fishery was continued,
+however, by two men of Barnstable. In the winter of 1877-78 the latter
+shipped 40 half-barrels of "eyes," and during the winter of 1878-79 only
+6 half-barrels. They were sent to Boston and New York.</p></div>
+
+<p>This furnishes a concrete example of the extinction of the productive
+scallop beds in certain localities. The chances are that a severe
+winter or other adverse physical conditions killed all the scallops in
+the harbor, and rendered impossible any future supply. Although
+Barnstable harbor, with its swift tides, is not suitable for scallops in
+all parts, yet there are certain localities where they should thrive. In
+no way is it visionary or impossible that by the proper transplanting
+of young scallops from the waters on the south side of the Cape, these
+"seeders" might furnish other generations of scallops, and revive an
+extinct industry. At any rate, the chances for success in this line look
+favorable, and should be carefully considered.</p>
+
+<p><i>Hyannis.</i>&mdash;Although the scallop industry on the north coast of the
+town is extinct, it still flourishes as of old on the south coast. The
+bulk of the business is carried on here, and nearly all the shipments
+are made from this town. The scallop territory comprises 2,700 acres,
+in the following localities: (1) Lewis Bay; (2) near Squaw's Island;
+(3) Hyannisport harbor; and (4) the shore waters. At Hyannisport
+small scallops are taken with "pushers" in the shallow water, while
+large scallops are taken by dredging in the other three localities. Scallops
+are found in different parts and in varying abundance each year.
+Practically all this territory as outlined on the map is suitable for
+scallops.</p>
+
+<p>Two methods of scalloping are in use at Hyannis: (1) the hand
+"pusher," used in shallow water, especially in the harbor at Hyannisport;
+(2) dredging. These two methods cover different territories, and
+it is possible that one year scallops may be found only on the flats
+where it was impossible to dredge with a boat, and another year be
+all in the deep water where the "pusher" cannot be used. However,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span>
+in most years both methods are in use. The dredge most commonly
+used is the "scraper," although the Chatham style is found here. Six
+to nine are carried by each boat.</p>
+
+<p>Hyannis claims the distinction of shipping the first Cape Cod scallops
+to market. This was in 1874, and was the start of a considerable industry
+which employed 80 men. There has been more or less scalloping
+ever since that time. Ernest Ingersoll, in his report on the scallop
+fishery of the United States, in 1880, says in reference to scallop fishing
+at Hyannis from 1876 to 1878:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>The most northerly locality at which such a fishery exists, as far as I
+am informed, is at Hyannis, Mass., and during the winter of 1877 many
+persons of all ages and conditions were employed in it there. One firm
+fitted up a large house expressly for the business, and employed a large
+number of openers. Skiffs, cat-rigged yawl boats, dories and punts, 200
+in number, and of every size, shape, form and color, were used; most
+of them were flat bottomed, shaped like a flatiron, and therefore very
+"tender" when afloat. Each boat carried two dredges, locally termed
+"drags." In that year, according to Mr. F. W. True, each of the 200 boats
+averaged 120 bushels, or 100 gallons, during the season, which would give
+a total of 24,000 bushels, or 20,000 gallons for the fleet. The scallops were
+sent to New York and also to Boston, and an average price of $5 per half-barrel
+was received. In 1876 the price was $7, and in 1878 only $3.50.
+Further inquiries show that this spurt at Hyannis had no precedent, and
+has completely died away, so that at present there is no catch there, or at
+least no shipments.</p></div>
+
+<p>The 1904-05 fishery was very successful, while the season of 1905-06
+proved the reverse. The production for 1905-06 was 1,350 gallons,
+valued at $3,200; while the 1906-07 season furnished 1,000 gallons,
+worth $2,000. The following notes, made in November, 1905, give the
+situation of the industry for that year:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>The scalloping areas this season have been at Squaw's Island and in
+Lewis Bay, the first locality furnishing the better fishing. By the middle
+of November both areas were practically exhausted and the season over.
+The production to November 12 was 900 gallons. After that time the
+shipments to the Boston and New York markets were small and irregular,
+in spite of the high price of $3 to $3.50 per gallon.</p>
+
+<p><i>Cotuit.</i>&mdash;In the report of Mr. Ingersoll we find no mention of scalloping
+at Cotuit. Either there was none in 1879, or it was too small
+to be of any importance. To-day the scalloping is of slight importance,
+and practically all is used for home trade. Undoubtedly there has been
+but little change in the past twenty-five years. Side by side with the
+pigmy scallop industry has grown the oyster industry, which has made
+Cotuit famous. Undoubtedly the latter has sapped the strength of the
+former by encroaching on its area; but it has always been for the best
+interests of the people, as the oyster industry here is far more valuable
+than the scallop fishery.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The grounds of Cotuit are quite small, extending over an irregular
+strip of 100 acres. The bottom is mostly muddy, and covered with
+patches of eel grass. All the rest of the bay, where the bottom is more
+suited for oyster culture, is taken up by grants. This scalloping area,
+although small, is free to the scallopers of Osterville, Cotuit, Marston's
+Mills and Hyannis, and even where heavily set it is soon fished out.</p>
+
+<p>In the years previous to 1904-05 exceptionally fine scalloping had
+been reported by the fishermen. The season of 1904-05 was exceptionally
+poor, and in 1905-06 hardly any scallops were obtainable. In
+1907 scalloping began October 1, and by December 15 all the boats
+were hauled up, as the scallops became too scarce for profitable fishing.
+Dredging is the only important method employed in the Cotuit fishery,
+although a few scallops were picked up on the flats.</p>
+
+<p>A town law forbidding the capture of scallops for market before
+December 1 was passed in 1899. This, nevertheless, permitted any resident
+of Barnstable, between October 1 and December 1, to catch scallops
+for his family use, and for this reason could never be strictly enforced.
+In 1907 this law was repealed, as many believed that it was detrimental
+rather than helpful to the Cotuit interests, as it gave the Hyannis
+scallopers, after they had fished for two months in Hyannis Bay, the
+cream of the Cotuit fishery.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th rowspan="2">TOWN.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Number of Men.</th>
+    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Boats.</span></th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Value of Gear.</th>
+    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Production</span>, 1907-08.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+    <th>Number.</th>
+    <th>Gallons.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Hyannis,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">16</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,130</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,480</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Hyannisport,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">131</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Cotuit,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">9</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8</td>
+    <td class="tdr">175</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">393</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">39</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$8,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">23</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$575</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">1,530</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$2,004</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Bourne.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The villages of Buzzards Bay, Monument Beach and Cataumet share
+the scallop fishery of the town of Bourne, and have had during 1907-08
+a successful season for the first time in eight years.</p>
+
+<p>The available scallop territory of the town covers approximately
+3,000 acres, extending from Buttermilk Bay along the whole coast of
+the town to Cataumet.</p>
+
+<p>The fishing is mostly done by dredging with cat boats, carrying from
+six to ten dredges per boat, although a few scallopers dredge with power.
+The dredges are generally of the "scraper" type, with the chain bottom,
+similar to the dredges used at Edgartown. The scallopers both
+open their own catch and hire openers to assist them. Thirty boats,
+8 carrying 2 men, and 22 with 1 man, totalling 38 men, are employed
+in the scallop fishery.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The industry lasted until Jan. 1, 1908, when the boats were hauled
+up for winter. The total estimate for the season is 20,000 bushels, or
+12,000 gallons (unsoaked), valued at $15,720. The largest daily catch
+recorded for one boat was 72 bushels.</p>
+
+<p>The principal market is New York, though part of the catch is sent
+to New Bedford. The price varied from $1.15 to $3 per gallon. The
+scallopers claim that they do not soak the scallops, as the "eye" is large
+enough to sell well without increasing its size. Undoubtedly soaking
+is done to some extent. The scallops are large, opening about 3&frac12;
+quarts per bushel.</p>
+
+<p>Twelve hundred dollars are invested in gear and $15,000 in boats,
+which vary from $300 to $1,300 in value.</p>
+
+<p>Licenses costing $1 are required by the selectmen of every scalloper.</p>
+
+<p>Here again we find the old tale of the decline of a once prosperous
+industry, and new enthusiasm in the success of the 1907-08 season.
+The 1906-07 season was an improvement over the previous one, when
+eight licenses were issued, allowing a maximum of 1,605 bushels to be
+taken. In previous years no licenses were given, as there were no
+scallops.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Brewster.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Scalloping at Brewster can hardly be called an industry. Here the
+primitive method of picking up the scallops on the exposed flats at
+low tide is alone used. The scallops are washed by the heavy seas on
+the flats, and can be gathered by men, women and children when the
+tide goes down. Somewhere in the deeper water is a bed of scallops,
+but in 1905 no one had been able to locate it. In 1905 only one man
+made a business of gathering and shipping these scallops. He averaged
+2 bushels per tide, going down with a team and carting them to his
+house, where he opened them. All shipments were made to Boston,
+at an average price of $1.75 to $2. The people pick up many for home
+use.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Chatham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The town of Chatham, situated at the elbow of Cape Cod, possesses
+abundant facilities for all the shore fisheries. For the past twenty-five
+years the scallop fishery has held almost equal rank with the lobster
+and cod fisheries, for which Chatham is noted, and has in many years
+furnished employment when other fishing had failed.</p>
+
+<p>Scallops are found only in the southern waters of the town. Between
+Inward Point and Harding's Beach many acres of eel-grass flats, sheltered
+from the open ocean by Monomoy Island, furnish excellent
+grounds for scallops. The entire area of these grounds is approximately
+2,000 acres, although this whole territory is never completely stocked
+in any one year. During the season of 1907-08 the following places
+constituted the scalloping grounds:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(1) Island Flats in Stage Harbor, on the east side of the channel,
+opposite Harding's Beach, furnished a number of scallops, which<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span>
+were rapidly caught the first of the season, as these flats were near the
+town. Here the water is not more than 1&frac12; to 2 feet deep at low tide,
+and thick eel grass covers the greater part except near the channel.
+The first of the season a man could obtain 8 bushels per day, but later
+a catch of 2 bushels was considered good.</p>
+
+<p>(2) Directly south of Harding's Beach lies John Perry's flat, commonly
+known as "Jerry's," where there has been good scalloping for
+many years.</p>
+
+<p>(3) The western half of the Common Flats furnished the best scalloping
+in 1907-08, as the scallops, though small (6 pecks to a gallon),
+were plentiful. These flats run nearly dry on low course tides, and
+are covered with eel grass. Nearly every year there is a heavy set of
+scallop seed, which, because of the exposed nature of the flats, is
+wholly or partially destroyed. The entire set was destroyed in the winter
+of 1904-05, while 30 per cent. was lost in 1906-07.</p>
+
+<p>(4) On the flats just south of Inward Point was another bed of
+scallops.</p>
+
+<p>(5) In the bend north of Inward Point scallops were plentiful.</p>
+
+<p>(6) On the northwest edge of the Common Flats scallops can be
+dredged over an area of 160 acres at a depth of 5 fathoms. These
+are of good size, opening 3&frac12; quarts to the bushel.</p>
+
+<p>Two methods of obtaining scallops are employed: (1) by the use
+of the "pusher;" and (2) by dredging. As the "pusher" is used on
+the flats at low water where the boats cannot sail, the boat man possesses
+the advantage of "pushing" at low tide and dredging at high
+water. Sixty per cent. of the scallopers at Chatham go in dories and
+use "pushers," as the Common Flats afford excellent opportunity for
+this sort of fishing; the remaining 40 per cent. scallop in boats, using
+"pushers" to a limited extent. Four to six box dredges are used for
+each boat, the smaller boats carrying four, the larger six.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">107</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dory men ("pushers"),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">62</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Boat men (dredgers),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">45</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">35</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Single-manned,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">26</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Double-manned,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">9</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$10,650</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">61</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,430</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of scallop gear for dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">135</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of scallop gear for boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,050</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total value of scallop gear,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,185</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>Last season 34,615 gallons, valued at $45,345, were shipped to Boston
+and New York. Shipments are made in butter tubs, containing 4 to
+6 gallons each.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The larger scallops in the deep water are from 2&frac12; to 2&frac34; inches in
+length, taking 5 pecks to open a gallon of "eyes." On the flats are
+smaller scallops, from 2 to 2&frac14; inches in length, of which 6&frac12; pecks are
+required to make a gallon. About 4,000 gallons were bought in Chatham
+by two dealers, paying $1.30 per gallon; the rest were shipped to
+Boston and New York by the individual scallopers, shipments being
+made semiweekly to New York. The scallops were shipped in butter
+tubs containing from 4 to 6 gallons, on which the express charges were:
+to New York, 65 cents; to Boston, 35 cents. The 1907-08 production
+was 20,000 gallons, valued at $40,000.</p>
+
+<p>In 1905-06 practically all the catch were "seed" scallops of the
+set of 1905; only about 5 per cent. of the catch were scallops of the
+1904 set. Owing to the exceptional cod fishing, only 15 men made a
+business of scalloping, going mostly one man to a boat, and averaging
+3&frac12; bushels per day after the scalloping "struck in," Dec. 1, 1905. The
+high prices alone made it profitable to catch these small scallops, which
+gave only 3 pints of "eyes" to a bushel of shells,&mdash;just one-half the
+amount yielded by a bushel of large scallops. The fishermen were all
+from South and West Chatham. The entire catch was estimated at
+2,800 gallons.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Dennis.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The scallop grounds of Dennis and Yarmouth are common property
+for the inhabitants of both towns, while other towns are excluded from
+the fishery. The West Dennis scallopers fish mostly on the Yarmouth
+flats at the mouth of Parker River, and between Bass and Parker rivers
+on the shore flats. There is also scalloping along the shore on the
+Dennis grounds. These grounds are for the "pushers." Dredging is
+carried on at Dennisport, and the boats cover a wide territory at some
+distance from the shore. The town possesses a large area, which either
+has scattering scallops or is well stocked one year and barren the next.
+Nearly 2,250 acres of available territory is included in the waters of
+the town. The flats, which are of sand with thick or scattering eel
+grass, according to the locality, afford a good bottom for scallops.
+Were it not for the eel grass, the scallops would perish by being washed
+on the shore by southerly winds.</p>
+
+<p>Thirty men make a business of scalloping in the town of Dennis, 22
+from Dennisport and 8 from West Dennis. At Dennisport scalloping
+is practically all done by dredging, while at West Dennis scallops are
+all taken by the use of "pushers." At Dennisport 9 boats, 3 sail and
+6 cat boats, with power, carrying 18 men, are employed in the business.
+Here also are 4 dory scallopers. At West Dennis the scallopers go
+mostly in pairs, using only 5 dories.</p>
+
+<p>The dredges used at Dennisport are similar to the Chatham dredge.
+At Dennisport the scallopers open the scallops and also employ openers,
+while at West Dennis the scallopers do the entire work.</p>
+
+<p>In 1907-08 the production was 2,950 gallons, valued at $3,865. Scal<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span>lops
+were shipped to the New York and Boston markets, although the
+greater part of the catch went to New York.</p>
+
+<p>The scallops taken at Dennisport are large, opening 3 quarts to
+the bushel. At West Dennis, where the fishing is done in the shallow
+water, the scallops are somewhat smaller, yielding only 2&frac12; quarts to
+the bushel.</p>
+
+<p>During the month of November large quantities of scallops were
+blown ashore at Dennisport, and it is said that as many as 72 bushels
+were gathered by one man in a day.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sail,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,230</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Power,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">180</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$4,410</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of gear:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Boat,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">350</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dory,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">18</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$368</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>Permits are required for scalloping, but are issued free of charge
+by the selectmen. Dennis and Yarmouth have common scallop fishery
+rights, the town scallop regulation reading as follows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>All persons other than the inhabitants of the towns of Dennis and Yarmouth
+are prohibited from taking scallops from the shores and waters of
+the town of Yarmouth excepting for their family use, and in no case without
+a permit.</p></div>
+
+<p>During the season of 1904-05 there existed off Dennisport one of
+the largest beds of scallops ever known in Massachusetts. Not only
+was it extensive, but the scallops were very numerous. An enormous
+yield was the result, affording great profit to a large number of scallopers,
+and bringing into the town thousands of dollars. It was stated
+by the scallopers that when the scalloping ceased because of the severe
+winter and ice the number of scallops appeared in no way diminished.
+During the season the catch averaged over 25 bushels per boat. Prospects
+looked good for the following season, as the fishermen expected
+the scallops to live until the next year. Unfortunately, the life of a
+scallop is less than two years, and before spring practically the whole
+of this large bed was dead,&mdash;a heavy loss to the fishing interests of
+the town and of the State.</p>
+
+<p>In cases like this the exclusion of scallopers from the neighboring
+towns, through the present system of town laws, has resulted in severe<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span>
+economic and financial loss to the State, as many more scallops could
+have been captured without injury to the future supply if more fishermen
+had been given an opportunity to enjoy this fishery.</p>
+
+<p>The following season, 1905-06, presented a marked contrast to that
+of 1904-05. Some adverse conditions had injured the set of 1905,
+and as a result there were scarcely any adult scallops. By January 1
+the scallops of the 1906 set had become large enough in certain localities
+to permit capture. Owing to the high prices, these scallops, less
+than eight months old ("seed" scallops), were profitable to catch,
+and the season's catch at Dennisport after January 1 consisted of these
+young scallops. At that time the present "seed" scallop law was not
+in force, so the capture of these scallops was entirely legal.</p>
+
+<p>About 6 men were engaged during 1905-06 in scalloping at Dennisport.
+The scallops were obtained by dredging in the deeper water. The
+average catch was 3 to 4 bushels per day. The 1906-07 season was
+hardly above the average. At West Dennis 8 men were engaged in
+scalloping on the flats with "pushers." The scallops were small, averaging
+about 2 inches in width. It is only once every three or four years
+that West Dennis scallops are in the deep water where it is necessary
+to dredge them; usually the scallops are found on the shallow-water flats.
+The 1907-08 season is the best season the town has had since 1904-05.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Dartmouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>A few scallops are occasionally found in Slocum's River and other
+places, but in no quantity to furnish any commercial fishery.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Eastham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The scalloping grounds are on the west side of the town, about half
+a mile out. During the season of 1906-07, 6 men, working at intervals
+during the winter, managed to take a total of 500 bushels from these
+flats.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Edgartown.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Edgartown, situated at the eastern end of Martha's Vineyard, possesses
+extensive scallop grounds, and is one of the leading towns in the
+production of this shellfish. This fishery, even more important than
+the quahaug industry, furnishes steady winter employment for a large
+number of the inhabitants.</p>
+
+<p>The important grounds are in Cape Poge Pond and in Edgartown
+harbor, while occasionally beds of scallops, especially "seed," are found
+in Katama Bay. These grounds comprise an area of 2,000 acres, chiefly
+of grass bottom.</p>
+
+<p>At Edgartown scalloping is done both with sail and with power boats,
+which are generally auxiliary cat boats, though power dories are used
+to some extent. All but two of the power boats are doubly manned,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span>
+while the sail boats carry but one man. Eleven sail and 15 power boats,
+employing 39 men, are engaged in the fishery.</p>
+
+<p>Two kinds of dredges are used, the "scraper" for scalloping in the
+eel grass and the "slider" for clean surface. The depth of water
+over the scallop beds is not more than 18 feet, necessitating 10&frac12; fathoms
+of rope. The price of a dredge, including rope, is about $3, which is
+cheaper than in the Buzzards Bay towns. Each power boat uses six
+to eight, which are held out by "spreaders," poles extending from the
+sides of the boat, in order that the dredges may cover more ground
+and not trail behind one another.</p>
+
+<p>The greater part of the scalloping is done by power, and, in spite
+of the extra cost of nearly 90 cents per day, the proportionate increase
+makes this method more profitable; it is claimed to increase the catch
+about one-third. Scalloping with power necessitates the services of
+two men, as one man has to cull while the other steers. At the end
+of the "drift" the boat is stopped, and both men cull. With sail,
+culling can be done when dredges are overboard. When two men scallop,
+the owner of the boat takes three-fifths while his partner shares
+two-fifths of the profit.</p>
+
+<p>Twenty-five to 30 openers prepare the scallop for market during
+the afternoons and evenings. These are paid at the rate of 25 cents
+per gallon, and average about $1.50 per day, a good opener cutting
+out a gallon of "eyes" in an hour. Small scallops open 700 "eyes"
+per gallon; the larger ones, 500.</p>
+
+<p>The 1907-08 season was successful, as the scallops were plentiful, the
+daily catch per boat running between 5 and 50 bushels. About 17,000
+gallons, valued at $22,270, were shipped between Oct. 1, 1907, and
+April 1, 1908.</p>
+
+<p>Shipments are made mostly to the New York market; a very few to
+Boston market. The freight charges on a keg, which weighs about 70
+pounds, is 55 cents. In warm weather scallops are sent by express,
+the charges being 80 cents. The scallops are packed in butter tubs
+of large size, averaging from 6 to 7 gallons, and costing 8 cents apiece.
+These are obtained second hand from the grocery stores at New Bedford.
+The tubs are packed full and closed tightly. By the time the
+scallops arrive at market they are reduced in quantity by the jarring,
+in warm weather from 7 to 6 gallons, and in cold from 7 to 6&frac12;. Returns
+from the market are made in about a week. Scallops can be held
+back for better prices three to four days in warm weather, and about
+seven in cold.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of gear,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">550</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$8,550</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></div>
+
+<p>By vote of the town, the season for several years has been open one
+month later than the State season. Shellfish permits costing $2 are
+required of every scalloper. The daily catch for one man is restricted
+to 25 bushels.</p>
+
+<p>Edgartown was one of the pioneer towns in the State in the scallop
+fishery, and as early as 1875 scallops were shipped to the market. The
+industry has maintained a steady supply, and has not shown the great
+variation of the Cape and Buzzards Bay fisheries. This is due perchance
+to the natural conditions, which render favorable the maintenance
+of an extensive industry.</p>
+
+<p>The last four seasons have been very successful, as when scallops
+were scarce the increased price more than made up for the diminished
+supply. The 1904-05 season was favorable, but, owing to the severe
+winter, fishing ceased about January 1, although scallops were plentiful
+both in Cape Poge Pond and Edgartown harbor. In 1905-06 scallops
+were found only in Cape Poge Pond, as the previous severe winter
+had killed all the harbor "seed." This season was most successful, as
+Nantucket and Edgartown, owing to the scarcity of scallops in other
+localities, received very high market prices. Scallops were more abundant
+in 1906-07, but the lower prices made the industry less prosperous
+than in the previous season.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1879 with 1907-08 Production.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <th>1879.</th>
+    <th>1907-08.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Gallons,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">17,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$22,270</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Fairhaven.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Fairhaven possesses, with New Bedford, the scalloping grounds of
+the Acushnet River, and in addition a much larger territory around
+Sconticut Neck and West Island. The scalloping territory comprises
+about 2,500 acres, most of which is unproductive or productive only at
+intervals.</p>
+
+<p>The town charges $1 for the license to each scalloper. Seventy-three
+licenses were issued in 1906-07. This is a larger number than has been
+issued in recent years. The highest number ever issued was 80.</p>
+
+<p>The capital invested is transitory, for the season, as in New Bedford,
+usually lasts only three weeks. Possibly $14,000 is invested in this way
+in boats and gear.</p>
+
+<p>In a good season as high as 2,000 gallons have been shipped in a
+week. The average season hardly produces this amount in the whole
+three weeks. In the season of 1907-08, 1,300 gallons were shipped.
+Some years ago the starfish was a source of damage to the fishery, but
+of late years it has attracted little notice.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>We find the following account of the scallop fishery of Fairhaven
+written by A. Howard Clark in 1879:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>Ten boats took 2,100 bushels of scallops in 1880. Fourteen men with 10
+boats dredge for scallops from the middle of October to the middle of
+January. Great quantities are found in the Acushnet River, as well as
+along the western shore of the bay. A small dredge, holding about a
+bushel, is used. It is made with an oval-shaped iron frame, 3&frac12; feet in
+length. Wire netting is used in the front part and twine at the back.
+Small sail boats, each with two men, fish with from one to twelve of these
+dredges in tow, sailing with just enough sheet to allow a slow headway. As
+soon as a dredge is filled, the men "luff up," haul in, empty, and go on.
+These little boats take from 10 to 75 bushels a day. If the breeze be
+unfavorable, one man takes the oars while the other tends the dredges.</p></div>
+
+<p>The amount of production at the present time is about the same,
+or even more, than the figures given for 1879. In all other respects
+the industry has changed. Five times as many men now work at the
+business, while more boats and capital are invested. This looks as if
+the industry had improved. The industry as regards the methods of
+capture has improved, but the actual production has remained the same.
+Now the season lasts barely three weeks, whereas twenty-five years ago
+with few men it lasted four months.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Fall River District.</i></h3>
+
+<p>No scallop fishery exists in these waters at the present time. In
+1879, 800 gallons were taken from this region. This furnishes an excellent
+illustration of the total decline of the scallop fishery in certain
+localities.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Falmouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The town of Falmouth cannot be said to support any scallop industry
+of importance. Each year in Squeteague Pond, Wild Harbor, North
+Falmouth and in West Falmouth harbor a few scallops can be found;
+but these are used only for limited local consumption, and usually are
+very scarce. Scallops are occasionally present in small quantities in
+Waquoit Bay.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Harwich.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The scallop territory of Harwich covers an extensive area on the
+south side of the town, and in some places extends for a distance of
+from 2 to 3 miles out from shore. Usually the scallops are found, as
+in the last season (1907-08), outside the bar, at a distance of 3 miles
+from shore, where they can be taken only by dredging from sail or
+power boats. The intervening body of water sometimes contains a few
+scallops in a quantity to make a commercial fishery. The total area
+of the scallop grounds is about 3,200 acres. The bottom is mostly
+sandy, with patches of eel grass.</p>
+
+<p>All the scallops are caught by dredging, as the water is too deep for<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span>
+any other method. Twelve men were engaged in the fishery during the
+1907-08 season. The boats, 7 in number, consisted of 3 power and
+4 sail; 5 were manned by 2 men, 2 were sailed singly. The dredges
+used here are the same style as the Chatham dredge.</p>
+
+<p>The 1907-08 production was 2,170 gallons, valued at $2,843. The
+scallops were shipped to the Boston and New York markets, the greater
+part being shipped to New York, at an average price of $1.30 per
+gallon. The scallops taken in 1907-08 were large, opening 3&frac12; quarts
+to the bushel.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,350</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of gear,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">280</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$3,030</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>For the last two years there has been practically no scallop fishery.
+The 1904-05 season was the last successful season, when the large bed
+of scallops was found off Dennis. The 1907-08 season, however, has
+been fairly good, and it is thought that the following year may be as
+successful.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Marion.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Marion was included in the general revival of the scallop fishery
+which came to Buzzards Bay during the past season of 1907-08, and
+for the first time in eight years has had a successful scallop season.</p>
+
+<p>The scallop grounds of the town extend over an area of 1,500 acres,
+situated on both sides of Great Neck, and extending from the Wareham
+line to Aucoot Cove.</p>
+
+<p>All scalloping is done by dredging. The fishery can be divided into
+two classes: (1) the boat fishery; (2) the skiff fishery. Under the
+first class comes the cat boat and sloop, carrying six dredges; while
+the second class consists of the small sail skiffs, with one dredge. The
+skiff scalloper rows or sails, as the wind permits, and with his one
+dredge makes an average catch of 3 bushels per day. Forty-four men,
+using 16 sail and power boats and 24 skiffs are engaged in the fishery.
+The business likewise requires the services of nearly 24 openers.</p>
+
+<p>About two-thirds of the dredges are of the "scraper" type, with
+chain netting; the rest "sliders," with loose blades. A very few
+"roller" or "lead" dredges are used.</p>
+
+<p>The production for 1907-08 was 7,000 gallons, valued at $9,170.
+The scallops were mostly sent to the New Bedford market. The scallops
+are of two sizes: the smaller, which are taken in the shallow water,
+open only 2&frac12; quarts per bushel, while in the deeper water the larger
+scallops yield about 3&frac12; quarts. The rest of the body of the scallop,
+after the removal of the eye, is saved for bait at Marion, the scalloper
+receiving 30 cents per bucket.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of gear,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">580</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$6,130</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>The three towns of Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester have common
+fishery rights, as all three were included in the original town of Rochester.
+In 1852 Marion became an independent town, and in 1857 Mattapoisett
+was likewise separated from Rochester. Until 1893 Marion and
+Mattapoisett had separate fishery rights, Rochester having mutual rights
+with both. Since then the fishery of these towns has been common to all
+three. Every scalloper is required to have a permit, the boatmen paying
+$2, the skiff scallopers $1, respectively.</p>
+
+<p>The scallop industry supplanted the waning oyster industry at Marion
+some twelve years ago, and for a time it flourished greatly. The abundance
+of scallops and extent of the grounds furnish excellent scalloping.
+After a few very successful years the industry suddenly died out and
+became practically extinct. The direct cause is claimed by the scallopers
+to have been the starfish, which came in the harbor in great
+abundance at the time of the decline of the industry. Up to this
+season but little scalloping had been done for several years, and not
+a single permit was issued for the season of 1906-07.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Mashpee.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The scallop territory of Mashpee lies in the Popponesset River and
+Bay, comprising at most 200 acres. For the last six years there has
+been no scallop industry in the town. A few scallops are occasionally
+taken for home consumption.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Mattapoisett.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The scallop territory of Mattapoisett, comprising an area of 1,200
+acres, much of which is open and exposed, is in general confined to the
+following localities: Nasketucket Bay, Brant Bay, Brant Island Cove,
+Mattapoisett harbor, Pine Neck Cove and Aucoot Cove. The location
+and extent of these grounds are indicated on Map 8.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">22</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sail,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">13</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Power,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">19</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Boats, how manned:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Single,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">16</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Double,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></div>
+
+<p>Dredging is the only method of scalloping used in Mattapoisett.
+Small cat boats and a few power boats are employed in the fishery.
+The "roller" dredge is the most popular style with the Mattapoisett
+scallopers, who claim that on the uneven bottom this dredge is the most
+successful. This town is the only locality in the State where this kind
+of dredge is used. The cost of a dredge completely rigged with rope,
+which is often 15 fathoms long, is $4.50, and 8 to 10 dredges are used
+for each boat.</p>
+
+<p>During the 1907-08 season the production was 5,000 gallons, valued
+at $6,550. These were mostly marketed at New Bedford, where they
+were purchased unsoaked by the New Bedford Fish Company. At the
+first part of the season it was not uncommon for a boat to catch 25
+bushels per day, but as the season progressed the size of the catch
+gradually diminished. The scallops were large, opening 3 quarts to
+the bushel.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$6,900</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of gear,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">760</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$7,660</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>The scallop industry at Mattapoisett, though once important, was
+extinct for several years. The present season has shown a revival, and
+the industry has again assumed a commercial value.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Nantucket.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Nantucket is one of the leading towns of the State in the scallop
+fishery. The grounds lie both in Nantucket harbor and in Maddequet
+harbor on the west end of the island. The former of these is the larger
+and more important, as the fishery is near the town. When the
+scallops become scarce in Nantucket harbor, the scallopers adjourn
+to the fresher beds of Maddequet. Nantucket harbor contains approximately
+3,000 acres of scallop territory; Maddequet and Muskeget, 1,500
+acres.</p>
+
+<p>Practically all the scalloping is done by dredging from sail boats,
+employing about 99 men in the fishery. The dredges are of the "slider"
+and the "scraper" types, the iron frames of which cost $1.50 and the
+netting bags 30 cents. From 6 to 10 of these are used per boat, and
+are dragged by 7 fathoms of 15-thread rope. Five regular openers are
+hired, who receive from 20 to 25 cents per gallon, according to the size
+of the scallops. A few scallops are taken in the shallow water by
+the dory fishermen with "pushers," which are locally known as "scoops."
+These differ from the Cape Cod "pusher," being more rounded and
+smaller in size.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[Pg 110]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Power,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sail,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">37</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Boats, how manned:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Single,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Double,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">32</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Single dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>In 1906-07 the production was 9,820 gallons, valued at $12,875.</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th>1907-08.<a name="FNanchor_14_14" id="FNanchor_14_14"></a><a href="#Footnote_14_14" class="fnanchor">[14]</a></th>
+    <th>Gallons.</th>
+    <th>Price per Gallon.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>October,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,639</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1.25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,298.75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>November,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,160</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,160.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>December,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,430</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,430.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>January,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,910</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8,865.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>February</td>
+    <td class="tdr">960</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.00</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,920.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>March,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,146</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,865.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">20,245</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$1.31</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$26,538.75</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>Shipments were made by express to New York and Boston, the
+charges to New York being 95 cents, to Boston 55 cents per keg. The
+greater part was shipped to New York market. The scallops were
+shipped mostly in 7-gallon kegs, which cost 33 cents apiece. About
+30 New York and 20 Boston firms receive shipments from the Nantucket
+scallopers.</p>
+
+<p>Two kinds of scallops, the large "channel" and the small or "eel
+grass," are obtained. The small scallops are more numerous than the
+large, but are naturally less desirable.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$4,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">9,250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of gear,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">700</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$14,450</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>Of late years the scallopers have taken an interest in protecting the
+scallop. Many scallopers when fishing in shallow water "cull out"
+the small "seed" scallops, and, instead of returning them to the shallow
+water, transplant them to the deep water of the channel, where they<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span>
+are not only protected in case of severe winter, but produce a larger
+scallop the following year. This is the only attempt at protecting
+the scallop ever made in Massachusetts, and shows how important the
+industry is to the town.</p>
+
+<p>For the two seasons previous to 1907-08 every scalloper was required
+to have a license. In 1905-06 the price was 50 cents, while the following
+year, 1906-07, 190 licenses, costing $1 each, were taken out. No
+licenses were required in 1907-08. Special by-laws, either limiting
+the catch or enforcing a close season to meet the demands of the fishery,
+are made by the town each year.</p>
+
+<p>Scallops have been always plentiful, but fifty-five years ago they
+were not caught, as they were considered poisonous. The present industry
+started in 1883, and since that time, in spite of its ups and
+downs, it has remained a constant source of revenue to the island.
+Notwithstanding a scarcity of scallops, the high prices of 1905-06
+enabled the fishermen to have a fairly successful season. Both the
+1906-07 and the 1907-08 seasons have been very prosperous, as scallops
+have been plentiful.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>New Bedford.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The scallop industry at New Bedford has been in existence since
+about 1870, and has furnished a livelihood for an average of 15 men
+ever since. Of late years the industry has shown a marked decline.</p>
+
+<p>In 1879 A. Howard Clark says:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>Scallops are plentiful in the Acushnet River, and large quantities are
+taken with dredges from October through the winter. The business of late
+years has greatly increased.</p></div>
+
+<p>About the same time Ernest Ingersoll also writes:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>In the Acushnet River and all along the western shore of Buzzards Bay
+these little mollusks abound, and their catching has come to be of considerable
+importance in that locality. Mr. W. A. Wilcox, who sends me
+notes on the subject, says that it is only eighteen years ago that a fisherman
+of Fairhaven (opposite New Bedford) was unable to sell 5 gallons
+that he had caught. But the taste has been acquired, and a local market
+has grown up to important proportions, so that in 1880 14 men and 10
+small boats (dories) were dredging for scallops in Buzzards Bay from
+the middle of October to the middle of January. Mr. Wilcox says: "These
+small boats will take from 10 to 75 bushels a day." These men are not
+willing to work every day, however, since the tautog and other fishing calls
+their attention, and there is danger of overstocking the market. It therefore
+happens that the total catch reported for both New Bedford and
+Fairhaven men will not exceed 6,400 gallons, valued at $3,864, 60 cents
+being a fair price in this and the Boston market. The value of the investment
+devoted to this business at Fairhaven is about $120.</p></div>
+
+<p>The scallop industry of 1907 cannot be compared with that of former
+years. The amount of scallops taken is not one-third of the former<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span>
+production. More men are engaged in the business than twenty-five
+years ago, but the beds are raked clean in a shorter time. The annual
+yield has sadly fallen off, in spite of improved methods of capture and
+increased number of fishermen. This decline cannot here be attributed
+to either of the natural enemies of the scallop, as neither the starfish
+nor oyster drill are abundant. Severe climatic conditions and overfishing
+by man are the direct causes of this decline.</p>
+
+<p>The scallop area of New Bedford comprises approximately 400 acres,
+principally in the Acushnet River and in Clark's Cove.</p>
+
+<p>In 1906-07, 38 licenses were issued by the city for scalloping. This
+is a marked decrease over former years. Probably not all these men
+fish regularly. In the last few years the season has been rather short,
+lasting between three and four weeks, as the scallops were practically
+all caught in that time.</p>
+
+<p>The capital required for the business, consisting of cat boats, skiffs,
+dredges, shanties, etc., amounts to about $5,600; but this is merely
+transient, and is only employed for three or four weeks, and then devoted
+to other fisheries.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Annual Production.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th><span class="smcap">Year.</span></th>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Gallons.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1905-06,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1906-07,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1907-08,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">700</td>
+    <td class="tdr">700</td>
+    <td class="tdr">917</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>All scalloping is done by dredging from either cat boats or dories.
+Since 1879 improvements have been made, and cat boats instead of
+dories, each manned by one man with six dredges, now do the work
+once wholly performed, as Ingersoll says, by dories. All the scalloping
+takes place in deep water.</p>
+
+<p>When the law of 1905 made the Acushnet River and Clark's Cove
+forbidden shellfish territory, because of the sewage pollution of the
+harbor, the capture of scallops in season was still allowed. This was
+based on the principle that there is no danger in eating the clean
+"eye" of the scallop, although as a matter of fact there is actual
+danger of typhoid infection to those handling anything from sewage-polluted
+waters.</p>
+
+<p>The following notes were made Nov. 21, 1905, upon the fishery of that
+year:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>At the opening of the season a bed of scallops was discovered just
+outside the harbor beyond the light. Twenty-five boats set to work
+immediately, but there was not a sufficient supply of scallops to keep
+them long employed, and one by one they dropped out, until by November
+21 only two or three boats were still engaged in the fishery.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The scallops of this year were of large size, 2&frac12; to 2&frac34; inches, and
+turned out a gallon of "eyes" per bushel,&mdash;an excellent yield, as the
+average scallops only shuck out 2&frac12; to 3 quarts to a bushel of shells.
+If a man could obtain a gallon per day by November 21 he was lucky,
+and owing to the high retail price, he made a fair day's wages.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Orleans.</i></h3>
+
+<p>On the flats about &frac12; to 1 mile from the west shore scallops are
+occasionally found. Six years ago there was a fairly good season, but
+since that time there have been very few scallops, and these are taken
+only for home consumption.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Provincetown.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Scallops are obtained on the flats in the east bend of the harbor
+toward the Truro shore, where they are blown by a southwest wind.
+Evidently there must be a bed of scallops in the deep water from
+which the scallops are washed on the flats. In 1905-06 from 2 to 6
+men were engaged in picking up these scallops and retailing them for
+home trade. About 1894 or 1895 scallops were numerous, and it was
+not uncommon for a man to pick up 5 bushels on the flats at one tide.
+Since 1900 but few scallops have been found.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Tisbury.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The scalloping grounds of Tisbury are in the harbor at Vineyard
+Haven. Only Vineyard Haven fishermen make a business of scalloping
+here. The scallop grounds comprise an area of 800 acres.</p>
+
+<p>Most of the scallops are obtained by dredging from cat boats, which
+are nearly all equipped with power. With two exceptions the boats
+are singly manned. Fourteen men go in 8 boats, using from six to
+eight dredges per boat. Six men scallop in skiffs, using one dredge.
+The dredges are similar to those used at Edgartown.</p>
+
+<p>During the season of 1907-08, 3,000 gallons of scallops, valued at
+$3,930 were captured. The fishermen ship chiefly to the New York
+market. The scallops are of an exceptionally large size, opening, it
+is said, 4 quarts to the bushel. The proportionate size of the "eye"
+to the shell is much greater than with the ordinary scallop.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">90</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of gear,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$3,390</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>No licenses or permits are required for scalloping. The last season
+(1907-08) is the second season that scallops have been abundant in this
+locality.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Wareham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Situated at the head of Buzzards Bay, the town of Wareham possesses
+a considerable water area which is suitable for scallops. The
+entire territory, embracing approximately 2,500 acres, extends in a
+southwesterly direction from Peter's Neck, including Onset Bay, to
+Abiel's Buoy and from there to Weweantit River. Scallops are also
+found in the Wareham River. Scallops are mostly found in the deeper
+water, which makes dredging the only profitable method of scalloping
+in this locality.</p>
+
+<p>Scalloping is practically all done by dredging either from sail or
+power boats, only 3 power boats being in use during the 1907-08 season.
+Three men from the village of Wareham use "pushers," but the
+yield from this style of fishing is very small. The style of dredge in
+most common use is the "scraper." This year the price paid for the
+frame of the dredge is $3.50. These dredges have the blade set downward
+firmly, and have a chain bottom of iron rings. The usual number
+per boat is eight, but at Onset any number from four to fourteen are
+used, according to the size of the boat and the individual choice of the
+scalloper. Nearly all the boats are cat boats, averaging in value about
+$300.</p>
+
+<p>About 30 regular openers have been engaged off and on by the scallopers.
+When the catch was large at the first of the season more
+openers were engaged,&mdash;often as many as 3 to a scalloper. One-tenth
+of the number are women.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of scallopers,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">45</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of boats:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Power,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sail,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">33</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">36</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>The quantity of scallops taken during 1907-08 was approximately
+10,000 bushels, valued at $13,100. During October the catch was about
+15 bushels per day for the average scalloper, but later became considerably
+less. The greater part of the scallops were sold to the New
+Bedford Fish Company, the representatives of which bought them
+unsoaked from the fishermen. Certain of the fishermen, however, preferred
+to ship their catch to the Boston and New York markets.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital Invested.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$10,800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of gear,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$19,100</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></div>
+
+<p>No permits were issued in 1907-08. Previous to this year, permits
+were required from every scalloper. Wareham has a fish committee,
+the duty of which is to enforce the fish laws.</p>
+
+<p>The first scalloping started in Wareham in 1879, when several boats
+from New Bedford commenced dredging in Wareham waters. From
+that time the industry rapidly developed, until it assumed considerable
+importance as a winter occupation. Since 1899 the industry has been
+practically dead until the present season of 1907-08. The Wareham
+scallopers to a man attribute this decline to the inroads of the destructive
+starfish. While the scallops have been so exterminated that no
+profitable fishery has been conducted the last seven years, they have
+not been wholly extinct, as a few could be found each year. Lately
+the number has been increasing, until in 1907-08 the season was very
+profitable. In connection with this it is said that the starfish were less
+numerous than usual. The prospects of another good season in 1908-09
+are excellent, as "seed" scallops are said to be plentiful in many places,
+especially in the deep water, which furnishes protection in case of a
+severe winter.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Wellfleet.</i></h3>
+
+<p>At the present time in Wellfleet Bay there is no commercial scallop
+fishery, although scattering scallops are found in various parts of
+the harbor.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Yarmouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The scallop grounds of Yarmouth are on the south side of the town,
+on the flats which border the shore from Bass River to Lewis Bay.
+Part of the waters of Lewis Bay belong to the town of Yarmouth,
+and scallops are found over all this territory. The nature of the bottom
+is the same as at Dennis and Barnstable. The total area of scallop
+territory is estimated at 2,250 acres. The scallop grounds of Dennis
+are open to Yarmouth scallopers.</p>
+
+<p>Both dredges and "pushers" are employed in the scallop fishery of
+the town. The method depends upon the location of the scallops,
+whether in shallow or deep water, as well as the means of the individual
+scallopers. Both the Chatham dredge and the "scraper" are used.
+Forty-one men were engaged in the 1907-08 fishery, using 15 boats and
+ten dories.</p>
+
+<p>The production for 1907-08 was 8,000 gallons, valued at $10,480.
+Scallops were shipped to New York and Boston markets.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of gear,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">475</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$4,425</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></div>
+
+<p>The same laws as were quoted for Dennis, the two towns having
+common fishery rights.</p>
+
+<p>The 1904-05 season was prosperous, as Yarmouth scallopers had the
+privilege of scalloping in the large bed off Dennis. The two following
+years were very poor, and even the last season has not been up to the
+average.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_10_10" id="Footnote_10_10"></a><a href="#FNanchor_10_10"><span class="label">[10]</span></a> E. Ingersoll, "The Scallop Fishery," United States Fish Commission report, 1881.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_11_11" id="Footnote_11_11"></a><a href="#FNanchor_11_11"><span class="label">[11]</span></a> United States Department of Agriculture, Farmers' Bulletin 85, 1898.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_12_12" id="Footnote_12_12"></a><a href="#FNanchor_12_12"><span class="label">[12]</span></a> Statistics taken from the United States Fish Commission reports.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_13_13" id="Footnote_13_13"></a><a href="#FNanchor_13_13"><span class="label">[13]</span></a> Licenses.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_14_14" id="Footnote_14_14"></a><a href="#FNanchor_14_14"><span class="label">[14]</span></a> Return of Special Agent William C. Dunham.</p></div></div>
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="Oyster_Ostrea_Virginiana" id="Oyster_Ostrea_Virginiana"><span class="smcap">Oyster</span> (<i>Ostrea Virginiana</i>).</a></h2>
+
+
+<h3><i>Introduction.</i></h3>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Resolves of 1905, Chapter 73.</span></p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p><i>Resolved</i>, That the commissioners on fisheries and game are hereby
+authorized and directed to make a biological investigation and report as
+to the best methods, conditions and localities for the propagation of oysters
+under the conditions found in Massachusetts waters. The commissioners
+may expend for the purposes of this resolve a sum not exceeding five hundred
+dollars a year for a period of three years.</p></div>
+
+<p>As authorized by the above act, the Commissioners on Fisheries and
+Game have conducted experiments of a biological nature upon the
+oyster. At the start of the investigations, for a proper understanding
+of the various conditions in the different localities, it was necessary to
+make a survey of the oyster industry of the State. Recently this survey
+has been supplemented by sending printed questions to the oystermen,
+and the whole put in the form of a report, which gives an account of
+the industry. This first report on the oyster is merely a broad survey
+of the whole industry of the State, and is preliminary to future reports
+of a more scientific character.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Need of a Survey.</i>&mdash;In 1879 Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, in his "Monograph
+on the Oyster,"<a name="FNanchor_15_15" id="FNanchor_15_15"></a><a href="#Footnote_15_15" class="fnanchor">[15]</a> gave an excellent account of the oyster industry
+of Massachusetts. Since that time no complete account, either statistical
+or biological, has been written. Meanwhile, the oyster industry
+of the State, owing to its steady improvement, has changed in the past
+twenty-eight years, and what was true of 1879 is not true of 1907.
+Not only have localities changed and new areas been opened up, but
+also the whole industry has expanded through the enterprise and business
+ability of the oystermen, and to-day Massachusetts possesses an
+oyster fishery which more than doubles the production of 1879. Thus
+a survey of this fishery, by comparison with that of 1879, shows the
+changes that have taken place, and gives some idea of the growth of
+the industry.</p>
+
+<p>It is hoped that this report will furnish sufficient data to give actual
+knowledge of the conditions of oyster culture in the State, show the
+success of this industry, and indicate what is essential for its future
+improvement. It is necessary, in view of the conflict between the quahaug<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span>
+and oyster fisheries, that the public understand the exact situation,
+and this is possible only through a published account of each industry.</p>
+
+<p><i>Scope of the Report.</i>&mdash;The object of the report is to furnish information
+which will be of value both to the oysterman and to the consumer.
+Primarily the report is for the oysterman, showing the extent of
+the industry in his own locality and in other parts of the coast, where
+perhaps he is unacquainted with the conditions. While exact facts are
+presented for the benefit of the oysterman, this report at the same time
+tries to give a general description of the industry for the consumer, who
+perhaps knows nothing of the oyster except as an article of food.</p>
+
+<p>The first part of the report has been arranged under the following
+headings: (1) the natural oyster beds; (2) results of the survey; (3)
+history of the industry; (4) the oyster laws; (5) the oyster industry;
+(6) general statistics. The second part considers separately the industry
+of each town or section.</p>
+
+<p><i>Methods of Work.</i>&mdash;The statistical figures for the oyster industry
+are reasonably complete as the oyster fishery is on a more systematic
+business basis than any of the other shellfisheries. Nevertheless, on certain
+points it was impossible to obtain absolutely correct information, as,
+for instance, the area of grants, since no survey is made of the grants
+when leased, and the oysterman himself does not know the exact area of
+his granted territory. Thus an estimate has to be made by each oysterman
+of his granted area, and, while this is approximately correct, it
+cannot be considered as absolutely true.</p>
+
+<p>The statistical returns were compiled by sending to each oysterman
+in the State a blank form, containing a series of questions, with the
+request that he would co-operate with the commission by answering.
+Many oystermen responded with complete answers, thus permitting the
+commission, through their aid, to publish an extended report on the
+oyster fishery. However, it was found impossible to obtain complete
+information from several towns, as a number of oystermen neglected
+to return these blanks. The return of each oysterman is filed at the
+office of the Commission on Fisheries and Game, and only the total
+for each town is published, thus treating as confidential the private
+business of individuals. The commission expresses a most cordial
+acknowledgment to the oystermen for their co-operation in this matter.</p>
+
+<p>The other parts of the report were obtained by personal inspection
+of the oyster beds as to their biological conditions, by means of town
+records, and interviews with the oystermen. Town records, which
+should have given the location, number and areas of the grants, proved
+nearly worthless in most cases, owing to incompleteness, loss and confusion.
+Owing to the frequent change in selectmen, little if any information
+could be obtained from this source, as the new selectmen were
+generally unacquainted with the work of their predecessors concerning
+the leasing of oyster grants. The grants were often incompletely described,
+bounds uncertain and the acreage unknown.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The interviews with the individual oystermen furnished more and
+better information both in regard to the present condition of the industry
+and the general history for each town.</p>
+
+<p>Personal inspection of the oyster grounds was made, the biological
+conditions noted and the area of the grants plotted on the accompanying
+maps. Not all these grants are worked, and parts of the cultivated
+grants are unfit for oyster raising. The charted area includes all
+grants, cultivated or uncultivated.</p>
+
+<p>In reviewing the history of the industry, information was obtained
+from town records, oystermen who had been in the business for years,
+and various newspapers and periodicals. For a comparison of the
+oyster industry of 1879 and 1907 the excellent report of Mr. Ernest
+Ingersoll upon the "Oyster Industry," published in the tenth census
+of the United States, was used for comparison, and in many places
+directly quoted. Were it not for this work and the report of A. Howard
+Clark on the "Fisheries of Massachusetts," it would have been impossible
+to draw any reliable comparison with the oyster industry of
+twenty-eight years ago.</p>
+
+<p><i>Massachusetts as an Oyster State.</i>&mdash;Massachusetts is perhaps not so
+well adapted for oyster culture as it is for clam or quahaug farming,
+and does not equal other seacoast States in the extent of its oyster
+industry. Nevertheless, the oyster industry is on a much firmer footing
+than the other shellfisheries, and is an important adjunct to the wealth
+of the southern Massachusetts towns.</p>
+
+<p>All the oyster grants, except in the towns of Wellfleet, Eastham and
+Orleans, are found south of Cape Cod, as the southern shore of Massachusetts
+alone is adapted for the oyster industry. Along the south side
+of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay the numerous inlets and estuaries
+afford with their brackish water excellent ground for the cultivation of
+this bivalve, and many acres which otherwise would be barren have been
+made productive through the grant system; while the shores of Massachusetts
+which adjoin the waters of Narragansett Bay possess, in the
+Taunton, Cole and Lee's rivers, excellent waters for the growth of seed
+oysters. Thus Massachusetts possesses good facilities for oyster culture,
+which are capable of a far greater expansion than present conditions
+indicate.</p>
+
+<p>However well developed the oyster industry is at present, there is
+plenty of room for improvement. It is the consensus of opinion among
+the oystermen that the business is developing every year,&mdash;a fact
+that speaks well for its future. Improvements in the oyster industry
+can arise in three ways: (1) investment of more capital in the business,
+which will allow more extensive operations; (2) more intensive cultivation
+of the present grounds; (3) the opening of new areas for oyster
+culture and the utilization of waters at present useless. Everything
+indicates that the oyster industry will take advantage of opportunities
+as soon as they are given.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span></p>
+
+<p><i>The Oyster Grant System.</i>&mdash;Oyster culture in Massachusetts is the
+logical result of the failure of the natural oyster beds. When these
+beds became destitute of oysters through overfishing, it was necessary
+that means should be used to perpetuate the stock. Oyster planting
+had been successfully carried on in the States south of Massachusetts,
+and it was merely a question of experiment whether the oyster would
+respond to the same methods in Massachusetts. Thus oyster culture
+arose in this State at first as an experiment, later as an established
+industry. Grants were given, as through this way only could oyster
+planting become a success, and the "free fishery" people were forced
+to bow to public opinion, which decreed that grants should be leased.
+Thus oyster grants arose from necessity, as in no other way could
+Massachusetts preserve her oyster supply.</p>
+
+<p>The system of oyster grants and oyster culture, in spite of its many
+failings, has shown what can be done to preserve and increase a natural
+shellfish industry if the proper methods are used. Planted beds have
+furnished enough spawn to maintain the natural beds, which would
+have long ago been depleted through the inroads of overfishing. They
+have preserved a fishery which would have disappeared almost completely,
+and established a better and more extensive industry, not only
+benefiting the oystermen, but also those indirectly associated with the
+business, such as teamsters, transportation companies, etc.</p>
+
+<p>In the following report various abuses of the present system of
+oyster culture will be enumerated, and it is only necessary to state
+that many evils must be eliminated before the oyster industry can
+obtain its maximum expansion. Such evils as town politics, disputes
+with quahaugers, etc., will have to be remedied. The greatest obstacle
+which now checks the oyster industry is the <i>lack of protection</i>. Until
+complete protection is given to the oysterman, the industry will never
+attain to its full development. The removal of the abuses by the organization
+of the oyster industry of the State under a unified system
+is the best way to secure proper regulation and improvement of the
+oyster industry.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>The Natural Oyster Beds.</i></h3>
+
+<p>While there has been much discussion whether oysters were ever
+native in Massachusetts Bay, or merely the result of southern "plants,"
+the consensus of opinion is that there were natural oyster beds in
+existence when the first settlers came to this coast. Not only do historical
+records show this, but the remains of the natural beds at the
+present time indicate that oysters have existed for centuries. Thus
+there seems to be no reasonable doubt that the northern coast of Massachusetts,
+as well as the southern, once possessed extensive natural oyster
+beds.</p>
+
+<p>I. <i>Location of the Natural Oyster Beds.</i>&mdash;(1) <i>Parker River.</i>&mdash;A
+natural bed of oysters once existed in the Parker River at Newbury,
+and even fifty years ago it is said that oysters could still be obtained<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span>
+from this natural bed. About 1882 the experiment of fattening oysters
+for market was made, and many bushels were bedded on the flats during
+the summer by an oyster firm at Newbury. These oysters not only
+grew well, but threw considerable spawn, furnishing a good set in the
+river. Oyster raising was then tried, but the result was a failure, as
+the oysters which were planted in too shallow water were killed during
+the winter.</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>Mystic and Charles Rivers.</i>&mdash;Mr. Ernest Ingersoll states that:
+"In 1634 William Wood, in his 'New England's Prospect,' speaks of
+'a great oyster bank' in Charles River, and another in the 'Mysticke,'
+each of which obstructed the navigation of its river." He locates the
+Charles River beds as either off Cambridgeport or near the site of the
+Boston Museum of Natural History.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. G. W. Field, chairman of this department, in his report in 1902
+as biologist to the Charles River Dam Commission, makes the following
+statement about the Charles River oyster:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>The oyster (<i>Ostrea</i>), formerly abundant, is no longer living, and, from
+what indications I have been able to gather, probably became extinct
+within twenty-five years. Their dead shells are brought up by dredging
+operations. Their peculiar elongated shape is the result of growth being
+concentrated at the upper end, as a result of their closely crowded position
+in the bed, or of an attempt to keep the opening above the accumulating
+mud, and thus avoid being smothered. The fact that there are few signs of
+small "seed oysters" tends to prove that the bottom was so muddy that
+they found few places to "set." From the elongated shape of the shells
+may be inferred that the amount of sedimentation going on in that particular
+region was rapid during the life of the group of oysters whose shells are
+to be found in quantities in the material dredged between Harvard and
+Brookline bridges. This sediment need not necessarily have been sand or
+clay, or any material which is persistent, but it might have been flocculent
+organic d&eacute;bris, which remained but a short time and left little or no evidence,
+beyond its effect upon the shape of the oyster shells.</p></div>
+
+<p>In the above account Dr. Field not only locates the original oyster
+beds of Charles River, but also furnishes evidence which indicates the
+cause of their extinction, <i>i.e.</i>, the d&eacute;bris and sewage, or waste poisonous,
+polluting materials, of a large city emptying into the river. This is not
+only true of the Charles, but also of the Mystic and Taunton river beds,
+which have been destroyed in like manner.</p>
+
+<p>(3) Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, in his report on the "Oyster Industry of
+the United States," in 1880 mentions that natural oyster beds were once
+at Weymouth, Ipswich, Barnstable and Rowley. Nothing further can
+be learned concerning these places.</p>
+
+<p>(4) <i>Wellfleet.</i>&mdash;An extensive oyster bed was found at Wellfleet Bay,
+which not only furnished a sufficient supply for the first settlers, but
+enabled the inhabitants of Wellfleet to carry on a considerable trade by
+shipping them to Boston and other ports, until it was finally destroyed<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span>
+in 1775. Its destruction was due to overfishing and the utilization of
+the shells for lime, which soon destroyed the natural bar.</p>
+
+<p>(5) <i>Chatham.</i>&mdash;A natural oyster bed once existed in the Oyster
+Pond, but no trace of it now remains.</p>
+
+<p>(6) <i>Harwich.</i>&mdash;Herring River in the town of Harwich still possesses
+the remnants of a natural oyster bed, as occasionally a few
+oysters can be gathered along its banks. This bed once comprised a
+stretch of three-quarters of a mile along the river.</p>
+
+<p>(7) <i>Yarmouth.</i>&mdash;The town of Yarmouth once possessed a natural
+oyster bed in Mill Creek, but this was fished out by 1895 and then
+granted for oyster culture.</p>
+
+<p>(8) <i>Barnstable.</i>&mdash;There is a natural oyster bed at Centerville.</p>
+
+<p>(9) <i>Martha's Vineyard.</i>&mdash;Native oysters are said to have existed in
+the brackish ponds on the south side of the island; a few are found
+there at the present time.</p>
+
+<p>(10) <i>Falmouth.</i>&mdash;A few native oysters are to be found in the salt
+ponds on the south coast of the town. In Squeteague Pond and Wild
+Harbor oysters were once native.</p>
+
+<p>Buzzards Bay comprises the best natural oyster territory in the
+State. At the present time the natural oyster industry has been supplanted
+by oyster culture, which gradually took the place of the declining
+natural oyster fishery. While natural beds still exist to some
+extent, they are, to all practical purposes, extinct. Where once there
+were extensive areas, now there are only scattering oysters. In many
+cases the beds have been so completely destroyed that the ground has
+been granted for oyster culture. That Buzzards Bay is a "natural set
+area" can be readily seen by the amount of "seed oysters" that are
+caught by the oystermen who plant shells for the purpose.</p>
+
+<p>(11) <i>Bourne.</i>&mdash;(<i>a</i>) <i>Red Brook Harbor.</i>&mdash;In 1879 Ernest Ingersoll
+says:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>On the southern shore of this harbor, about a mile from its head, exists
+a living bed of natural oysters some 7 acres in extent, under the protection
+of the town for public benefit. The oysters growing on it are reported to
+be large, but not of extraordinary size, scalloped and roundish, differing in
+no respect from aged oysters grown after transplanting to another part of
+the bay.</p></div>
+
+<p>In 1907 this natural bed had been reduced to 3 acres, and the unproductive
+part granted.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>b</i>) <i>Barlow River.</i>&mdash;In 1873 an act was passed to protect the oyster
+fishery in Barlow River, by ordering a closed season of one and one-half
+years. The passage of this act shows that a natural bed of importance
+existed in this river, and that even in 1873 the effects of overfishing
+were apparent. At the present time there are but few native
+oysters in Barlow River, or, as it is sometimes called, Pocasset River.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>c</i>) <i>Monument River.</i>&mdash;A natural bed also existed in Monument<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span>
+River, which became so depleted that about 1875 the river was surveyed
+and divided into small grants.</p>
+
+<p>(12) <i>Wareham.</i>&mdash;(<i>a</i>) <i>Wareham River.</i>&mdash;Natural oysters are found
+in the Wareham or Agawam River, which has been one of the most
+productive natural beds in the State, and still furnishes a scant living
+for two or three men. In view of the overfishing, it is surprising that
+any of the natural oysters have survived, except on reserved areas of
+the town, which are opened every three or seven years for the capture
+of "seed."</p>
+
+<p>(<i>b</i>) <i>Weweantit River.</i>&mdash;The Weweantit River, which lies between
+the towns of Wareham and Marion, has a larger and better natural
+oyster bed than the Wareham River, but this has also been depleted by
+overfishing, except on the reserved areas of the town of Wareham.</p>
+
+<p>(13) <i>Dartmouth.</i>&mdash;A few oysters are found in Slocum's River.</p>
+
+<p>(14) <i>Westport.</i>&mdash;Westport River has also a few oysters.</p>
+
+<p>(15) <i>Taunton River, Coles River and Lee's River.</i>&mdash;These rivers
+once had extensive beds of natural oysters, but now are wholly devoted
+to growing oysters. Old records and laws show how important these
+natural beds were, and also furnish an excellent illustration of the
+effects of overfishing combined with water pollution from manufacturing
+sources.</p>
+
+<p>II. <i>Decline of the Natural Oyster Beds.</i>&mdash;The above-mentioned
+examples furnish abundant proof that the natural oyster beds of the
+State, which once were sufficient to supply the wants of our forefathers,
+have declined to such an extent that at the present time but few
+natural oysters are tonged for the market. Where there were formerly
+many acres of excellent native oysters, to-day there is scarcely an acre
+that can be called good oyster fishing, except in a few cases where the
+towns maintain a nearly perpetual closed season. No proof of the
+decline is necessary; it is an established fact.</p>
+
+<p>There have been two principal causes which have ruined the natural
+oyster beds; besides these two,&mdash;(1) water pollution and (2) overfishing,&mdash;certain
+geographical changes have doubtless occurred, which
+have accelerated the decline.</p>
+
+<p>(1) <i>Water Pollution.</i>&mdash;The effect of water pollution through the
+sediment deposited by sewage and manufacturing waste on the natural
+oyster beds is well illustrated by the destruction of the Charles River
+beds. This is also shown in a less degree in the Taunton River.</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>Overfishing.</i>&mdash;The primary cause of the decline of the natural
+oyster beds was overfishing. This is particularly true of the beds
+south of Cape Cod and in Buzzards Bay, which were of large extent,
+and unpolluted by manufacturing wastes or sewage. This overfishing
+has not been the result of the last few years, since records show that
+as early as 1824 Harwich passed an act to preserve the oyster fishery
+of the town; and that Sandwich, in the part which is now the town
+of Bourne, in 1832 passed regulations protecting the natural oyster<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span>
+fishery in Monument River; while at Wellfleet the natural oyster bed
+was completely exterminated by the year 1775. Overfishing has affected
+the natural beds in several ways, all of which have worked toward the
+general decline of the native oyster.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>a</i>) The first settlers took the large oysters from the natural beds,
+which under normal conditions had all they could do to keep up the
+supply. In this way the beds were deprived of the spawning oysters,
+with the result that in spite of the closed seasons, which gave little if
+any benefit, a gradual decline set in.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>b</i>) At the same time that the oysters were being taken from the
+beds, the early oystermen through ignorance were making an economic
+blunder by not returning the shells to the waters. The oyster shells
+furnish naturally the best surfaces for the collection of "seed," as
+spat will set only on clean surfaces. By taking the large oysters and
+with them the shells and other d&eacute;bris from the bed, the natural oyster
+bars were destroyed and less space given for the spat to catch. So
+both the taking of the large oysters in excessive amounts and the destruction
+of the natural spat collectors, either for lime, as was done at
+Wellfleet, or for other purposes, were sufficient in the early days to
+cause the decline of the natural oyster beds.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>c</i>) In more recent times the destruction of the natural beds has
+been hastened by the taking of the small oysters. This practice was due
+to two reasons: (1) the supply of large oysters was exhausted; (2)
+oyster culture became important, and the natural beds were raked clean
+for "seed" which the oystermen obtained for planting on their grants.
+Thus the oyster grant system has been the chief cause of the destruction
+of the natural beds in the last forty years. It was only when the
+natural beds failed that grants were given, and so oyster culture cannot
+be considered the primary cause of the destruction of the natural
+beds, but only a later agency in their total extermination. The natural
+beds in Buzzards Bay all bear testimony to these three means of overfishing,
+and in recent years particularly to the last.</p>
+
+<p>It has been a most fortunate thing for Massachusetts that the oyster
+grant system was inaugurated as soon as the decline of the natural
+fishery became manifest, else at the present time there would be no
+oysters in the State, for it is recognized that the present natural beds
+are perpetuated by the spawn which comes from the various oyster
+grants. Foresight has indeed provided an excellent oyster industry,
+which is rapidly improving. It is only necessary to apply similar
+methods of culture to the other shellfish industries of the State to insure
+their future also; otherwise the decline, which is following the same
+steps as the destruction of the natural oyster beds, will lead to the commercial
+extinction of these valuable fisheries.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Results of the Survey.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The survey of the oyster industry has shown several interesting facts
+which should be brought to the attention of the fishermen and consumers.
+In the first place, it has shown that the oyster fishery is a
+larger and more important industry than it has been commonly considered,
+and that the welfare of the shore fisheries of southern Massachusetts
+depends upon its maintenance. Secondly, the oyster industry
+is to-day in a position where it cannot reach its full development for
+the reason merely that the present laws do not encourage the expansion
+of the industry. Thirdly, the oyster industry is trammeled by certain
+abuses, chiefly of a legal nature, which hinder its development, and upon
+the abolition of which depends its future success. Fourthly, the oyster
+industry under present conditions encroaches to some extent upon the
+other shellfish rights, especially in relation to the quahaug fishery, and
+has caused much jealous feeling; but if properly regulated there should
+be room for both industries.</p>
+
+<p>In order to obtain the opinion of the oystermen concerning the
+present abuses of the oyster industry, and how these could be best
+remedied, the following question was asked of the individual planters:
+"What measures or laws would, in your opinion, be best adapted for
+the improvement of the oyster industry?" Although many neglected
+to answer this question, forty-three opinions were offered, dealing with
+the problems which the oystermen consider as needing attention and
+upon which the welfare of the industry depends. These answers have
+been arranged in tabular form, showing the number of oystermen who
+advocate certain measures.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Measures suggested.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Present laws satisfactory,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Direct State control of oyster industry,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Town control, with right of appeal to the department of fisheries and game,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Longer length of lease,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>More certainty of re-leasing grants if improved,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>More protection for industry,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Right to grow all kinds of shellfish,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>More ground for cultivation,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>State to forbid marketing of oysters from contaminated waters,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Provision for destruction of starfish,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">43</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>While these answers show a diversity of ideas, about 75 per cent. urge
+that something be done to improve the present system, and, while many
+are in favor of placing the industry under State control, the majority is
+definitely of the opinion that the present system of town control is<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span>
+proving a serious drawback to the oyster industry. The best interests
+of the oysterman and the consumer demand a better method of regulation
+of this industry. As long as town politics, partiality and carelessness
+enter into the leasing of oyster grants, and thus deprive certain
+people of their rights, it is safe to say that the oyster industry can
+never get beyond its present state of development. One solution of the
+difficulty might be full State control of leasing the grounds for the
+oyster industry. This is possibly too radical a step at present, and
+the system can perhaps be so adjusted as to remedy its defects without
+taking the control of the fishery entirely away from the hands of the
+town. Another solution is to continue the system of town control, but
+to have a State commission which would act as a board of appeal for
+all who felt aggrieved at the judgment of the selectmen.</p>
+
+<p>The advisability of ten-year grants has caused much comment among
+the oystermen. Practically all grants are now given for this period
+of time. As a system it is deservedly unpopular, since it does not help
+the quahaug interest, and it checks the development of the oyster industry.
+The oyster business, unlike the other branches of shellfish
+culture, requires a considerable capital. This system of ten-year grants
+operates directly to discourage the outlay of capital. If the oysterman
+were sure of reaping the benefits of his labor and capital, it would be
+to his selfish interest to develop his own grant to its maximum capacity.
+But what far-sighted business man will invest money in a business
+which stands a good chance of being completely "wiped out" in a
+few years? Again, this system makes three years out of the ten practically
+worthless. The oysterman usually "seeds" his grant about three
+years before he expects to reap his harvest; but when his grant has
+run for seven years, it is evident that he will plant no more oysters
+because of the uncertainty of obtaining a second lease, and naturally
+does not desire to invest his labor and money for the benefit of an
+unknown successor.</p>
+
+<p>The remedy for this is not difficult. If a grant were rented annually
+as long as the planter desired to hold it, to be forfeited if not improved
+to a certain standard (to be decided upon), or for non-payment of
+rent, the difficulties above enumerated would disappear. Much of the
+territory now held unimproved would either be brought up to a standard
+of excellence or given over to the quahaugers, and in either case direct
+benefits would result. If legislation were so arranged that any man
+might take, by the payment of a nominal rent, a small piece of ground,
+which he could hold as long as he improved it, the oyster industry could
+be put on a firmer footing; a man confident of enjoying the fruits of
+his labors could thus improve his grant, and, as he acquired skill and
+knowledge, could add other land and ultimately expect to build up a
+successful business.</p>
+
+<p>A third important suggestion relates to the marketing of oysters in
+a sanitary condition. The oyster industry of the State has suffered<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span>
+severely because of the scare resulting from the marketing of oysters
+from contaminated waters. The Cape and Buzzards Bay oysters are
+in general free from all sewage contamination, and should not be considered
+on the same basis as the impure varieties from outside the State.
+Naturally, the Massachusetts oystermen desire that there be some guarantee
+for the purity of the oysters marketed, as their interests suffer
+because this impure stock is often sold under the name of the Cape
+oyster. If laws were passed requiring the inspection and certification
+of marketed oysters in regard to healthful conditions under which they
+have been produced, both the oyster planter and the consumer would
+be benefited.</p>
+
+<p>There is but little doubt that the oyster industry can be still further
+developed by opening waste territory which at this time does not appear
+available, since under existing conditions proper capital cannot
+be induced to enter the business. The oyster industry demands more
+attention than it has hitherto received, and must be considered an important
+asset of the Commonwealth.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>History of the Industry.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Although the oyster laws are the mile-stones which mark the progress
+of the oyster industry, and any consideration of the development
+of these laws naturally gives many historical features, it is nevertheless
+necessary, at the risk of repetition, to give a separate account
+of the history of the oyster fishery. The Massachusetts oyster fishery
+can be divided historically into three distinct periods: (1) the free
+fishing period; (2) the period of bedding southern oysters; (3) the
+period of oyster grants.</p>
+
+<p>(1) <i>The Free Native Fishery (1620-1840).</i>&mdash;In the early colonial
+days the oyster fishery was considered in the same way as the other
+shellfisheries are now looked upon, <i>i.e.</i>, held to be the common property
+of the inhabitants of the Commonwealth. The natural supply was abundant
+enough to meet the needs of all the inhabitants, and for many
+years no signs of decline were manifest. In 1775 the natural beds of
+Wellfleet gave out, furnishing the first record of unmistakable decline.
+From that time there arose an extensive series of protective laws, with
+the one object of preserving the natural supply by limiting the demand.
+This policy of protective laws, though perhaps temporarily beneficial,
+was based on an erroneous principle. It was preventive, but not constructive,
+and did not build up the demolished fishery.</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>Oyster Bedding (1840-70).</i>&mdash;With the decline of the natural
+beds, the practice of bedding southern "plants" became an important
+part of the oyster trade. The southern oysters were bedded on the
+flats in the spring and taken up for market in the fall. Salem, Wellfleet
+and Boston were the leading places in this new phase of the oyster
+industry, and many thousand bushels were annually planted.</p>
+
+<p>(3) <i>Oyster Grants (1870-1908).</i>&mdash;So successful was this summer<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span>
+bedding of southern oysters that experiments were soon made in rearing
+oysters. This proved successful from the start, and within a few years
+the extensive grant system which is now in vogue was inaugurated on
+Cape Cod and Buzzards Bay.</p>
+
+<p>These three methods, although separated by definite periods in which
+each have been the leaders, remain to a greater or less extent at the
+present day. The natural beds are still in existence, and, as at Wareham,
+are opened once in three or seven years, according to the discretion
+of the selectmen, for catching "seed." The summer bedding of
+oysters still continues, as certain planters find it more profitable to
+fatten than to grow oysters, and the oyster grant system is now in full
+operation.</p>
+
+<p>A comparison of the industry of 1907 with that of 1879 shows several
+changes. These changes are for the most part improvements which
+have arisen with the development of the industry. In some cases the
+changes have been detrimental, and a few localities have shown a decline.
+New fields have opened to the oysterman both in new localities
+and through the extension of the present beds. On the whole, there
+has been a great increase in the grant system of oyster culture, while
+the "bedding" of southern "plants," which in 1879 employed many
+men, boats and extensive capital, has practically disappeared. The
+annual production has increased gradually, and for 1906-07 is approximately
+five times as large as in 1879. The following figures, except
+for 1907, are taken from the United States Fish Commission's reports,
+and show the gradual increase in production:&mdash;</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th><span class="smcap">Year.</span></th>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+    <th><span class="smcap">Year.</span></th>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">36,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$41,800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1898,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">101,225</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$156,235</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1887,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">43,183</td>
+    <td class="tdr">64,115</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1902,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">103,386</td>
+    <td class="tdr">133,682</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1888,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">45,631</td>
+    <td class="tdr">66,453</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1907,<a name="FNanchor_16_16" id="FNanchor_16_16"></a><a href="#Footnote_16_16" class="fnanchor">[16]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">161,182</td>
+    <td class="tdr">176,142</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>The Oyster Laws.</i></h3>
+
+<p>In submitting a complete report upon the oyster industry, the oyster
+laws, which have played an important part in the development of the
+fishery, cannot be totally neglected. However, so important a subject
+demands separate investigation, and offers excellent opportunities for
+legal research. Therefore it is not the purpose of this report to give
+more than a brief account of the present oyster laws and their history.</p>
+
+<p>The shellfish laws of Massachusetts constitute the foundation of the
+oyster industry, as they have taken a practically extinct native fishery
+and have built up the present extensive business. So closely are they
+connected with its welfare that the future of this growing industry
+depends upon the proper expansion of these laws to meet the new
+conditions.</p>
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span></p>
+<p>A survey of these oyster laws, with an analysis of their merits and
+defects, is needed. Their defects have brought about the present unsatisfactory
+situation in certain localities, and should be remedied.
+Their merits should be strengthened and amplified, as the basis of
+future expansion. They have come into being from time to time, in
+response to the immediate need of the hour; consequently they have
+no unity, and are, indeed, but imperfectly understood. An insight
+into their perplexing details should bring out many inconsistencies.
+Again, no comprehensive knowledge of the history of the industry is
+possible without a study of the laws. The errors once committed need
+not be repeated to further embarrass the industry, and the lessons
+learned by experience would be well applied to its future development.</p>
+
+<p><i>Protective and Constructive Laws.</i>&mdash;The oyster laws can be divided
+into two classes: (1) protective; and (2) constructive. The early
+laws, which were passed to save the natural supply, were of the first
+class; while the laws establishing the present system of oyster culture
+come under the second heading. The beginnings of all legislative enactment
+arose in the treatment of the natural oyster beds. These beds
+were fast becoming exhausted, when laws were passed to protect their
+important natural resources. This measure was only partially successful.
+It did succeed in preserving the remnant of those old beds from
+destruction, but it was powerless to build up an industry of any extent.
+When it became clearly evident that no possible fostering of native
+resources could supply the growing demands of the market, legislation
+quite logically directed itself toward the artificial propagation of oysters.
+From this step arose a series of problems which long proved baffling,
+and still engross a great deal of public attention. The artificial propagation
+of oysters necessitated the leasing of grants in tidal waters.
+This giving up of public property to private individuals aroused the
+opposition of rival shellfish industries, who saw in this measure a curtailment
+of their resources. Numerous other difficulties of minor significance
+arose from time to time, all demanding attention at the hands
+of the Legislature.</p>
+
+<p>Apart from the general supervision of the oyster industry, there
+have been two other sources of legislative enactment. First, special
+laws have been called for to regulate the fishery in certain waters under
+the oversight of the State Board of Health. Secondly, during the past
+few years the attention of the Legislature has been directed towards
+the development of the oyster fishery as an important asset of the
+Commonwealth, and laws authorizing various experiments, both scientific
+and practical, have been passed in order to devise methods of increasing
+and developing the industry.</p>
+
+<p>I. <i>Protective Laws.</i>&mdash;The history of the oyster laws of Massachusetts
+is a history of the industry itself. The rise and decline of the
+fishery are distinctly traceable in the development of the legal machinery
+which regulates it. From the time of the Pilgrims the oyster<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span>
+beds of the coast had been regarded as inexhaustible mines. The fallacy
+of this view gradually became apparent, as these beds began to be
+depleted through overfishing. As early as 1796 a general law, entitled
+"An act to prevent the destruction of oysters and other shellfish," was
+passed by the Legislature. Prior to 1869 the town of Harwich adopted
+this old law. Shortly after, Swansea followed suit, and restricted the
+exploitation of her native oyster beds in the Lee and Cole rivers. In
+1870 Wellfleet inaugurated an innovation, in the nature of a permit
+to take oysters, which was required of all citizens of the town. The
+idea of this permit was to regulate the fishery, centralize control in
+the hands of the selectmen and add to the income of the town. In
+1873 Sandwich passed a law enforcing a close season on all her native
+beds, to last for a period of one year. In 1875 Brewster followed
+the lead of Wellfleet, in demanding permits of all outsiders and also
+from all citizens taking more than 3 bushels at any one time, although
+an unlimited amount might be taken for food.</p>
+
+<p>The aim of all this legislation was not to develop the industry directly,
+but indirectly by preserving and fostering the native beds. This
+theory, while excellent in motive, did not work out well, as the native
+beds could not by any possible protection be brought to produce an
+annual yield at all adequate to the growing demands of the market.</p>
+
+<p>The utilization of purely natural resources proving unequal to the
+demands of the occasion, the creation of other resources became necessary,
+and an entirely new epoch in the history of the oyster fishery
+was inaugurated. This epoch marked the beginning of the production
+of oysters by artificial means, and the establishment of this new industry
+and the perplexing complications which grew out of it have been
+the source of legislative strife for many years.</p>
+
+<p>II. <i>Constructive Laws.</i>&mdash;The first legislation authorizing the present
+system of oyster culture was instituted at Swansea, in 1869. This
+was the beginning and the foundation of a broad movement of oyster
+culture which spread rapidly along the southern coast of the State.
+This curious law allowed the selectmen to sell, by public or private
+sale, the oyster privilege of Swansea outright to any person or persons
+who were citizens of the town. The measure, although apparently
+designed to restrict the exhaustion of the native resources, did not
+tend to develop the industry. It possessed one element of value, i.e.,
+it increased the revenue of the town. Apart from its interest as the
+forerunner of artificial propagation of oysters, this old law is noteworthy,
+as it forms the basis of the system which to-day regulates the
+industry in that section of the country. The custom of selling an
+extensive oyster privilege, as apart from the system of leasing grants,
+first clearly outlined in the law of 1869, still holds throughout this section.
+It remains the usual custom to sell either the whole of a township's
+available oyster territory, or else an extensive part of it, to one
+man for a lump sum per year.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>In 1874 an important step occurred in the evolution of the oyster
+industry. Swansea and Somerset were given the privilege of granting
+any of their bays, shores, banks and creeks for the propagation of
+oysters. This act was far more sweeping and advanced than any of
+its predecessors, but it was in one respect too sweeping. It interfered
+with the rights of the property owners along the shore, and was therefore
+contrary to the general underlying principle of the State law,
+which allows the cultivation of oysters only in so far as such cultivation
+does not interfere with the vested rights of all citizens alike. The
+measure proved untenable, and was promptly repealed. Its repeal
+was on general principles a thing to be desired, but nevertheless a blow
+to the industry. The tidal waters along the coast have always been
+the most valuable part of the oyster territory, as they have proved
+to be the best adapted for obtaining "oyster set." This measure was
+therefore designed to aid the oyster growers, and give them valuable
+privileges which belonged originally to the adjoining property owners.
+Even to the present day the dividing line between the rights of property
+owners and oystermen has remained an unsettled question.</p>
+
+<p>It was about this time that the close season proved a failure in
+Buzzards Bay, and the towns of Wareham, Bourne and Marion turned
+their attention toward the establishment of an oyster industry. This
+attempt became a settled policy of these towns about 1875.</p>
+
+<p>In 1878 a peculiar act was passed, making it unlawful for any person
+to remove oysters from any grant, even his own, between the hours
+of sunset and sunrise. This act was necessary for the protection of the
+oyster planters, by preventing the stealing of oysters from the grant
+at night. Various efforts had been made to protect grants from such
+attacks, but the extreme difficulty of detection was always an insuperable
+obstacle to proper enforcement, and it was deemed expedient to
+prohibit all fishing at night. That this problem had become an important
+one is shown by the title of the law, which was styled "An
+act for the better protection of the oyster fisheries in this commonwealth."</p>
+
+<p>In 1884 an important act was passed, enlarging the limits of that
+territory which might lawfully be used for the cultivation of oysters.
+Practically all communal waters outside the jurisdiction of adjacent
+land owners was thrown open for oyster grants.</p>
+
+<p>In 1885 the institution of a public hearing was inaugurated. This
+was a concession to the hostile quahaug element, and allowed the public
+the opportunity of protesting against the granting of territory for
+oyster culture; nevertheless, the final power really remained in the hands
+of the selectmen. A further concession to this element was the law
+which called for the revoking of grants within two years if unimproved.
+The interests of the oystermen were also kept in sight, and legislation
+passed which was designed to protect grants still more from the depredations
+of outsiders. Provision was likewise made for the proper enforcement
+of these laws, and the penalties attached were increased.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>In 1886 an act was passed which was designed to do away with all
+possible outside monopoly. The danger of organized capital acquiring
+control of a large tract and excluding small individual planters had
+become apparent, and this means was taken to guard against it. The
+act prohibited the transfer of grants in any township to any person
+not a citizen of that township; thus, if any monopoly did exist it would
+be restricted to only one township. The limits during which fishing
+on grants might be carried on was lengthened two hours, so that it read
+from "one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset."</p>
+
+<p>In 1892 the town of Yarmouth obtained a law requiring a permit
+for citizens to take oysters from native beds, not exceeding 2 bushels
+per week, from September 1 to June 1. This is now the only town in
+the Commonwealth to require such a permit from citizens.</p>
+
+<p>In 1895 legislation was passed relative to the proper definition of
+the boundaries of grants. This was rendered necessary because of the
+haphazard methods hitherto pursued in giving grants with very indefinite
+boundaries. Mean low-water mark was fixed as the shoreward
+boundary of grants, while mean high-water mark was defined as the
+limit to which shells might be placed to catch the set. This, however,
+was dependent upon the owners of the adjacent property, and their
+consent was held necessary before this territory between high and low
+water could thus be utilized.</p>
+
+<p>In 1901 special legislation was passed, restricting the catching of
+oysters in contaminated waters except for bait.</p>
+
+<p>In 1904 authority was granted to proper officials to develop the
+oyster industry by planting shellfish, or by close season.</p>
+
+<p>In 1905 the Fish and Game Commission was authorized to expend
+a sum not exceeding $500 per annum for the investigation of the oyster,
+by experiment or otherwise, with a view to developing the industry.</p>
+
+<p>The development of the oyster laws has been by a process of evolution.
+They have kept pace with the growth of the industry, and have
+been in fact the logical outcome of that expansion. The various acts
+which go to make up the bulk of this legislation have been passed from
+time to time to fill the immediate demands of the hour, and consequently
+lack that unity and consistency which might otherwise characterize
+them. Changing conditions have called for alterations in the legal
+machinery, as the industry has expanded, to meet new requirements.
+These additions have frequently been dictated by short-sighted policy,
+and the Commonwealth as a whole has often been lost sight of in the
+welfare of the community.</p>
+
+<p>Of all the shellfisheries, the oyster industry is most hampered by
+unwise legislation. It is the most difficult to handle, because it presents
+many perplexing phases from which the others are free. Clams, quahaugs
+and scallops flourish in their respective territories, and legislation
+merely tends to regulate their exploitation or marketing. With the
+oyster, however, other problems have arisen. The areas in the State<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span>
+where oysters grow naturally are few in number and relatively of small
+importance. The clam, quahaug and scallop grounds are to be compared
+with wild pastures and meadows, which yield their harvests without
+cultivation; while the oyster grants are gardens, which must be
+planted and carefully tended.</p>
+
+<p>With this distinction arises another question, of far-reaching significance,&mdash;the
+question of private ownership. The quahaug, clam and
+scallop fisheries demand that the tidal flats and waters be held in common
+as communal interests, and freely open to all citizens of the town;
+the oyster fishery requires that certain portions of these flats and waters
+be set aside for private ownership. With the economic questions involved
+in this discussion it is not the purpose of this report to deal.
+There is one fact, in any case, which cannot be argued away. The
+oyster industry is dependent solely upon private ownership of grants.
+If, therefore, the oyster industry is to be encouraged at all,&mdash;and it
+certainly has very great possibilities,&mdash;this fact of private ownership
+must be accepted at once. If, as some assert, it is an evil, it is a necessary
+evil, and it has come to stay. The questions remaining for legislation
+on this subject are the proper regulation of this private ownership,
+so as to give the maximum of encouragement to the oyster fishery, and
+the minimum of danger to the rival shellfish industries.</p>
+
+<p>The oyster and quahaug industries openly clash. This is an unfortunate
+occurrence, but it cannot be avoided, since the ground suitable
+for the culture of oysters is almost always the natural home of the
+quahaug. Therefore, when portions of this ground are given out to
+private individuals for the production of oysters, the available quahaug
+territory is necessarily reduced. Over this question endless disputes
+have arisen. The problem is undoubtedly one requiring delicate adjustment;
+but there is no reason why these two industries should not
+flourish side by side, as there would be plenty of room for both if all
+the available territory were properly utilized.</p>
+
+<p>There is one important feature of this problem, however, which the
+present laws have wholly failed to recognize. Wherever practicable,
+the best of the quahaug territory should not be granted; and as far as
+possible, the oystermen should utilize only those tracts of territory which
+are not naturally very productive of quahaugs.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>The Oyster Industry.</i></h3>
+
+<p>For the benefit of those who perhaps are not familiar with the methods
+employed in the oyster industry, the following brief account is given:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>I. <i>Selecting the Grant.</i>&mdash;The oysterman, in selecting a grant, has
+to consider first the nature of the soil; and secondly, the location as
+influencing the growth of the oyster. Not less important is the quality
+of the oyster, which means not only a good price, but also readiness
+of sale, as the oysters produced in certain localities are especially desirable
+in appearance and flavor.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>As the oyster will not grow on all kinds of bottom, but demands a
+firm soil, free from soft mud and shifting sand, the oyster area of the
+State is naturally limited. Usually but part of an oysterman's grant
+is suitable for the cultivation of oysters, and he is forced to let the
+rest of the territory lie idle, unless he can, with shells or gravel, artificially
+change this waste area into suitable ground. Shifting sand perhaps
+can never be made suitable for oysters; but many acres of soft
+mud can be made productive, if the oysterman only has a reasonable
+guarantee that he would receive the results of his labor.</p>
+
+<p>While the oyster culture is limited by the nature of the bottom, it
+is also restricted by other conditions. The salinity of the water has
+much to do with the rapidity of growth, and the oysters seem to thrive
+in localities where a slight amount of fresh water enters. The amount
+of food in the water is the principal factor in the rate of growth, and
+to this is due the fact that the rate of growth varies considerably in
+different localities. As a rule, the beds with good circulation of water
+(<i>i.e.</i>, currents) show the more rapid growth.</p>
+
+<p>II. <i>Collecting the "Seed."</i>&mdash;The term "seed" is applied to one,
+two, three and even four year old oysters which the oystermen plant
+on their grants. These grants are in reality salt-water gardens, requiring
+constant supervision; and the obtaining of the "seed" for planting
+is a most important consideration. The gathering of the oyster "seed"
+is a simple process, but one which requires much research.</p>
+
+<p>Early in the summer, usually during the months of June and July
+in these waters, the Massachusetts oyster spawns. Both sperm from
+the adult male and the eggs from the adult female oysters are extruded
+in considerable quantities into the water, and there the eggs are fertilized.
+As fertilization is somewhat a matter of accident, undoubtedly
+the great majority of eggs never develop. The fertilized eggs pass
+rapidly through various changes in the course of a few hours, and
+emerge as microscopic embryos, with thin, transparent coverings. At
+this period these forms are free swimming, and are found in great
+numbers in the water. They are extremely delicate, and great quantities
+are destroyed by natural agencies, such as cold storms, sudden
+changes in temperature, etc. They likewise are subject to the depredations
+of all sorts of marine creatures, and comparatively few in proportion
+survive. The survivors, after leading this free-swimming
+existence for several days, settle to the bottom, where they attach themselves
+by a calcareous fixative to stones, shells, pieces of wood, etc.
+Here, unless buried by silt and soft mud or killed by exposure, poisonous
+pollution, etc., the young oyster rapidly becomes of a size suitable
+for planting.</p>
+
+<p>The economic utilization of this scientific knowledge is as follows:
+shells offer a very good surface for the attachment of the young oyster,
+and many thousand bushels are annually strewn over the bottom previous
+to the spawning season. Considerable judgment is needed in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span>
+choosing the right time to plant these shells, which after a few weeks
+in the water become so coated with slime that fixation of the "spat"
+becomes impossible. In Massachusetts the area between high and low
+water mark has been found by experiment to be the most valuable
+territory for this purpose, as shells planted here collect the heaviest
+set and can be handled with the least expense. A projecting sand bar
+or point with a current is also well adapted for catching oyster spat.</p>
+
+<p>The scallop shell is the most serviceable in spat collecting, because it
+is more brittle, and the clusters of oysters when attached are readily
+broken apart. After the oysterman has obtained a successful set, he
+allows the young oysters to obtain a suitable growth before he makes
+a final planting, either in the spring or fall.</p>
+
+<p>III. <i>Size of the "Seed" used for Planting.</i>&mdash;While many oysters
+are raised from native spat in the Buzzards Bay district, the greater
+part of the seed is purchased in Connecticut and Long Island, and is
+carried in schooners or steamers to Massachusetts waters. The usual
+price ranges from 35 cents to $1 per bushel, according to size and quality.
+The oystermen cannot always choose the size of "seed" they desire
+for planting, as the set of any one year is very uncertain, and several
+seasons may pass before a large quantity of "seed" can be obtained.
+Thus the oyster planters are forced to take whatever size they can obtain,
+whether it be two, three or four year old "seed." As a rule, the
+small "seed" is most in demand, as it means relatively faster growth
+and less money invested. Often, when the ground is most favorable for
+fattening, large oysters are preferred for planting, and certain oystermen
+make this line of work a specialty. Certain localities where there
+is plenty of lime in the water are well adapted for growth, and yet
+produce poor-"meated" oysters, while in other grounds the reverse
+is true. The oystermen occasionally by a double transfer utilize both
+grounds, planting oyster "seed" for the first few years in the rapid-growing
+localities, and then transplanting the large oysters to the
+"fattening" ground six months before marketing.</p>
+
+<p>IV. <i>Preparing the Grant.</i>&mdash;The first step in preparing the grant
+is to remove all d&eacute;bris. In the deep water, this is usually done by dredging;
+in the shallow water, by whatever means is the easiest. If the
+bottom is of firm soil, the grant is then ready for planting; however,
+if the soil is soft mud, it is necessary to shell the bottom in order to
+give it greater firmness. The oysterman continually has to keep a sharp
+lookout in order to protect his grant from enemies such as the starfish
+and the oyster drill, and to keep it clear of seaweed and other matter
+which would interfere with the growth of the oyster.</p>
+
+<p>V. <i>Sowing the "Seed."</i>&mdash;The "seed" oysters are planted on the
+prepared bed by scattering them with shovels or scoops from the boats
+and scows. The oysterman, knowing the maximum amount of "seed"
+the bed will grow to the best advantage, plants the required number,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span>
+taking care that the oysters are properly scattered, as for the best
+growth oysters should lie separate and not in crowded masses. The
+amount of "seed" that can be planted on a given area depends upon
+the natural conditions of the locality.</p>
+
+<p>VI. <i>Enemies.</i>&mdash;The oyster, having passed through the countless
+dangers of his embryonic career, is still harassed by several enemies.
+Of these, the most destructive is the starfish. This animal, commonly
+known as the "five-finger," occurs along the entire Massachusetts
+coast, and is especially abundant in Buzzards Bay. Occasionally whole
+oyster beds are wiped out by this pest, which sweeps over the ground
+in vast armies. The method of attack of the starfish is unique. By
+exerting with its tube feet a steady pull in opposite directions on both
+valves of the shell of the victim, the starfish tires the contracted muscle
+of the oyster, and the shells open. The starfish then extrudes its
+stomach so as to enwrap the prey, and in this curious manner devours
+the oyster.</p>
+
+<p>A close second to the starfish in amount of damage is the oyster
+"drill" or "borer" (<i>Urosalpinx cinerea</i>). This little mollusk with
+its rasping tongue drills a small hole through the shell of the oyster,
+and then sucks out the contents.</p>
+
+<p>A third enemy, according to the oyster planters, is the "winkle"
+(<i>Fulgur carica</i> and <i>F. caniculatus</i>). The method of attack is somewhat
+obscure.</p>
+
+<p>Besides this dangerous trio of living enemies, the oyster is subject
+to constant peril from inanimate agencies. Probably the greatest of
+these is shifting bottom. Where oysters are grown on sandy soil, the
+violent waves of winter storms frequently tear up the bottom, or else
+the force of currents is such as to kill the oysters by completely burying
+them in the sand. Again, if the oysters are growing in very
+muddy bottom they are constantly liable to be smothered in the slimy
+ooze. Ice in winter frequently tears oysters from their beds and bears
+them to some unfavorable environment, where they soon die.</p>
+
+<p>VII. <i>Harvesting the Oysters.</i>&mdash;The oysterman completes his planting
+about June 1. During the summer months, the growing period
+of the oyster, the grants remain idle except for the care and supervision
+of the oystermen. As the oyster takes from three to five years
+to attain its growth, the oysterman practically harvests but one-fourth
+to one-third of his entire stock each year, beginning about September
+1 and continuing through the winter as the weather permits.</p>
+
+<p>In winter the oysterman, to keep up the market supply, beds "culled"
+oysters near the shore, where he can tong them through the ice whenever
+it is impossible to obtain oysters from his grant.</p>
+
+<p>The implements used in gathering the oyster harvest are of three
+kinds: tongs, dredges and rakes. Tongs are employed principally by
+the smaller oyster growers, and on ground where the water is com<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span>paratively
+shallow. A pair of tongs is really a pair of long-handled
+rakes, fastened together like a pair of shears. The pole, corresponding
+to the blade of the shears, varies from 8 to 16 feet in length. The
+rakes, some 2 to 2&frac12; feet broad, are so fitted to the end of the poles
+that when extended by spreading the handles they rest upon the bottom
+parallel to each other. These tongs are usually worked from skiffs
+or flat-bottomed boats, the oystermen first separating the tips of the
+handles and then bringing them together, thus causing a corresponding
+movement of the two rakes, which with their 2-inch iron teeth gather
+in all the intervening oysters. The tongs with their burden of oysters
+are then lifted into the boat, emptied, and the process repeated.</p>
+
+<p>Dredging is a much faster and less laborious method of oystering
+than tonging, and can be carried on over a much larger territory.
+The oyster dredge consists of a bag of woven iron rings attached to
+an iron framework. From each corner of the framework iron rods
+extend, converging at a point some feet away. At this point the rope
+is attached, by which the dredge is dragged from either a sail or
+power boat. The blade, resting horizontally on the surface, is armed
+with teeth which rake the oysters into the bag. When this bag, which
+holds from 3 to 8 bushels, is full, the dredge is raised, usually by a
+windlass worked by steam, gasolene or hand power, as the case may
+be, its contents dumped out and the dredge lowered for another haul.</p>
+
+<p>Rakes, the third implement in general use, are not employed as
+extensively as tongs or dredges, but are used in still water, where the
+bottom is suitable.</p>
+
+<p>VIII. <i>Marketing.</i>&mdash;The "catch" as soon as it is dredged or tonged
+is brought in boats to the oyster houses, where men with hatchets or
+similar implements break apart the clustered oysters and cast aside
+the empty shells, bits of rock, etc. Three different varieties of marketable
+oysters are usually sorted out, according to size: (1) large, (2)
+medium and (3) small. The respective sizes vary somewhat with the
+locality, demands of the market and the season; but the large oysters
+commonly count about 900 to the barrel, the medium 1,000 or more,
+while the small run 1,200 or over.</p>
+
+<p>The different sizes as they are sorted out are packed in barrels and
+are then ready for shipment. The principal markets are of course
+New York and Boston, though the demand farther inland is increasing,
+and shipments to Chicago or places even farther west are frequently
+made.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>General Statistics.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The following facts concerning the oyster industry have been compiled
+from the written statements of the different oystermen. Complete
+returns have not been received from Wareham, Barnstable, and
+Falmouth, while possibly a few oystermen in the other towns have
+been overlooked. Falmouth raises but few oysters for the market and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span>
+these returns have been recorded, the remaining oystermen merely
+planting for their own use. In the towns of Barnstable and Wareham
+about four-fifths of the oystermen have made returns. The facts
+given in the following tables are based only on the returns at hand,
+and therefore do not give a complete report for these two towns.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Statistical Summary.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th rowspan="2"><span class="smcap">Town.</span></th>
+    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Number of Grants.</span></th>
+    <th colspan="3"><span class="smcap">Area of Worked Grants (Acres).</span></th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Number of Men.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <th>Total.</th>
+    <th>Worked.</th>
+    <th>Total.</th>
+    <th>Suitable.</th>
+    <th>Unsuitable.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Wellfleet,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">35</td>
+    <td class="tdr">23</td>
+    <td class="tdr">967</td>
+    <td class="tdr">810</td>
+    <td class="tdr">157</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Chatham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">21</td>
+    <td class="tdr">21</td>
+    <td class="tdr">65</td>
+    <td class="tdr">55</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dennis-Yarmouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barnstable,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">29</td>
+    <td class="tdr">29</td>
+    <td class="tdr">188</td>
+    <td class="tdr">121</td>
+    <td class="tdr">67</td>
+    <td class="tdr">33</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Falmouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">22</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+    <td class="tdr">44</td>
+    <td class="tdr">23</td>
+    <td class="tdr">21</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Bourne,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">135</td>
+    <td class="tdr">42</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">83</td>
+    <td class="tdr">17</td>
+    <td class="tdr">21</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Wareham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">125</td>
+    <td class="tdr">70</td>
+    <td class="tdr">196</td>
+    <td class="tdr">159</td>
+    <td class="tdr">37</td>
+    <td class="tdr">26</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Fall River district,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14</td>
+    <td class="tdr">810</td>
+    <td class="tdr">510</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">36</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Nantucket,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">17</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">387</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">208</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">2,400</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">1,774</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">626</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">159</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Capital invested.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th><span class="smcap">Town.</span></th>
+    <th>Boats.</th>
+    <th>Implements.</th>
+    <th>Shore Property.</th>
+    <th>Bedded Oysters.</th>
+    <th class="tdt">Total.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Wellfleet,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$10,115</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$575</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$19,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$31,390</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Chatham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,695</td>
+    <td class="tdr">313</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,225</td>
+    <td class="tdr">23,300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">26,533</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dennis-Yarmouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,175</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barnstable,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,269</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,139</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">28,850</td>
+    <td class="tdr">39,558</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Falmouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,525</td>
+    <td class="tdr">105</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">450</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,080</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Bourne,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,515</td>
+    <td class="tdr">483</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">18,300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">24,448</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Wareham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">9,355</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,120</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,420</td>
+    <td class="tdr">27,725</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40,620</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Fall River district,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">19,840</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">68,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">96,540</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Nantucket,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">518</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,358</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$53,857</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$5,800</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$16,620</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$192,425</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$268,702</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Production of 1906-07.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th rowspan="2"><span class="smcap">Town.</span></th>
+    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Marketable Oysters.</span></th>
+    <th colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Seed Oysters.</span></th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Total Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Wellfleet,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">22,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$24,850</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$25,850</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Chatham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14,550</td>
+    <td class="tdr">23,987</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">23,987</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dennis-Yarmouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barnstable,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25,850</td>
+    <td class="tdr">48,050</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">48,150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Falmouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,012</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,025</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,025</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Bourne,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">23,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">19,100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Wareham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7,770</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12,790</td>
+    <td class="tdr">22,100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12,090</td>
+    <td class="tdr">24,880</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Fall River district,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">38,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">26,250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">26,250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Nantucket,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">114,982</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$147,952</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">46,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$28,190</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$176,142</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Sectional Arrangement of Towns.</span>
+</p>
+
+<ul class="index"><li><i>A.</i> North side of Cape Cod:&mdash;</li>
+<li class="isub3">        1. Wellfleet.</li>
+<li class="isub3">        2. Eastham.</li>
+<li class="isub3">        3. Orleans.</li>
+<li><i>B.</i> South side of Cape Cod:&mdash;</li>
+<li class="isub3">        1. Chatham.</li>
+<li class="isub3">        2. Harwich.</li>
+<li class="isub3">        3. Dennis and Yarmouth.</li>
+<li class="isub3">        4. Barnstable.</li>
+<li class="isub3">        5. Mashpee.</li>
+<li class="isub3">        6. Falmouth.</li>
+<li><i>C.</i> Buzzards Bay:&mdash;</li>
+<li class="isub3">        1. Bourne.</li>
+<li class="isub3">        2. Wareham.</li>
+<li class="isub3">        3. Marion.</li>
+<li><i>D.</i> Fall River district.</li>
+<li><i>E.</i> Nantucket.</li>
+</ul>
+
+
+<h3><i>Wellfleet.</i></h3>
+
+<p>For the past thirty years there has been an extensive oyster industry
+at Wellfleet, and many grants have been taken out in the waters of
+Wellfleet Bay, which possesses some of the best oyster ground in the
+State. In spite of the success of the past years, the industry is declining,
+indicating, possibly, that after 1910 no more grants will be
+leased.</p>
+
+<p>Four parts of the bay are taken up by oyster grants in the vicinity
+of: (1) Mayo's Beach; (2) Great Island; (3) Indian Neck; (4) Lieutenant's
+Island.</p>
+
+<p>(1) Nine grants, covering an area of 176 acres of both flats and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span>
+deeper water, extend out from Mayo's Beach a distance of 1,500 feet.
+These grants extend along shore from Commercial Wharf to Egg
+Island, a distance of 3,500 feet. Seven of these grants have each a
+shore extension of 200 feet, the other 2 having 600 and 1,500 feet
+respectively. The principal planting on these grants is done by D.
+Atwood &amp; Co.</p>
+
+<p>(2) On the west side of the bay, along the shores of Great Island
+and Beach Hill, there are 7 grants which are now worked. Originally
+there were 12 grants in this locality, but 5 of them expired some time
+ago. The area included in these 5 grants is 500 acres, while the entire
+granted area covers 708 acres. Wright &amp; Willis, R. R. Higgins and
+L. D. Baker have done most of the planting on these grants in the
+past few years.</p>
+
+<p>(3) On the east side of the bay, near Indian Neck, are 5 grants,
+comprising 224 acres. J. A. Stubbs does all the planting here. A
+single grant of 11 acres of flats is held in Duck Creek Cove by J. C.
+Wiles. These grants extend along the shore for 2,000 yards and run
+out into the bay for 1,000 yards.</p>
+
+<p>(4) Off Lieutenant's Island are 8 grants, comprising a total area
+of 1,062 acres. Only 3 of these, comprising 559 acres, are now worked.
+Joseph Crosby of Osterville is the principal planter on these grants.</p>
+
+<p>From the statistical returns of the oyster planters it is found that
+23 grants are now held for oyster planting, comprising an area of
+967 acres; 810 acres, or 83 per cent. of this area, is suitable for oyster
+culture. There is very little soft mud bottom, only 82 acres, while
+the shifting sand area is 75 acres.</p>
+
+<p>The total area of grants ever leased at Wellfleet comprises 2,182
+acres, of which 1,473 are now held. The average depth of water over
+these grants at mean low tide is 4 feet, the extremes running from
+1 to 12 feet.</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$31,390</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$9,250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dories and skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories and skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$115</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$575</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of oysters on grant,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$19,500</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>Most of the oystering is done by dredging, two large gasolene oyster
+boats, the "Cultivator" and the "Marion," being employed for this<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span>
+purpose. Tongs are also used extensively. Fourteen men are engaged
+from six to twelve months each year in the oyster business.</p>
+
+<p>The production for 1906-07 was 22,500 bushels of marketable oysters,
+valued at $24,850; and 1,000 bushels of "seed," worth approximately
+$1,000. Most of the planted "seed" is obtained from Long Island
+and Connecticut.</p>
+
+<p>The damage from the natural enemies of the oyster is reported as
+very slight.</p>
+
+<p>The Wellfleet oyster has a peculiar salty flavor not possessed by other
+oysters. For some trade this is preferred, while for others it is not
+so desirable. Before marketing the extreme saltiness is sometimes removed
+by floating the oysters in Duck Creek, where the water is less
+salt, using large, scow-like floats, 30 by 15 feet.</p>
+
+<p>Several Boston firms are engaged in oyster culture at Wellfleet, including
+D. Atwood &amp; Co., J. A. Stubbs and R. R. Higgins.</p>
+
+<p>For years there has been a conflict between the quahaugers and the
+oystermen at Wellfleet. This is very natural, owing to the rivalry
+between the two industries and the rapid rise of the quahaug fishery
+in the last fifteen years. Owing to their greater number, the quahaugers
+have obtained the upper hand in town affairs, with the result
+that in 1910, when all the oyster leases run out, it is said that no more
+will be granted, and the oyster business of Wellfleet will come to an
+end. This is especially unfortunate for the town, as there is room
+for both industries, and the destruction of either one would be a great
+financial loss. It is hoped that some means can be devised to straighten
+out the difficulties between the opposing factions before either industry
+is ruined.</p>
+
+<p>But little oyster spat has ever been caught in Wellfleet Bay. That
+oysters will set there is evidenced by the young "seed" caught on
+the piles of the wharves and on stones and rocks around the harbor. It
+is noteworthy that at Wellfleet the spat sets only between the tide
+lines, and does not catch where water is constantly over the ground.
+This is directly contrary to the conditions in Long Island Sound, where
+the set is caught in deep water. E. P. Cook and J. A. Stubbs have tried
+spat collecting in Herring River for several years, with the results
+of one or two good sets, the best being caught by Mr. Cook in 1906.
+The other years have proved failures in this line. There is no question
+but that oyster spat can be profitably caught if sufficient interest is
+taken in the matter.</p>
+
+<p>The early laws were as follows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>In 1772 a law having been enacted by the General Court, regulating the
+taking of oysters in Billingsgate Bay, an amendment to that act was now
+asked by the town, namely, that during the summer months oysters shall
+not be taken to market, nor fished by the inhabitants of the town for their
+own use during the months of July and August.</p></div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>In 1773:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>That, inasmuch as the oyster fishery, which is of great value to the town
+and of great advantage to the Province, has received detriment from persons
+taking young oysters, the enactment of more stringent regulations are
+necessary to prevent their destruction.</p></div>
+
+<p>These early laws show that the natural oyster beds were highly prized
+by the Inhabitants in colonial days, and that measures, even then, were
+necessary to prevent their extinction. At the present time Wellfleet
+has no other regulations than the general oyster laws of the Commonwealth.</p>
+
+<p>The history of the oyster industry of Wellfleet can be divided into
+three periods: (1) the natural oyster fishery; (2) the "bedding" of
+southern oysters; (3) oyster planting.</p>
+
+<p>(1) <i>The Natural Oyster Beds of Wellfleet.</i>&mdash;The first settlers found
+a natural oyster bed near Hitchin's Creek, or Silver Spring, in 1644,
+and it is said that oysters were very abundant at that time. Old
+shells are occasionally dredged or raked up at the present day from
+these beds. The Rev. Enoch Pratt, in his "History of Eastham, Wellfleet
+and Orleans," gives the following account of this early oyster
+industry:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>Oysters were found in great abundance on the flats at the first settlement
+[1644], but at this time [1770] the inhabitants had so increased and
+such quantities were taken for consumption and for the Boston market,
+that it became necessary, to prevent their entire destruction, for the district
+to take measures to preserve and propagate them.... Shops and
+stands were opened in Boston, Salem, Portland and other places, where
+the oysters were sold in quantities to suit the purchaser.</p>
+
+<p>In 1775 all the oysters in the bay died. What caused their destruction
+is not certainly known, but it is supposed that as, at this time, a large
+number of blackfish died and came on shore, where their carcasses remained,
+producing a very filthy condition of the water, it caused this mortality.</p></div>
+
+<p>A more probable explanation is given by Mr. E. P. Cook of Wellfleet.
+The early inhabitants, not knowing the value of the natural shell beds
+for catching the spat, greedily took every shell and burned them into
+lime as a fertilizer for their farms and plaster for their houses. There
+was once a fine strip of woods near this original oyster rock, but this
+was cut down, and the sand gradually washed over the beds, killing
+the young oysters. To these two causes can be attributed the final destruction
+of the natural beds in 1775.</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>The Bedding of Southern Oysters.</i>&mdash;After the destruction of
+the natural beds, an important industry arose in the "bedding" of
+southern oysters for northern trade. Privileges for bedding oysters
+on the flats were granted to a number of oyster firms. These men
+hired schooners in the latter part of the winter or the early spring,
+which went to the southern oyster grounds and brought back loads<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span>
+of oysters. These oysters were spread or bedded over the leased flats
+of the harbor, where they remained until the following fall, when they
+were taken up for market. In this way the oysters gained in size by
+the summer's growth, and were fattened for market. Considerable trade
+sprang up in the carrying of oysters, and many vessels were engaged
+in this traffic. In 1841 Mr. Gould, the conchologist, states that 120 men,
+with 30 vessels of about 40 tons each, were employed for three months
+of the year, and brought to the town an annual revenue of $8,000.</p>
+
+<p>In 1841 Capt. William Dill is credited with bringing into Wellfleet
+the first cargo from Virginia, which started a large trade in Chesapeake
+oysters. Mr. Ernest Ingersoll makes the following statement concerning
+the Virginia trade:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>Nevertheless, it was not until about 1845 or 1850 that the business began
+to confine itself to Virginia oysters, and a large business to be done. At
+its height, about 1850, it is probable that more than 100,000 bushels a
+year were laid down in the harbor; some say 150,000.... The favorite
+ground was at the mouth of Herring River.</p></div>
+
+<p>The Rev. Enoch Pratt writes, in 1844:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>The inhabitants of the town tried the experiment of bringing oysters
+from the south and laying them down on the flats, which succeeded well.
+In the course of a year they doubled their size and their quality was much
+improved. This soon became a large business, and a number of vessels
+have been employed in the spring of every year in bringing them here.
+The number of bushels which are now [1844] annually brought is about
+60,000. Nearly all the oyster shops and stands in Boston, and other cities
+and towns in this State, are supplied from this place, and are kept by
+persons belonging to the town. This business affords a living for many
+families.</p></div>
+
+<p>Mr. Ernest Ingersoll thus describes the decline of the oyster trade
+in 1870:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>The war of the rebellion, however, interfered somewhat with the oyster
+trade, and it began to decline so far as Wellfleet was concerned. Then the
+various dealers in northern ports, having learned something, began to bed
+near home in their own harbors, and so saved freightage. Finally, the
+steamers from Norfolk and the railways entered into so serious a competition
+that fully ten years ago [1870] Wellfleet Bay was wholly deserted by
+the oystermen as a bedding ground, though her vessels still continue to
+carry cargoes in winter from Virginia to Boston, Portland, Salem, Portsmouth
+and the Providence River, to supply the active trade and fill the
+new beds, which the dealers at these various ports had learned could be
+established at home. The reader thus discovers how important a part
+Wellfleet has played in the history of the oyster trade of New England. A
+hundred thousand bushels of the bivalves once grew fat along her water
+front, and thousands of dollars were dispensed to the citizens in the industry
+they created. Now [1880] a little experimental propagation, to the
+value of a few hundred dollars, and about 6,000 bushels of bedded oysters<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span>
+from Virginia, worth perhaps $5,000 when sold, form the total active business.
+The oyster fleet, however, remains, though greatly diminished, and
+carrying its cargoes to Boston, Portland and elsewhere, instead of bringing
+them to be laid down in the home harbor. It will be long before Wellfleet,
+and its neighbor, Provincetown, lose the prestige of old custom as oyster
+carriers.</p></div>
+
+<p>(3) <i>Oyster Raising.</i>&mdash;In 1876 the first attempt to raise oysters from
+"seed" at Wellfleet, is said to have been made by E. P. Cook, who
+obtained a grant from the town of about 30 acres, on which were
+planted 500 bushels of "seed" from Somerset, Mass. The "Oysterman"
+of Dec. 20, 1906, gives the following account of oyster planting
+at Wellfleet:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>In 1876 our informant, Mr. E. P. Cook, conceived the idea that these
+waters could grow "seed" oysters as well as fatten big stock. He went
+to Somerset, Mass., and got a carload of 500 bushels and planted them.
+A few had previously been planted but with ill success. The people laughed
+at him for dumping his good money overboard. He was the first man to
+lease a piece of oyster ground from the State, and of course had his pick,
+which was 600 feet on the shore next to the Silver Spring, the original spot
+of the natural rocks. Mr. Cook here showed his acumen as a culturist. The
+next spring they had made a remarkable growth, and all had lived. Then
+there was a stampede of the fellows who laughed, to get some ground, too.
+Soon every inch of available ground had been taken up. We mention the
+following who took up plats: Solomon Higgins, I. C. Young, Benjamin
+Oliver, Daniel Oliver, Edward Oliver, Cornelius Rogers, William Smith, S. B.
+Rich, Theodore Brown, Stephen Young. These men did not all plant. The
+next year Mr. Cook bought 500 bushels more, and now he had 1,000 bushels
+on his grounds. These were two-year-old plants, and when they had laid
+there three years he sold these primitive beauties for $5 per barrel. Some
+time after this he bought Mr. Rich's plot. Subsequently Mr. Cook sold
+400 of his 600 feet to R. R. Higgins, the founder of the famous oyster-packing
+house by that name. This same man bought the 200 feet of
+Solomon Higgins. Now this house had 600 feet of shore ground. R. R.
+Higgins was the first wholesaler with capital invested in the culture of the
+Cape Cod oysters. Finally, this house absorbed all the ground Cook had.
+Eight years after this the Wright &amp; Willis firm came on the scene; that
+period had elapsed since the first cargo of "seed" had been freighted here.
+They bought the remainder of the Solomon Higgins grant. Then Mr. Cook
+took out another grant below Smalley's Bar. Capt. Albert Harding and
+Capt. D. A. Newcomb took out leases. In 1892 Mr. Cook sold his lease to
+the D. Atwood Company. Then Mr. Cook bought the Capt. Albert Harding
+lease and sold the right to plant on it, the law then not allowing the lessee
+to turn over the grant in toto. Then H. &amp; R. Atwood became interested
+here. About this time some friction between the planters and clammers
+existed, but it should be remembered that the planters occupied only about
+200 of the 2,400 acres involved in this dispute. Then it was that J. A.
+Stubbs came on the stage of activity, and Mr. Cook secured a lease for this
+wholesale concern.</p></div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Eastham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The oyster industry of Eastham is closely associated with the Wellfleet
+industry, and practically all the business is carried on by Wellfleet
+firms.</p>
+
+<p>The grants extend along the western shore from the Eastham-Wellfleet
+line south, running out into the bay a distance of 1 mile. The
+average width of these grants is 900 feet. Twenty-four grants have
+been given out by the selectmen, but only 12 of these are in existence
+at the present time, the others having lapsed for non-payment of dues.
+(The town charges $3 for the original grant, and $1 each year thereafter).
+The area of the grants is 800 acres, of which only 125 acres
+are under cultivation. As all the business, which is but small, is done
+by Wellfleet firms, the statistics of the industry are included in the
+Wellfleet report. All the grants, as at Wellfleet, expire in 1910.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Orleans.</i></h3>
+
+<p>There are 5 grants on the west coast of the town, but practically
+nothing is done in the oyster business. The oyster industry of Orleans is
+a dead issue, and quahaugers dig at will over all the granted territory.</p>
+
+<p>The grants are all eight to nine years old, and will not be renewed,
+as they are said to be unconstitutional, since the waters of Eastham
+and Orleans are common, and the consent of Eastham was not obtained
+when they were granted. The real reason for not renewing
+them will be because they are not profitable. The sand shifts on
+a good deal of the territory, and where the water is too deep for
+shifting, oyster culture does not seem to pay.</p>
+
+<p>Four years ago 15,000 bushels of two-year-old "seed" was sent
+here from Connecticut. The greater part of this "seed" died in
+transportation, and much of the remainder was killed by the shifting
+sand. Two years ago (1905) 3,000 bushels of marketable oysters were
+shipped from Orleans; but little has been done since then. No set
+has ever been caught here, although spat catches readily on the rocks
+which lie between the tide lines.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Chatham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The oyster furnishes an important industry for the town of Chatham,
+which ranks next to Wellfleet and Cotuit in the production of
+"Cape" oysters.</p>
+
+<p>The oyster grants are all situated in Oyster Pond and Oyster Pond
+River, covering an area of 65 acres of excellent bottom. Of this, 55
+acres is hard bottom; 6 acres, soft mud; and 4 acres of coarse shifting
+sand. The whole of Oyster Pond River and the most of the shore
+waters of Oyster Pond are taken up by grants. The central part of
+Oyster Pond possesses a soft bottom, and is therefore unsuited for<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span>
+oyster culture. The depth of water over the grants varies from dry
+to 6 feet at low tide.</p>
+
+<p>Records show that a natural oyster bed once existed in Oyster Pond,
+as in 1802 "excellent oysters, but scarce," were reported. Even now
+old shell heaps are found, which contain extremely large oyster shells,
+and indicate that the Indians used these oysters for food. Indeed,
+the name, Oyster Pond, was given long before grants were issued,
+and doubtless received this name because of these natural oysters.</p>
+
+<p>No natural oysters remained in 1877, when the first grants were
+issued to George S. Atwood, John Vanhise, Jonathan Small, Stephen
+Gould and Frank Lanpier. The last three named held together one
+grant in Oyster Pond River; Atwood's grant was in Oyster Pond;
+while Vanhise's grant was partly in Oyster Pond and partly in Stage
+harbor, where oyster culture was a failure. The planting was not very
+successful at first, owing to a lack of proper methods.</p>
+
+<p>These grants were issued in 1874 for a term of twenty years. The
+next series of grants were issued for ten years, and in 1893 the first
+grants were renewed for the same length of time. Since the period
+of the twenty-year grants there have been two ten-year leases, and
+the present leases will expire in 1911.</p>
+
+<p>A town regulation restricts the oyster grants to the southern waters
+of the town, and allows no grants to be given in the waters of Pleasant
+Bay, where there is considerable territory which might be suitable for
+oyster raising. As all the available territory is now taken up in Oyster
+Pond, no more grants can be issued.</p>
+
+<p>The method of obtaining a grant by a resident of the town is to
+choose the locality, stake out the grant and report the same to the
+selectmen, who will grant a license if the bounds are satisfactorily
+described, and no part of another grant is included. The price of the
+license, which runs for a period of ten years, is $2, and 50 cents is
+charged for recording it. No regular survey of the grant is made.
+Taxes are paid yearly on stock and working capital.</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$26,533</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dories and skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories and skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$105</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Scows,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of scows,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$790</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">34</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$313</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,225</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of oysters on grant,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$23,300</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></div>
+
+<p>Owing to the shallow water, most of the work is done by tonging.
+Flat scows, 25 by 10 feet, are generally used for this work, as they
+afford excellent footing for the oysterman in tonging and plenty of
+room for the oysters. These scows, which have a capacity of 100
+bushels, can be anchored by stakes or iron piping, and definite areas
+covered by the tonger. In the fall the oystermen make their "culls"
+on these scows. Chatham is the only town in Massachusetts where
+scows are in general use. Dredging is done only to a limited extent
+by 3 oystermen, the others all using tongs. Twenty men are engaged
+from four to six months of the year in the oyster business at Chatham.</p>
+
+<p>The production for 1906-07 was 14,550 bushels, valued at $23,987.
+The oyster industry has been increasing every year, the production for
+1906-07 being one-third more than the 1905-06 output. The oystermen
+are unanimous in saying that the oyster business of Chatham is steadily
+improving.</p>
+
+<p>No "seed" oysters are raised in Chatham, as no large set has ever
+been caught, and all attempts in this line have proved unsuccessful.
+All the "seed" oysters are brought from Greenport, L. I. These run
+from two to four years old, the larger oysters being preferred. As a
+rule, oystermen are forced to take what they can get when they buy seed.</p>
+
+<p>The only natural enemy which infests the Chatham oyster is the
+oyster drill (<i>Urosalpinx cinerea</i>). The damage done by this pest is
+slight, amounting to nearly $800 annually.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Harwich.</i></h3>
+
+<p>No oyster industry is now carried on in the town of Harwich. A
+natural oyster bed once existed in Herring River, and occasionally a
+few oysters can be picked up at the present time; but the bed is practically
+fished out. This bed once extended a distance of three-quarters
+of a mile in the lower part of the river.</p>
+
+<p>In 1824 an act was passed to prevent "the wilful destruction of
+oysters and other shellfish in the town of Harwich," which shows that
+even as early as 1824 the natural bed in Herring River was on the
+verge of depletion.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Dennis and Yarmouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The oyster industries of Dennis and Yarmouth are so connected
+that they will have to be considered as belonging to one town.</p>
+
+<p>Four grants have been leased in the two towns, but only 2 of these
+are worked. Three grants are situated in Bass River, while the fourth,
+which is not operated, owing to the shifting sand, lies outside Dog
+Fish Bar. The 2 grants which are worked are situated in Bass River,
+and comprise an area of 10 acres of hard bottom, all of which is suitable
+for oyster culture. The Bass River grants, which are taxed at
+the valuation of $1,000 apiece, expire in 1914.</p>
+
+<p>Mill Creek, in West Yarmouth, one of the most valuable shellfish
+areas in the town, originally contained a natural oyster bed which
+extended from the mouth of the creek up for 1,000 feet, comprising<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span>
+an area of 2-1/3 acres. Nevertheless, this was granted in 1895 for a
+period of ten years. Two years ago the lease expired, and it is said
+that the oysters have come in again in abundance.</p>
+
+<p>All along the south shore of the two towns "seed" oysters, which
+have been washed out of Mill Creek, can be picked up. A small amount
+of "seed" is raised on the grants, but this is not enough to furnish
+the requisite amount required for planting purposes, so about 2,500
+bushels is annually brought into the town from Oyster Bay, L. I.</p>
+
+<p>No damage is done in these waters by the natural enemies of the
+oyster, as both the starfish and oyster drill are very scarce.</p>
+
+<p>One thousand bushels of marketable oysters, valued at $1,500, were
+shipped in the season of 1906-07.</p>
+
+<p>Three men are engaged for a period of seven and one-half months
+in the oyster industry.</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,175</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Tongs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of bedded oysters,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>The oysters are taken by tonging from dories, as the water is comparatively
+shallow. No dredging is done.</p>
+
+<p>Yarmouth is the only town in the State which requires a license for
+taking oysters from a natural bed.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Barnstable.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Barnstable is the great oyster town of the Commonwealth, as it
+has the twofold distinction of possessing the most extensive industry
+and producing the finest quality of oysters. The causes which have
+brought the cultivation of oysters in this town to so flourishing a
+condition have been fourfold: first, Barnstable has a long coast line,
+much cut up by bays and rivers, which give it a very large available
+area; secondly, this area is remarkably suited for the cultivation of
+oysters, as it is for the most part hard, clean bottom, in comparatively
+shallow water and well sheltered from storms; thirdly, there is little
+damage from the enemies of the oyster,&mdash;the starfish, winkle and
+drill, fourthly, the waters of the township are notably pure, free from
+contamination, and well adapted for the production of a rapid-growing
+oyster of excellent quality.</p>
+
+<p>Barnstable township contains several villages, three of which, Cotuit,
+Marston's Mills and Osterville, are prosperous centers of the oyster
+fishery. Hyannis, a fourth village, once maintained a business of this
+nature, which proved unprofitable and has now practically disappeared.
+Oyster grants are scattered along the shores of Popponesset River and
+Bay, in Cotuit harbor, Bluff Channel, South Bay, Osterville Narrows<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span>
+and at Marston's Mills. In addition, a large but indefinite territory
+along the southern shore, as indicated on the map, is maintained as
+experimental grants.</p>
+
+<p>Cotuit is by far the most important center of the industry. Here
+the fishery is conducted on an extensive scale. The white, clean sandy
+bottom and the remarkably pure waters of the bay produce an oyster
+with a bright, clear shell, which distinguishes it from oysters grown
+elsewhere. This Cotuit oyster is much sought for by hotels and fancy
+dealers, and is universally considered par excellence among Massachusetts
+oysters.</p>
+
+<p>Barnstable, though supporting an immense industry, has by no means
+exhausted her latent resources. Extensive experiments to increase the
+productive area of the town have been carried on for the past few
+years. A strip of territory along the southern coast, some 4 miles
+long and 3 miles wide, has been granted. This territory is of doubtful
+utility, as the bottom is largely shifting sand exposed to the full force
+of southerly gales. These grants have hardly been in force long enough
+to demonstrate their possibilities, but it is probable that a large territory
+may be thoroughly suitable for the future expansion of the oyster
+industry.</p>
+
+<p>Unfortunately, several oystermen did not make statistical returns,
+thus rendering a complete record for the Barnstable oyster industry
+impossible. The majority of the oystermen willingly responded, and
+the present report comprises only those returns which have been sent in.</p>
+
+<p>The total area comprised by the grants, 29 in number, is 188 acres,
+of which 121 acres are of hard bottom, suitable for oyster culture.
+There is very little shifting bottom. The usual Cotuit bottom is a clear
+sand, which is especially favorable for the production of fine oysters.</p>
+
+<p>Thirty-three men are employed from six to eight months each year
+in the industry, which gave in 1906-07 a production of 25,850 bushels
+of marketable oysters, valued at $48,050. Except for a small natural
+oyster bed at Centerville, no "seed" is caught in Barnstable, and is
+all brought from Long Island and Connecticut. Several firms plant
+only large oysters, bedding them in the spring and taking them up
+the following fall, when they have acquired the Cotuit flavor.</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$39,558</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,900</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">22</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$413</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Scows,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of scows,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$156</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">23</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">45<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,139</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$4,300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of oysters on grant,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$28,850</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Mashpee.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The oyster industry of Mashpee is rather limited. Five grants
+exist in the west channel of Popponesset River, covering practically
+all the territory. Only about 5 to 10 acres of this territory is suitable
+for oyster culture. The ground granted for oysters is used indiscriminately
+for quahauging and scalloping, and seems to be almost
+public property.</p>
+
+<p>But one man is engaged in the oyster business, and he rarely ships
+any, but peddles them around the community. No "seed" is caught.
+Starfish and oyster drills are very scarce. A cat boat, dory and tongs
+constitute the capital invested, which is valued at $200. The annual
+production is valued at $100.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Falmouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The oyster industry of Falmouth is conducted on the south side of
+the town, in the waters of Waquoit Bay. There are no oysters on
+the Buzzards Bay side of the town.</p>
+
+<p>According to the town records, there are 22 grants in existence.
+These grants are mostly small, not averaging more than 2 to 10 acres,
+and are but little cultivated. Returns from 6 of these grants, which
+comprise all the territory worked for market, are alone used for the
+statistical figures.</p>
+
+<p>The best oyster territory is in Waquoit Bay and Child's River. In
+Waquoit Bay 6 acres are granted, 4&frac12; acres of which is hard bottom,
+suitable for oyster culture. In Child's River the grants comprise 20
+acres, two-thirds of which, or 13 acres, is hard bottom. Altogether,
+some 44 acres are granted, and, although a good deal of the surface is
+muddy, there are 23 acres of very fair oyster ground.</p>
+
+<p>No business is made of raising "seed," but from two to three year
+old "seed" is shipped from Greenport, L. I., and replanted.</p>
+
+<p>In 1906-07, 3,012 bushels of marketable oysters, valued at $6,025,
+were shipped. Many of the grants are leased to men who raise oysters
+for their own use only, while but few make a business of shipping
+oysters.</p>
+
+<p>The only enemy is the oyster drill, which does but slight damage here.</p>
+
+<p>Three men are engaged for nine months each year in the oyster industry
+at Falmouth; while 5 or more run grants for their own use.</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,080</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$75<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Scows,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of scows,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$105</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of bedded oysters,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$450</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Buzzards Bay District.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The Buzzards Bay oyster industry is in a state verging on chaos.
+In some specially favored localities it is in a flourishing condition; in
+others hardly less favorable it is almost completely stagnant. Great
+natural advantages exist, which if properly utilized would create a
+business of immense proportions. These resources are for the most
+part but poorly improved, and in many cases are neglected altogether.
+A spirit of uncertainty, which discourages confidence and checks initiative,
+seems to pervade the business atmosphere. Amid this uncertainty
+and conflicting forces, one fact, at once the starting point of the whole
+difficulty and at the same time the sole solution of the problem, stands
+out vividly clear. This is the need of proper <i>legislation</i>.</p>
+
+<p>The troubles which beset the Buzzards Bay oyster industry are
+directly traceable to defects in the present legislative system. These
+defects are both active and passive. In some cases unwise and illogical
+laws are in operation, which hamper business activity; in other cases
+laws for which there is a crying need are laid aside or neglected. A
+reform in certain aspects of town supervision is the demand of the
+hour. Until the present system receives an overhauling, it is doubtful
+if the industry will ever experience full prosperity.</p>
+
+<p>In order to gain a clear insight into the difficulties which darken
+the immediate outlook in this region, it will be necessary to take a
+brief survey of the history and present status of the industry.</p>
+
+<p>The beginnings of the oyster fishery in Buzzards Bay arose from the
+exploitation and subsequent depletion of the natural beds. These beds,
+of which there are several scattered along the coast from Bourne to
+Mattapoisett, furnished for a long time a large annual output of
+oysters. In the early '70's the supply began to decrease rapidly, and
+the fear of total extermination caused the selectmen of Marion, Wareham
+and Sandwich (Bourne) to attempt a strict supervision of the
+fishery. These attempts were in all cases unsatisfactory, and about 1875
+the artificial culture of oysters began almost simultaneously in the
+three towns by the issue of licenses or grants to private individuals.
+The measure was popular from the first. Almost all the available land
+was speedily appropriated, and a flourishing but exotic industry, stimulated
+by a considerable outlay of capital, burst into life.</p>
+
+<p>At Marion the new business lasted precisely fifteen years. The industry
+was largely a losing venture. The oysters did not grow well,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span>
+and were of inferior quality. In time, doubtless, when the causes which
+produced these effects had been studied, a stable and well-ordered industry
+would have resulted. It is but natural to assume that where
+oysters grew in a "wild" state, cultivated ones could likewise be grown.
+Such an outcome, however, was not destined to follow. The grants
+had been so given that they all expired at the same time. When this
+date arrived, the majority of the inhabitants of Marion were of the
+opinion that the oyster grants would yield far better returns if utilized
+merely for the quahaugs which grew naturally on them, and the
+whole harbor was consequently thrown open as common ground. From
+that date the quahaug fishery has waned almost to the point of extinction,
+but no efforts have been made to resurrect the old oyster
+industry, which has practically disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>At Bourne the industry began with bright prospects. The present
+business, though somewhat impoverished, still possesses those inherent
+resources which are capable of developing a more extensive industry.</p>
+
+<p>At Wareham the business was of slower growth and more logical
+development, and it has continued to increase, until at present the
+town possesses an important industry. It has struggled with many
+problems which have retarded its growth, and which still embarrass it.
+These are primarily problems of legislation, as the industry stands in
+need of better regulations before it can attain its maximum development.</p>
+
+<p>In all these difficulties, which have been briefly outlined and hinted
+at, the main source of annoyance has been the strife between two rival
+factions,&mdash;the oyster and quahaug interests. These interests have ever
+been at war, and the result has been almost fatally destructive to both.
+The questions at stake in this controversy have been broad in their
+general interest. The quahaug industry is essentially democratic, representing
+roughly labor as against capital, and demands that tidal flats
+and waters be kept as common property for general use. The oyster
+industry, on the other hand, is essentially exclusive, representing organized
+capital, and maintains that oyster grants are as much the subject
+of private ownership as farms and city lots. The whole aim of
+legislation has been to reconcile these wholly opposite theories. The
+problem has been complex and many-sided, and it is not strange that
+the selectmen of the towns in question have been unable to harmonize
+the two factions or pass regulations suitable to both parties. Certain
+it is that in trying to benefit both they have benefited neither, and the
+present confusion has resulted.</p>
+
+<p>The matter is one certainly of sufficient importance to merit attention
+from the State. It is not merely local. The whole Commonwealth is
+interested vitally in the development of its industries, and it is unwise
+to allow so important an industry as the oyster fishery to remain solely
+in the hands of local authority, especially when local authority has
+shown itself unable to cope with the problem.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The present system in vogue in the Buzzards Bay district is perhaps
+unfair to both parties in its policy. The selectmen may lease an
+unlimited number of grants, of an unlimited area, to any citizen or
+number of citizens of the town in question. Theoretically at least they
+may grant all the available area in sight to one man. There must
+of course be the formality of a hearing, and sufficient pressure may
+be and is frequently brought to bear upon the selectmen to retard them
+from exercising the full extent of their authority; but nevertheless
+the system is unjust to the majority, and it is small wonder that the
+quahaug fishermen feel aggrieved that some of their former privileges
+are thus curtailed. Furthermore, the clause which demands that these
+grants should be used for the cultivation of oysters is oftentimes openly
+evaded, and a good portion of the granted area, though not used for
+oysters, is closed to the quahaugers.</p>
+
+<p>On the other hand, the oystermen, while apparently enjoying great
+privileges, in reality are severely handicapped. An oysterman obtains
+a grant perhaps with great difficulty, owing to opposition from the
+quahaug men. He can carry on no extensive business without the
+expenditure of considerable capital. If he "seeds" his grant, the first
+two or three years are spent in the maturing of the first harvest. The
+grant is given only for ten years; consequently, when it has run for
+seven or eight years the owner is in doubt whether to plant any more
+"seed," as he does not know that his license will be renewed and
+naturally does not wish to plant a bed for his unknown successor.
+Again, if he is fairly successful and wishes to expand his business,
+he cannot without great risk invest in the costly equipment necessary
+for such an enterprise, as he has no certainty of getting a sufficient
+amount of territory or of keeping it any length of time. Furthermore,
+additional complications arise from the disputes with owners of adjoining
+shore property. This is particularly unfortunate, as this tidal
+area along the shore is most valuable for the collection of oyster set
+or "seed."</p>
+
+<p>From the foregoing statements it appears that the oyster and quahaug
+factions are in the position of two combatants who continue
+to fight, while the object of the strife is lost to both. It is impossible
+to handle so grave a problem by merely theorizing, but a few ideas
+might be suggested as bearing favorably on the subject. It would
+seem wise to refrain as far as possible from granting the best portions
+of quahaug territory, for there is sufficient room for both industries
+to flourish. Then, too, grants might be rented at so much per acre
+as long as the owner desired within certain time limits, assuming that
+he paid his annual rental and improved his grant. These and other
+suggestions might be made which would seem an improvement over
+the present circumstances; but it is doubtful if conditions can be much
+bettered until some motive force and centralized authority is supplied
+by proper legislation.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Bourne.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Bourne has long supported a promising oyster industry. In some
+respects it has greater advantages for the extension of this business
+than Wareham, but the invested capital, the annual product and the
+resulting revenue are all overshadowed by those of its neighboring rival.
+The great natural resources which Bourne possesses, its extensive available
+area, its multiplicity of bays, inlets, islands and rivers,&mdash;these and
+a variety of other causes combine to make it a most favorable locality
+for the growth of oysters; and it is indeed an unfortunate circumstance
+both for the shellfish interests of the community and the broader interests
+of the State that so great a source of economic wealth should be so
+little improved. The vexing questions which harass the oyster planters
+of Wareham and hamper their efforts are present here in even greater
+force. In many places where a flourishing business was once carried on
+the industry is at a standstill, while nowhere does it evince that life
+and activity which its decided advantages warrant.</p>
+
+<p>The town books contain records of 135 grants in force to-day. No
+accurate system of charting is in vogue except in the Monument River,
+and no absolutely reliable data concerning the total area is available,
+but the combined territory comprised in these grants aggregates nearly
+600 acres. Of this territory, however, only a portion, and a relatively
+small portion, is really improved; the remainder is either allowed to lie
+dormant or is worked merely for the quahaugs which it produces. The
+oyster territory of Bourne is divided into five distinct sections: the
+Monument River section, the region about Mashnee Island, Toby Island
+and vicinity, Basset's Island and the neighborhood of Wing's Neck, and
+Pocasset and the Red Brook harbor or Cataumet district. Of these
+five regions, the Monument River ranks first, both in the total area and
+also in importance, and it is here that most of the business is carried on.</p>
+
+<p>The statistical returns of the Bourne oystermen show that only 42
+grants comprising 100 acres are worked. Of this 83 acres is hard
+bottom suitable for oyster raising while the remaining 17 acres is mostly
+soft mud.</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$24,448</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,900</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dories and skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">29</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories and skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$615</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">99</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">38</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$483</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of bedded oysters,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$18,300</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></div>
+
+<p>Twenty-one men make a living from the industry. The production
+for the year ending Aug. 1, 1907, amounted to 2,100 bushels of marketable
+oysters, valued at $4,100, and 23,000 bushels of "seed," worth
+$15,000. The methods employed in oyster culture here are similar to
+those in use at Wareham. Thousands of bushels of shells, preferably
+those of the scallop, are strewn over the bottom to collect the set, which
+is then taken up and transferred to the proper grant or shipped for
+sale. The two great enemies of the oyster, the borer or drill, and the
+starfish, flourish here. The borer seems more destructive in those sections
+which are comparatively sheltered, the starfish in more exposed
+localities.</p>
+
+<p>The history of the industry is one of picturesque variety. The
+beginnings of the industry were bright with promise; the sudden growth
+which followed was spectacular but erratic; and the difficulties which
+soon arose plunged it into complications from which it emerged much
+shattered and greatly declined. Originally there were three good
+natural beds,&mdash;in Monument River, Barlow's River and Red Brook
+harbor, respectively. These beds long supplied all the oysters produced,
+and when in 1834 they began to be depleted, legislation was
+enacted regulating them until 1863, when the town surveyed a number
+of grants in the Monument River, each with an average area of 1&frac12; to 10
+acres, and allowed one of these grants to every citizen desiring it, on
+the payment of $2.50. These old beds still linger as rather uncertain
+assets of the communal wealth. The Monument River grounds still
+supply a fairly large harvest, the Barlow River has declined much
+more, while the Cataumet beds are nearly extinct.</p>
+
+<p>The shellfish laws of this region are of vital importance, as it is their
+province to inaugurate order from chaos, put a stop to wasteful methods,
+and take such steps as appear necessary for the proper development
+of the industry. How greatly these laws fail in their mission is
+abundantly shown by the present conditions of the fishery. The whole
+situation is on the threshold of a change. What this change will be,
+whether for better or worse, depends upon the legislation of the future.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Wareham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Wareham is the second town in the State in the production of
+oysters, being excelled in this respect by Barnstable alone. Its commanding
+position at the head of Buzzards Bay, the numerous indentations
+of its coast line, and the three rivers which lie partially within its
+borders, give it a wide expanse of available territory exceptionally
+favorable for the development of this shellfish industry.</p>
+
+<p>The substantial success which has attended the oyster business at
+Wareham has been attained by slow but steady growth. Many problems
+have been encountered,&mdash;problems of local prejudice, opposition from
+rival industries and the like; but these problems have simply hampered
+the industry,&mdash;they have not sufficed to check its growth. At present<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span>
+the business seems firmly established, and can enter on its future career
+of prosperity as soon as the barriers which block its progress shall have
+been removed.</p>
+
+<p>The town records show a total of 125 grants in operation to-day.
+These grants are poorly described and for the most part unsurveyed,
+but their total area approximates 1,000 acres. According to the
+statistical returns of the oystermen, 70 grants, comprising 196 acres,
+are under cultivation. Of this, 159 acres are of hard bottom, suitable
+for oyster planting, while the waste area is equally soft mud and
+shifting sand.</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$40,620</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">17</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of sail boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$4,485</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dories and skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories and skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$820</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Scows,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of scows,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">120</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">84</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,120</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,420</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of bedded oysters,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$27,725</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>The catching of oyster "seed" at Wareham is more important than
+the raising of marketable oysters; 22,100 bushels of seed, valued at
+$12,090, were exported last year (1906-07). Thousands of bushels
+of shells, chiefly those of the scallop, are planted yearly in shallow
+water, to catch the set. The territory where these shells may be planted
+to the best advantage is on the fringe of tidal flats which skirt the
+coast. This area, however, which is consequently of considerable value,
+is of doubtful ownership, being claimed both by the oystermen and also
+by the owners of the adjacent shore property. The dispute arising
+over this question has been most harmful to the industry.</p>
+
+<p>The marketable oysters raised at Wareham are of very good quality.
+There were 7,770 bushels of these oysters, valued at $12,790, produced
+in 1906-07, and shipped mostly to New York and Boston. Altogether,
+there are 26 men depending on this industry for a living.</p>
+
+<p>Besides the grants, there are two native beds, one each in the Wareham
+and the Weweantit rivers. These beds comprise nearly 80 acres,
+and, though now greatly reduced, they still yield a considerable amount
+of seed oysters.</p>
+
+<p>The laws governing the industry here are similar to those at
+Bourne. The ten-year grant prevails, with all its attendant evils to the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span>
+oysterman; while the quahaugers have abundant cause to complain,
+from the fact that practically all the available territory has been
+granted to the oystermen. While it is true that scarcely a third of this
+land is utilized for the cultivation of oysters, it is likewise true that the
+rights of the oystermen are by no means strictly observed by the quahauger.
+There can be but one result of this policy,&mdash;endless wrangling
+and confusion, and, in the end, loss to both parties. The unfortunate
+thing about the whole matter is that most of this wastefulness is entirely
+needless; but this is a problem for future legislation.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Marion.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The oyster industry at Marion is practically dead. The last grants
+expired some ten or twelve years ago, and were never renewed. Of
+the two original natural beds, that in Blankinship's Cove is now almost
+entirely depleted, while the larger and more important bed in the
+Weweantit River has greatly declined in importance. This bed, however,
+still supplies all the marketable oysters produced within the town,
+though the annual production is insignificant. From twenty-five to
+thirty years ago the oyster industry had its beginning, and for a time
+flourished. Almost all the available territory, both in the harbor and
+in the Weweantit River, was granted. The older grants were leased
+for fifteen years, and those of later date were arranged to run out at
+the same time; so it followed that all the leases expired simultaneously,
+and the industry came to an abrupt end. These old grants were not
+renewed, for two reasons: first, they had not paid very well; and,
+secondly, the growing quahaug industry promised more lucrative returns.
+The scallops, too, began to be abundant, and the old oyster business
+gave way before its newer and more prosperous competitors.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Fall River District.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The Fall River district, comprising the six towns of Fall River, Freetown,
+Berkley, Dighton, Somerset and Swansea, may best be treated
+as a geographical unit. The oyster industries of the individual communities
+overlap to a considerable extent, and make distinct separation
+difficult, while, as the same methods of culture everywhere obtain and
+the same problems and difficulties are encountered, a brief survey of
+this whole region may be comprehensively discussed in one article.</p>
+
+<p>The beautiful shores of Mount Hope Bay and its tributary streams,
+the Cole, Lee and Taunton rivers, furnish an extensive territory for
+a large oyster industry. The best of this area is now included within
+the confines of the bay itself, though the Cole and Lee rivers furnish a
+small but valuable addition. The Taunton River, however, which thirty
+years ago produced the finest oysters in the State, and was the main
+source of supply for this district, has become utterly worthless for the
+growth of marketable oysters. In fact, this river, with its curious<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span>
+history, and the difficulties which it now presents to the carrying on
+of an important and profitable industry, furnishes the most interesting
+problem of this whole region. This river embraces the entire oyster
+territory of Freetown, Berkley and Dighton and portions of Somerset
+and Fall River,&mdash;certainly half of all the available territory of the
+whole section; and yet it is an indisputable fact that this large and
+formerly profitable area is now altogether unsuitable for the production
+of edible shellfish.</p>
+
+<p>The causes for this transformation of a river which once supplied
+a large annual revenue to the prosperous communities which lined its
+banks, into a stream unwholesome and unfit for the proper maturing
+of its shellfish, have been much discussed. The prevailing opinion
+seems to lay the blame to the impurities discharged into the river by
+the Taunton factories. Other theories, ingenious but far less worthy
+of weight, have been urged; but the burden of evidence strongly points
+to the sewage of the city of Taunton as the probable main factor in
+the decline of the industry.</p>
+
+<p>While greatly impaired as a favorable territory for the propagation
+of oysters, the river, however, is still largely utilized. Extensive grants
+are sold by the towns of Dighton, Berkley and Freetown to oystermen,
+who bed them with "seed," which is allowed to remain until it is from
+two to three years old, when it is taken up and replanted in some other
+locality where the waters are uncontaminated, and here left for a
+certain time until it becomes "purified" and ready for shipment to
+market. By this method the old grants are still worked, though greatly
+declined in value, as oysters can no longer be sold to market direct,
+and the process of transplanting entails considerable expense.</p>
+
+<p>In the other towns of this region the industry is carried on much the
+same as in Buzzards Bay or Barnstable. A great deal of attention is
+paid to the enemies of the oyster, particularly the starfish. This animal
+is combated chiefly with "mops" of cotton waste which are dragged
+over the bottom, and the starfish, becoming entangled in the strands, are
+removed and destroyed. As this fairly effectual warfare is being constantly
+waged, the numbers of this pest are kept well reduced, and the
+grounds maintained in very good condition.</p>
+
+<p>By a peculiar local custom, which would be decidedly unpopular in
+some coast communities, the towns of this section usually sell their
+entire oyster privilege to some individual or company, ordinarily the
+highest bidder. In this manner, aided by the fact that some persons
+purchasing such rights re-sell them to others, the oyster industry of
+this entire region is owned and controlled by a very few men. This
+arrangement, however, does not seem to be unpopular, the only difficulty
+arising from those clammers who are accustomed to dig clams under
+water, and sometimes find a bed located on an oysterman's grant. In
+such cases the owners usually waive their rights, and allow the clammers
+to dig undisturbed.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>As has been said, the oyster industry in this district, while it has by
+no means attained its maximum development, has indeed reached very
+considerable proportions. The entire amount of area granted aggregates
+810 acres. Of this total, some 510 acres are suitable for oyster
+culture, the remainder being soft mud, shifting sand, or otherwise unfit
+for utilization. The entire output for 1907 exceeded 38,000 bushels,
+valued at $26,250. Thirty-six men depend partially upon the business
+for a livelihood.</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$96,540</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">9</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$19,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dories and skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">17</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories and skiffs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$340</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">18</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$6,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of oysters on grant,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$68,500</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Nantucket.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The oyster industry of Nantucket is of recent origin, and the oysters
+are as yet raised only for home consumption.</p>
+
+<p>Two grants have been leased by the selectmen, but only one of these
+is now planted. These grants are situated in the east and west bends
+of Polpis harbor. The cultivated grant in the west bend comprises
+some 20 acres, only 3 of which are of hard bottom and suitable for
+oyster culture, the remaining 17 having a soft mud bottom.</p>
+
+<p>The "seed" planted on the grant is obtained at New Haven. In the
+last few years the oysters on this grant have thrown a large quantity
+of spawn, which has caught on piles and stones at various places around
+Nantucket harbor.</p>
+
+<p>The only enemy to the Nantucket oyster is the oyster drill.</p>
+
+<p>The production of marketable oysters for 1906-07 was 200 bushels,
+valued at $400. These were sold for home trade on the island.</p>
+
+<p>One man is engaged in the oyster business for a period of three
+months each year.</p>
+
+<p>The oysters are taken both by dredging and with tongs.</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,358</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of power boats,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$18</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Implements:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Dredges,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Tongs,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of implements,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of oysters on grant,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_15_15" id="Footnote_15_15"></a><a href="#FNanchor_15_15"><span class="label">[15]</span></a> The Oyster Industry in the United States. Tenth Census of the United States.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_16_16" id="Footnote_16_16"></a><a href="#FNanchor_16_16"><span class="label">[16]</span></a> Returns of the Massachusetts department on fisheries and game.</p></div></div>
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="Clam_Mya_arenaria" id="Clam_Mya_arenaria"><span class="smcap">Clam</span> (<i>Mya arenaria</i>).</a></h2>
+
+
+<p><i>Mya arenaria</i>, commonly known as the "soft" or "long-neck" clam,
+is found along the entire Massachusetts coast, wherever there is afforded
+a sufficient shelter from the open ocean. Exposed beaches with open
+surf are never inhabited by this mollusk, which is usually found on
+the tide flats of bays, inlets and rivers, and on the sheltered beaches
+between high and low tide lines. The clam occurs in various kinds of
+soil, from rocky gravel to soft mud, but grows best in a tenacious soil
+of mud and sand, where it lies buried at a depth of from 6 to 12 inches.</p>
+
+<p>As Cape Cod marks the dividing line between a northern and a
+southern fauna, it also divides the clam flats of Massachusetts into two
+distinct areas. The same clam is found both north and south of Cape
+Cod, but the natural conditions under which it lives are quite different.
+In comparing these two areas, several points of difference are noted.</p>
+
+<p>(1) The clam areas of the north coast are mostly large flats, while
+those of the south shore are confined to a narrow shore strip, as Buzzards
+Bay and the south side of Cape Cod for certain geological reasons
+do not possess flats, but merely beaches.</p>
+
+<p>(2) The rise and fall of the tide is much higher on the north shore,
+thus giving an extent of available flats nearly six times the clam area
+south of Cape Cod.</p>
+
+<p>(3) Clam growth as a rule is much faster on the north shore. This
+is due to the great amount of tide flow over the river flats of the north
+shore. Current is the main essential for rapid clam growth, as it
+transports the food. The average south shore flats possess merely the
+rise and fall of the tide, and as a rule have not the currents of the north
+shore rivers.</p>
+
+<p>(4) The temperature of the northern waters is several degrees colder
+than the waters south of Cape Cod. This affords, as has been shown
+experimentally, a longer season of growth for the southern clam. The
+north shore clam in the Essex region only increases the size of its shell
+through the six summer months, while the south shore clam grows
+slightly during the winter.</p>
+
+<p>The present advantages lie wholly with the north shore district, as
+through overdigging the less extensive areas of southern Massachusetts
+have become in most parts commercially barren. Overdigging has not
+occurred to the same extent on the north shore, owing to the vast extent
+of the flats. Nevertheless, many acres of these, as at Plymouth,
+Kingston, Duxbury, and even Gloucester and Essex, have become wholly
+or partially unproductive. The only important clamming in Massachusetts
+to-day is found in the towns bordering Ipswich Bay. The south
+shore and a good part of the north shore furnish but few clams for
+the market.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>In view of restocking the barren areas through cultural methods,
+the north shore possesses two advantages over the south shore:
+it has a larger natural supply at present, which will make restocking
+easier; it has larger areas of flats, which can be made to produce
+twenty times the normal yield of the south shore flats. Although,
+compared with the north shore, the clam area of the south shore seems
+poor, it is above the average when compared with the clam areas of the
+other States south of Massachusetts, and when properly restocked the
+clam flats of southern Massachusetts should furnish a large annual production.</p>
+
+<p>If the clam industry is not properly cared for, it will be totally
+ruined before many years. The clammers do not realize this, because
+of a mistaken impression that nature will forever furnish them with
+good clamming, and they have little thought for the future; while, on
+the other hand, the consumer is indifferent from lack of knowledge.</p>
+
+<p><i>Scope of the Report.</i>&mdash;The object of this report is to present in
+brief form the condition of the clam fishery in Massachusetts. For this
+purpose facts showing the present extent of the industry have been
+compiled, with the view of furnishing both the clammer and consumer
+with certain desirable information.</p>
+
+<p>The report will consider: (1) general conditions of the industry of
+1907; (2) a survey of the clam-producing area, illustrated by maps;
+(3) a plan of clam culture which will make productive many acres of
+barren flats; (4) the history of the clam industry, a comparison being
+made between the industries of 1879 and 1907; (5) a description of the
+industry.</p>
+
+<p><i>Methods of Work.</i>&mdash;The same methods as used with the other shellfish
+were pursued in obtaining the statistical data for the clam industry.
+The clam-producing areas were examined and the observations recorded.
+Town records, which were of some assistance with the other shellfish,
+furnished practically no clam data, compelling the Commission to rely
+upon the estimates of the clammers and clam dealers. While this
+method made it difficult to secure accurate detailed information, the
+statistics for each town were checked up in a variety of ways, thus
+furnishing as nearly correct figures as can be obtained.</p>
+
+<p>In making an historical comparison of 1879 and 1907, the report
+of Ernest Ingersoll on the clam fishery of the United States, and the
+report of A. Howard Clark on the fisheries of Massachusetts, as published
+in the United States Fish Commission Report, Section V,
+volume 2, and Section II., respectively, were of great use, as practically
+all of the statistics for 1879 were obtained from these two reports.</p>
+
+<p>In making the survey of the clam areas, records were made of:
+(1) soil; (2) food (<i>a</i>) in water, (<i>b</i>) on surface of soil; (3) rate of
+currents; (4) abundance of clams and localities of set; (5) barren flats
+that can be made productive. In the present report only the kind of
+soil, abundance of clams and area of barren flats will be given, the
+food problem being reserved for later publication.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span></p>
+
+<p><i>Summary.</i>&mdash;In the following summary the seacoast towns are arranged
+in geographical order from north to south. The number of
+men includes both regular and intermittent clammers who dig for the
+market; all others are excluded. In determining the production of
+any town it is impossible to obtain exactly correct figures, as the amount
+dug for home consumption is an unestimable quantity, and the clams
+are marketed in a number of ways, rendering it almost impossible to
+get complete statistics. The production statistics have been obtained
+in a variety of ways, and the final estimates have resulted from careful
+consideration of all facts. The invested capital includes the clammer's
+outfit and boat, but does not include personal apparel, such as boots and
+oil skins.</p>
+
+<p>The clam flats are divided into two main divisions: (1) productive;
+and (2) barren. The barren areas are those where at present no clams
+grow at all, not even scattering; and areas yielding even a few clams are
+still considered productive flats, though to all practical purposes barren.
+It was necessary to make the division thus, as otherwise no decisive line
+could be drawn. The barren flats are divided into those sections that
+can be made productive and those that can never be made to grow
+clams. The productive flats, on the other hand, are divided into areas
+of good clamming and areas of scattering clams which do not support
+a commercial fishery. The normal production of the clam flats has been
+carefully estimated, in view of the previous experiments of the Fish
+and Game Commission, and the different classes of flats have each been
+given a certain valuation in computing the total for each town. The
+areas given of the clam flats are based upon calculations, as no engineering
+survey was made.</p>
+
+<p>The price of clams varies in different localities, and chiefly depends
+upon the quality of clams and the method of marketing. In certain
+towns clams are "shucked" (removed from the shell),&mdash;a process
+which greatly increases their market value; while in other places they
+are sold only in the shell. These two facts account for the apparent
+variation in the value of the production in different localities, as each
+town is given its own market price.</p>
+
+<p>The following production table does not include an important factor,&mdash;the
+amount of clams dug by the summer people. An unestimable
+quantity is annually taken from the flats in this way, and is not
+included in the production statistics. Indeed, summer people have
+affected the clamming interests of several towns, as the selectmen have
+refused to place closed seasons, etc., on certain depleted flats in order
+to cater to the summer residents, who desire free clamming near their
+cottages. The total number of licenses issued by the boards of health
+of Boston and New Bedford for taking shellfish in their respective
+harbors are given as representing the number of clammers. In reality,
+however, only a few of these licensees make a regular business of
+clamming.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of the Clam Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of the Clam Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th rowspan="2">TOWN.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Num&shy;ber of Men.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2" class="br">Cap&shy;i&shy;tal In&shy;vest&shy;ed.</th>
+    <th colspan="2" class="smcap">1907 Pro&shy;duc&shy;tion.</th>
+    <th colspan="5" class="smcap bl">To&shy;tal Ar&shy;e&shy;a.</th>
+    <th colspan="2" class="smcap bl">Pro&shy;duc&shy;tive Ar&shy;e&shy;a.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2" class="bl">Bar&shy;ren Ar&shy;e&shy;a pos&shy;si&shy;bly Pro&shy;duc&shy;tive.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Waste Bar&shy;ren Ar&shy;e&shy;a.</th>
+    <th rowspan="2">Pos&shy;si&shy;ble Nor&shy;mal Pro&shy;duc&shy;tion.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <th>Bush&shy;els.</th>
+    <th>Val&shy;ue.</th>
+    <th class="bl">Sand.</th>
+    <th>Mud.</th>
+    <th>Grav&shy;el.</th>
+    <th>Mus&shy;sels and Eel Grass.</th>
+    <th>To&shy;tal.</th>
+    <th class="bl">Good Clamm&shy;ing.</th>
+    <th>Scat&shy;ter&shy;ing Clams.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Salisbury,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">66<a name="FNanchor_17_17" id="FNanchor_17_17"></a><a href="#Footnote_17_17" class="fnanchor">[17]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">$625</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">15,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$16,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">34</td>
+    <td class="tdr">216</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$70,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Newburyport,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">175</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,700</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">55,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">61,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">930</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,080</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">280</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Newbury,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">110</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">360</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">260</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Rowley,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">80</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">60,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Ipswich,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">136<a href="#Footnote_17_17" class="fnanchor">[17]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">7,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">25,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">18,750</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">390</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">55</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">970</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">420</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">125</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Essex,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">15,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12,750</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">125</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">650</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">325</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">120,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Gloucester,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">31</td>
+    <td class="tdr">600</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">6,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">550</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">75</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">275</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">70,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Manchester,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Beverly,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Salem,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">75</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">70</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Lynn,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">90</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">160</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">26,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Saugus,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">22,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Nahant,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Boston,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">350<a name="FNanchor_18_18" id="FNanchor_18_18"></a><a href="#Footnote_18_18" class="fnanchor">[18]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,250</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">7,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">525</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,325</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,380</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,095</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,325</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,180</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,045</td>
+    <td class="tdr">376,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Cohasset,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Scituate,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">45</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Marshfield,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr">9,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Duxbury,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">60</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">700</td>
+    <td class="tdr">600</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,700</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,685</td>
+    <td class="tdr">83,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Kingston,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">450</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">450</td>
+    <td class="tdr">600</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">440</td>
+    <td class="tdr">18,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Plymouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+    <td class="tdr">60</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">3,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,600</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">440</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">58,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barnstable,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">700</td>
+    <td class="tdr">550</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">330</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">39,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Yarmouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">600</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Orleans,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">3,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">125</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">75</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">27,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Eastham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">36</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">4,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Wellfleet,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">640</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">450</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">605</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">340</td>
+    <td class="tdr">28,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Truro,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">60</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">47</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Provincetown,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">320</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">3</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">194</td>
+    <td class="tdr">21,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Chatham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">330</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">360</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">44,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Harwich,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">80</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dennis,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">45</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Mashpee,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">45</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Falmouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">175</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">2</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Bourne,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Wareham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Marion,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Mattapoisett,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Fairhaven,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>New Bedford,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">320<a href="#Footnote_18_18" class="fnanchor">[18]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">300</td>
+    <td class="tdr">225</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dartmouth,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">160</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Swansea,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">24,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Somerset,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Dighton,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">8</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Berkley,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">6</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Freetown,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Fall River,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Nantucket,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">350</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">130</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">18,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Edgartown,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">1,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">20</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr bl">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+    <td class="tdr">33,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">1,361</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$18,142</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt bl">153,865</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$150,440</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt bl">6,269</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">7,111</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">2,125</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">5,580</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">21,085</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt bl">1,878</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">3,233</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt bl">6,096</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">9,878</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$1,801,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></div>
+
+<p><i>Decline of the Natural Clam Supply.</i>&mdash;The decline of the clam
+supply is a matter of general knowledge. People who live along the
+seashore realize that they can no longer gather the amount of clams
+they once could dig with ease from the same flats. On the southern
+shore of the State especially it is oftentimes difficult to obtain even
+enough for family use. The consumer also realizes the loss of the
+clam, as he is forced to pay higher prices.</p>
+
+<p>If specific cases of this decline are demanded, the following instances
+should show the exact depletion in the various localities. Even in the
+best clam-producing town of the State, Newburyport, where the clam
+production, according to statistics, has apparently increased during
+the last twenty-five years (as a result of more men entering the fishery),
+the supply has shown signs of failing. Essex now possesses many
+acres of flats formerly productive which now lie in a practically barren
+condition. Gloucester can no longer boast of her former clam industry,
+as the flats in Annisquam River are in poor condition. Hardly 30 men
+now make a business of clamming in that town, whereas 92 men were
+engaged in the fishery in 1879. Passing south of Gloucester, we find
+great evidence of decline in the Boston harbor flats. Even before the
+edict closing the harbor from clammers was in force, the production did
+not by any means equal that of 1879. Plymouth harbor, including the
+three towns of Duxbury, Kingston and Plymouth, furnishes an excellent
+illustration of this decline. Here an area of flats as extensive as all
+the other flats of the State combined now lies practically barren,
+whereas in former times great quantities of clams were taken. These
+flats had already become depleted to a marked extent by 1879, and to-day
+practically no clams are shipped to market from the Duxbury flats,
+although you can still read "Duxbury clams" on the menus of the
+hotels and restaurants, showing how important a clam industry this
+town once possessed. Buzzards Bay district lies at present unproductive
+except for supplying home consumption and the demands of the
+summer people. The shores of Cape Cod no longer yield their former
+supply of clams, and the most striking example of the extinction of a
+flourishing fishery is found in the town of Chatham, which now does not
+produce one-tenth part of its production in 1879. The Fall River or
+Narragansett Bay district does not come up to its past productiveness,
+and now chiefly yields clams which in former times would have been
+considered as too small to use.</p>
+
+<p>As can be seen by the following table, which gives a comparison
+between the industry in 1879 and 1907, the localities south of Gloucester
+all show a decline in their production, and there is no town on
+the coast which has not shown some depletion in the natural clam
+supply. The localities of the north shore, while indicating by their
+statistics a gain in production, nevertheless have not their former
+abundance, and the actual diminution of the supply is concealed by the
+fact that more men have entered the industry.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span></p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th rowspan="2">LOCALITY.</th>
+    <th colspan="3">1879.</th>
+    <th colspan="3">1907.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <th>Men.</th>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+    <th>Men.</th>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Ipswich,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$4,600</td>
+    <td class="tdr">136</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$18,750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Salisbury and Newburyport,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">60</td>
+    <td class="tdr">28,800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11,520</td>
+    <td class="tdr">241</td>
+    <td class="tdr">70,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">77,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Essex,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12,750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Gloucester,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">92</td>
+    <td class="tdr">13,978</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">31</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Boston harbor,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">90</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">350<a name="FNanchor_19_19" id="FNanchor_19_19"></a><a href="#Footnote_19_19" class="fnanchor">[19]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">7,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Duxbury,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">-<a name="FNanchor_20_20" id="FNanchor_20_20"></a><a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+    <td class="tdr">700</td>
+    <td class="tdr">600</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Plymouth</td>
+    <td class="tdr">-<a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Harwich,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,125</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">80</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Chatham,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">35,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12,250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Nantucket,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">-<a href="#Footnote_19_19" class="fnanchor">[19]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,253</td>
+    <td class="tdr">872</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">350</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Edgartown,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">-<a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,570</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>New Bedford district,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">-<a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,900</td>
+    <td class="tdr">332<a href="#Footnote_19_19" class="fnanchor">[19]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,600</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,685</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Fall River district,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">-<a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a></td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,375</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,121</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,315</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,290</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p><i>Causes of the Decline.</i>&mdash;The same cause which has been stated in
+the general report has contributed to the decline of the clam supply,
+<i>i.e.</i>, the increasing demand which has led to overfishing. Thus the decline
+can be directly attributed to the exploiting of natural clam resources
+by man, although it must be admitted that natural agencies, such as
+geographical changes, destroy the clam flats of certain localities and
+build up others.</p>
+
+<p>This decline has become possible through the indifference of the towns
+to the welfare of their clam fishery, and by not restricting, through
+town laws, the extermination of the clams in time to allow nature to
+replenish the flats. Some towns, such as Ipswich, have regulated this
+matter by placing closed seasons on portions of the flats, which has
+been the partial means of preserving their natural supply. Thus the
+town laws have proved inadequate, as most towns have no laws at all,
+or have such unwise ones that they often defeat their own object.</p>
+
+<p>It is again necessary to emphasize the need of reform in the clam
+industry. This Commonwealth once possessed an extensive supply of
+clams, and still possesses part of its former abundance; but the present
+supply is diminishing at such a rate that it will not be a quarter of a
+century before the natural clam fishery will be commercially extinct.
+On the south shore clams are now commercially extinct, and it is only
+a question of time, if the present methods are allowed to remain, before
+the north shore clams will also disappear. The experiments of the
+Massachusetts department of fisheries and game and the work of men
+who have planted this shellfish all show that thousands of dollars can
+be brought into the State by utilizing the waste clam areas, and that
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span>the production can be so increased as to even exceed that of former
+years. Immediate action is necessary, if this important industry is to
+be saved.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Remedy.</i>&mdash;The remedy is comparatively simple, and abundant
+proof of its success is at hand. By restocking the barren and unproductive
+areas of the Commonwealth the present production can be increased
+many times. Experiments have shown that clams can be
+readily, successfully and economically transplanted, and that it is
+a completely practical undertaking. Not only can the barren areas be
+restocked, but the yield of the productive areas can be much increased.
+Clam farming is the only practical method of restocking these areas,
+and only through such means can the clam flats be made to yield their
+normal harvest.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Clam Farming.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The subject of clam farming has received a good deal of attention
+the past few years, and much has been said concerning the enormous
+profits which would result from the cultivation of this shellfish. While
+the newspaper statements have been for the most part correct, there has
+been considerable exaggeration and many details have been inaccurate.
+To remove any misapprehensions, the following account of clam farming
+is given.</p>
+
+<p>The value of clam farming has been perhaps overestimated. While
+no fabulous returns are ever to be expected, the yield is large in proportion
+to the labor, and steady returns are sure. The methods used
+are simple, the capital required is small, the area suitable for raising
+clams is extensive, and clam farming gives promise of becoming one
+of the most prominent and remunerative shore industries. The profits
+derived from such a system should furnish steady employment for
+hundreds of men on the Massachusetts coast.</p>
+
+<p>Massachusetts possesses thousands of acres of tidal flats which are
+capable of producing clams. Most of these flats are practically barren,
+<i>i.e.</i>, produce no clams in paying quantities, and yet if planted with
+small clams will yield in from one to two years large quantities of
+marketable bivalves. This large area of barren flats should be divided
+into small farms, which should be leased to individuals for the purpose
+of planting and raising clams.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Necessity of Clam Farming.</i>&mdash;It is a well-known fact that the
+natural supply of clams is becoming rapidly exhausted, and that this
+important fishery will become commercially extinct unless steps are
+taken to check its decline. The only practical means known at the
+present time is <i>clam farming</i>. In the past, methods such as close
+seasons and restricting the catch have been used, but with poor results,
+as these have been economically wrong. The correct method in such
+cases is not to restrict the demand, but to increase the supply. Clam
+farming offers the only means of increasing the natural production,
+and not only checking the decline, but establishing a large industry.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span></p>
+
+<p><i>Is Clam Farming Practical?</i>&mdash;Clam farming is not a theory but
+an <i>established fact</i>. Clams will grow if planted in suitable places,
+and will yield large returns. For three years the Commission of
+Fisheries and Game have made numerous experiments in clam farming
+in many seacoast towns. They have not only proved its complete
+practicability, but have also shown that large profits result from successful
+planting. Records are on file at the State House showing the
+exact results of these experimental farms, which indicate the future
+success of clam farming.</p>
+
+<p>Besides the experiments of the Commission on Fisheries and Game,
+<i>successful clam farming</i> is now being carried on in several towns of the
+State. The leading town in this line is Essex, where at least 15 grants
+are held by the clammers. The only protection given is based upon
+public sentiment, which, however, is sufficient to insure the success of
+the enterprise. All these grants were staked out on flats which were
+producing no clams when granted, although part of this area was once
+very productive. So far these grants have proved most successful, thus
+proving by actual experience that clam farming is a worthy rival of
+agriculture.</p>
+
+<p><i>Historical Attempts at Clam Farming.</i>&mdash;Clam farming has been in
+existence for years. The first record of any legislation upon this subject
+is found in an act to regulate the clam fishery in and around the
+shores of Plymouth, Kingston and Duxbury in 1870, whereby a license
+was granted for a term not exceeding five years to any inhabitant of
+these towns to plant, cultivate and dig clams. This license cost $2.50,
+and gave the exclusive use of the flats and creeks described to the
+licensee and his heirs during the time specified, and also the right in an
+action of tort to recover treble damages from any person who, without
+his consent, dug or took clams from said grant. Evidently nothing was
+done to follow out this law, which was soon forgotten.</p>
+
+<p>In 1874 an act was passed to regulate the shellfisheries (including
+clams) in the waters of Mount Hope Bay and its tributaries. The
+terms of this act were practically the same as the Plymouth act, the
+only difference being the substitution of the word <i>shellfish</i> for <i>clam</i>.</p>
+
+<p>In 1888 an act was passed by the town of Winthrop, authorizing the
+planting of clams on the shores of that town. The grant was to consist
+of not over 2 acres of <i>barren</i> flats, situated more than 500 feet from
+high-water mark. The other provisions of this act were the same as
+those of the Plymouth act of 1870.</p>
+
+<p>The most important clam culture law was passed in 1888. This
+authorized the planting of clams on the shores of Essex. Here the
+provisions of the law were followed out, and the first energetic attempt
+at clam farming started. The law, the provisions of which were nearly
+the same as the previous laws, reads as follows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">Acts of 1888, Chapter 198.</span></h3>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">An Act authorizing the planting of clams, in and around the shores
+of essex.</span></p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p><i>Be it enacted, etc., as follows:</i></p>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Section 1.</span> The selectmen of the town of Essex may by writing under
+their hands grant a license for such a term of years, not exceeding five,
+as they in their discretion may deem necessary and the public good requires,
+to any inhabitant of said town, to plant, cultivate and dig clams upon and
+in any flats and creeks in said town now unproductive thereof, not exceeding
+two acres to any one person, and not impairing the private rights of
+any person.</p>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Section 2.</span> Such license shall describe by metes and bounds the flats
+and creeks so appropriated and shall be recorded by the town clerk before
+it shall have any force, and the person licensed shall pay to the selectmen
+for the use of said town two dollars and to the clerk fifty cents.</p>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Section 3.</span> The person so licensed and his heirs and assigns shall for
+the purposes aforesaid have the exclusive use of the flats and creeks described
+in the license during the term specified therein, and may in an
+action of tort recover treble damages of any person, who, without his or
+their consent digs or takes clams from such flats or creeks during the
+continuance of the license.</p>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Section 4.</span> Said town of Essex at any legal meeting called for the purpose
+may make such by-laws, not repugnant to the laws of the commonwealth,
+as they may from time to time deem expedient to protect and
+preserve the shellfisheries within said town.</p>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Section 5.</span> Whoever takes any shellfish from within the waters of said
+town of Essex in violation of the by-laws established by it or of the provisions
+of this act shall for every offence pay a fine of not less than five
+or more than ten dollars and costs of prosecution, and one dollar for every
+bushel of shellfish so taken.</p>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Section 6.</span> This act shall take effect upon its passage. [<i>Approved
+April 9, 1888.</i>]</p></div>
+
+<p>In the report of the United States Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries
+for 1894 Mr. Ansley Hall gives the following account of clam
+culture under this act:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>During the first two years (1889-90) the people were slow to avail themselves
+of the privilege of planting, for fear that after they had spent their
+time and labor they would not be able to secure protection from trespassers;
+but in 1891 and 1892 lots were obtained and planted. In 1892 there were
+25 acres that were quite productive, about one-third of the entire catch
+of the section being obtained from them. The catch from these lots is
+not definitely known, but is estimated at about 2,500 barrels.</p>
+
+<p>Cultivated clams possess some advantage over the natural growth, from
+the fact that they are more uniform in size, and are as large as the best
+natural clam. They bring $1.75 per barrel, while the natural clams sell
+for $1.50 per barrel. This is the price received by the diggers. One acre
+of these clams is considered to be worth $1,000, if well seeded and favorably<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span>
+located so as not to be in danger of being submerged with sand. This
+valuation would be too high for an average, since all the acres are not
+equally well seeded and located. The clammers are generally impressed
+that the industry can be extensively and profitably developed, and their
+only fear is that they will not be able to secure lots permanently. The
+greater part of the land available for this purpose is covered by the deeds
+of people owning farms along the river, and the consent of the land owners
+has to be obtained before lots can be taken up. It seems probable, however,
+that the business will continue to progress unless checked by complications
+that may arise relative to the occupancy of the grounds.</p></div>
+
+<p>The result of this first practical attempt at clam culture was a
+complete failure, and after a few years' trial the clam farms were all
+given up. The main reason for this failure was lack of protection
+both from outsiders and from one another. Nevertheless, this attempt
+proved that with proper protection a most successful industry could be
+made of clam farming. The following statement by Prof. James L.
+Kellogg, in the United States Fish Commission Bulletin for 1899,
+describes the failure of clam culture at Essex:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>It is not difficult to determine the reasons for the failure of the culture
+experiment at Essex. The areas upon which clams were planted were those
+which were at the time unproductive. The beds still containing clams&mdash;the
+"town flats"&mdash;were free to any native of Essex. The one thing which
+was absolutely necessary to the success of any planter was that the clams
+on his leased ground should not be disturbed by other diggers. This protection
+was apparently not given in any case by the town authorities, and,
+as no person lived within sight of the majority of the beds, it was quite
+impossible for any man to guard his property much of the time.</p>
+
+<p>As to what followed it is not easy to obtain definite testimony from the
+clammers themselves. Other citizens of the town, however, and some few
+clammers, intimate that most of the men began to take clams from any
+property but their own, and that in this way the full result of no man's
+labor in planting was ever realized. Others who did not make clam digging
+a regular business, but only dug occasionally, are said to have had no
+respect for the rights of those who had leased property. It was said that
+at times when vessel builders and the shoe factory released employees, many
+of them, for lack of other occupation, turned their attention to clam digging,
+with the result that too many clams were at the time taken from
+the flats.</p>
+
+<p>Another reason for the failure of the Essex experiment is that a number
+of short-sighted clammers began to fear, after the clams had been planted,
+that the production might suddenly become so great as to glut their market,
+and, as a consequence, force prices down. Some few individuals, inspired
+by this fear, are reported to have said and to have done everything
+in their power to prevent the success of the experiment. In all cases, it
+is said, the selectmen of the town, who issued the leases, refused their aid
+in the prosecution of trespassers.</p>
+
+<p>In spite of the fact, which had been demonstrated in the experiment,
+that when properly planted the clams grew much more rapidly and became
+much larger than on the natural beds, no applications for a renewal of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span>
+leases were made when the first ones expired. No change in the condition
+at Essex may be hoped for until there is some evidence that a law protecting
+the planter will be strictly enforced. With proper protection, a
+great industry might, and probably would, be quickly established, not
+only in Essex, but in any region where clam flats are now unproductive
+because of excessive digging.</p></div>
+
+<p><i>Protection Necessary.</i>&mdash;The same lack of protection which ruined
+the Essex clam experiments has been the cause of similar failures in
+other shore towns. As long as no protection is given, clam farming can
+never become possible, as the whole success of the enterprise depends
+wholly upon the planter's having complete control of his land. The
+present law gives absolutely no protection, as according to the old free
+beach law a person has a right to dig a mess of clams anywhere
+between the tide lines, no matter whether natural or planted. This
+practically discourages clam farming, however profitable, as no clammer
+is going to the labor and expense of planting clams, if the next person
+who comes along has a legal right to dig as many as he pleases. Until
+a law is passed which gives to the clam planter absolute protection from
+this sort of trespassing, and does away with the antiquated free fishing
+law, clam culture can never become a successful industry.</p>
+
+<p><i>Present Clam Culture.</i>&mdash;In 1906 grants of barren flats were again
+issued for the purpose of clam culture in Essex, and this time the
+attempt seemed successful. Two things encouraged this: the excellent
+results of the experiments in Essex River by the Commission on Fisheries
+and Game, and the possible results indicated by the experiments of
+1888. The only protection for these clam grants is by public sentiment,
+and the mutual agreement of all the clammers to respect the rights of the
+individual. So far there has been no trouble from trespassing and the
+lack of protection, which caused the failure of first attempts. It is
+hoped that these clam farms will become permanently successful, despite
+the lack of protection, as they will greatly increase the production of
+the Essex clam flats.</p>
+
+<p><i>Clam Farming and Agriculture.</i>&mdash;The comparison between clam
+farming and agriculture is very close, and both possess many common
+features, though there are several points of difference. The clam obtains
+its sustenance entirely from the water, while agricultural products
+obtain their nourishment chiefly from the soil. The nitrogenous waste
+products of the land washed into the streams furnish the nourishment
+to the little marine plants (diatoms) on which the clams feed.</p>
+
+<p><i>Rate of Growth of the Clam.</i>&mdash;The report of the Commission on
+Fisheries and Game for the year 1906 contains the following statements:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><i>What is the natural growth of the clam per year?</i></p>
+
+<p>There is great diversity in the growth of the clam, owing to the location
+in respect to three essential conditions,&mdash;current, length of time submerged,
+and soil. The following figures give briefly the general trend of results<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span>
+from numerous experimental beds under great variety of conditions. For
+simplicity, a 1-inch clam is taken as the standard.</p>
+
+<p>A 1-inch clam will grow in one year to a size between 2 and 3 inches.
+Under fairly favorable conditions, with a moderate current, a 1-inch clam
+will increase to 2&frac12; inches, or a gain of 900 per cent, in volume. For
+every quart planted, the yield in one year will be 9 quarts. For beds without
+current, 1-inch clams average about 2 inches, or a gain of 500 per cent.;
+<i>i.e.</i>, five quarts for every quart planted. Beds under exceptionally fine conditions
+have shown the amazing return of 15 quarts for every quart of
+1-inch clams planted. Clams increased in these beds from 1 to 3 inches
+in length. Therefore, by planting clams 1 inch or over, under <i>favorable</i>
+conditions a <i>marketable</i> clam can be produced in <i>one year</i>.</p>
+
+<p><i>What is the maximum production per square foot?</i></p>
+
+<p>The number of clams per square foot that can be raised to the best
+advantage depends upon the location of the flat in respect to natural conditions.
+Clams thickly planted (15 to 20 per square foot) in favorable
+locations may show a greater growth than when thinly planted (5 per
+square foot) in less favorable locations; therefore, no definite statement
+can be made which will apply in all cases. The only rule that can be
+given is that a flat with a current will produce a greater number of clams
+per square foot than one without a current. On good flats clams can be
+planted conveniently and economically from 10 to 15 per square foot, or
+even a larger number.</p>
+
+<p><i>What results can be obtained by planting on barren flats?</i></p>
+
+<p>There are two groups of flats which come under the term barren: (1)
+flats which once produced clams in great numbers, but now are practically
+barren, except for an occasional clam here and there; (2) flats which never
+have produced clams, and on which for physical reasons clams can never
+grow. The first group of flats is alone considered in this answer.</p>
+
+<p>Experimental beds were planted on certain flats in the Essex River which
+come within the first group of barren flats. These once productive flats
+had been cleaned out in the past, and for some reason had not seeded
+naturally. Forty beds were laid out under all kinds of conditions, with
+the object of finding a way to make these once more productive. Results
+have been all that could be hoped for. Only 4 poor beds were found, out
+of the 40 laid out; 36 beds were in thriving condition. It should be noted
+that no attempt was made to choose the best places, but all conditions were
+tried. Over two-thirds of the clams were re-dug, the increase averaging,
+in terms of 1-inch clams, over 1,000 per cent., or 10 quarts for every quart
+planted the year before.</p>
+
+<p>If many acres of Massachusetts flat, idle at present, are capable of
+such a yield, should such economic waste be allowed? Why should not
+the towns, by the expenditure of a little money, restock flats such as these
+for the benefit of their inhabitants? I do not say that all flats can be made
+productive in this way, as I know of many cases where the mere sowing
+of seed clams will not restock a flat; but I do say that Massachusetts possesses
+enough flats of the former nature, which should be made a profit
+to her clammers. Clam set occurs, as Mr. Stevenson shows in his report,
+in large quantities; the transportation of seed clams is easy; planting requires
+little labor, the practical way being to sow the clams, which burrow
+readily; while the yield in proportion to the labor is enormous.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span></p>
+
+<p><i>What sized clams are best for planting?</i></p>
+
+<p>The size best adapted must be determined for each flat. Shore flats with
+little current will allow the planting of any size, from &frac14; inch up; flats
+with a swift current necessitate a larger clam (1 to 1&frac12; inches), as the
+smaller will be washed out of its burrow; soft mud also demands a larger
+clam, as the smaller will be stifled by the oozy silt.</p>
+
+<p><i>What are the physical conditions that influence the growth of clams?</i></p>
+
+<p>There appear at least three essential conditions for rapid growth of clams:
+(1) a good current; (2) low and level flat; and (3) a tenacious soil, relatively
+free from decaying matter.</p>
+
+<p>A low flat gives the clams longer feeding periods, as the water remains
+over them longer, therefore there is a greater growth. This has been experimentally
+shown by Dr. A. D. Mead.</p>
+
+<p>According to Prof. J. L. Kellogg, clams cannot do well in a soil which
+contains much decaying organic matter, as the acids eat away the shells.
+Soils of this description also facilitate the spread of infection from one
+clam to another.</p>
+
+<p>Current is the chief essential for successful clam culture. The term
+"current" does not imply a rapid flow of water, but rather a good circulation
+of water over the flat. In the Essex and Ipswich rivers the clam flats
+have a continuous current. On such flats the growth is more rapid than
+on flats which have no circulation of water, in addition to the mere rise
+and fall of the tide. The current performs the work of (1) keeping the
+flats clean and carrying away all contamination, but its most important
+work is as (2) <i>food carrier</i>.</p>
+
+<p><i>Value of a Clam Farm.</i>&mdash;The value of an acre of clam flats, if
+properly cultivated, is about $450 per year for the average clam flat.
+Many of the more productive flats will yield a far greater amount,
+while others will not yield as much. It has been often erroneously
+stated that an acre of clam flats would produce $1,000 per year. This
+is a decided overestimation, as it would be hardly possible for the most
+productive flat to yield that amount. It is possible, however, for a
+good flat to yield about $750 per year, but this is only under the most
+favorable conditions. Such yields as these are large for the clammer,
+whose average yearly income is only $400 (a few of the more expert
+clammers make possibly $700 to $750), and a man possessing a clam
+farm of 1&frac12; to 2 acres would make a good living.</p>
+
+<p><i>Method of operating a Clam Farm: choosing the Ground.</i>&mdash;In
+choosing a grant, the planter should have in mind three things: (1) the
+accessibility of the grant, for his own convenience, and nearness to
+the market, as much of the success of clam farming depends upon the
+expense of marketing the product, and the ease with which it can be
+disposed of; (2) the length of time allowed for labor by the exposure
+of the flat (flats vary greatly in the amount of time exposed each tide,
+the low flats being submerged nearly all the time, and the high flats
+having a much longer exposure),&mdash;a high flat possesses the advantage
+of allowing a longer working period for the clammer; (3) the natural
+facilities of the flat itself as regards the growth of clams. Moreover,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span>
+the flat should be chosen in regard to (1) soil; (2) current; (3) tide.
+A good flat should have a soil which is tenacious and compact, affording
+at the same time easy digging. Probably the best soil is a mixture of
+fine sand and mud in a ratio of one-third mud to two-thirds sand, as this
+amount of mud gives the right degree of tenacity.</p>
+
+<p>The growth of a clam depends upon the circulation of water over the
+flat, as the current carries the food, and, therefore, the more current
+the more food for the clams. Current also keeps the bed clean, and
+prevents contamination and disease from spreading among the clams.
+Then, again, the growth of a clam depends upon the amount of water
+over the bed; <i>i.e.</i>, length of time covered. The clam can only feed when
+the tide is over the bed, and thus the feeding time is limited for the
+higher flats. While experiments have shown that clams grow faster
+when continually under water than when exposed part of the time, the
+question of tide is not so great a factor as that of current in regard to
+clam growth, and can be almost disregarded.</p>
+
+<p>The best flat for clam planting is a <i>fairly high flat</i> with a <i>good current</i>
+over it, as it gives nearly as rapid growth and a much longer period
+to dig than a flat which is exposed only a short period. This flat must
+have the right kind of soil, which must not be shifting sand or too soft
+mud, but a compact, tenacious mixture.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Seed Clams.</i>&mdash;Nature has provided the means of stocking these
+farms. The set of clams is usually restricted to certain localities,
+which, however, vary from time to time, and heavy sets are found in
+limited areas. These sets run as thick as 2,000 per square foot of
+surface, occasionally covering an area of 3 acres. From these natural
+set areas the natural clam flats are partially restocked by the washing
+out of the small clams. More often these whole sets are wasted,
+as the clams, instead of washing on the good flats, are carried to unproductive
+places and consequently perish. Thus there are areas of
+heavy set which are of no use to any one, as practically all the clams
+perish before they become adults. These areas of heavy set occur in
+nearly every harbor of the coast to a greater or less extent, and are
+available for nearly every town.</p>
+
+<p>The problem now is to make use of these large sets, and not allow
+them to go to waste. It has been shown that these clams when transplanted
+will grow much faster, and will not perish; therefore, clam
+farming offers both the possibility of saving these natural sets and
+utilizing barren ground.</p>
+
+<p>Methods of spat collecting have been constantly referred to in connection
+with clam farming, especially by the Rhode Island Fish Commission,
+and the impression has been given that clam farming can
+never become a success until some practical method of spat collecting
+has been found. With the soft clam there is no need of any method
+of spat collecting, as the natural set is more than sufficient for restocking
+the barren flats. All that is necessary is to utilize the enormous
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span>natural sets. If this is done, the barren flats of Massachusetts can be
+made productive.</p>
+
+<p>The main difficulty is in devising some method of obtaining the small
+clams with sufficient rapidity. As the nature of the soil and the size of
+the clams vary, no one method can apply to every case, and it depends
+upon the ingenuity of the clammer. The methods used at present are:
+(1) digging with an ordinary clam hoe, which is slow work; (2) digging
+in shallow water, so that the clams may be washed out; (3) digging
+a series of trenches across the heavy set area, and scooping out the
+clams washed in these trenches; (4) carrying both sand and clams by
+the dory load; (5) by using a sieve, in the form of a cradle, which
+washes the clams out in the water. This last method is the most successful
+for small clams, and has been used by the commission in obtaining
+seed clams for their experimental beds. By using a cradle 3 by 2
+feet, covered with sand wire netting, clams which ran 3,000 per quart,
+were obtained by 3 men at the rate of 2 bushels an hour,&mdash;an amount
+sufficient to plant from 1/25 to 1/10 of an acre.</p>
+
+<p>Another problem of importance is the transportation of seed clams,
+as in many instances the clams will have to be carried some distance.
+The best method of shipping seed clams is to pack them dry in damp sea
+weed, putting them in small packages, so they will not be crushed by
+their own weight. The best though most expensive method is to pack
+the clams in crates, such as are used for strawberries. It has been
+found that clams kept in water are not in such good condition as those
+shipped dry, and it is of the utmost importance that the clams be in
+good condition when planted.</p>
+
+<p>The length of time a clam will live out of its natural element depends
+upon the temperature; in cold weather it will keep for several days,
+and even weeks; while in warm weather the seed clam will be in poor
+condition after one day's exposure.</p>
+
+<p><i>Preparing the Grant.</i>&mdash;Usually the ground needs no preparation,
+and the clams can be planted at once. It is a good plan to remove any
+mussels and any of the enemies of the clam from the grant.</p>
+
+<p><i>Planting the Clams.</i>&mdash;The planting of the seed clams is perhaps the
+easiest work of the clam culturist, as it necessitates merely the sowing
+of the seed on the surface of the flat. The small clams when left this
+way burrow into the ground as soon as the water is over them, and
+require no planting on the part of the culturist.</p>
+
+<p><i>Working the Farm.</i>&mdash;This style of farming requires no cultivation
+for the growth of the clams. Once planted, the farmer has no further
+work until the time when he is ready to dig them. The clams grow
+better when undisturbed than when the soil is upturned by frequent
+digging. Protection from man and the natural enemies of the clam
+demand the attention of the owner at all times.</p>
+
+<p><i>Harvesting the Clams.</i>&mdash;The time of digging will vary as to the
+size of clam desired and the rate of growth on the grant. The clam<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span>
+farmer can cater to a particular trade by regulating the size of the
+clams marketed. He may find it more profitable to market a small
+clam after a short period of growth, or <i>vice versa</i>, on the same principle
+that a farmer raises hogs for the market.</p>
+
+<p>North of Boston, in localities favorable for fast growth, such as the
+Essex and Ipswich rivers, by planting large seed of at least l&frac12; inches
+in the spring, marketable clams of 2&frac12; to 3 inches can be obtained in the
+fall after six months' growth. Here the clams grow only during the
+summer months, and nothing would be gained by leaving them over
+winter. In this way a crop each year can be raised on these farms.
+In other localities of slower growth it will take from eighteen to twenty-four
+months to raise a crop. The clam farmer will have to regulate
+the size of the seed and length of growth to best suit the needs of his
+farm.</p>
+
+<p><i>Advantages of Clam Farming.</i>&mdash;Clam culture possesses several advantages
+over the old free-for-all digging: (1) steadier returns; (2)
+easier work; (3) better pay; (4) more clams per man. If the clammers
+of the Commonwealth only realized these facts they would make a
+united effort toward clam culture.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>History.</i></h3>
+
+<p>I. <i>Early History.</i>&mdash;The history of the Massachusetts clam industry
+began in obscurity. Even before the time of the earliest settlers the
+native Indians depended largely upon this abundant mollusk for their
+food supply, as is clearly indicated by the scattered shell heaps which
+mark their ancient camp fires. Upon the arrival of the Pilgrims, clam
+digging was incorporated among the most time-honored industries of
+the Commonwealth, and in times of want the early colonists depended
+largely upon this natural food supply. With the arrival of the colonists
+really began the first epoch of the clam fishery as an economic factor
+in this Commonwealth, a period which lasted nearly two hundred years.
+This period marked the exploitation of clam grounds merely for home
+consumption. Money was scarce, inland markets were practically unknown,
+and the importance of this shellfish was confined merely to local
+quarters.</p>
+
+<p>II. <i>Rise of the Bait Industry.</i>&mdash;Early in the last century a growing
+demand for clams as bait for the sea fisheries became apparent. Clams
+had always been utilized for this purpose more or less, but an increased
+demand called for the development of an important industry in this
+line. Various centers of activity were established, particularly at Newburyport,
+Essex, Ipswich, Boston harbor and Chatham. The clams
+were mainly shucked, that is, removed from the shell, and shipped either
+fresh or salted in barrels to the fishermen at Gloucester, Boston and
+Provincetown. This industry opened up new fields of employment for
+many men and boys, and brought considerable ready money into various
+coast communities.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>III. <i>The Development of Inland Markets.</i>&mdash;The consumption of
+clams for food in the coast towns continued throughout the rise and
+gradual decline of the bait industry, but the creation of inland markets
+did not begin to be an important factor until 1875. It was about this
+time that the clam came to be generally looked upon throughout the
+State as an article of food, and consequently an important industry
+was gradually evolved to meet this growing demand. This step marked
+the beginning of the extensive fishery of the present day.</p>
+
+<p>The mistaken policy of the average shellfish community, which
+regarded clam grounds as natural gardens of inexhaustible fertility,
+still persisted even after the fallacy of this policy had long proved
+apparent through the depletion of extensive tracts. The same ill-advised
+methods were pursued to the ultimate ruination of much valuable
+territory. All wise regard for the future was overshadowed by the
+immediate needs of the present; local legislation fostered the evil; State
+legislation was conspicuous by its absence; and, left to the mercy of
+unsystematic overdigging, these natural resources rapidly wasted away.</p>
+
+<p>The disastrous tendencies which have lurked in the ruling policy of
+the clam fishery have been shown in the rise and fall of the industry in
+certain localities. Forty years ago Duxbury and Plymouth ranked as
+the greatest clam towns of the coast. Their supply has long since
+become insignificant. Newburyport and Ipswich have become the chief
+producers of the State clam harvest; but Essex and Gloucester, in the
+same fertile regions, have greatly declined, and the industry at Rowley
+has become nearly extinct. In the Fall River district the digging of
+small seed clams for food has brought the fishery to the verge of ruin.
+The few resources of Buzzards Bay have become nearly exhausted,
+while on Cape Cod the industry has shown here and there a temporary
+increase, overshadowed by a far more extensive decline, such as at
+Chatham. Furthermore, the sewage contamination of coast waters in
+the harbors of Boston and several other large cities have closed extensive
+regions for the production of food.</p>
+
+<p>IV. <i>Attempts to develop the Industry.</i>&mdash;Various efforts have been
+made to restrain overdigging the clam flats, by local regulations, particularly
+by "close" seasons. These attempts have been productive of
+little good. Other efforts, designed to develop extensive tracts made
+barren by wasteful methods of fishing, have been put in operation.
+These efforts have been along two independent lines: the first, an effort
+on the part of the community to seed in common flats by the appropriation
+of money for that purpose, as in the case of Wellfleet; the
+second, an attempt to arrive at the same end by leasing private grants
+to individuals, as at Essex and Plymouth. These efforts, while tending
+in the right direction, have not as yet yielded the results that might
+be wished for. Within the past three years the State has taken hold
+of the problem, and by an extensive series of experiments is endeavoring
+to devise practical means of developing the great inherent possibilities
+in this extensive industry.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Clam Production Table for Massachusetts, obtained from the Reports
+of the United States Fish Commission.</span></p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th>YEAR.</th>
+    <th>Bushels.</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+    <th>Price per Bushel (Cents).</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1880,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">158,626</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$76,195</td>
+    <td class="tdr">41.73</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1887,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">230,659</td>
+    <td class="tdr">121,202</td>
+    <td class="tdr">52.54</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1888,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">243,777</td>
+    <td class="tdr">127,838</td>
+    <td class="tdr">52.44</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1889,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">240,831</td>
+    <td class="tdr">137,711</td>
+    <td class="tdr">57.14</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1892,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">191,923</td>
+    <td class="tdr">133,529</td>
+    <td class="tdr">69.57</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1898,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">147,095</td>
+    <td class="tdr">102,594</td>
+    <td class="tdr">69.74</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1902,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">227,941</td>
+    <td class="tdr">157,247</td>
+    <td class="tdr">68.98</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1905,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">217,519</td>
+    <td class="tdr">209,545</td>
+    <td class="tdr">96.19</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>The Clam Industry.</i></h3>
+
+<p><i>Methods of Digging.</i>&mdash;The ordinary method of taking clams is so
+simple as hardly to need explanation. Although simple, clam digging
+requires considerable skill, and it takes years of experience to become
+a good clammer.</p>
+
+<p>There are two methods of clam digging used in Massachusetts,&mdash;the
+"wet" and the "dry" digging. Wet digging is carried on when
+water is over the clam beds; dry digging, which is the common method,
+takes place when the flats are left exposed by the tides. The only
+places in Massachusetts where wet digging is carried on regularly are
+Eastham, Chatham, Swansea, and in Katama Bay, Edgartown. In
+the lower end of Katama Bay is found a submerged bed of clams
+which is one of the most productive beds of this class in Massachusetts.
+These submerged clams are taken with what is known locally as a "sea
+horse," which is an enlarged clam hoe, with prongs 12 to 14 inches
+long, and a strong wooden handle four feet in length. This handle
+has a belt attachment which is buckled around the clammer. Two men
+are required for this work. The sea horse is worked deep into the loose
+sand and is dragged along by one man, who wades in the shallow water
+over these submerged flats, while his partner follows, gathering the
+clams which the sea horse roots out. Another method of wet digging is
+called "churning," and is based on the same principle as the above
+method, only the clams are turned out under water by long forks or
+hoes. This method is not used in Massachusetts to any extent. Excellent
+results are usually obtained from wet digging.</p>
+
+<p>The methods used in dry digging depend upon the nature of the soil.
+The difference lies only in the kind of digger. The clam hoe of the
+south shore, where the soil is either coarse sand or gravel, has broad
+prongs, some even being 1&frac14; inches across. The usual number of prongs
+is four, but occasionally three broad prongs suffice. The clam hoe of
+the north shore, often called "hooker," has four thin, sharp prongs<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span>
+and a short handle. The set of this handle is a matter of choice with
+the individual clammers, some preferring a sharp, acute angle, and
+others a right angle. This style of clam hoe is best suited for the hard,
+tenacious clam flats of the north shore. At Essex spading forks are
+used for clamming, but not as extensively as the hooker. For sand
+digging the forks are said to be better, while for mud digging the
+hooker is preferred.</p>
+
+<p><i>Outfit of a Clammer.</i>&mdash;The outfit of a clammer does not require
+much outlay of capital. A skiff or dory, one or two clam hoes and three
+or four clam baskets complete the list. Occasionally, as at Ipswich,
+where the clam grounds are widely scattered, power dories are used,
+and this necessitates the investment of considerable capital; but the
+investment of the average clammer does not exceed $26. Personal
+apparel, such as oilskins and boots, are not considered under this head.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Clamming Outfit.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Skiff dory,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$22.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Two clam diggers,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Four clam baskets,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2.00</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr bt">$25.50</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>The boats most often used by the north shore clammers are called
+"skiff dories," and in construction are between a dory and a skiff.
+These boats are especially adapted for use in rivers.</p>
+
+<p><i>Marketing.</i>&mdash;Clams are shipped to market either in the shell or
+"shucked out." Two rules are followed by the clammers in making
+this distinction: (1) small clams, or "steamers," are shipped in the
+shell, especially during the summer months, while the large clams are
+"shucked;" (2) the fine-appearing sand clam is usually sold in the
+shell, while the unprepossessing mud clam is shucked, <i>i.e.</i>, the shell
+and the external covering of the siphon or neck are removed. This
+causes on the north shore a division by locality. The Ipswich and
+Essex clams, except for a few individual orders, are mostly shipped to
+market in the shell, while the Annisquam River and Newburyport
+clams are usually shucked in the winter. Little if any shucking is done
+by the south shore clammers.</p>
+
+<p>Shucking almost doubles the value, as a bushel of clams, worth in the
+shell 75 cents, will furnish, when soaked, about 10 quarts of shucked
+clams, which bring about 50 cents per gallon, or a total of $1.25 when
+marketed. The shucked clams are put through a process of soaking in
+the same way the scallop "eyes" are treated before marketing. They
+absorb a sufficient quantity of fresh water, after soaking six hours, to
+increase their bulk about one-third and give a plump appearance to
+the clams.</p>
+
+<p>While many clammers do not soak their clams, it seems to be a
+universal tendency, wherever clams are shucked, to gain by this method.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[Pg 180]</a></span>
+Soaking of any sort impairs the flavor of the clam, and for this reason
+such a practice is to be deplored, but as long as the consumer is satisfied
+to take second-rate goods, this practice will continue, and it can
+be stopped only by the united demand of the shellfish dealers.</p>
+
+<p><i>Shipment.</i>&mdash;Second-hand flour and sugar barrels are used for the
+shipment of clams in the shell, while kegs and butter tubs hold the
+shucked clams. In winter clams can be shipped inland without perishing;
+but in hot weather they will spoil in a few days, unless iced.</p>
+
+<p><i>Maine Clams.</i>&mdash;Massachusetts annually consumes many thousand
+barrels of Maine clams. If the demand of the Boston market were
+not partially met by the influx of Maine clams, the clam flats of Massachusetts
+would be subject to a greater drain.</p>
+
+<p><i>Market.</i>&mdash;The principal market for the clam industry of Massachusetts
+is Boston. Gloucester, Newburyport, Salem and Lynn draw part
+of the clam trade of the north shore, but the greater portion goes to
+Boston, whence it is distributed throughout the State. In recent years
+shipments have been made from the Ipswich Bay region direct to New
+York, Baltimore and Philadelphia.</p>
+
+<p><i>Price.</i>&mdash;The price of clams is fairly constant, varying but little in
+summer and winter. Naturally, this seems curious, when winter and
+summer clamming are compared. The production in winter is much
+smaller than in summer, which is due to (1) fewer clammers, because
+of the severe work in cold weather; (2) less working days, as the
+clammer is often unable to dig for weeks, and even months, and also
+cannot work early or late tides, as in summer. In spite of this diminution
+of supply, the winter price is practically no higher. This is due to
+a smaller demand in winter, as well as to the influx of the Maine clams
+at this season. In summer there is an increased demand for clams,
+caused by the arrival of the summer people at the seashore; and large
+quantities of this shellfish are used by hotels, cottages, etc. This increase
+in demand is enough to offset the increase in supply, resulting in a stationary
+price.</p>
+
+<p>The price varies as to the quality of the clams, whether soaked or
+unsoaked, small or large, good or poor looking shells, and fresh or stale.
+The average price as received by the clammer for clams in the shell is
+75 cents per bushel; shucked clams, when soaked, 45-50 cents per
+gallon.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Arrangement of Towns.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Owing to the peculiarities of the different localities, it has been
+impossible to satisfactorily arrange the towns alphabetically. Therefore,
+in order to present local comparisons, they have been arranged in
+geographical order, starting at the northern boundary of the State.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Salisbury.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Salisbury, the most northerly town in the State, has a good clam
+territory, very similar to that of Newburyport, though much smaller
+in area.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Almost all the clam ground, and practically all the very good digging,
+is comprised in a single flat, which extends along the northerly bank of
+the Merrimac for nearly 2 miles. This flat is about 900 feet wide, on
+an average, and has a total area of 216 acres. On the eastern end, and
+skirting the channel, it is sandy; but for the most part it is mud
+throughout, varying from a hard, smooth surface in the middle portion
+to a soft, scummy soil on the west.</p>
+
+<p>About 100 acres in the central section of this flat are covered with
+a thick set of clams, especially from 1 to 2 inches. This territory
+furnishes the bulk of the good digging, and is being constantly turned
+over and the larger clams sorted out. Roughly speaking, the main east
+half of the flat is sandy, or hard mud, with very good clamming, the
+western half softer mud, with fair or scattering clams. This is an
+exceptionally fine natural clam flat, and if properly cultivated its production
+would be immensely increased. At the eastern extremity of
+the flat a long, narrow cove extends in a general northerly direction
+into the main land. This cove, including the outer fringing bars,
+contains some 34 acres of flats, for the most part sandy and rather
+poorly productive, though no considerable area is anywhere strictly
+barren. The combined clam flat territory of the town aggregates 250
+acres, comprising 150 acres of good clamming and 100 acres of scattering
+clams; of these, 216 acres are of mud and 34 acres of sand.</p>
+
+<p>While the town records show 66 licensed clammers, only about 50
+make clamming their chief occupation. The industry is carried on in
+much the same manner as at Newburyport; $625 is invested in boats and
+implements, and some 15,000 bushels of clams, aggregating $16,500,
+are annually produced.</p>
+
+<p>The clam industry at Salisbury is largely stationary as regards
+available territory, while the production varies considerably from year
+to year. There is little or no town legislation affecting the industry,
+except the issuing of permits by the selectmen. These permits cost 25
+cents, and are required from every clammer.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">66</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$625</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$16,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand</td>
+    <td class="tdr">34</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">216</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$70,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Newburyport.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Newburyport is pre-eminently the clam town of Massachusetts. It
+produces the most clams, gives employment to the most men, and has
+on the whole the finest flats.</p>
+
+<p>The total clam-growing area of this town comprises about 1,080 acres;
+of this, some 800 acres are more or less productive, while the balance,
+280 acres, is practically nonproductive. Scattering clams exist everywhere,
+so there are, properly speaking, no truly barren flats.</p>
+
+<p>The flats of Newburyport, broad, level and continuous, are peculiarly
+adapted to clam culture. The general type of soil is mud, varying from
+a soft, sticky variety on the west coast, and also along the shores of
+Plum Island, to a firm, hard surface in the great middle section north of
+Woodbridge's Island, where clams flourish most abundantly and furnish
+the best digging within the city limits. Here nearly 100 acres are
+covered with a heavy set of 1 to 2 inch clams. Altogether there are
+some 930 acres of this mud. Much of this, especially to the west and
+south, is apparently unfavorable to clams, being soft and unwholesome,
+but even here at certain seasons clams are dug extensively.</p>
+
+<p>The sand flats include the shifting Hump sands that fringe the
+Merrimac channel and the Cove on Plum Island. These and other
+minor sections comprise about 150 acres. The Hump sands are quite
+productive. The other sand flats are not entirely barren, but practically
+unutilized.</p>
+
+<p>The clam industry at Newburyport furnishes employment for about
+175 men, although over 200 depend upon it for some portion of their
+income. The season lasts the year round, though on account of storms
+and ice the winter's work is rather uncertain. A good fisherman will,
+under favorable circumstances, dig several bushels of clams at a tide,
+though the ordinary man will probably not average more than a bushel
+and a half, taking the whole year into account.</p>
+
+<p>The outlay of capital invested is comparatively small. A flat-bottom
+boat or dory, a clam hoe or two, and three or four wire-bottom baskets,
+constitute a clammer's outfit, costing altogether perhaps $15 or $20. As
+two or more men frequently go in one boat, even this expenditure may
+be reduced. The shore property in use, consisting of from 8 to 10
+shanties, is also inconsiderable. Several power boats are used, however,
+and their added cost brings the aggregate money invested up to about
+$2,700.</p>
+
+<p>The flats of Newburyport are a large factor in its economic wealth.
+During 1907 they produced nearly 55,500 bushels of clams, exceeding
+$61,000 in value. Nearly two-thirds of these clams were shucked, that
+is, removed from the shell and sold by the gallon. In this form, usually<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span>
+soaked to increase their volume, they retail for about 45 cents per
+gallon. As clams in the shell, sold for "steamers," etc., will hardly
+bring more than 65 cents per bushel, the process of shucking nearly
+doubles the value to the fisherman, as a bushel of clams in the shell will
+produce from 2 to 3 gallons of soaked clams. The income of the
+average clammer will hardly exceed $350 per year, but a really energetic
+and industrious fisherman may in the same time make from $500
+to $700, or even more. Many of the men have individual orders from
+dealers in Lynn, Haverhill and the neighboring cities, while the local
+dealers ship largely to Boston.</p>
+
+<p>The regulation of the industry by city ordinance is of very little
+note. Practically the only legislation pertaining to it is the law which
+requires every clammer to have a permit, but even this regulation is but
+indifferently enforced. The Newbury flats are likewise free to the Newburyport
+clammers, and part of the Newburyport production comes
+from these outside flats.</p>
+
+<p>The history of the clam industry at Newburyport is one of constant
+change. Twenty years ago large areas on southwest Joppa were practically
+barren; now they are quite productive. The reverse is true of
+Ball's flat on Plum Island, which, though once of great importance, is
+now almost waste. Though no serious inroads have as yet been made,
+a slow but steady decline in the industry is distinctly noticeable.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879 (Salisbury and Newburyport).</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th>YEAR.</th>
+    <th>Production (Bushels).</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+    <th>Men.</th>
+    <th>Capital.</th>
+    <th>Price per Bushel.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">28,800</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$11,520</td>
+    <td class="tdr">60</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$750</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$0.40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">70,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">77,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">241</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,325</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.10</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">175</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,700</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">55,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$61,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">930</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,080</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">280</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$250,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Newbury.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The town of Newbury has in itself no shellfish industry, although
+there is an extensive area of suitable flats which are worked with equal
+rights by the Newburyport clammers. These flats comprise some 360
+acres, and extend along both sides of Plum Island Sound and Parker
+River. Over 100 acres of scattering clams occur, though not in sufficient
+quantities for the most part to make very profitable digging. The
+remainder, some 260 acres, though almost all suitable for the production
+of large quantities of clams, is practically barren.</p>
+
+<p>The principal type of soil is mud, and the mud flats comprise about
+250 acres. The flats of Parker River and those in its immediate neighborhood,
+however, are largely sand, and altogether they aggregate about
+110 acres. Of these, "the thoroughfare" is practically the only one
+which furnishes clams in any quantity. Sections of the broad flats
+which border on Plum Island Sound produce scattering clams of large
+size. There is, however, no very good digging in town, and no consistent
+effort seems ever to have been made to utilize the great wealth
+which lies dormant in the clam flat territory. Six Newbury men dig
+intermittently in the summer, and furnish some 300 bushels, worth
+about $250, for town trade. However, this does not take into consideration
+the amount taken from these flats by the Newburyport
+clammers.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">110</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">360</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">260</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$40,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Rowley.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Rowley presents a more striking example of the decline in the shellfish
+industry than any other town in this region.</p>
+
+<p>Four hundred acres of good flats border Plum Island and Rowley
+River within the town limits, but of these only 20 at most are economically
+productive. Eighty acres more are not entirely barren, though<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span>
+practically worthless, while the remaining 300, though almost all well
+adapted for clam culture, are barren.</p>
+
+<p>The main type of soil is sand, and the sand flats, for the most part
+in Plum Island Sound, comprise some 250 acres. The remainder, 150
+acres, is mostly mud in scattered sections along the Rowley River and
+in patches on the main flats. The only really productive flats are the
+little coves and creeks of Rowley River and the Knob Reefs in Plum
+Island Sound. The Knob Reef clam grounds produce very large and
+fine clams, which lie on the lower edge of the flat and are exposed only
+a short time every tide. Knob Reefs also has the distinction of possessing
+probably the finest clam set of its size in the State, which would
+furnish abundant opportunity for restocking all the barren Rowley
+River flats, if the town authorities had taken proper measures to transplant
+this seed. As it is, this extensive set, too thick for good growth,
+is rapidly wasting away.</p>
+
+<p>The history of the industry is one of steady decline. Reliable evidence
+exists to show that almost all the flats of Rowley once produced clams,
+and that large areas now waste were formerly productive. That these
+immense barren areas, possessing such an enormous latent wealth, should
+be allowed to remain thus unimproved, is a most conclusive argument
+for the need of radical action. No settled attempt, however, except for
+a single closed season in 1906, has ever been made by the clammers
+or town authorities to better the conditions, or to check the decline in
+the productive territory that remains.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">80</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$60,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Ipswich.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Ipswich is second only to Newburyport in the production of clams,
+and has perhaps even greater possibilities of development. The clam
+territory of the two towns, while nearly equal in extent, is, however,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span>
+markedly different in general characteristics. The flats of Newburyport,
+while few in number, are broad, continuous, and have a great degree
+of similarity throughout. The flats of Ipswich, on the other hand,
+are divided into a great number of relatively small sections, widely
+diversified in character, and scattered along an extensive coast line. As
+these flats are in many respects the most interesting and important of
+any town in the State, it seems well to examine them in detail.</p>
+
+<p>Four distinct divisions can be distinguished in the clam territory of
+this town: Ipswich River, Plum Island, Green's Creek and Roger
+Island, and Essex River flats.</p>
+
+<p>Taken in the order named, the Ipswich River has in itself a great
+variety of clam ground. Both sides of the river for nearly 3 miles are
+fringed with bars, mainly of mud though sandy near the mouth. Some
+of the mud flats are so soft that they are practically barren, or given
+up largely to mussel beds; while much of the sand, as, <i>e.g.</i>, the main
+portion of the High Sands, is too shifting to be valuable. The larger
+part of these river flats are, however, productive.</p>
+
+<p>The Plum Island division comprises Lufkins, Point Peter, Appletons,
+Foresides and several other minor flats. Of these, Lufkins is very
+important. It occupies a semicircular depression on the coast of Plum
+Island, and, owing to its peculiar location, the swift current which
+flows past its outer edge makes a double eddy at both ebb and flood
+tide. These eddies sweep gently over its broad surface, and deposit
+a fine silt which has made the characteristic soil a hard, bluish clay.
+This is the only important clay flat of this region. The total area of
+Lufkins is 46 acres. The outer border to the north is mud, becoming
+soft; to the south, sandy. The portion near shore is, as has been stated,
+a clayey soil, and it is here that clams are found abundantly. An exceptionally
+good set of 1 to 2 inch clams occupies from 3 to 4 acres
+of this portion. Though clams are numerous, the exceeding hardness
+of the soil makes digging rather difficult.</p>
+
+<p>Point Peter, or "P'int" Peter, is also an important flat, comprising
+altogether 28 acres, though about 7 acres of the outer portion extend
+far into the current, and are of so shifting and sandy a nature as to
+be practically worthless. Most of the remainder is mud, varying from
+sand and hard mud on the outside to soft mud in the creeks that lead
+into the main land. The central portion of the flat is peculiarly
+adapted to the culture of clams, however, and is very productive.</p>
+
+<p>Appleton's flat comprises about 6 acres of hard sand, verging into
+mud, thickly strewn with old clam shells. It lies at the mouth of
+Perkins and Pine Creeks, which run for about a mile into the main
+land of Plum Island, and contain nearly 25 acres each of fairly productive
+mud flats. Appleton's is a valuable flat, and the clams dug
+here are large.</p>
+
+<p>The Foresides is a thatch island a little over a mile in length, lying
+in the mid channel of Plum Island Sound. The flats which surround it<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span>
+on all sides are practically all sand, and comprise about 80 acres. The
+whole western side is more or less productive, though the outer edge,
+where the strong cross currents of the channel sweep over, is too much
+rippled to be suitable for clam growth. The strip of sand along the
+northern and northeastern sides, though rather narrow and limited in
+area, is productive, while most of the southeastern portion, which
+projects far into the channel, is barren and totally unadapted for soft
+clams, though bedded with sea clams. The productive sections of this
+flat are much dug, and altogether it is one of the most important of the
+Ipswich clam grounds.</p>
+
+<p>The west coast of Plum Island Sound, comprising the Green's Creek
+and Roger Island territories, extends from the Ipswich to the Rowley
+rivers. This division contains the bulk of the waste and barren flats
+of the town, although there is exceptionally good clamming in Stacy's
+Creek, Third Creek and the "Nutfield."</p>
+
+<p>The Essex River region is rather remote for most of the clammers,
+and hard to reach, but furnishes on the whole some of the very best
+digging. The three main flats of this division are the Essex beach,
+Wheeler's, and the Spit. Essex beach has a very good set, evenly
+sprinkled over the ridgy, shifting bars that skirt the channel.</p>
+
+<p>Wheeler's is an irregular sand bar, occupying about 77 acres. Fully
+one-half of this is very productive, and in the main portion occurs
+another thick set very similar to that on Essex beach.</p>
+
+<p>The Spit, mainly sand or sandy mud, lies in the three towns of
+Ipswich, Essex and Gloucester. The whole area is some 300 acres,
+about a third lying within the town of Ipswich. This whole bar is
+so liable to change that any calculations based on its precise area or
+location are decidedly unreliable. Very good digging occurs, however,
+in limited areas on the north and west sides of the Ipswich territory.</p>
+
+<p>These four divisions comprise the clamming territory of Ipswich, and
+aggregate 970 acres, of which 390 acres is sand and 500 mud. This also
+includes 15 acres of mussels scattered along Ipswich River, Plum
+Island and Green's Creek region, and about 10 acres of eel grass in
+various localities. Over 800 acres is more or less productive, about half
+being good clamming.</p>
+
+<p>About 50 regular clammers depend upon these flats for a living,
+though 136 permits were issued in 1907. Here, owing to the greater
+distances to be traversed, many power boats are used. Nearly $7,500
+is invested in the industry, and 25,000 bushels of clams, at a valuation
+of $18,750, are annually produced. The relative decrease in price as
+compared with Newburyport is due to the fact that shucking is not so
+extensively practised here.</p>
+
+<p>The town laws merely require a permit from every clammer, for
+which no charge is made. Such permit is issued at the discretion of
+the selectmen, and requires of the recipient six months' residence in
+the town and two years in the State. In past years the town has made<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span>
+several by-laws for the protection of shellfish, chiefly in the nature of
+partial closed seasons; but unfortunately considerable difficulty has
+been found in enforcing these excellent laws, and the results have been
+far from satisfactory.</p>
+
+<p>Ipswich has jealously guarded the rights of its clam flats, and has
+protected them in every way from the invasion of outsiders, which in
+part accounts for the excellent condition of these flats, which were
+originally deeded to the Commoners by the Crown, and from them to
+the town. Ipswich is the only town in the Commonwealth which has
+thus directly received its clam flats as its own property, and naturally
+has done more to improve its natural clam resources than any other
+town in the State.</p>
+
+<p>The history of the industry shows little change; some few flats once
+considered worthless have been opened and utilized; others once productive
+have been dug out and allowed to become waste. On the whole,
+the industry is following the trend of the shellfisheries everywhere, and
+slowly but steadily declining.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">136</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$7,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$18,750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">390</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">55</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">970</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">420</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">125</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$200,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Essex.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Essex, while still ranking as an important clam-producing town, has
+a very imperfect development of her shellfish resources. The total
+clam flat area comprises some 650 acres, and, though scarcely more than
+25 acres can be considered as unfit for the growth of clams, and consequently
+barren, only a little more than half the remainder is at all
+productive, and of this probably less than 150 acres yields any financial
+return. In other words, 325 acres of good clam flat is allowed to remain
+practically barren.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The main type of soil is sand, and nearly 500 acres may be properly
+classed under this head. The remaining 150 acres are mud, and are
+located in the creeks along the river and in the coves north of Hog
+Island. The productive sections are scattered for the most part along
+both sides of the Essex River, and well-developed areas are also
+found at its mouth and on the Spit. There are several good locations
+of seed clams. One section of about 25 acres occurs on the west side
+of the Spit. This is composed of 1 to 2 inch clams, running 10 to 40
+per square foot. At the mouth of the river on the north side occurs
+another set of &frac12;-inch clams, covering about 10 acres. On the flats
+west of Cross Island is found a third set of &frac12; to 2 inch clams, comprising
+about 30 acres. Other smaller patches of set are scattered
+along the river almost up to its source.</p>
+
+<p>About 50 men derive an income from these flats. Some $1,200 is
+invested, and the annual product exceeds 15,000 bushels, valued at
+$12,750.</p>
+
+<p>The town of Essex has realized the importance of the clam problem,
+and has attempted through legislation to deal with it. The selectmen
+are empowered to grant to citizens of the town an area consisting of
+an acre or less on flats already barren, for the purpose of raising
+clams, and in this manner partially restock the flats. A rental of
+$2 is charged, covering a period of five years, and an additional fee
+of 50 cents is required for recording. In spite of inadequate protection,
+the experiment has been conducted long enough to prove that
+these flats can be made profitable to the clammers.</p>
+
+<p>The history of the clam industry at Essex is one of extensive decline.
+There is every reason to believe that the greater part at least of the
+waste area was once very productive. Prof. James L. Kellogg in the
+United States Fish Commission Bulletin for 1899, says:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>We have much evidence that the clam industry in Essex has, in the past,
+been extensive.... Much more testimony of a similar character may be
+had to show that the flats once very productive have almost entirely failed.</p></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <th>1879.</th>
+    <th>1907.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production (bushels),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$4,500</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$12,750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Price (cents),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+    <td class="tdr">85</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$12,750</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">125</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">650</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">325</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$120,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Gloucester.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The far-celebrated deep sea fisheries of Gloucester overshadow her
+humble shellfish industry; but within her tidal flats lie undeveloped
+resources, which if properly brought out would form no inconsiderable
+factor in her annual revenue. Even now her clam fishery attains considerable
+proportions, though by no means what it once was, or what
+it might be were suitable cultural methods employed.</p>
+
+<p>The main areas of clam-producing territory lie in the Annisquam
+River and in the Essex River in West Gloucester. The grounds in the
+Annisquam are the more productive. This river is some 4 miles long,
+and is bordered for the greater part of this distance with tidal flats. Of
+these the sand flats predominate, though there are large areas of mud
+and extensive beds of mussels. On the extreme head of the river, known
+as the Dumfudgeon region, dredging operations for the Gloucester
+canal have somewhat impaired the flats, but as a whole the river seems
+in every way suitable for the production of an abundant harvest of
+clams.</p>
+
+<p>The flats of West Gloucester, including a portion of the Essex Spit,
+are largely unproductive. The Spit is the only flat of any extent in this
+region which is at present of real economic value; the remaining flats,
+scattered along the south shore of the Essex River and its tributary
+creeks, are for the most part practically barren.</p>
+
+<p>The total area of clam flats in Gloucester approximates 550 acres. Of
+this, some 250 acres are sand, 200 mud, while there are about 100 acres
+of mussels and eel grass, which cannot be considered at all adapted for
+clam culture. Only a fraction of the whole, 75 acres, more or less, is
+good clamming; a scant 100 acres produces scattering clams; 275 acres<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span>
+are barren, though capable of producing clams; while 100 acres may
+never be made productive.</p>
+
+<p>Eight men dig regularly on these flats the year round, and 23 others
+work intermittently. The capital invested amounts to over $600, and
+the annual output exceeds 6,000 bushels, valued at $8,000. Most of
+the clams produced at Gloucester are shucked either for market or bait.</p>
+
+<p>Local legislation has no bearing on the shellfish question, and no
+effort is being made either to better conditions in the clam industry or
+to check its steady decline.</p>
+
+<p>The industry has fallen off greatly in the past few years. In 1875
+there were 90 regular clammers, and a man could dig 6 bushels to a
+tide, where now 8 regular and 23 intermittent clammers find it difficult
+to get from 1&frac12; bushels to 3 bushels per tide.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span></p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th>YEAR.</th>
+    <th>Production (Bushels).</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+    <th>Men.</th>
+    <th>Capital Invested.</th>
+    <th>Price.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">13,978</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">92</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$0.40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">31</td>
+    <td class="tdr">600</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1.33</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">31</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$600</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$8,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">550</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">275</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$70,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Manchester.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Manchester has a coast line so much exposed, and consequently so
+small a territory of tidal flats, that it is not surprising to find its clam
+industry of very insignificant proportions. Affairs are in much the
+same state of apathy as at Beverly, though Manchester does not possess
+the resources of the former town, and could not, in the nature of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span>
+case, carry on any extensive clam business. Its facilities, however, poor
+as they are, are very imperfectly utilized; hence the present state of
+depletion, verging on absolute exhaustion.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Beverly.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Beverly has practically no clam industry. The area of tidal flats,
+comprising nearly 50 acres, is at present unprofitable and nearly
+worthless. As at Swampscott, some clams still continue to be dug for
+bait and for local clam bakes, but any evidence of a systematic business
+has long ceased to exist. Thirty years ago clams were far more
+abundant, though there was never an extensive industry. The town
+authorities require no licenses and make no efforts to revive the industry.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Salem.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Salem has far better natural advantages for clam culture than the
+other towns in its immediate vicinity, and leads in clam production,
+though the industry is of very inferior proportions. Seven men are at
+present employed in digging the harbor flats, where the clams have
+very recently seeded in. Many of these clams, though rather small,
+are shucked, and the remainder are sold in the local markets. The
+entire value of the annual production does not exceed $200, and the
+capital invested amounts to but $75. This is rather poor showing for
+100 acres of flats for the most part comparatively good, and capable
+of yielding $11,000 annually. The Salem clammers dig also in the
+Danvers River in the town of Danvers.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">70</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$11,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Lynn.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The city of Lynn has within its tidal flats the latent resources of an
+important industry. Its clam grounds could, if properly utilized, yield
+a great increase over their present inconsiderable return. No legislation
+on the part of the city authorities has intervened to improve the shellfish
+production or to prevent the depletion of valuable territory which has
+been allowed to gradually lapse into an unsanitary desert. While at
+low tide about 400 acres of flats spread over the broad harbor or border
+the banks of the Saugus River, but 40 acres of this wide expanse yield
+any appreciable revenue. The principal part of the digging is done
+on the mud flats of the Saugus River. Here 7 fishermen work intermittently
+to supply the local market during the summer months. There
+is some good territory at the mouth of the river toward the north, and
+scattering clams occur along the eastern shores, but the main flats of
+the harbor are for the most part barren.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The deposit of sewage from the city drainage has undoubtedly had a
+prejudicial effect on much of this area, as the unpleasing scum which
+covers the soft, sticky mud and eel grass bears abundant witness.
+Whether measures undertaken to reclaim this lost area would in the
+long run yield profitable returns is an undecided question, but much
+might be done, by the employment of judicious cultural methods, to
+increase the yield of those flats which are properly productive. No
+exact returns of the annual clam harvest for this region are obtainable,
+as most of the output is disposed of at retail, but it cannot exceed 1,000
+bushels, and probably falls far short of that figure; $1,000, then, or
+thereabouts, represents the total monetary income from this fishery.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">90</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">160</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$26,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Saugus.</i></h3>
+
+<p>At Saugus conditions in many respects parallel those at Lynn. The
+clam grounds, while they by no means equal those of the neighboring
+city in area, are on the whole better, as they are freer from contaminating
+sewage. Of the 250 acres which comprise the normal tide flat
+area, only 100 acres, or 40 per cent., can be said to be strictly barren.
+The remaining 150 acres is an undeveloped asset, as its value lies far
+more in its prospects than in its present productivity. While scattering
+clams occur throughout, no more than 25 acres can be accounted paying
+property. This remunerative territory lies chiefly in the Saugus River
+and in the vicinity of the Point of Pines. Here 10 men dig quite
+regularly, particularly in the summer, though none of them depend
+wholly upon this source of revenue for a livelihood. The annual output
+equals that of Lynn, both in amount and valuation. To these flats,
+with their undeveloped resources, local legislation gives practically no
+attention.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$22,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Nahant.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Although Nahant has a large area of tidal flats, it is not on the whole
+favorably located, and much that would otherwise be available is necessarily
+waste. The territory which borders the western coast is not
+barren, but most of it is not productive enough to be profitable.</p>
+
+<p>A few scattered sections repay the clammer for his labor, and from
+these sections perhaps 300 bushels a year are dug for home consumption.
+Four or five men are employed at intervals in the summer
+months, but no one of them depends upon this source of income for
+more than transient employment, as the entire value of the yearly
+harvest does not exceed $300. As there are nearly 250 acres of flats
+in Nahant, this would be a revenue of $1.60 per acre, on an average.
+However, this is not a fair comparison, for much of the territory
+apparently available is, as has been stated, properly waste. Nevertheless,
+an industry of far greater proportions than at present could
+be attained if wise legislation were directed to that end.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$25,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Boston Harbor.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Owing to the danger arising from sewage contamination the State
+Board of Health, on Dec. 6, 1906, requested the Department of Fisheries
+and Game to prohibit the digging of clams for market in Boston harbor.
+The region closed by this law lies to the west of an imaginary line running
+from Point Shirley through Deer Island to the northeastern end
+of Peddocks Island; thence in a southwesterly direction to the extreme
+point of Hough's Neck. This territory includes Winthrop, Chelsea,
+Charlestown, Everett, Somerville, Cambridge, Boston, East Boston,
+South Boston, Dorchester, Neponset and Quincy. For convenience all
+the prescribed territory is treated under the head of "Boston harbor."</p>
+
+<p>The action of the State Board of Health in closing Boston harbor
+was necessitated by a due regard for the public health, as it seemed
+inexpedient to allow clams dug from this territory and subject to
+sewage contamination to be marketed for food. Necessary as this act
+may have been, the closing of 5,000 acres of flats for the production of
+edible shellfish made valueless an important source of revenue, and
+threw a large number of clammers out of employment. Some alleviation
+of these conditions has resulted through the granting of permits
+to take shellfish for bait from the prescribed waters, thus furnishing
+a number of men with transient employment. The value of the law,
+however, is almost completely nullified, for the danger to the public
+health is actual, and not imaginary. Under present conditions it is
+well-nigh impossible to make the necessary surveillance so complete as
+would be necessary to prove that clams "dug for bait" are not used
+as food. Further, even in the digging and handling of shellfish in
+polluted waters there is positive danger of transmitting the germs by
+hands of the digger to his own mouth or to other persons.</p>
+
+<p>The nature of the flats permit the division of Boston harbor into
+three sections: (1) the north shore, (2) the south shore, (3) and the
+islands.</p>
+
+<p>(1) The northern coast of the harbor has extensive mud and sand
+flats, covered for the most part with eel grass or scattered mussel beds.
+Much of the surface is a variety of pebbly gravel, while but little of
+it appears to be good clam ground. The mud flats are mostly covered
+with a sewage scum which renders them unsuitable for clams. Scattering
+clams are found throughout the entire region.</p>
+
+<p>The immediate vicinity of Snake Island in Winthrop and the cove
+on Point Shirley furnish fairly good clamming, while clams are found
+in a greater or less degree upon the extensive flats of Winthrop harbor.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[Pg 197]</a></span>
+The flats of the Mystic River, which are of a tenacious mud rather
+unwholesome in appearance, in so far as they have not been encroached
+upon for building purposes, possess scattered patches of very good
+digging, and furnish transient employment to 20 or more men. The
+flats in the Charles and Chelsea rivers likewise furnish fair clamming.</p>
+
+<p>(2) The south shore of the harbor is much like the north, except that
+the mud type of soil predominates. The large flats, mainly mud, are
+not entirely barren though most of the clams are found in a narrow
+strip of beach along the shore. At South Boston as well as in Dorchester
+Bay clams are found in considerable numbers, though nowhere
+are there any large areas of good clamming.</p>
+
+<p>(3) The islands in the harbor are fringed with pebbly beach, where
+scattering clams are usually found. Apple Island and Governor's
+Island are surrounded with quite extensive flats, which are, however,
+but sparsely productive. Much digging for bait is carried on constantly
+on these pebbly beaches.</p>
+
+<p><i>History.</i>&mdash;Boston harbor has been in the past a good clamming
+region, as the magnitude of its available flats has rendered possible
+an extensive production. Naturally, the closing of the harbor by the
+State Board of Health has limited the annual production of clams
+from this vicinity, as now the only legal digging is for bait. Owing
+to this partial closed season the clams are said to have been on the
+increase during the last two years. Nevertheless, before the passage
+of this act the fishery had already greatly declined. The decline of
+the clam industry has been going on for years, as even in 1879 Mr.
+Ernest Ingersoll mentions:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>In Boston harbor clams are much depleted, owing to the fact that they
+are remorselessly dug the year through, chiefly by a class of ignorant
+foreigners who go down the harbor for the purpose. July and August are
+the most productive months, there being a large demand for the "clam
+bakes" which picnic parties from the cities indulge in on the various
+beaches. All the clams got in Boston harbor are very small, because they
+are allowed little chance to grow; in March and April they are hardly
+worth eating.</p></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison with 1879.</span></p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <td class="tdr">1897.</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1907.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">90</td>
+    <td class="tdr">350</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Annual production:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$20,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$6,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of dories,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,350</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,250</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>In 1879 A. Howard Clark states:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>The towns around Boston usually charge a license fee of $2 a year for
+the privilege of taking clams. The clams are in some cases bought up by<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[Pg 198]</a></span>
+small operators, who team them into the city, though the diggers sometimes
+bring them to the city and sell them to the dealers direct from their boats
+at the wharves.</p></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of licenses,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">350</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">900</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$330,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Weymouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Weymouth, with its two rivers, possesses an area of flats aggregating
+250 acres. The shores of Fore River are stony, but in spite of the hard
+digging clams are found in fair numbers. The shores of Back River
+are similar, except for the mud flats on the channel, which are either
+barren or but sparsely productive. A few clams are dug for bait and
+home consumption.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">80</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">170</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$11,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Hingham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Hingham has an area of tidal flats comprising nearly 650 acres. The
+characteristic soil is of two kinds: a marginal strip of pebbly beach
+extending the full length of the shore, and the broad flats of Hingham
+harbor and Weir River, with their extensive areas of mud, eel grass
+and mussels. The clamming territory is confined for the most part
+to this narrow strip fringing the shore, though scattering clams are
+found in diminished numbers on the mud flats.</p>
+
+<p>The shellfish industry of the town consists mostly in procuring clams,
+mussels and cockles for bait. Clams are dug to some extent for home
+consumption and for the hotels at Nantasket; but the fishery is carried
+on in a desultory manner by a few men who dig when other work fails,
+and who do not wholly depend on clamming for a livelihood.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,.</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">450</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">650</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">550</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$20,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Hull.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The stony shores of Hull offer but little suitable clam area, though
+fair digging is found in the vicinity of Hog Island and in Weir River.
+The usual type of flat is a pebbly or gravel beach, while near White
+Head and Weir River there are large mud areas. Clams are dug only
+for home consumption or for bait.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">225</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">425</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres)</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres)</td>
+    <td class="tdr">325</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$15,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Cohasset.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Cohasset, though possessing sufficient suitable area to support a
+clam fishery, has no industry of any importance. The greater part
+of the tidal flats are barren, while the remainder are far from fertile.
+The region immediately about White Head and the territory opposite
+extending along Barson's beach are the most productive, while scattering
+clams are found in Little Harbor.</p>
+
+<p>The total acreage of available flat exceeds 100 acres. Of this, 90
+acres are wholly unproductive, and the remainder, 10 acres, is not very
+valuable. The main type of soil is sand, though areas of mud are found
+in the coves. There are no regular clammers, though many clams are
+dug by the citizens of the town for their own use. There has never
+been a clam industry worthy of the name at Cohasset, and the present
+state of apathy appears to be normal. No local regulations of any
+kind govern the fishery.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$6,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Scituate.</i></h3>
+
+<p>There is no clam industry at Scituate. The selectmen of the town
+have forbidden all exportation of clams for market, and consequently
+the few clams dug are utilized for home consumption.</p>
+
+<p>The possibilities of a future clam industry at this town, while not
+alluring, give indications of some promise. Occasional clams are found
+on the shores of Scituate harbor, as well as its tributary creeks. The
+main undeveloped resource lies, however, along the broad flats of the
+North River. These flats undoubtedly constitute a considerable asset
+in the communal wealth, and the action of the selectmen in maintaining
+a close season will tend to the restocking and consequent utilization
+of this territory.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">45</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$8,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Marshfield.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Affairs at Marshfield are in practically the same state of inactivity
+as at Scituate. The town has considerable natural advantages, since
+the North River, which formerly made a wide sweep to the south before
+emptying into the ocean, has opened a new channel within the
+last ten years, forming many acres of excellent clam ground. A close
+season is maintained, although there has been considerable discontent
+on the part of certain individuals relative to this policy of the selectmen.
+A considerable quantity of clams, probably not exceeding 200
+bushels per annum, are dug for home consumption. There are no shipments
+for market.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$9,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Duxbury.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The clam industry at Duxbury has a peculiar interest, owing to the
+many perplexing problems which it presents. A vast extent of tidal
+flats, far exceeding in area those of any other town in the State, and
+in a measure suitable for the production of clams, lie almost wholly
+barren. The enormous territory comprised in these flats exceeds 3,500
+acres, or, roughly, 5&frac12; square miles. This is greater than the combined
+clam area of Salisbury, Newburyport, Ipswich, Essex and Gloucester,
+which is the finest territory in the State, and produces most of the
+Massachusetts clams. Duxbury, with a greater area than all these towns,
+dug in 1907 about 700 bushels of clams,&mdash;an amount which could well
+have been produced from 2 acres of ground. An investigation into the
+history of the town shows us that this state of barrenness has not always
+existed. There was a time when Duxbury was justly celebrated for
+her shellfish, as is still shown by the allusions to Duxbury clams on
+the menus of many hotels and restaurants. The dealers at Taunton,
+Fall River and other Massachusetts cities formerly sent to Duxbury
+large orders for clams, which were always forthcoming. Now, as far
+as can be ascertained, not a single barrel is shipped out of the town
+from year to year.</p>
+
+<p>This transition from a state of prosperity to one of almost total
+barrenness is replete with interest, and is difficult of solution. Doubtless
+several causes may have contributed to this general decline. In the
+first place, it is evident that the Duxbury flats were never in so flourishing
+a state of production as those of the Cape Ann district. This
+assumption is amply supported by historical records, and it is also
+supplemented, at least, by the fact that a great per cent. of the
+present territory is largely unfit for the production of clams in any<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[Pg 203]</a></span>
+quantity. As these flats have changed scarcely at all for many years,
+is it unreasonable to suppose that they ever have been very suitable
+since the first settlement of the country?</p>
+
+<p>As for the historical records referred to, the weight of evidence
+everywhere tends to prove that many years ago there was a fairly
+large output of clams yearly from Duxbury. But while this output was
+large in itself, it was, in proportion to the possible area, exceedingly
+small. Mr. Ernest Ingersoll states that in 1879 there were yearly
+exported from Duxbury 5,000 bushels of clams. At that time, he
+says, the industry had declined. Clamming was then prosecuted with
+no such vigor as at the present time, for the price was low, and the
+demand, except for bait, by no means excessive. Clams had not yet
+come to be looked on as such important articles of food as at present,
+and the business of digging them as carried on then could have made
+little inroad on well-stocked flats. The great probability is that only
+a small percentage of the whole territory was ever very productive.
+An observer at the present time, viewing from an eminence the flats of
+Duxbury at low tide, could not help being struck with the singular
+appearance which they present. He would see spread out before him
+a broad expanse apparently of green meadows, with long, narrow
+streams of water winding in and out among them. These seeming
+meadows, stretching on mile after mile, broken here and there by a
+patch of clear sand, are the tidal flats of Duxbury, more than 2,700
+acres of which are covered with a thick growth of eel grass.</p>
+
+<p>How many years this eel grass has covered the flats no one knows.
+It shifts somewhat, as the ice in winter sometimes plows up an immense
+surface, stripping it of its green covering. For the most part it seems
+to grow steadily year after year, until the roots, decaying stalks and the
+fine sediment which they have collected build up a spongy crust over the
+true bed of the flat. It is this spongy, clayey soil which is the predominant
+type in the eel-grass region, though a large area is soft mud
+with little patches of hard sand. It does not seem surprising that clams
+are not abundant in this soggy medium, covered with its thick matting
+of grass. Clams do exist, however, for occasionally when the ice in
+the winter storms has scraped bare a section of these flats, scattering
+large clams can be found.</p>
+
+<p>Whether anything can be done with these eel-grass flats on a sufficiently
+large scale to render the undertaking profitable, and whether
+they would prove good ground for clam culture if the eel grass were
+removed, is a problem. However, the sand flats free from eel grass
+comprise nearly 800 acres,&mdash;an area sufficient in itself to furnish a
+very large industry for the town. Smooth, hard and unshifting, they
+have the appearance of being in every way suitable for the production
+of an enormous amount of shellfish. Yet, barring cockles, mussels and
+razor clams, shellfish are rare on most of these flats, which, in spite
+of their inviting appearance, are practically barren.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[Pg 204]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The only places where clams are dug in any quantity is along the
+shore. Here little scattered patches, remnants perhaps of the former
+large supply, repay the clammer's toil with a scant return. Little or
+no effort is made to dig them on the main flats, and few are so dug
+unless they happen to be unearthed by accident when the men are
+searching for razor clams for bait. The supply is hardly adequate
+for home consumption and the demands for bait by local fishermen.</p>
+
+<p>Whether all the great tidal territory of Duxbury can ever be reconstructed
+into profitable clam ground is a difficult question. There exist,
+however, no known reasons why a fishery at least as flourishing as that
+of twenty years ago could not be re-established and indefinitely developed.
+A great industry was once in evidence here. Outside the boggy
+eel-grass marshes (doubtful territory at best) are wide expanses of
+clean sand flats, suitable in every way for the cultivation of clams.
+That the ingenuity of man properly administered can build up an
+enormous industry on these sand flats alone, no thoughtful person can
+doubt, and then utilization of these great barren Duxbury wastes will
+partially, at least, be accomplished.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th>YEAR.</th>
+    <th>Production (Bushels).</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">700</td>
+    <td class="tdr">600</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$60</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">700</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$600</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,700</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,685</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$83,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Kingston.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The condition of the clam industry at Kingston is in many respects
+parallel to that at Duxbury. The clam flat area (some 600 acres) is
+very much smaller, but the character of the soil is essentially the same,
+consisting for the most part of clay, soft mud and eel-grass marshes,
+with a relatively small proportion of really suitable ground.</p>
+
+<p>The two main flats of the town are Egobert's and Gray's. Egobert's,
+the larger of the two, has an area of about 275 acres. Most of this is
+practically waste, owing to a thick growth of eel grass; but a triangular
+piece on the mid-southern section is bare. This portion of smooth,
+unshifting sand comprises about 80 acres. A few patches of clams
+are scattered along the outer edge, near the channel, but hardly any of
+these patches produce clams enough to make it profitable to dig them.
+The great bulk of this territory is entirely barren.</p>
+
+<p>Gray's flat is of an entirely different type. It is a long flat, with a
+fairly uniform width of about 100 yards. It runs through its entire
+length parallel to the shore, while on the other side it is separated
+from Egobert's by a 300-foot channel. Like Egobert's, it is covered
+for the most part by eel grass, but it is essentially different in the
+nature of its soil, which is mud throughout. Although the total area
+of the flat is about 115 acres, an irregular section of bare mud on the
+southeastern side, comprising 30 acres, is the only available clam territory.
+This section is composed of soft mud on the north and south,
+rather poorly suited for clam culture; but the mid section contains
+several acres of hard mud, which seems well adapted, and here clams
+are found in sufficient quantities to keep several men digging intermittently
+through the summer months.</p>
+
+<p>Along the shore a few clam grants have been given to individuals
+by the local authorities. These are managed with fair success, though
+no business other than that of supplying the local demand is carried
+on. The possibilities of forming a clam industry here of importance
+is evident, though through lack of available territory it could never
+give promise of such a development as might be looked for from Duxbury
+or Plymouth.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$450</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">450</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">600<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">440</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$18,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Plymouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The clam industry at Plymouth is at a low ebb. The same problems
+which baffle progress at Duxbury and Kingston are present here with
+all their complications. The combined available territory, exceeding
+1,600 acres, save for a few unimportant sections, is wholly barren.
+While it is true that fully two-thirds of this great area is eel-grass
+waste, and in its present state of little value for the production of
+clams, there remains over 500 acres of good flats, for the most part
+sand well adapted for shellfish culture. It is certain that a flourishing
+industry has existed here in former times. From the earliest history
+of the colony, records tell of the excellent clam flats at Plymouth; and
+we learn that the Pilgrims during the darkest hours of the early settlement
+depended in large measure upon these flats for support. As late
+as 1879 Ernest Ingersoll reports an annual output of 5,000 bushels of
+clams, and states that the industry had then greatly declined. It
+appears to have gone down steadily ever since, until now it merely
+furnishes transient employment to 4 or 5 men, who dig at rather uncertain
+intervals for local markets.</p>
+
+<p>The best clamming, probably because the most inaccessible, is around
+Clark's Island. Scattering clams occur on Wind flat, the Oyster grant,
+and in patches along the shore. But no considerable extent of good
+clamming occurs anywhere, and the bulk of the territory is wholly
+barren.</p>
+
+<p>The town of Plymouth has endeavored in several ways to develop
+the industry. It has appropriated money to restock the flats, a close
+season has been tried, and an attempt made to solve the problem by the
+giving of private grants. While these grants have not always been
+run in as energetic a manner as could be desired, the experiment has
+proved conclusively that there are great possibilities in such a system.
+In short, there can be little doubt that in the proper administration of
+private grants lies the key to the solution of the problem which confronts
+this whole region. As clams were once abundant in Plymouth
+harbor, and as no apparent causes other than excessive digging appear
+to have brought about the decline, there seems to be no logical reason
+why this amount of territory (500 acres) should not yield its proper
+harvest. As for the vast extent of eel-grass flats, with all their undetermined
+possibilities, they can well afford to wait until the more immediate
+and pressing problems of the flats already available for clam
+culture have been solved.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th>YEAR.</th>
+    <th>Production (Bushels).</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$60</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,600</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">440</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$58,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Barnstable.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The clam industry at Barnstable, while not so extensive as at Ipswich
+or Essex, is nevertheless of special interest. The immensely long coast
+line, stretching for many miles on both the north and south shores of
+Cape Cod, gives the town a shellfish area both in Cape Cod Bay and
+Vineyard Sound which renders it unrivalled throughout the State for
+variety of marine life and diversity of natural environment. These
+conditions, as they affect clam culture, are best suited on the northern
+or bay side of the town, where the clam industry flourishes more extensively,
+as the southern shore is almost wholly given up to the rival
+quahaug, oyster and scallop fisheries.</p>
+
+<p>On the northern shore a large harbor, nearly 5 miles long and about
+2 miles broad at its widest part, extends in a general westerly direction,
+ending in a vast waste of salt marshes interwoven with a network of
+creeks. Up this harbor the tides rush with great velocity, and when
+they sweep out to sea leave a broad expanse of flats, sandy on the
+north and central portions and muddy on the south. These flats cover
+an aggregate area of 400 acres, comprising 200 acres of hard sand and
+150 acres of soft mud. Large stretches of these mud flats on the south<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span>
+are waste, and covered for the most part with eel grass. Other sections
+elsewhere are likewise waste for various causes, and are to be excluded
+as unprofitable or barren; yet the total available area remaining after
+making these deductions exceeds 350 acres. This is the theoretical condition,&mdash;the
+real condition is far otherwise: 20 acres at the most
+yield clams, and of these only 10 acres produce them in marketable
+quantities.</p>
+
+<p>The explanation of these conditions is interesting. In the winter
+the ice and the force of storms tear out great pieces of the tough marsh
+surf, and the tides sweep them down the harbor. Some of these huge
+masses are torn to pieces and washed away, others find lodgment on the
+broad surface of some tidal flat; these, becoming stationary, accumulate
+sediment; the grass grows upon them through the summer, and gradually
+a little island is formed. Surrounding these islands and oftentimes
+growing over their entire surface, bedded in among the roots of
+the marsh grass, we find a very thick set of clams. In short, all the
+digging of any kind is in the immediate vicinity of these islands.</p>
+
+<p>The deductions to be made from these facts are apparently simple.
+In the spawning season, when the microscopic clam larv&aelig; are in their
+floating stage, they are carried here and there by the currents. Later,
+when they tend normally to settle in some fertile tract of flat, they are
+prevented from so doing by reason of the remarkable swiftness of the
+tides, which sweep strongly over the broad, smooth flats, and give
+the little clams no opportunity of lodgment. Only in the firm thatch of
+low-lying islands can they find anything to cling to, and here, with
+their slender byssus threads attached to unyielding grass or roots, they
+are able to withstand the wash of the current. Thus the clams are
+gathered in great numbers in these natural collectors, later are washed
+on the neighboring flat, and finally a little colony grows up about every
+island of this sort.</p>
+
+<p>That this is actually what happens is largely borne out both by
+observation and facts. It makes little difference where these islands
+are located; clams grow nearby, while all about may stretch smooth,
+hard flats, perfectly adapted for clams, yet altogether barren. In view
+of the somewhat incomplete investigations made in this region, it is perhaps
+too sweeping to point out any single factor as the sole cause for
+these waste areas; but undoubtedly the swift tides and smooth, hard flats,
+which offer no resting place for the young larv&aelig;, constitute the main
+causes.</p>
+
+<p>Another odd circumstance in connection with the Barnstable clam industry
+is the local regulations which control the industry. Almost all
+digging is carried on in the winter, as a local by-law forbids the digging
+of clams in summer in any quantity exceeding 6 bushels per week for
+family use. This somewhat curious by-law is designed wholly for the
+benefit of the majority of the clammers, and to give them employment
+in that season of the year when work is most difficult to obtain. While<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span>
+interfering somewhat with summer clam bakes, the law appears to meet
+the approval of the townspeople.</p>
+
+<p>The south shore of Barnstable possesses many of the features of
+Buzzards Bay, and produces clams only in numbers sufficient for home
+consumption.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">700</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$550</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">330</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$39,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Yarmouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The clam industry at Yarmouth, never extensive, has steadily declined,
+until now it barely supplies the demands of home consumption. Barnstable
+bar on the northern coast twenty years ago produced clams in
+considerable quantities, but the soil was never well adapted for this
+shellfish. Scattering clams are now found there, but the grounds are
+very much exposed, and cannot properly rank as clam-producing area.
+Sea clams abound there at certain seasons, and furnish a transient
+business; also razor clams, which are used extensively for bait.</p>
+
+<p>The best clam territory is in Mill Creek, on the south shore of the
+town. Scattered patches of clams also occur along the shore of Bass
+River, but the whole area really available does not exceed 50 acres,
+and this is not at all well improved. There are no regular clammers,
+but intermittent digging produces about 600 bushels of clams annually,
+which are used either for home consumption or for bait.</p>
+
+<p>No effort has been made on the part of the town authorities to better
+conditions, although the advisability of giving clam grants, at least
+on the northern or bay side, has been discussed. No permits are
+required, and local legislation does not in any way concern itself with
+the clam industry.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">600</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$6,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Orleans.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Orleans is one of the few towns in the State which shows an advance
+in the clam industry. This is largely due to an increased production
+on the rich flats of Nauset harbor, as the remaining available territory
+in the town is declining in value. The output of 1907 is an increase of
+nearly 40 per cent. over the yield of the previous year, which shows
+an encouraging development.</p>
+
+<p>The clam flat area of the town is divided into four rather distinct
+divisions, three on the east or Atlantic side and one on the Bay or
+western side. The grounds which have been dug for the longest time
+and yielded uniformly the best results lie in the waters of Town Cove.
+Here a strip of gravelly sand and mud about 30 feet wide extends
+along the shores of this cove for 2 or 3 miles. Clams are scattered
+throughout this strip, and are dug constantly.</p>
+
+<p>The second division includes the bars of Nauset harbor, which at
+present furnish the best digging in town. The increased value of the
+town's industry is largely due to the recent development of these flats.
+Clams have seeded in abundantly during the past two or three years,
+and now furnish very good digging.</p>
+
+<p>The third section comprises that portion of the clam flat area bordering
+the coast of Pleasant Bay which crosses the town boundaries on
+the southeast. Here clams are rather scarce, though dug occasionally.
+This section is economically the least important of the four.</p>
+
+<p>The fourth section extends along the western coast, on a belt of sand
+bars well out in Cape Cod Bay. Clams are found on a strip about a
+quarter of a mile in width, and lying over half a mile from shore. This
+is a very exposed location. Billingsgate Point, projecting out from the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span>
+Wellfleet coast, offers some protection from northwest winds, and the
+hills of the Cape break the force of the easterly gales; but the full
+force of storms from the west and southwest sweeps these bars, and
+would seem to render them unsuitable for the growth of clams. Clams
+are here, however, in considerable numbers, though not so numerous
+as three or four years ago, and are dug to some extent.</p>
+
+<p>The greater part of the digging is done by intermittent clammers,
+who obtain perhaps 2&frac12; bushels per day. No permits are required, as
+there are no town by-laws regulating the industry.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">125</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$27,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Eastham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The town of Eastham is a sparsely settled community, and the clam
+fishery, while not large, plays a rather important part in its business
+activity. Six men depend quite largely upon it for a livelihood, while
+some 30 others dig intermittently through the summer. The same
+peculiar condition as at Orleans exists on the western coast. Here far
+from shore clams are found in considerable numbers on the shifting
+bars. The main source of supply, however, comes from the productive
+sand flats of Nauset harbor.</p>
+
+<p>These flats have seeded in only in the past two or three years, but
+they have already shown latent possibilities of a future increase.
+In the so-called "Salt Pond" 2 men are employed nearly the year
+round in digging clams under water by a method of "churning," locally
+known as "rootling."</p>
+
+<p>The total available area in Eastham is about 200 acres. More than
+half of this is sand, which includes almost all the good digging, while
+the mud flats are interspersed with stretches of gravel and scattering
+patches of eel grass.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The same abuses which have nearly ruined the Swansea fishery have
+begun here. Small seed clams are exported in considerable quantities
+to supply the summer demand of the New Bedford and Fall River
+districts. While this system has not yet made its ravages apparent, a
+glance at the Swansea report will serve to convince the most casual
+reader that unless some steps are taken to check this evil, the practical
+annihilation of the Eastham clam industry must follow. As it is, local
+legislation seems powerless to cope with the problem, and no laws of
+any kind relating to the clam fishery are in force.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">36</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of shore property,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$4,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$30,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Wellfleet.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Although possessing extensive flats, Wellfleet produces at present
+a relatively small amount of clams. The inhabitants realize that these
+flats are capable of producing a large harvest of clams if properly
+planted, and that in this way an extensive industry can be developed,
+and have undertaken to restock the flats, appropriating in 1906 for this
+purpose the sum of $1,000.</p>
+
+<p>At Billingsgate Island there are fair clam flats, but they are not
+easily accessible, as they lie at a distance of 5 miles from town. Clams
+can also be obtained in more or less abundance in the thatch which
+borders the flats of Blackfish Creek, Herring River and Duck Creek.
+A few clams are scattered over the flats of Blackfish Creek, particularly
+toward the head of the creek. Two patches of clams covering perhaps
+an acre are on the flats in front of the town: one in the stone and
+gravel east of Commercial wharf; the other, a more extensive area,
+just west of Mercantile wharf.</p>
+
+<p>Wellfleet possesses many acres of flats which, though now barren,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span>
+are capable of excellent production if properly planted. Wellfleet
+flats extend from Duck Creek to Herring River and from Herring River
+along the shores of Great Island for a distance of 4&frac12; miles, and cover
+an area of 400 acres. The Great Island flats are not especially adapted
+for clams, and only parts of these can ever be successfully cultivated,
+while possibly all the area between Duck Creek and Herring River can
+be reclaimed. South Wellfleet flats, which comprise an area of 200
+acres, are much poorer flats, consisting for the most part of mud and
+shifting sand. Only the firmer portions, about 50 acres, can be made
+productive by planting with clams.</p>
+
+<p>At Wellfleet the soft clam fishery can hardly be styled an industry.
+In the winter a few men go clamming when there is nothing else to do.
+The majority prefer razor clamming, which is a considerable winter
+industry, owing to the demand for this bait at Provincetown. Three
+men clam during the summer, doing practically all their digging at
+Billingsgate, while 8 others are in this work during the winter.</p>
+
+<p>The flats of Wellfleet were never very productive, but formerly were
+capable of furnishing a far greater production than at present. This
+decline is only accounted for by overdigging, which has brought about
+the present scarcity.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">11</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$640</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">450</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">605</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">12</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">340</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$28,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Truro.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The clam flats at Truro are confined principally to the Pamet River.
+At the mouth of this river near the head of the harbor bar is a sand
+flat comprising several acres, where the bulk of the clams are produced.
+In South Truro, Stony Bar and other similar patches of rocky beach
+are fairly well bedded with clams. Scattering clams are found over
+the shifting bars which skirt the main land on the bay side, but
+nowhere are clams sufficiently abundant to warrant any serious attempt<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span>
+at exportation. Fifteen to twenty years ago clams were everywhere
+much more abundant in this region than now, and in those days some
+market digging was carried on. At present the needs of the home
+market are with difficulty supplied from the local production, and 100
+bushels per year would cover all clams dug both for food and bait. No
+effort has at any time been made by the town authorities to increase the
+industry, though the clam fishery, at least in the sheltered coves of
+Pamet River, is not without possibilities of development.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$60</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">47</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td>&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Provincetown.</i></h3>
+
+<p>For the last five years the flats of Provincetown have produced only
+a small amount of clams. Wherever clams have set in abundance they
+have been quickly dug by fishermen for bait, thus checking their natural
+propagation.</p>
+
+<p>Clams are found in the drains among the thatch beds on the southwest
+side of the harbor and in Race Run, while a considerable set is
+scattered between the wharves of the town. All the extensive flats at
+the southwest end of the harbor are entirely barren of clams, owing
+chiefly to the shifting nature of the sand, although on certain parts of
+these, especially near the thatch, clams would grow if planted. As it
+is, the shifting sand makes it impossible for the young clams to set
+on this area.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$320<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[Pg 215]</a></span></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">194</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$21,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Chatham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Chatham can no longer be considered as the best clam-producing town
+of southern Massachusetts. In 1879 Chatham produced a greater
+quantity of soft clams than all the rest of the Cape; to-day all has
+changed, and the annual output is far less than several other towns of
+the Cape district.</p>
+
+<p>The town of Chatham is situated in the southeastern portion of Cape
+Cod, and includes that part which is commonly called the "elbow" of
+the Cape. It is surrounded on the north, east and south sides by the
+ocean, while on the south the peninsula known as Monomoy Island
+extends for 9 miles.</p>
+
+<p>The clamming territory of Chatham is situated in Stage harbor,
+Pleasant Bay and at Monomoy Point.</p>
+
+<p>In Stage harbor clams are found along the sides of the Mill Pond,
+comprising possibly an acre, and in the eastern end of the harbor
+toward the dike, where about 3 acres of flats are thickly set.</p>
+
+<p>An extended area of sand flats are found in Pleasant Bay. But
+small parts of this area furnish good clamming, and the Common Flats
+on the inside of Monomoy Island, where once there were acres of good
+clams, now lie entirely barren except for a small patch of set just
+north of Brant Island, comprising about 1/5 of an acre. Here are
+about 100 acres of barren flats which only need planting to be made
+productive.</p>
+
+<p>The commercial clam fishery, of the town is carried on at Monomoy
+Point, where 5 acres of the best clamming in Massachusetts is found.
+The Powder Hole flats, formed of coarse, clean sand, are thickly set
+with clams of all sizes, and furnish excellent digging. A good clammer
+can obtain from 5 to 6 bushels per tide from these flats.</p>
+
+<p>Clams are dug at Chatham during the fishing season chiefly for bait.
+Such digging lasts through the fall and winter. In the summer, clams
+are dug only for food, as no cod fishing is conducted in the warm
+months. From 10 to 15 men were engaged in clamming during the
+summer of 1907, travelling from Chatham to Monomoy Point in power
+or sail dories. Practically all the clams dug came from the Powder Hole<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[Pg 216]</a></span>
+flats at Monomoy Point. These were purchased at Chatham wharf by
+fish firms at the price of $2 per barrel.</p>
+
+<p>The winter clam fishery of Chatham was once an important industry,
+which started in 1875 when clams were in great demand as fish bait.
+The following table shows how this industry has declined:&mdash;</p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <th>1879.</th>
+    <th>1907.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Annual production (bushels),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">35,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value of production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$12,250</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Price per bushel (cents),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">35</td>
+    <td class="tdr">80</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>Owing to the large amount of clams dug by fishing vessels, the following
+restrictions were incorporated in 1881 as a State law, which
+reads as follows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>No fisherman or any other person shall take from the towns of Chatham
+and Nantucket any shellfish, for bait or other use, except clams and a shellfish
+commonly known by the name of horse feet, and no quantity exceeding
+seven bushels of clams, including shells or one hundred of said horse feet
+shall be taken in one week for each vessel or craft, nor in any case without
+a permit being first obtained from the selectmen of the town.</p></div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,500</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">330</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">360</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$44,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Harwich.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The town of Harwich possesses but little clam area. A few clams
+are obtainable on the shores of Pleasant Bay and Mud Creek in limited
+localities, while in the southern waters of the town there is some digging
+in Wychmere harbor and in Herring River. The total area of clam
+flats is not more than 1&frac12; acres.</p>
+
+<p>There are no regular clammers engaged in the business, all the clams
+dug being used only for home consumption.</p>
+
+<p>In 1905 there was a town law restricting the digging in Wychmere
+harbor, except for bait, to one day in the week.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span></p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th>YEAR.</th>
+    <th>Production (Bushels).</th>
+    <th>Value.</th>
+    <th>Men.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,125</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$400</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$80</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">14</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,400</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Dennis.</i></h3>
+
+<p>As the town of Dennis has mutual fishery rights with the town of
+Yarmouth, the clam flats of Bass River, which lie between the towns,
+are free to any inhabitant of Dennis. A few clams are also dug in
+Swan Pond River.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$45</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$4,200</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Mashpee.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The clam fishery at Mashpee is of hardly sufficient proportions to
+rank as an industry. The shores of the Popponesset River furnish
+perhaps favorable conditions for the growth of this shellfish, but the
+available territory is small, not exceeding 50 acres, and of this only a
+small percentage, comprising scattered patches of gravel-mud, produces
+clams in any abundance.</p>
+
+<p>No effort is made at exportation for market, and under the present
+circumstances it is doubtful if a greater yield than that required to
+supply home consumption could be expected. No effort is made on the
+part of local legislation to control the industry or foster it in any way.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$45</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,400</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Buzzards Bay.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The section of Massachusetts bordering the shores of Buzzards Bay
+supports a flourishing quahaug, oyster and scallop fishery, capable of
+great development. The clam industry, however, never very extensive,
+is of very slight significance at present, and can never attain the same
+degree of importance as the other shellfisheries, owing to the limited
+area available for clams. To those familiar with the harbors of Newburyport
+and Duxbury and their vast tidal flats with their latent possibilities,
+the shores of Buzzards Bay present indeed a notable contrast.
+Bluff and hilly for the most part, and frequently rocky, nowhere do
+they show extensive flats suitable for clam culture. That clams grow
+wherever opportunity permits is evident, for they are found on gravelly
+stretches or among rocks all along the coast, except in those localities
+openly exposed to the full force of the sea. But allowing for all
+possible favorable features, the lack of any considerable territory is a
+disadvantage that will forever act as a barrier to any expansion.
+Falmouth and Dartmouth on the east and west sides of Buzzards Bay
+respectively differ materially from the remaining towns of the district,
+in the fact that the characteristic soil of their clam grounds is sand;
+while the other towns have little in the shape of available territory
+except gravel stretches along the shores of coves, small areas of mud,
+and the rocky beaches of points and headlands. The yearly output
+hardly anywhere suffices for the needs of home consumption. Nowhere
+is any attempt at exportation possible. The business, such as it is,
+is carried on in a very intermittent fashion, chiefly in the summer,
+with but a small investment of capital.</p>
+
+<p>Special local regulation seems to remain aloof from the problem of
+insuring a future clam supply. That the combined area of all the
+towns of Buzzards Bay does not equal that of a single town in the
+Cape Ann district is an undeniable truth; but the fact nevertheless
+remains that an industry far more considerable than exists at present
+could be supported, and it is truly to the interest of the towns of this
+region to make the best possible use of their limited advantages.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Falmouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Falmouth has a long coast line not only on Buzzards Bay but also on
+Vineyard Sound. The flats at North and West Falmouth on the bay
+side are similar to those of Wareham and Bourne, though there are
+several small patches of quite good digging. On the southern shore
+there are clams scattered along the coasts of the various indentations,
+particularly at Waquoit Bay.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[Pg 220]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$175</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$6,400</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Bourne.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The clam industry at Bourne is practically extinct. Scarcely any
+clamming is carried on by the inhabitants of the town, even for their
+own use, as clams have become so scattering that it hardly pays to dig
+them. The territory is much the same in extent and general character
+as that of Wareham, but it has been over-dug to a greater degree, and
+has become nearly barren.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$6,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[Pg 221]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Wareham.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Wareham leads the towns of Buzzards Bay in the production of
+clams, although its annual output is only 600 bushels. This clearly
+shows the low ebb to which the industry has fallen in this region.</p>
+
+<p>There are no true tide flats in Wareham, but the total area of the
+mud-gravel and rocky bottom between high and low water mark where
+scattering clams are found is nearly 100 acres. There are no regular
+fishermen, but some half dozen quahaugers dig clams from time to
+time, chiefly during the summer, to supply the home market.</p>
+
+<p>The industry, such as it is, appears to be about stationary at present,
+though in production it has declined notably during the last twenty
+years. The town officials have attempted no measures to revive the
+failing fishery, and no town laws affect it in any way.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$800</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$10,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Marion.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The wealthy summer residents at Marion create a demand for clams
+at a very substantial price. In spite of the increased price, there is
+little inducement to engage in this industry as a livelihood, and only
+1 man digs steadily through the summer months, though intermittent
+digging is done by others to supply the local market.</p>
+
+<p>The best clamming is on the east coast of Great Neck and in Wing's
+Cove. These grounds are difficult of access, and consequently have not
+been so much overworked as the nearer shores of Ram's Island, Allan's
+Point and Blankinship's Cove. The total area does not exceed 10 acres,
+and this for the most part is very poor territory; while the clams coming
+from these rock and gravel beaches are not of very good quality, the
+shells being usually gnarled and crooked.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[Pg 222]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>There is no town legislation relating to this industry, and though it is
+becoming of less consequence every year, nothing is done to revive it.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Mattapoisett.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The coast of Mattapoisett, more open and exposed than that of Fairhaven,
+does not offer equal advantages to the cultivation of clams. A
+similar strip of gravel-mud or sand occurs along the more sheltered
+portions of the coast, and wherever an indentation in the mainland
+offers shelter clams may be found, though never in sufficient quantities
+to make digging profitable. There is really no industry at all; the few
+clams that are dug go for home trade or are used as bait, and the
+prospects of any decided improvement appear to be slight.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$2,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[Pg 223]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Fairhaven.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The clam industry at Fairhaven suffers from the unsanitary condition
+of the flats, though in a lesser degree than at New Bedford. The finest
+clam grounds of this town lie in the proscribed district of the Acushnet
+River, and handling or eating shellfish from this area is a positive
+menace to the public health.</p>
+
+<p>A strip of gravel-mud about 100 feet in average width fringes the
+shores of Priest's Cove, and this strip furnishes at present the best
+digging. Scattered patches of clams occur along the indentations of
+Sconticut Neck, around West Island and along the coast of Little Bay.
+No men are regularly employed in digging clams, though a rather
+inefficient attempt is made at times to supply the local demand.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$7,500</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>New Bedford.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The clam industry at New Bedford was never of any great importance,
+but the unwise methods of sewage disposal of the city,
+whereby the effluent enters the harbor in close proximity to the clam
+flats, renders the taking of shellfish a positive menace to the public
+health. The action of the State Board of Health in closing the Acushnet
+River and Clark's Cove to the clam digger virtually annihilated the
+remnant of the industry. Now practically all the available territory
+of the city is proscribed, and no clams are allowed to be taken from this
+area except for use as bait. Licenses are also required to take clams
+even for bait from this proscribed territory. Three hundred and
+twenty of these licenses have been issued since the passage of the act
+in 1904. The annual yield of clams for this purpose cannot be accurately
+ascertained, but probably does not exceed 250 bushels. No
+important clam industry would ever have been possible at New Bed<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[Pg 224]</a></span>ford,
+under any circumstances, but the slight possibilities which once
+existed have been swept away and can never return under the present
+conditions, though shellfish grown in this region could, if suitable
+legislation were enacted, be transplanted to a sanitary environment,
+where in a month all danger of spreading typhoid germs would be
+avoided.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Licenses for bait,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">320</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels (for bait),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">300</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$225</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Dartmouth.</i></h3>
+
+<p>The town of Dartmouth possesses a wide expanse of territory, but
+the actual amount of available clam ground is not as large as it would
+appear at first sight. Clams are found in more or less abundance at
+the following places: (1) Rickerson's Point (2/3 acre); (2) Apponagansett
+River (6 acres); (3) Apponagansett harbor (1 acre); (4)
+Nonquit (1/10 acre); (5) Round Hill Point (1/5 acre); (6) Salter's Point
+(3/4 acre); (7) Smith's Neck (3/5 acre); (8) Little River (7-1/2 acres);
+(9) Slocum's River (6 acres); comprising a total of 23 acres. The best
+clamming is obtained on the flats of Little and Slocum's rivers. In
+Apponagansett River clams are dug in the summer for the Padanaram
+clam bakes.</p>
+
+<p>A town by-law placing a closed season on Slocum's River was in
+force during the years 1904 and 1905. In 1906 Dartmouth, by a State
+law, required permits for clamming. These permits are issued by the
+selectmen free of charge.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$160</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span>Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>The Fall River District (Narragansett Bay).</i></h3>
+
+<p>The section of country bordering on Narragansett Bay and the
+Rhode Island line comprises a territory remote from the other clam-producing
+districts of the State, and possessing many characteristics
+not found in any other locality. Six towns of this region enjoy the
+privileges of a clam industry, situated as they are on the shores of Mt.
+Hope Bay and its tributary streams, the Cole, Lee and Taunton rivers.
+Beginning with the most westerly and taking them in order, these
+towns comprise Swansea, Somerset, Dighton, Berkley, Freetown and
+Fall River. These towns differ only in extent of resources or development
+of the industry, while the general nature of the clam flats and the
+methods employed in carrying on the business are essentially alike for
+all. The area in this region suitable for clam culture possesses some of
+the distinguishing features of the typical north shore flats, some of the
+Buzzards Bay variety and some peculiar to itself. There are scarcely
+any sand flats, and the prevailing type of soil is mud, as at Newburyport,
+or gravel, as in Buzzards Bay; while the greater part of the clam
+supply comes from a large and rather indefinite area, which is not
+properly tide flat at all, but lies continuously submerged.</p>
+
+<p>The methods employed in carrying on this industry include both wet
+and dry digging. On the tide flats the clams are dug as elsewhere on
+the south shore, with hoes or the common digger. Where, however,
+clams are dug in 2 or 3 feet of water, as is most frequently the case,
+an ordinary long-handled shovel and wire basket are employed. The
+soil containing the clams is shoveled into the baskets, and then the clams
+are sifted out under water. Several years ago an attempt was made
+to dig clams by machinery. An enterprising oysterman spent several
+hundred dollars in constructing a machine which was designed to farm
+the under-water districts more quickly and successfully than could be
+done by hand. The device had some of the principles of a suction
+pump, and theoretically the clams on the submerged flats could be
+washed out from the soil and collected in a receptacle. The machine
+worked well enough in extracting the clams from the mud, but failed<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span>
+completely when it came to collecting them. In short, after a thorough
+trial it was pronounced a failure and had to be abandoned.</p>
+
+<p>The main peculiarity of this region, and a far more important one
+than the type of soil or the methods of digging, is the nature of the
+clams which are produced. The inadequate territory and the constantly
+increasing demands of the Fall River markets have led to abuses which
+have had a most disastrous effect on the clam industry, and unless
+checked, and soon, these abuses will certainly cause its complete annihilation.
+The abuses in question are the universal custom of digging small
+seed clams for food. So importunate have the markets of Fall River
+and the vicinity become, that when the supply of suitable clams proves
+inadequate they demand and will gladly take "anything with a shell
+on," as the dealers say, so that it is no uncommon sight to see exposed
+for sale in the city markets clams of only 1 inch in length. This
+deplorable condition is fostered by the custom of digging under water,
+for the fine mesh of the woven-wire baskets retains even the smallest
+clams, which are saved for market.</p>
+
+<p>No quicker or surer way of destroying the industry completely could
+have been devised than this method of digging seed clams for food.
+One barrel of these clams would produce 10 to 15 barrels of marketable
+clams if left for one year under favorable circumstances. Thus, when
+a clammer digs 1 barrel of these clams he is in reality destroying 10 or
+more barrels. This is truly reaping the "seed" before it has had any
+time to mature the proper harvest. Also, these "seed" clams are so
+immature that in many cases they have not spawned, and thus the
+clammer by destroying the clams in this manner damages irrevocably
+all chances of restocking the flats.</p>
+
+<p>From the inherent difficulties of the problem, however, local regulation
+seems powerless to cope with the evil. The short-sighted clammers,
+while they know that these methods, if pursued very far, will ultimately
+destroy the industry, seem willing, nevertheless, to sacrifice the future
+for the present. The other clammers are inevitably brought into line
+on this mistaken policy, as they cannot but argue that if a few will
+persist in exploiting a natural resource it is the right of every man
+to have an equal chance, and take his share of the proceeds as long
+as they last. Another potent factor in this wastefulness is the irresponsible
+foreign element of the mill districts, who dig clams for their
+own use, large or small, with entire indifference. It might perhaps
+prove unjust and difficult to enforce laws preventing individuals
+digging "seed" clams for their own use; but legislation could possibly
+be enacted preventing the sale of such seed in the public market. This
+would strike a blow at the abuse sufficient to rob it of its worst
+features. The most casual glance at the facts in the case prove that
+there is a pressing need for some legislative action. The history of the
+clam industry in this region is one of steady and rapid decline. Any
+clammer of the vicinity is willing to acknowledge that conditions at<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span>
+present are in a very unsatisfactory state. The output of clams has
+greatly diminished, both in the consensus of opinion of those interested
+in the business, and also according to statistical figures. Furthermore,
+the end of the industry, as far as any economic importance is concerned,
+is plainly in sight, and at the present rate of destruction cannot
+long be delayed. It would seem that here was a striking example of
+the need of prompt and wise legislation for the protection and development
+of an industry which has made large profits for the community,
+and might yield still greater returns if properly regulated.</p>
+
+<p>The towns of this region can never compete with the towns of the
+Newburyport district in the production of clams, for the reason that
+they have by no means an equal acreage of suitable flats. The Taunton
+River is also a considerable factor, as its contaminated waters impair
+the quality of clams grown along its shores. There remains, however,
+a considerable extent of suitable territory which might yield a large
+product if rightly controlled, and this territory, with its inherent
+possibilities depleted to the verge of exhaustion by unwise and wasteful
+methods, it is for the interest of the Commonwealth to protect and
+improve.</p>
+
+
+<h3><i>Swansea.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Swansea, the most western town of this district, is by far the most
+favorably located, and has the greatest possibilities of clam production.
+Situated on the northern shore of Mt. Hope Bay, and containing the
+majority of the flats in the Cole and Lee rivers, it possesses a greater
+available territory free from the contaminating influences of the
+Taunton River than any other town in this region.</p>
+
+<p>Altogether, 200 acres comprise the possibly available clam area of
+this town. The best of this area is located in Cole's River, and includes
+Long Beach flat, the best flat of the district. Situated on the east
+shore of the river just below the railroad bridge, this flat stretches south
+in a broad triangle comprising some 20 acres of smooth, semihard mud.
+Over the main flat is sprinkled a very thick set of &frac12; inch to 1 inch
+clams, interspersed with some of larger growth. While this is the best
+flat, other flats extend along both shores far up the river until the
+clams become too "fresh" to be very good. Flats also occur in the
+Lee River, and there is a large and rather indeterminate amount of
+under-water territory. The total area suitable for culture is not far
+from 150 acres; of this, about 20 acres are gravel and the rest practically
+all mud.</p>
+
+<p>No permits are necessary to dig clams on tidal flats, but permits are
+required to "churn" clams under water. Twenty of these permits
+were issued last year. Usually in digging under water two men work
+together, one shovelling the mud into the wire baskets and the other
+sifting out the clams. About 75 per cent. of the clams produced come
+from these under-water areas, as the tide flats are for the most part
+nearly exhausted.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The season lasts all the year round, though most of the clams are
+dug in the summer time. Of late years it has become increasingly
+hard for a man to earn a living by clamming, as only 1 to 1&frac12; bushels
+now comprise an average day's work under the most favorable circumstances.
+Many of the clammers are leaving the business and seeking a
+livelihood in other employments.</p>
+
+<p>The history of the industry is one of marked decline. The most
+conservative clammer estimates that at the present rate the passing of
+five years will witness the complete annihilation of the industry.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$250</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$5,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$24,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Somerset.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Somerset, the next town in order, joins Swansea on the east and
+extends several miles up the left bank of the Taunton River. Its flats
+on the south and west, particularly in the Lee River, produce some
+clams, though the industry is practically run out. The total clam area
+comprises about 75 acres. This is mostly mud, though gravel stretches
+along the shore aggregate perhaps 10 acres. The development of latent
+possibilities in this territory is largely curtailed by the disastrous effects
+of the Taunton River upon the clams. This water, contaminated by
+the manufacturing plants of Taunton, makes the clams grown in the
+northern part of the town of inferior taste and quality.</p>
+
+<p>Six licenses, costing $1 apiece, were issued last year for "churning"
+clams. No permits other than these are required.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$50<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[Pg 229]</a></span></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$4,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Dighton.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Dighton has a very limited area of clam flat, comprising only about
+10 acres. Clams extend but little beyond the southern boundary of the
+town on the Taunton River and about &frac34; mile up the Segregansett
+River on the west. Practically no business is made of clamming by the
+citizens of the town except for local consumption. About 40 bushels
+were "churned" last year by outsiders. No permits are issued.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">8</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,200</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Berkley.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Berkley, on the right bank of the Taunton River, opposite Dighton,
+has a very similar clam territory both in extent and characteristics.
+But little use is made of the clam except for bait, as the river water
+renders them very unsatisfactory as food.</p>
+
+<p>There is practically no industry, and there never could be any of
+importance, owing to the very limited area and the contamination of
+the waters.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[Pg 230]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">6</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,400</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Freetown.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Freetown, joining Berkley on the south near the Fall River line,
+possesses a number of clam flats, aggregating 25 acres. Very little
+business is carried on, although conditions are better than in Berkley
+or Dighton. The clams, too, are of better quality, being freer from the
+disagreeable flavor of clams grown farther up the river. The possibilities
+for clam culture in this town are not attractive, but the present
+conditions can be vastly improved.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<div class="pagenum"><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></div>
+
+
+<h3><i>Fall River.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Fall River has no clam territory on the south, owing to the wharves
+and other obstructions. On the more open waters of the north towards
+Freetown there is an extent of clam ground occupying about 25 acres.
+The foreign element in the city dig here for food, and some clams are
+likewise dug for bait, but the industry on the whole is of little consequence.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$75</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">10</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$3,500</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Nantucket.</i></h3>
+
+<p>At present Nantucket does not possess a clam industry of any importance.
+Years ago it is claimed that clams were abundant, and that
+quantities were dug for food or for bait. Now the reverse is true, and
+the fisherman often finds it difficult to procure clams even for bait.
+Indeed, Nantucket furnishes an excellent illustration of the decline of
+the clam industry.</p>
+
+<p>Practically all the flats of Nantucket are shore flats <i>i.e.</i>, narrow flats
+along the shores of the harbor and on the sides of the creeks. Thus the
+area, though extending for many miles, is not great, and the clam
+industry of the island, though capable of development, nevertheless can
+never assume the importance of the quahaug and the scallop fisheries.
+In Nantucket harbor clams are found in the creeks, and particularly
+in Polpis harbor, although scattering clams are found all along the
+south shore of the harbor. A few clams are found on the north side
+in Coatou Creek and in First and Second Bend. The flats in Nantucket
+harbor are all coarse sand or a fine gravel, except in the creeks,
+where they become muddy. On the eastern and southern sides clams
+are found in scattering quantities in Maddequet harbor, on the north
+side of Tuckernuck and in the cove on the south side of Muskeget.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[Pg 232]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span></p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th><span class="smcap">Production.</span></th>
+    <th>1879.</th>
+    <th>1907.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">2,253</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$872</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$350</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$40</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">400</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$350</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">25</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">5</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">15</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">130</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$18,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<h3><i>Edgartown.</i></h3>
+
+<p>Although Edgartown possesses 200 acres of clam flats, it is not in a
+true sense a clam-producing town. The reason for this small production
+is due to the nature of the flats, which are mostly under water at low
+tide, making clamming difficult. Naturally Edgartown devotes its
+energies to the more profitable quahaug and scallop fisheries.</p>
+
+<p>The clam flats of the town are situated along the shores of Cape
+Poge Pond and in the lower part of Katama Bay, where many acres
+of flats are continually submerged. The shore flats are of small area,
+owing to the light rise and fall of the tide, less than 3 feet at this part
+of the coast.</p>
+
+<p>(1) <i>Cape Poge Pond.</i>&mdash;Scattering clams are found all along the
+shore flats, except for a &frac34;-mile strip on the west side. The soil is of a
+coarse sand or gravel.</p>
+
+<p>(2) <i>Katama Bay.</i>&mdash;The best clam flats of the town are situated in
+Katama Bay, and extend over a considerable territory. These flats,
+consisting of a coarse, sandy soil, lie continually submerged. Here the
+clams are dug by means of a "sea horse." This "animal" is nothing
+more than an elongated clam hoe with a belt attachment, whereby the
+clammer can "churn" out the clams at a depth of 2 to 3 feet.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The clam industry of Edgartown has fallen off considerably since
+1879. However, the clammers say that it has improved during the last
+fifteen years. The following comparison is made between the production
+of 1879 and 1907:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Comparison of 1907 with 1879.</span></p>
+
+<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <th>YEAR.</th>
+    <th>Production for Food<br />(Bushels).</th>
+    <th>Production for Bait<br />(Bushels).</th>
+    <th>Production<br />(Bushels).</th>
+    <th>Value of<br />Production.</th>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1879,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">3,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">4,000</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,570</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdr">1907,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">625</td>
+    <td class="tdr">575</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>The general shellfish regulations which govern the other shellfisheries
+of the town apply to the clam fishery; but the industry has never been
+considered important enough to need special legislation, and but slight
+attention has been given to it.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Summary of Industry.</span>
+</p>
+
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Summary of Industry">
+  <tr>
+    <td>Number of men,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">7</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Capital invested,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Production, 1907:&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Bushels,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">1,200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Value,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$1,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Sand,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">150</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mud,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Gravel,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Mussels and eel grass,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdt">Total,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">200</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Productive area (acres):&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Good clamming,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">20</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="tdp">Scattering clams,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">100</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Barren area possibly productive (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">50</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Waste barren area (acres),</td>
+    <td class="tdr">30</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>Possible normal production,</td>
+    <td class="tdr">$33,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>In the opinion of many, doubtless, this report may appear unduly
+lengthy, and to include many seemingly trivial facts and unnecessary
+repetitions. To the trained observer, however, it seems of the greatest
+importance in dealing with such a practical and important problem
+to place on record all facts and opinions which may become of value,
+and to emphasize by frequent repetitions certain fundamental facts.</p>
+
+<p class="center">Respectfully submitted,
+</p>
+
+<p class="right">D. L. BELDING.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The preceding report is intended to be a reliable statement
+of facts, and suggestions for consideration. On such a basis of
+facts the future policy of developing the shellfisheries must be
+based. It is the purpose of the Commissioners on Fisheries and
+Game to hold a series of public hearings in the different sections
+of the State for the purpose of giving personal expositions of
+the shellfish conditions and possibilities, and of giving a better
+opportunity for exchanging, discussing and weighing opinions.
+Meantime, in considering the conditions of the shellfisheries of
+Massachusetts, and the laws necessary to improve these conditions,
+the following points are of importance.</p>
+
+<p>The present shellfish laws are based upon the principle of
+"public" fisheries, and were made at times and at places where
+there was such a superabundance that the natural increase was
+sufficient to meet the market demands. Artificial cultivation was
+unnecessary. The fundamental laws were made in the colonial
+days. Since then the demand for shellfish as food has enormously
+increased, and for many years the annual natural increase
+has been entirely inadequate to meet these demands. We
+have outgrown the conditions which the original conception of
+that law covered. Under parallel conditions it has been found
+necessary to sell or lease the public lands, in order that the yield
+of food may be increased by cultivation under the immediate
+direction and responsibility of individual citizens, and under
+protection of State and national laws. When it was learned that
+the yield of a cultivated oyster bed far exceeded the natural
+product both in quantity and quality, the oyster laws were so
+modified that an important industry was built up, until to-day
+practically the entire oyster yield of Massachusetts, Rhode
+Island and Connecticut is from cultivated beds, and the total
+product is many times the total catch from the natural beds in
+their palmiest days. To-day not only is it necessary to so modify
+the oyster laws as to increase the opportunities for better utilizing
+our bays and estuaries for oyster growing on a more extensive
+scale than is done at present, but also for developing similar
+methods of growing clams and quahaugs, and perhaps also
+scallops. The tidal flats must, as well as the deeper waters, be
+made to produce food and money by securing a larger yield per<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[Pg 235]</a></span>
+acre, and by the utilization of thousands of acres which are now
+practically idle, but which either are now adapted for growing
+shellfish or can readily be made so.</p>
+
+<p>Our present shellfish laws are a heterogeneous, conflicting
+patchwork, devised to meet temporary and local conditions,
+utterly inadequate to-day to permit the fishermen to secure a
+just return for their labor, and completely sacrificing the public
+interests. In many cases the responsible tax-paying citizen
+cannot find a place to dig a family supply of clams or quahaugs,
+neither can the industrious native fisherman get a fair day's pay
+for his labor.</p>
+
+<p>An entirely new code of shellfish laws is necessary, based upon
+the general principles (1) that in selling the shores the State
+reserved the right of fishing as "far as the tide doth ebb and
+flow," and (2) that the State may now lease these fishing rights
+under such conditions and restrictions as to secure to every
+citizen so desiring and so deserving an opportunity to cultivate
+such a definite area as may meet his needs and powers. Experience
+has proved conclusively that it is a correct economic principle
+for the State to give a secure title to certain carefully
+defined lands to a capable man, and to say: "This land is yours.
+You may raise potatoes, corn, hay or anything you choose.
+Every plant, fruit or tree growing on this property is yours.
+You have become responsible for its right and proper use. You
+have full and complete rights in this property, and can develop
+it by investing your labor and your money according to your own
+judgment, and the State will protect you in these rights as long
+as you do not interfere with the rights of other persons."
+Equally so it is an indubitable economic fact that the landowner
+finds it more profitable to plant or transplant corn, potatoes,
+grass, strawberries, etc., rather than to depend upon the natural
+methods and yield. Similarly, it is equally logical for the State
+to give to the fisherman equal opportunities with the farmer.
+The State should guarantee the tenure of the fisherman in his
+definitely bounded shellfish garden, and should protect his interests
+and the property on that garden as securely as if it were
+potatoes or corn, and should, so far as possible, guard him from
+local jealousy or the effects of petty politics so long as he con<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[Pg 236]</a></span>tinues
+wisely to improve his grant in conformity to the spirit
+and letter of laws which are found by experience to give the
+greatest good to the greatest number.</p>
+
+<p>Further, the State should protect the fishermen and the consumers
+of shellfish by defining the areas which from a sanitary
+point of view are (1) totally unsuitable for shellfish cultivation;
+(2) those where shellfish may be grown but not eaten; and,
+finally, (3) definite areas from which alone shellfish may be sold
+for food. Provide suitable penalties for sale of shellfish which
+have not been kept for the required time (at least thirty days) in
+sanitary surroundings before going to market. The entire
+question of pollution of streams and estuaries must be carefully
+considered in view of the public rights and of the commercial
+interests of the fishermen. Further, the laws must be so carefully
+drawn that the respective rights and interests of individual
+fishermen, shore owners, summer cottagers and the transient
+public at the seashore are completely safeguarded against the
+dangers of predatory wealth monopolizing the opportunities for
+cultivating shellfish in the waters and the tidal flats.</p>
+
+<p>The situation is extremely complicated on account of the
+diverse conditions and the numerous conflicting interests, oystermen,
+quahaugers, clammers and scallopers, native and alien
+fishermen, owners of shore property, town and State rights,
+local interests and petty politics, and careful judicial consideration
+is necessary not alone as to the substance of the necessary
+laws, but upon the methods of administering these laws.</p>
+
+<p class="center">Respectfully submitted,
+</p>
+
+<p style="margin-left: 75%;">
+G. W. FIELD.<br />
+J. W. DELANO.<br />
+G. H. GARFIELD.
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_17_17" id="Footnote_17_17"></a><a href="#FNanchor_17_17"><span class="label">[17]</span></a> Licenses.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_18_18" id="Footnote_18_18"></a><a href="#FNanchor_18_18"><span class="label">[18]</span></a> Licences for bait.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_19_19" id="Footnote_19_19"></a><a href="#FNanchor_19_19"><span class="label">[19]</span></a> Licenses.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_20_20" id="Footnote_20_20"></a><a href="#FNanchor_20_20"><span class="label">[20]</span></a> Statistics of the number of men engaged were unobtainable.</p></div></div>
+
+
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[Pg 238]</a><br /><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span></p>
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="INDEX" id="INDEX">INDEX.</a></h2>
+
+<p>
+Barnstable:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_207">207</a>-209</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_147">147</a>-149</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_52">52</a>, <a href="#Page_53">53</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_96">96</a>-98</span><br />
+<br />
+Berkley:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_229">229</a>, <a href="#Page_230">230</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
+<br />
+Beverly, clam industry, <a href="#Page_192">192</a><br />
+<br />
+Boston harbor, clam industry, <a href="#Page_196">196</a>-198<br />
+<br />
+Bourne:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_220">220</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_153">153</a>, <a href="#Page_154">154</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_53">53</a>, <a href="#Page_54">54</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_98">98</a>, <a href="#Page_99">99</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Brewster, scallop industry, <a href="#Page_99">99</a><br />
+<br />
+Buzzard's Bay district:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_219">219</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_150">150</a>-152</span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Capital, <a href="#Page_36">36</a><br />
+<br />
+Chatham:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_215">215</a>, <a href="#Page_216">216</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_144">144</a>-146</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_55">55</a>, <a href="#Page_56">56</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_99">99</a>-101</span><br />
+<br />
+Clam:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Decline, <a href="#Page_165">165</a>, <a href="#Page_166">166</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Distribution, <a href="#Page_159">159</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Farming, <a href="#Page_167">167</a>-176</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Growth, <a href="#Page_171">171</a>-173</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">History in Massachusetts, <a href="#Page_176">176</a>-178</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Industry in Massachusetts, <a href="#Page_178">178</a>-180</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Production for Massachusetts since 1880, <a href="#Page_178">178</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Remedy for decline, <a href="#Page_167">167</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Seed, <a href="#Page_174">174</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Statistics of industry in Massachusetts, <a href="#Page_161">161</a>-164</span><br />
+<br />
+Cohasset, clam industry, <a href="#Page_200">200</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Dartmouth:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_224">224</a>, <a href="#Page_225">225</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_56">56</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_103">103</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Dennis:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_217">217</a>, <a href="#Page_218">218</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_146">146</a>, <a href="#Page_147">147</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_56">56</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_101">101</a>-103</span><br />
+<br />
+Dighton:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_229">229</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Duxbury, clam industry, <a href="#Page_202">202</a>-204</span><br />
+<br />
+Eastham:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_211">211</a>, <a href="#Page_212">212</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_144">144</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_56">56</a>,57</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_103">103</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Edgartown:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_232">232</a>, <a href="#Page_233">233</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_58">58</a>-60</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_103">103</a>-105</span><br />
+<br />
+Essex, clam industry, <a href="#Page_188">188</a>-190<br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Fairhaven:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_223">223</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_60">60</a>, <a href="#Page_61">61</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_105">105</a>, <a href="#Page_106">106</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Fall River, clam industry, <a href="#Page_231">231</a><br />
+<br />
+Fall River district:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_225">225</a>-227</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_106">106</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Falmouth:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_219">219</a>, <a href="#Page_220">220</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_149">149</a>, <a href="#Page_150">150</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_61">61</a>, <a href="#Page_62">62</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_106">106</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Fishing rights of the public, <a href="#Page_26">26</a><br />
+<br />
+Food value of shellfish, <a href="#Page_92">92</a><br />
+<br />
+Freetown:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_230">230</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Gloucester, clam industry, <a href="#Page_190">190</a>, <a href="#Page_191">191</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Harwich:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_217">217</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_146">146</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_62">62</a>, <a href="#Page_63">63</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_106">106</a>, <a href="#Page_107">107</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Hingham, clam industry, <a href="#Page_199">199</a><br />
+<br />
+Hull, clam industry, <a href="#Page_199">199</a>, <a href="#Page_200">200</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Ipswich, clam industry, <a href="#Page_185">185</a>-188<br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Kingston, clam industry, <a href="#Page_205">205</a>, <a href="#Page_206">206</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Laws:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster, <a href="#Page_127">127</a>-132</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug, <a href="#Page_50">50</a>, <a href="#Page_51">51</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop, <a href="#Page_92">92</a>, <a href="#Page_93">93</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Shellfish, <a href="#Page_25">25</a>-30</span><br />
+<br />
+Lynn, clam industry, <a href="#Page_193">193</a>, <a href="#Page_194">194</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Manchester, clam industry, <a href="#Page_191">191</a>, <a href="#Page_192">192</a><br />
+<br />
+Marion:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_221">221</a>, <a href="#Page_222">222</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_63">63</a>, <a href="#Page_64">64</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_107">107</a>, <a href="#Page_108">108</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Marshfield, clam industry, <a href="#Page_201">201</a>, <a href="#Page_202">202</a><br />
+<br />
+Mashpee:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_218">218</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_149">149</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_64">64</a>, <a href="#Page_65">65</a></span><br />
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_108">108</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Mattapoisett:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_222">222</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_65">65</a>, <a href="#Page_66">66</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_108">108</a>, <a href="#Page_109">109</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Methods of work, <a href="#Page_16">16</a><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam, <a href="#Page_160">160</a>, <a href="#Page_161">161</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster, <a href="#Page_117">117</a>, <a href="#Page_118">118</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug, <a href="#Page_38">38</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop, <a href="#Page_81">81</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Monopoly, <a href="#Page_36">36</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Nahant, clam industry, <a href="#Page_195">195</a>, <a href="#Page_196">196</a><br />
+<br />
+Nantucket:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_231">231</a>, <a href="#Page_232">232</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_158">158</a>, <a href="#Page_159">159</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_66">66</a>-69</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_109">109</a>-111</span><br />
+<br />
+Narragansett Bay:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_225">225</a>-227</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
+<br />
+New Bedford:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_223">223</a>, <a href="#Page_224">224</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_69">69</a>, <a href="#Page_70">70</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_111">111</a>-113</span><br />
+<br />
+Newbury, clam industry, <a href="#Page_184">184</a>, <a href="#Page_185">185</a><br />
+<br />
+Newburyport, clam industry, <a href="#Page_182">182</a>, <a href="#Page_183">183</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Orleans:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_210">210</a>, <a href="#Page_211">211</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_144">144</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_70">70</a>-72</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_113">113</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Overfishing, <a href="#Page_23">23</a><br />
+<br />
+Oyster:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Enemies, <a href="#Page_155">155</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Grants, <a href="#Page_119">119</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Natural beds, <a href="#Page_119">119</a>-123</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Statistics, <a href="#Page_136">136</a>-138</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Spat collecting, <a href="#Page_133">133</a>, <a href="#Page_134">134</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Oystermen v. quahaugers, <a href="#Page_152">152</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Plymouth, clam industry, <a href="#Page_206">206</a>, <a href="#Page_207">207</a><br />
+<br />
+Pollution, water, <a href="#Page_23">23</a>-25, <a href="#Page_236">236</a><br />
+<br />
+Protection, <a href="#Page_26">26</a>, <a href="#Page_27">27</a><br />
+<br />
+Provincetown:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_214">214</a>, <a href="#Page_215">215</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_72">72</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_113">113</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Quahaug:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Decline, <a href="#Page_38">38</a>-40</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Distribution, <a href="#Page_36">36</a>, <a href="#Page_37">37</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Farming, <a href="#Page_40">40</a>-43</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Growth, <a href="#Page_42">42</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">History in Massachusetts, <a href="#Page_49">49</a>, <a href="#Page_50">50</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Industry, <a href="#Page_43">43</a>-49</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Rakes, <a href="#Page_44">44</a>, <a href="#Page_45">45</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Spat collecting, <a href="#Page_43">43</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Statistics, <a href="#Page_51">51</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Quahaugers v. oystermen, <a href="#Page_152">152</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span>Resources, unimproved, <a href="#Page_19">19</a><br />
+<br />
+Salem, clam industry, <a href="#Page_193">193</a><br />
+<br />
+Salisbury, clam industry, <a href="#Page_180">180</a>-182<br />
+<br />
+Sanitary conditions, <a href="#Page_236">236</a><br />
+<br />
+Saugus, clam industry, <a href="#Page_194">194</a>, <a href="#Page_195">195</a><br />
+<br />
+Scallop:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Decline, <a href="#Page_82">82</a>-84</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Distribution, <a href="#Page_80">80</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Dredges, <a href="#Page_86">86</a>-88</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">"Eye," <a href="#Page_88">88</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">History in Massachusetts, <a href="#Page_93">93</a>, <a href="#Page_94">94</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Improvements, <a href="#Page_84">84</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Industry, <a href="#Page_85">85</a>-91</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Maine, <a href="#Page_90">90</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Market, <a href="#Page_90">90</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Openers, <a href="#Page_88">88</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Outfit, <a href="#Page_90">90</a>, <a href="#Page_91">91</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">"Pusher," <a href="#Page_85">85</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Season, <a href="#Page_91">91</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Shanties, <a href="#Page_88">88</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Soaking, <a href="#Page_89">89</a>, <a href="#Page_90">90</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Statistics, <a href="#Page_95">95</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Scituate, clam industry, <a href="#Page_201">201</a><br />
+<br />
+Sectional jealousy, <a href="#Page_31">31</a><br />
+<br />
+Shellfisheries:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Abuses, <a href="#Page_25">25</a>-33</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Decline, <a href="#Page_20">20</a>-25</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Development, <a href="#Page_19">19</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Production since 1879, <a href="#Page_20">20</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Remedy, <a href="#Page_33">33</a>-35</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Statistics, <a href="#Page_19">19</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Somerset:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_228">228</a>, <a href="#Page_229">229</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
+<br />
+Statistical summaries:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_161">161</a>-164</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_136">136</a>-138</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_51">51</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_95">95</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Shellfish industry, <a href="#Page_19">19</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Swansea:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_227">227</a>, <a href="#Page_228">228</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>-158</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_72">72</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Tisbury, scallop industry, <a href="#Page_113">113</a><br />
+<br />
+Town jealousy, <a href="#Page_31">31</a><br />
+<br />
+Truro:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_213">213</a>, <a href="#Page_214">214</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_72">72</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Wareham:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_221">221</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_154">154</a>-156</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_72">72</a>-74</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_114">114</a>, <a href="#Page_115">115</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Waste of competition, <a href="#Page_31">31</a><br />
+<br />
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span>Wastefulness, historical, <a href="#Page_17">17</a>-19<br />
+<br />
+Wellfleet:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_212">212</a>, <a href="#Page_213">213</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_138">138</a>-143</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_74">74</a>-79</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_115">115</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Weymouth, clam industry, <a href="#Page_198">198</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+Yarmouth:&mdash;<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Clam industry, <a href="#Page_209">209</a>, <a href="#Page_210">210</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Oyster industry, <a href="#Page_146">146</a>, <a href="#Page_147">147</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Quahaug industry, <a href="#Page_79">79</a>, <a href="#Page_80">80</a></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Scallop industry, <a href="#Page_115">115</a>, <a href="#Page_116">116</a></span><br />
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[Pg 244]</a><br /><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[Pg 245]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 258px;">
+<a href="images/i_247.jpg"><img src="images/i_247thumb.jpg" width="258" height="400" alt="" /></a>
+<div class="caption"><a href="images/i_247.jpg">The above map of the coast line of Massachusetts, with its numbered sections,
+furnishes an index to the following series of shellfish areas.</a></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[Pg 246]</a><br /><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_249.jpg" width="700" height="405" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>The above characters, as used on the following maps, indicate
+the position and relative quantities of the various shellfish
+in their respective localities. No attempt is made to give the
+relative abundance of scallops and oysters, while the present
+productive value of the different clam and quahaug areas is indicated
+by different standards of marking.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[Pg 248]</a><br /><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 498px;">
+<img src="images/i_251.jpg" width="498" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 1.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[Pg 250]</a><br /><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 580px;">
+<img src="images/i_253.jpg" width="580" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 2.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[Pg 252]</a><br /><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_255.jpg" width="700" height="657" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 3.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[Pg 254]</a><br /><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_257.jpg" width="700" height="537" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 4.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[Pg 256]</a><br /><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[Pg 257]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 555px;">
+<img src="images/i_259.jpg" width="555" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 5.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[Pg 258]</a><br /><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[Pg 259]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_261.jpg" width="700" height="471" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 6.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[Pg 260]</a><br /><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[Pg 261]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 451px;">
+<img src="images/i_263.jpg" width="451" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 7.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[Pg 262]</a><br /><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[Pg 263]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 564px;">
+<img src="images/i_265.jpg" width="564" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 8.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[Pg 264]</a><br /><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[Pg 265]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_267.jpg" width="700" height="475" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 9.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[Pg 266]</a><br /><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[Pg 267]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_269.jpg" width="700" height="523" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 10.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[Pg 268]</a><br /><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[Pg 269]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 483px;">
+<img src="images/i_271.jpg" width="483" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 11.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[Pg 270]</a><br /><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[Pg 271]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 560px;">
+<img src="images/i_273.jpg" width="560" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 12.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[Pg 272]</a><br /><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[Pg 273]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_275.jpg" width="700" height="547" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 13.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[Pg 274]</a><br /><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[Pg 275]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 575px;">
+<img src="images/i_277.jpg" width="575" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 14.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[Pg 276]</a><br /><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[Pg 277]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_279.jpg" width="700" height="503" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 15.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[Pg 278]</a><br /><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[Pg 279]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 609px;">
+<img src="images/i_281.jpg" width="609" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 16.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[Pg 280]</a><br /><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[Pg 281]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_283.jpg" width="700" height="556" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 17.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[Pg 282]</a><br /><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[Pg 283]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_285.jpg" width="700" height="484" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 18.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[Pg 284]</a><br /><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[Pg 285]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_287.jpg" width="700" height="576" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 19.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[Pg 286]</a><br /><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[Pg 287]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 551px;">
+<img src="images/i_289.jpg" width="551" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 20.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[Pg 288]</a><br /><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[Pg 289]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_291.jpg" width="700" height="522" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 21.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[Pg 290]</a><br /><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[Pg 291]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 629px;">
+<img src="images/i_293.jpg" width="629" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 22.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[Pg 292]</a><br /><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[Pg 293]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 556px;">
+<img src="images/i_295.jpg" width="556" height="700" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 23.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[Pg 294]</a><br /><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[Pg 295]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_297.jpg" width="700" height="450" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p>Map 24.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[Pg 296]</a><br /><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[Pg 297]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_299.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>The Scallop Pusher.</b>&mdash;This implement consists of a wooden pole, from 8 to 9 feet long, attached to a rectangular iron framework, 3 by 1&frac12; feet,
+fitted with a netting bag, 3 feet in depth. The scalloper, wading in the shallow water, gathers the scallops from the flats by shoving the pusher
+among the eel grass. The photograph shows the correct position of the pusher in operation. Only a small part of the pole is shown.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[Pg 298]</a><br /><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[Pg 299]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_301.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>The Box Scallop Dredge.</b>&mdash;This dredge consists of a rectangular framework, 27 by 12 inches, with an oval-shaped iron bar extending backward
+as a support for the netting bag, which is attached to the rectangular frame. To the sides of this frame is joined a heavy iron chain about 4
+feet long, to which the drag rope is fastened. This style of dredge is used only at Chatham and the neighboring towns of Cape Cod.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[Pg 300]</a><br /><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[Pg 301]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_303.jpg" width="700" height="392" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Scallop Dredge</b>,&mdash;"<b>The Scraper.</b>"&mdash;This implement has the form of a triangular iron framework, with a curve of nearly 90&deg; at the base, to
+form the bowl of the dredge. On the upper side a raised cross bar connects the two arms, while at the bottom a strip of iron 2 inches wide extends
+across the dredge. This narrow strip acts as a scraping blade, and is set at an angle so as to dig into the soil. The top of the net is fastened to the
+cross bar and the lower part to the blade. The usual dimensions of the dredge are: arms, 2&frac12; feet; upper cross bar, 2 feet; blade, 2&frac12; feet. The net
+varies in size, usually running from 2 to 3 feet in length and holding between 1 and 2 bushels. Additional weights can be put on the cross bar
+when the scalloper desires the dredge to "scrape" deeper. A wooden bar 2 feet long buoys the net. The scraper used at Nantucket has the entire
+net made of twine, whereas in other localities the lower part consists of interwoven iron rings.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[Pg 302]</a><br /><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[Pg 303]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_305.jpg" width="700" height="427" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>The Oyster Dredge.</b>&mdash;This is the type of oyster dredge used on the large gasolene boats. The photograph was taken on board the oyster boat
+of Mr. James Monahan of Wareham. The dredge consists of a net of woven iron rings attached to an iron framework. From each corner of the
+framework rods extend, converging at a point some feet away, where the drag rope is attached. The blade, resting horizontally on the surface, is
+armed with large teeth which rake the oysters into the bag. When this bag, which holds from 8 to 15 bushels, is full, the dredge is raised by a gasolene
+hoist.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[Pg 304]</a><br /><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[Pg 305]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_307.jpg" width="700" height="420" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>The Basket Quahaug Rake.</b>&mdash;This style of basket rake is used at Edgartown and Nantucket. The whole rake is made of iron, no netting
+being required, as thin iron wires 1/3 of an inch apart encircle lengthwise the entire basket, preventing the escape of any marketable quahaugs, while
+at the same time allowing mud and sand to wash out. This rake has 16 steel teeth, 1&frac12; inches long, fitted at intervals of 1 inch on the scraping bar.
+The depth of the basket is about 8 inches. Short poles not exceeding 30 feet in length are used, as the raking is carried on in water which does not
+exceed 25 feet in depth. Only the iron framework of the rake is shown.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[Pg 306]</a><br /><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[Pg 307]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_309.jpg" width="700" height="425" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>The Claw Quahaug Rake.</b>&mdash;This rake varies greatly in size and length. Its use is chiefly confined to Nantucket. The general style has a
+handle 6 feet long, while the iron part, in the form of a claw or talon, with prongs 1 inch apart, is 10 inches wide. A heavier rake, as here shown,
+is sometimes used in the deeper water.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[Pg 308]</a><br /><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[Pg 309]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_311.jpg" width="700" height="420" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>The Scallop Rake.</b>&mdash;The use of this rake is confined almost exclusively to the town of Chatham. Both scallops and quahaugs can be taken with
+it. The bowl is formed by a curve of the prongs, which are held together by two long cross bars at the top and bottom of the basket, while the ends
+are enclosed by short strips of iron. Handles from 15 to 20 feet long are generally used with this rake.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[Pg 310]</a><br /><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[Pg 311]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_313.jpg" width="700" height="398" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Rowley Reef Clam Set.</b>&mdash;This photograph shows the surface of Rowley Reef, one of the flats of Plum Island Sound. In the summer of 1906 a
+heavy set of clams was found on this flat, averaging 1,500 to the square foot of surface. These rapidly diminished, and one year later, Aug. 27, $1
+when this photograph was taken, the clams numbered about 400 to the square foot. This area furnished an excellent illustration of the great destruction
+of natural clam set. Only 5 per cent. of these clams reached maturity, and the remaining 95 per cent., destroyed by natural agencies, could have
+been saved if proper measures had been taken. At least 100 acres of the barren flats of Rowley could have been planted with the "seed" from this
+flat, and after two years the crop would have been worth $30,000. The present shellfish laws of the Commonwealth are alone to blame for this waste.
+The clam hoe shown in the foreground is the typical digger or "hooker" of the North Shore clammer.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[Pg 312]</a><br /><a name="Page_313" id="Page_313">[Pg 313]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_315.jpg" width="700" height="421" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Rowley Reef.</b>&mdash;This photograph, taken on the same date as the preceding, shows another section of the reef, where the clam set has been torn
+up and destroyed by horse-shoe crabs and cockles.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_314" id="Page_314">[Pg 314]</a><br /><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[Pg 315]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_317.jpg" width="700" height="422" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Rowley Reef.</b>&mdash;A photograph, natural size, of a thickly set part of the same flat. The broken shells on top show clams which have been crowded
+out of the sand and destroyed. In this way nature regulates the number of clams in a given area.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[Pg 316]</a><br /><a name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[Pg 317]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_319.jpg" width="700" height="424" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Castle Neck Flat</b> (<b>Essex River</b>).&mdash;A scene at low tide, Aug. 28, 1907, showing the area turned over by two clammers in one hour. At this date
+there was a heavy set of small clams on this flat.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[Pg 318]</a><br /><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[Pg 319]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_321.jpg" width="700" height="421" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Plymouth Harbor.</b>&mdash;This photograph was taken at low tide, from the boat house of Mr. Frank Cole. In the foreground are a few of the experimental
+clam beds of the Massachusetts department of fisheries and game. Note the large tracts of eel grass covering the flats.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[Pg 320]</a><br /><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[Pg 321]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_323.jpg" width="700" height="427" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Cole's Clam Grant.</b>&mdash;This photograph shows a portion of the grant leased to Mr. Frank Cole by the town of Kingston for the propagation of
+clams. Several of the experimental beds of the Massachusetts department of fisheries and game were situated on this grant.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[Pg 322]</a><br /><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[Pg 323]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_325.jpg" width="700" height="425" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Clam Spat Box.</b>&mdash;This box was suspended from a raft during the summer of 1907. The small clams which were caught in it are heaped before
+the box. These clams vary in size from &frac12; to 2 inches in length, showing that the spawning season is at least of two months' duration. The spat box
+was put down May 15 and taken up October 15. Note the barnacles, silver shells (<i>Anomia</i>), etc., on the box and rope.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[Pg 324]</a><br /><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[Pg 325]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_327.jpg" width="700" height="421" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>A Clam Shanty.</b>&mdash;The shanty of Samuel Kilbourn, an experienced Ipswich clammer. The large heap of shells is the result of six weeks of steady
+digging. Numerous shanties of this sort are used for "shucking out" clams when marketed by the gallon. This photograph also shows the clam sifter
+which was used in obtaining the small "seed" clams from Rowley Reef for the experimental beds.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_326" id="Page_326">[Pg 326]</a><br /><a name="Page_327" id="Page_327">[Pg 327]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_329.jpg" width="700" height="422" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><b>Taking up One of the Clam Gardens of the Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Game.</b>&mdash;The bed was planted Nov. 15, 1905,
+in Essex River, on a sand flat locally known as "Newfoundland." When the bed was planted the flat was considered barren, as it produced practically
+no clams. The photograph was obtained Nov. 15, 1907, when the bed was taken up, and shows the clammers at work. Note the heaps of marketable
+clams which were taken from the bed.</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_328" id="Page_328">[Pg 328]</a><br /><a name="Page_329" id="Page_329">[Pg 329]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_331.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Yield in Two Years of the Garden shown in the Preceding Photograph.</b>&mdash;Note the amount of clams planted, compared with the marketable
+clams taken out. The size of the bed was 1/100 of an acre. The clams had increased in size so that 8 quarts were obtained for every quart planted.
+This shows what could be done with many barren flats if individuals had the privilege of cultivating clam farms.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_330" id="Page_330">[Pg 330]</a><br /><a name="Page_331" id="Page_331">[Pg 331]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_333.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>The Winkle or Cockle</b> (<b>Lunatia heros and duplicata</b>).&mdash;An enemy of the clam, which it destroys by boring a hole through the shell and
+sucking out the contents.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_332" id="Page_332">[Pg 332]</a><br /><a name="Page_333" id="Page_333">[Pg 333]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_335.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><b>Clam Growth.</b>&mdash;This photograph gives a comparison between the growth of small and large clams from a single bed under the same natural conditions.
+The large clam shows a much slower growth than the small. Both clams were notched when planted on the "Spit" in Essex River, April
+18, 1907. They were dug Aug. 28, 1907.</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_334" id="Page_334">[Pg 334]</a><br /><a name="Page_335" id="Page_335">[Pg 335]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_337.jpg" width="700" height="423" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Soft-shelled Clam</b> (<b>Mya arenaria</b>).&mdash;This large clam shell, measuring 5&frac34; inches in length, was found on Grey's Flat, Kingston. Where the
+flat has been worn away by erosion the ground is white with thousands of these shells in an upright position in the soil, showing that sudden destruction
+had overtaken them at some time in the past.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_336" id="Page_336">[Pg 336]</a><br /><a name="Page_337" id="Page_337">[Pg 337]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_339.jpg" width="700" height="428" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Quahaugs from an Experimental Bed at Monomoy Point, showing Two Years' Growth.</b>&mdash;The two notches or file marks on the shells
+indicate the growth per year. The photograph is two-thirds life size. These quahaugs have shown rapid growth, having gained nearly 1 inch a
+year in length, which is the best growth thus far found in any of the experimental beds.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_338" id="Page_338">[Pg 338]</a><br /><a name="Page_339" id="Page_339">[Pg 339]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_341.jpg" width="700" height="429" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><b>Gathering "Seed" Oysters in the Weweantit River, Wareham, May 6, 1908.</b>&mdash;The natural beds of the town of Wareham had been closed
+for seven years, and on this date were opened for the period of one week for the inhabitants of the town to gather "seed" oysters, the photograph
+was taken on the opening day, and shows the oystermen at work tonging the "seed" oysters. In the foreground is a loaded skiff, ready to have its
+contents estimated by the inspector, who declares the number of bushels. The tongers pay the town 10 cents per bushel for the privilege of gathering
+the oysters, and sell them for 35 cents per bushel to the planters, thus realizing a profit of 25 cents.</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_340" id="Page_340">[Pg 340]</a><br /><a name="Page_341" id="Page_341">[Pg 341]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_343.jpg" width="700" height="403" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Typical Steam Dredger.</b>&mdash;The oyster boat of Mr. James Monahan of Wareham, showing oyster dredge and hoist. The large cans aboard the
+boat contain young flatfish from the Woods Hole Hatchery of the United States Fish Commission. Mr. Monahan is distributing these in Wareham
+river.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_342" id="Page_342">[Pg 342]</a><br /><a name="Page_343" id="Page_343">[Pg 343]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 700px;">
+<img src="images/i_345.jpg" width="700" height="426" alt="" />
+<div class="caption"><p><b>Typical Oyster Schooner.</b>&mdash;Oyster schooner loaded with 1,935 bushels of Wareham "seed" for L. Dodge, Providence River. This "seed" was
+taken in May, 1908, from the natural oyster bed in the Agawam River, which had been closed for the past three years.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="transnote">
+<div class="chapter"></div>
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="Transcribers_Notes" id="Transcribers_Notes">Transcriber's Notes:</a></h2>
+
+
+<p>Simple spelling, grammar, and typographical errors were silently corrected.</p>
+
+<p>Anachronistic and non-standard spellings retained as printed.</p>
+
+<p>Contents added by transcriber.</p>
+
+</div>
+
+<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 48195 ***</div>
+</body>
+</html>
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author	nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org>	2025-02-27 18:41:22 -0800
committer	nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org>	2025-02-27 18:41:22 -0800
commit	ebfd6523dd466f37ca87b36eb9d12c7a065dec1a (patch)
tree	4b5f51f3e97b7bd55d4ff1f395c1a2373d19b21c
parent	73504ee741f881ba8a5338578367f7dd11777e91 (diff)