9

FT.—29

Biological. The organization of the Biology Section has been strengthened and developed in several directions. A special equipment has been provided for plant-pathology work, the officer in immediate charge of this branch having recently had a course of special training at Otago University. One disease of serious economic importance receiving special attention both by field experiments and laboratory-work is that of dry-rot of swedes. Good work has been done in economic entomology, chiefly by studies of the life-history of our most injurious insects, including grass-grubs and armyworms. Seed-testing has continued as one of the most important activities of the Biology Section, the volume of work carried out during the year constituting an easy record. While the Department's certificates are becoming very general in the seed trade, a, small minority of traders are not falling into line on the voluntary basis, and legislation making official testing compulsory is being considered. Staff. I wish to record an expression of thanks to the Directors of Divisions and to tho staff in all branches of the Department for duties well done and sound assistance rendered in the important work for which the Department is responsible. With the co-operation of all concerned a further great advance is assured. The Board of Agriculture. This report on the year's work would bo incomplete without an adequate personal recognition of the wise and extremely valuable advice given by the President and the members of the Board of Agriculture in connection with experimental farms and other matters during a somewhat strenuous period. It was thoroughly appreciated in every way, and was of great assistance.

2-H. 29,