Economic Mississippi Geological
Published: 2013-09
Total Pages: 54
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This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1913 edition. Excerpt: ... PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION OF THE FOREST CONDITIONS OF MISSISSIPPI. By C. E. Dunston, Forest Examiner, Forest Service. INTRODUCTION. The rapidly diminishing timber supply of the Gulf States, from which the bulk of the lumber-cut of the United States is now derived, has begun to cause a general awakening to the seriousness of the situation and an apprehension as to the future supply of timber needed for home consumption in the region. At the present rate of cutting the lumber industry in these States thirty years hence will be conducted on a very small scale, unless every effort is made to keep lands which are unsuited for agriculture fully stocked with rapid-growing, valuable trees. The future wealth of Mississippi lies in agriculture. No one can travel in the State and fail to be impressed with its vast agricultural resources. The causes for its undeveloped condition are many and complex, but an awakening is taking place and a vigorous spirit in favor of agricultural development is apparent in all parts of the State. Forest conservation is closely akin to conservation in agriculture. The agricultural prosperity of a State or country is bound up in the wise use of the soils. Just as certain soils and certain situations are suited to various branches of agriculture, so certain other soils and situations are suited to the less intensive use of land--forestry. Forestry does not necessarily mean the careful, painstaking methods applied in agriculture to the raising of crops. This comes later when the high value of wood crops makes it profitable. Forestry as needed at present in Mississippi is very simple. It means chiefly that the land not in cultivation and not likely to be in cultivation for years to come shall not lie barren and...
