sD 1 .N3 1911 Copy 1 “Teach your boys that which they should practice when they become men.’’ The Tree Planters of America A POTENT FACTOR FOR THE Reforestation of the United States AND EXTENSION OF PRACTICAL ARBORICULTURE BY THE American Farmer Boys (THIRD EDITION, AMPLIFIED ) ISSUED BY The National Business League of America CHICAGO, U. S. A. LES Iyal STROMBERG, ALLEN & CO., CHICAGO 60:03 “Jeach your boys that which they should practice when they become men.”’ The Tree Planters of America A POTENT FACTOR FOR THE Reforestation of the United States AND EXTENSION OF PRACTICAL ARBORICULTURE BY THE American Farmer Boys (THIRD EDITION, AMPLIFIED ) 0 ISSUED BY The National Business League of America CHICAGO, U. S. A. OMT { * NN > ‘“ When boys and trees are good comrades, nothing is to be feared for either of them; —News-Tribune, Detroit, Mich. ‘“The Tree Planters of America—A glorious idea, and I believe it is so good and grand that it will be carried out by its own virtues. It is one of the finest things ever proposed to the American people.’’ —James T. Du Bois (American Consul-General at Singapore.) ‘With distinct pleasure and full appreciation, I have read your plan for the organization of the ‘ The Tree Planters of America.’ It is the best suggestion I have seen on the matter considered. The conception seems really inspired. ‘To organize the American boys in such thorough and systematic way, and under such splendid leadership in good work, is an endeavor that cannot be too highly commended. ‘‘ Aside from the great benefits that will certainly come through such wise plans for reforestation, the principles of patriotic devotion incidentally inculcated will thrill the nation, and from border to border will pulse as one great throbbing heart, loyalty and love for tne future of the whole country.”’ —William J. Northen, Atlanta (Formerly Governor of Georgia.) 275 FI) | FOREWORD HE agriculture, industries and commerce of the United States, and disastrous forest fires, have con- sumed the timber of 300,000,000 acres out of the original forests of 850,000,000 acres. Most of this tim- ber has been cut and marketed, or destroyed, during recent years, and the remainder is rapidly vanishing in the ever-increasing demands of modern activities. As a nation we are fast approaching a timber famine, and, unless immediate, thorough and persistent action be taken for country-wide replenishment, our successors will have just and ample reason for criticism and con- demnation. Private forestry has accomplished something. The few notable instances only indicate what might be achieved by a general movement. A report from the Department of Agriculture, approved by Secretary Wilson, May 29, 1909, gives the total area of planted forest land as not exceeding 965,000 acres. Yet the total area of land which would yield its greatest returns from planted forest is more than 56,000,000 acres. Surely here is a broad and promising field for the timely proposition,—“The Tree Planters of America.” The suggestion is an American idea, presented by the National Business League of America for the prac- tical reforestation of the United States, and for the phys- ical, moral and spiritual up-lifting and usefulness of the American Boy of the twentieth century and the countless 2 o generations to follow him. Systematic planting, culture, and conservation of trees; prompt utilization of fallen timber for fuel or the industries; a permanent and profitable wood lot for every farm; co-operation of Art with Nature in the transformation of the landscape from the unsightly to the beautiful. These should be cardinal duties of the youthful Trée Planters. The farmer should raise his crop of trees as he does other products of the farm. It will, however, be a crop in perpetuity, from father to son through all future years. With the Tree Planters active the cost of reforestation will be reduced to a minimum; the burden of expense resting lightly on each unit of the movement, ze., on the nation, state, county, township and individual. There is nothing in the plan to inspire an excessive militant spirit or to develop habits of destructiveness. It does not, in any sense, emphasize the dubious ‘““Cowboy and Indian” idea, so manifestly, and sometimes fatally, operative among the boys in the trail of a Wild West show, or under the baleful influence of the degenerate dime novel. ‘The life of the tree planter, the farmer and the homebuilder is distinctly along lines of practical achievement, beneficence and universal peace. The cordial commendations by leaders of thought and action in many lines of endeavor, from every section of the country, some of which are herein submitted, indicate a deep and widespread interest in scientific re-forestation by the farmer boys and youth of the Nation. Hence it is earnestly hoped that the United States Govern- ment, the States, and all the various organizations of the country with aims for the general welfare, now and here- after, will heartily co-operate to carry the “Tree Plant- ers of America” to a conclusion of lasting results. 4 ORIGIN OF THE PROPOSITION THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA NATIONAL CONSERVATION COMMISSION Washington, June 27, 1908. Mr. Austin A. Burnham, Chicago, III. Dear Mr. Burnham: You will recall that the Declaration of the Governors at the White House Conference recommended that each State appoint “a commission on the conservation of natural resources to co-operate with each other and with any similar com- mission of the federal government.” Acting on this suggestion, President Roosevelt, on June 8, appointed a National Conservation Commission. The Executive Committee of the Commission met in Chicago, June 19, arranged a plan of work, and decided also to issue occasional bulletins. I have much pleasure in enclosing a copy of the first of these, and shall be very glad to send you later issues if you desire. Since you took part in the Conference, and in view of the peculiar interest of the National Business League of America in the Conservation of Natural Resources, it occurs to me that you may be willing to assist the National Commission with suggestions, either on your own behalf or on that of your organization, concerning lines of inquiry, the nature of the report, or other matter; and I assure you that any expression from you will be welcome. The Commis- sion would especially appreciate your co-operation if you would con- sent to give it detailed and specific information in your own field. Would it be possible for you to do so? Sincerely yours, GIFFORD PINCHOT, Chairman. (Responsive to the above request, the National Business League of America, on February 12, 1909, suggested the plan of organizing the Tree Planters of America, which follows) : ~ 9) 6 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA REFORESTATION. By the farmer boys and youth of the United States through a great national organization to be known as THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA. It must be evident to every reflective mind that in order to make reforestation permanent and far-reaching, the idea of its value and absolute necessity must be impressed upon the farmer boys of the country, for the forests of the future will be in their hands. For all time the boys of today will be the men of tomorrow, and exactly in proportion as the boys of America are trained in the varied fields of human endeavor, so will be the future of America. Reared to the practice of tree-planting, conservation of the tim- ber supply, and schooled in the science of forestry, the habit will be- come fixed for life, and the custom of tree-planting will have been extended to all parts of the United States, and all the farmers will _be practical foresters. All farmer boys and youth of the country should be eligible to membership in the Tree-Planters. There should be systematic tree planting in profitless pastures, nooks, ravines; on hillsides and house lawns; on useless or worn-out spots or partly denuded forest acres on the farm, and in every place where the soil is not yielding a reasonable contribution to the general welfare. From time to time, through publications and by personal visits of experts from the United States forest service, the “Tree-Plant- ers” should be instructed in scientific forestry in all its branches. The national government, or the state, or both, should confer medals, badges or other tokens of recognition for meritorious work. This will strengthen the ambition of the boys and increase their in- terest and activity in the task of tree planting. AW AAS THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 7 PLAN OF ORGANIZATION. The plan suggested is to organize the “Tree-Planters of Amer- ica’”’ largely through the agency or co-operation of farmers’ granges, clubs, institutes, educational and co-operative unions, state and local agricultural associations. The organization should be composed of groups; each state group to be known under the state name, as the “Ohio Group,” with the governor of the state as president, the state forester, or such other state officials as the governor may select, as aids. Then county groups, with the county commissioners or other officials at the head; then township groups, under control of the trustees or other offi- cials; all to be under the direction of the United States forester, or the chairman of the National Conservation Commission. The heads of the township groups should report to the heads of the county groups; the heads of the county groups should report to the heads of the state groups, and the heads of the state groups should report to the United States forester or the chairman of the National Conservation Commission. Thus will be completed a per- fect chain of organization linking the coming American citizens into one mighty, irresistible force for permanent reforestation, reclama- tion of our water courses and water powers, and advancement of our industries. It is suggested that the president of the United States set the machinery for organization in motion by issuing a proclamation of recommendation to the governors, who are to be the presidents of the state groups; the governors to issue proclamations recommend- ing organization of the county and township groups as above indicated. Thus has been suggested that which it is hoped may prove to be a pleasant and profitable pastime for “Young America,” along the lines of that sterling injunction, “Teach your boys that which they will practice when they become men.” 8 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA It is believed that, rightly exploited and managed, the movement would become of vast scope and early results. Boys are easy to receive and hold impressions, and once their ambitions are quick- ened, are enthusiastic, cordially responsive and persistent; besides behind them would be the right-minded, progressive father who would encourage the sons in the great work of reforestation. The system once established will become a part of the life of the farmer. He may learn of the timbers that will best thrive in his par- ticular section of the country and of those kinds most needed by the various industries. Not only on the farm but in the suburbs of our large towns and cities should tree planting, for use and for ornament, be prac- ticed by the boys and young men of America. These foresters of the future should also learn the best methods of trimming out the second growth of deforested lands wherever the soil is not needed or unfit for tillage, so that the most promising saplings may grow unhampered; furthermore become familiar with the diseases and parasites of trees and the effective means for their extinction. Through tree-planting and tree culture, in boyhood, the farmer easily acquires the habit of making the forest an invaluable factor of his farm; restoring that which, often with wasteful methods and with little thought of future needs, has been lavishly consumed. The proposition should appeal to all interests, for it is essen- tially constructive and conservative, with no element of friction in it. REMARKS OF AusTIN A. BURNHAM, GENERAL SECRETARY OF THE NATIONAL BusINEss LEAGUE OF AMERICA, AT THE NATIONAL CONSERVATION CONGRESS AT ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA, SEPTEM- BER 8, 1910. Mr. President and Members of the National Conservation Congress: I deeply appreciate the privilege, and am not insensible of the honor, of briefly addressing this great Congress of representative men in every field of human endeavor, who are met to plan for the conservation of the natural resources of the nation. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 9 First, I wish to emphasize the fact that the patriotic men who are planning conservation today are mostly not the men who will execute. The men who are to conserve our lands, waters and min- erals, and perpetuate our forests, are now running around in knick- erbockers, or being rocked in the cradles of the nation. They and their children and their children’s children, down along the line of the centuries ,will carry out the vital precepts and principles of this great conservation movement—this timely warning cry against care- less national extravagance—this imperative codicil to the Declara- tion of Independence. | There are some resources we cannot restore, but may conserve or substitute. As one door closes another opens. Coal, iron, cop- per and other products of the mine, when once consumed cannot be reproduced, but for all time the tree may be perpetuated. The friendly, faithful, useful tree that conserves the raindrop with its treasures of light, heat, power and life-giving properties for vegeta- tion and fills the world with inspiring beauty. The restoration and preservation of our forests, then, and an adequate policy of accomplishment, becomes of the weightiest impor- tance. In this connection I beg to suggest the American Farmer Boy. It is proposed to organize the farmer boys and young men of this country into a great national body to be known as the “Tree Planters of America.’ The plan involves instruction and actual practice in tree-planting and tree-culture, with suitable prizes for excellence and results. It aims to permanently check the wasteful- ness of go-as-you-please forestry now evident from every car win- dow in this country. In brief, without entering into details, the suggestion seeks to organize all farmer boys from twelve to twenty years of age as Tree Planters, in every commonwealth, county and township of the United States; with the co-operation of the forestry department at Washington, governors of states, and the proper official heads of town and county governments. 10 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA The plan in general unifies the individual, the state and the nation, into one vast organized body for the practical reforestation of the country. The system once made operative will become an inseparable part of the life of the farmer of the future. It is kin- dred to the splendid educational and philanthropic work of Mr. Ber- nard N. Baker, the ideal and actual president of this Congress, and I hope it may merit your approval as one practical means to the end we all are aiming at. The time for talking has gone by. The time for action has come. Therefore let us begin at the foundation and organize the coming men who are to do the actual work of reforestation. The mind of the American boy is plastic. The impressions he receives remain to the end. Teach him then to practice those things that make for permanent universal betterment, for with his brain and brawn he determines the destiny of this great American Republic. PREAMBLE AND RESOLUTION UNANIMOUSLY ADOPTED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE NATIONAL BUSINESS LEAGUE OF AMERICA, SEPTEMBER 26, 1910. Copy FORWARDED TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. WHEREAS, The rapid development of the agriculture, the various industries and the commerce of the United States have largely ex- hausted the forests of the country and thereby destroyed the nat- ural currents of the water courses, reduced the water powers to a minimum of usefulness, defaced the landscapes, and resulted in dis- astrous floods and serious erosion or wastage of the soil; and WHEREAS, It is evident that restoration and perpetuation of the forests, so far as practicable, have become imperative for the gen- eral welfare of the nation; and Wue_reas, The National Business League of America has sug- gested that the farmer boys and youth of the United States be organized for the purpose of reforestation of the farms, tree cul- ture and conservation of timber supplies, under the title and name— THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 11 “The Tree Planters of America”—to co-operate with the Forest Service of the Department of Agriculture of the Federal Govern- ment, state, county and municipal governments, farmers’ granges, clubs, institutes, educational and agricultural associations, along the following lines, viz. : First—The Tree Planters of America to be composed of groups; each state group to be known under the state name, as the “Ohio Group of the Tree Planters of America,” with the Governor of the State as President, and such other state official or officials as His Excellency may elect as aids; also county and township groups with the proper officials in charge. | SEconD—The members of the Tree Planters of America to be instructed in scientific forestry, through publications and by per- sonal visits of experts from the United States Forest Service. Peri- odical reports of progress from the various groups to be made through state organizations to the Forest Service, and annual distri- bution of medals or other prizes for excellence in results, by the Government, the State and auxiliary organizations; therefore be it RESOLVED, That the President of the United States of America, be, and he hereby is, respectfully requested by the Board of Directors and Standing Committees of the National Business League of Amer- ica, to issue a proclamation to the Governors of the different States of the Union, recommending co-operation along the lines indicated ; and that the President further recommend to the Congress of the United States such legislation as, in his opinion, may be necessary to successfully carry out the plan as outlined by the National Busi- ness League of America. 12 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA PUBLIC OPINION From George H. Maxwell, Executive Chairman and General Coun- sel, American Homecroft Society, Chicago. Concerning the splendid article in the Chicago Evening Post, about your plan for “Banding the Boys of the Country to Rear Forests,” it does seem to me that you have suggested something here which is an idea holding real, splendid possibilities of inspiration to thousands of young men in every part of the United States, from a purely patriotic and philanthropic point of view, if you can get those who are interested in the propagation of forestry ideas to take up your thought and push it forward. I most sincerely hope that they will do so. This country will be what the young men who are now growing to manhood will make it. Every boy who is inoculated with the right ambition and inspirations in reference to the future of the country during the next few years will do a work that will leave an enduring mark on the sands of time through all future years. There are very few who realize that “As a man thinketh, so is he,” and “as the people of a nation think, so will the nation be,” and if you can only get people interested in a thing, they will carry it out. If the boys of this country could be interested in forestry as much as they are now interested in baseball, we would soon have an end of all our forestry troubles. M. P. Lilienthal, Cashier The Anglo-California Trust Company, San Francisco. I am heartily in accord with the plan to organize an army of boys for the reforestation of our waste lands, and trust that the League will meet with success. George W. Sheldon, G. W. Sheldon & Company, Chicago. The plan as outlined can no doubt be carried out if it can get a start, and when started, I feel sure that it would arouse wonderful enthusiasm among the farmer boys of America. George Frederic Stone, Secretary, Board of Trade of the City of Chicago. Concerning the very interesting, practical and patriotic article entitled “Banding the Boys of the Country to Rear Forests,” I hail not only with approval, but with delight, the movement which is making such progress in the direction of the conservation of our natural resources, and the determination to stop the waste of our splendid natural wealth which has been going on for generations. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 13 PUBLIC OPINION Bernard N. Baker, Chairman Executive Committee Moral Educa- tion Board, Baltimore; formerly President of the National Conservation Congress. It is a splendid idea. I congratulate you on the work you are undertaking, wish you success, and assure you that I will assist all I can. C. A. Green of R. G. Dun & Co., New York. I consider your idea the best I have ever seen for accomplish- ing good results along this line. If the boys and young men can be interested in such a movement success is absolutely assured in my judgment. I sincerely trust that sufficient interest can be aroused to carry the plan through. C. H. Plummer, President Merchants’ and Manufacturers’ Asso- ciation, Los Angeles, California. Your plan, as outlined in the Chicago Evening Post of August 25th, to organize the boys of the farms of the United States as a body of tree planters and foresters, appeals to me as one of the truly great ideas which has been brought to my attention in many years. I believe that this scheme, thoroughly elaborated, will prove a solution of a problem, which today is one of paramount importance to the American nation. I am convinced that every man, whoever or whatever he may be, whether his position be exalted or lowly, who is possessed of a sense of patriotism will bid you, as I do, God speed in your labor of love. Be assured of any co-operation in my power. Honorable Rollin S. Woodruff, formerly Governor of Connecticut, New Haven. The idea appeals to me and I believe that you have started a very wise and productive plan, and I sincerely hope that the idea may be carried to its fullest completion. I take great pleasure in commending the whole proposition. William L. Brown, President Chicago Ship Building Company, Chicago. The movement is unquestionably a practical and patriotic one, and, as outlined, will appeal favorably to every one having at heart the tree growth of our country; and the organization, as proposed, will undoubtedly do much toward the better protection of our forests. 14 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA PUBLIC OPINION Elliott Durand, The Northern Assurance Company, Chicago. I have carefully read, from beginning to end, the pamphlet, “The Tree Planters of America,’ and do not hesitate to say that nothing has come to me which so appeals to me as this happy solu- tion of continuing our forests. Reared in the country, and loving trees as I do animals, I believe the possibilities are unlimited. There are so many tracts on nearly every farm, east and west, where waste places may be made glad, that the early fruition of our hopes may be realized, with almost no expense. I heartily endorse the plan. Honorable J. Frank Hanly, formerly Governor of Indiana, Indian- apolis. The plan seems practical and worthy of commendation. Walter Fitch, of Walter Fitch & Company, formerly President Board of Trade, Chicago. I think the idea a most excellent one, and trust it will be pushed aggressively. Francis Beidler, Lumber Interests, Chicago. All this tends in the direction of accomplishing a very laudable and worthy object, which the men of this generation will be sin- cerely thanked for by the thinking men of the generations to come, if they succeed in accomplishing something at least in the direction of this purpose. Professor Emory R. Johnson, University of Pennsylvania, Phila- delphia. The future supply of forests in the United States must be main- tained mainly by forestry upon private lands. National and State forestry can only very partially meet the situation. It would seem that your plan of organizing the boys of the country as “The Tree Planters of America” might awaken an interest in wood lots and forests that will do much to insure a future supply of timber in the United States. Walter C. Gillett, President, Chicago Paper Company, Chicago. I feel certain that it is a very important subject, and it looks to me as though the situation lay in just about such a scheme as out- lined. I fully realize the importance of the devastation of our tim- bers and the necessity of replacing them, and would be in harmony with any action taken to improve our present condition. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 15 PUBLIC OPINION William H. Parlin, President Parlin & Orendorff Company, Canton, Illinois. The plan suggested is a good one. I believe that if the young people are taught to realize the importance of keeping up our forestry it will be a move in the right direction. Hon. John Wanamaker, Philadelphia. The scheme seems to be practical. Robert H. Harvey, President D. B. Fisk & Company, Chicago. We heartily endorse the work of the “Tree Planters of America.” M. E. Plain, Trask & Plain, Aurora, IIl. I am heartily in accord with the movement for reforesting our waste lands. Ward W. Willits, President The Adams-Westlake Company, Chicago. The plan of reforesting the country through an organization of boys to be known as the “Tree Planters of America,” appeals to me as being practical and feasible, and if properly organized will show results highly beneficial to the country. Honorable Clark E. Carr, formerly United States Minister Pleni- potentiary to Denmark, Galesburg, III. The suggestion of a plan to reforest the country through “The Tree Planters of America’ I most heartily approve. I lived for four years, from 1889 to 1893, with my family, at Copenhagen. I learned there that the forests had been replanted and that there was maintained a splendid system to keep them up. Among other requirements, every one who cut down a tree was obliged to replace it with a good thrifty tree, properly set out, the same season. This requirement was enforced as to one’s own land. If it was neglected the State Forester would plant the tree, for which he who cut its predecessor down would be required to pay, with costs of proceedings. This regulation applied to the whole King- dom of Denmark. Honorable Augustus E. Willson, Governor of Kentucky, Frankfort. It seems to me that it is a very admirable plan, and if we can get our boys interested they will make a splendid army of tree planters. 16 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA PUBLIC OPINION Honorable Elihu Root, United States Senator from New York. In re “The Tree Planters of America,” I think it would be a very useful thing to impress upon the minds of American boys generally the idea that it is a good thing to plant trees. It seems to be getting hold at the right end of the process of public education on that subject. I should think that a great many boys might be led to get their fathers to permit them to transplant small seedlings into lands that are now waste and unproductive, or to let them plant nuts in such land. The business is so fascinating that if you get a boy once interested in the growth of a single tree of his own raising he will be a tree planter all the rest of his life. If you get boys enough into this attitude we should very soon be changed from a tree-destroying to a tree-raising people. C. H. Williamson, formerly President The Quincy Chamber of Commerce, Quincy, III. The idea is most commendable, and is of a very practicable nature. It is a splendid channel for youthful enthusiasm and should be of untold benefit to the country. George H. Barbour, Vice-President and General Manager The Michigan Stove Company, Detroit. Concerning the plan of The National Business League of America to reforest the country, through an organization of farmer boys and youth; it seems to me this is a very important step, and if the plan had been inaugurated years ago, when our forests were being devastated, we would now have a new growth of timber in many sections where now we have but brush and stumps, etc. It is not too late to start, and I hope every one will feel interested to encourage and foster this work and that you may secure an organi- zation necessary to carry on the work, thus insuring to the country, in the future, a fine growth of timber, which will be of inestimable benefit to all. You have my hearty approval of your plan and I trust it will prove most successful in every way. Frederick H. Brennan, Secretary and Treasurer The N. K. Fairbank Company, Chicago. The plan for the “Tree Planters of America,” seems to us very well devised to accomplish the purpose in view. If the farmer boys of the country can be interested in the subject of reforestation, and be induced, from patriotic motives or obvious material advantages that will result to themselves, to plant trees upon the rough, waste or otherwise non-arable lands, there can be no question of the enormous benefit to the country from such a campaign. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 17 PUBLIC OPINION George H. Wilcox, President International Silver Company, Meriden, Conn. We are certainly interested in any plan that will look to increas- ing the forests of this country. We are doing what we can in our town, in a limited way, to encourage the planting of trees by the young men of our section, and we believe if we could get at more of them, that a little encouragement would perhaps produce very great results all over the country. Edward P. Bailey, Manager The National Malleable Castings Com- pany, Chicago. I am in favor of any efficient plan having for its object the planting and cultivation of trees on a large scale. A. S. Thomas, Meriden, Conn. I commend the “Tree Planters of America.” Silas H. Burnham, President First National Bank of Lincoln, Lincoln, Neb. The plan of organizing the farmer boys of America for con- servation and reforestation is, in my judgment, feasible and practi- cal, and, if taken up by the boys in the true American spirit, will bring results that will astonish the nation. It will not only be of inestimable benefit to the country, but will awaken and arouse an exceedingly valuable idea in the minds of the rising generation. Honorable John Barton Payne, Chicago. I have read with great interest the pamphlet dealing with the subject, “The Tree Planters of America.” The plan is admirable and should do great good in several directions. It should reforest the country and reinvigorate its youth. G. H. Nye, President Cayuga County National Bank, Auburn, N. Y. The idea of securing the interest of the youth ’of America in an organization with such a name is practical, and a very good one. It is assumed that the seelction of trees would be such as to produce the best value at maturity. I have for some time advocated the planting of valuable trees along the roadside in all country towns, and any waste land whatever might well be devoted to such a purpose. Anything that makes play for the young boys should be, if possible, turned into producing something of practical value, as a result, and this idea is a most excellent one. 18 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA PUBLIC OPINION Wilson H. Doe, Cashier The Home National Bank, Elgin, Illinois. Relative to the proposed organization of “Tree Planters of America,” the object to be gained by this organization appeals to any right-thinking man. If that can be accomplished, the good which will result will be incalculable, and of benefit to the Nation for all time to come. Honorable Frank O. Lowden, Member of Congress from Illinois, Sinnissippi Farm, Oregon, II. I have read, with much interest, your pamphlet entitled the “Tree Planters of America.” I think this method proposed by you is eminently practical, and I wish you all success. It is idle to expect to accomplish everything by legislation. The people them- selves must do their part if we are to make real progress. I wish to suggest, for your consideration, the desirability of having the several States exempt from taxation lands that are devoted to forestry. It takes so long to raise the first crop of timber that the State might well assist by exempting property of this kind from taxation while it is growing. Honorable Edwin Warfield, formerly Governor of Maryland, Baltimore. Concerning the “Tree Planters of America,’ I think your plan of organization is a good one. [ am a farmer and very much inter- ested in reforestation. I have a son who has become interested also, and we frequently discuss methods for restoring the forests on our plantation. I take great interest in tree culture, and am starting a private nursery. On every occasion that presents itself, I recommend to neighboring farmers the importance of looking after their wood lots, and whenever it is necessary to cut a tree for use, to replace it by planting another. Your plan is one that will be for the practical and permanent betterment of landowners and the people of the country. Charles P. Mosher, Mosher, Griswold & Company, Auburn, N. Y. IT can think of but one answer for any man to make to the proposition, and that is, one of commendation. Mahlon D. Thatcher, President First National Bank, Pueblo, Colo. Concerning the plan to reforest the country through an organi- zation of farmer boys and youth, to be known as the “Tree Planters of America,” I heartily recommend the proposed organization, as [ think it is a most desirable thing for the whole country. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 19 PUBLIC OPINION Charles T. Page, President Page Belting Company, Concord, N. H. The plan of the organization to be known as the “Tree Planters of America” has my hearty approval. This organization will be an effective instrument for the promotion of the cause of reforestation. John D. Hibbard, President North American Securities Company, Chicago. Concerning the “Tree Planters of America,” I believe the idea an extremely valuable one. If ways and means can be found to interest the “boys,” and the plan can be made effective, nothing but good can result, the measure of which no one at this time can state. E. O. Painter, Jacksonville, Florida. I am heartily in interest with an Association of Farmers or Boys that will help renew the forests of our country. We need it in this State, especially as large areas of land are being cleared of timber by the saw-mills. Only a small-portion of this land is taken up for cultivation. Of course, a small growth of pine and oak followed, but it will be a long time before such growth will be available for use. John M. Nelson, Hambleton & Company, Baltimore, Md. I am much interested in your wise and practical plan for inter- esting the boys of the United States in planting and caring for trees. An organization, such as is proposed by The National Business League of America, to reforest the country, must appeal to everyone who has given any thought to the vital importance of this subject. Honorable James O. Davidson, Governor of Wisconsin. Madison, November 14, 1910. I am in receipt of your pamphlet suggestive of a plan to reforest the country through an organization of farmer boys and youth, to be known as the “Tree Planters of America.” I approve most heartily of the plan you have worked out. The fact that you propose to interest the children is the strongest evi- dence that the project has breadth and proposes to meet the neces- sities of the situation. Wisconsin feels keenly the need of doing a work such as you propose. We have not yet outlined a comprehensive plan for it, but are endeavoring to do something through the agency of the State. I have no doubt that Mr. McGovern, who will become Governor of the State the first of January, will give every assistance that he will be able to in his official capacity. Personally, in whatever position the future may place me, I shall be glad to give such help as I can to the movement. 20 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA PUBLIC OPINION John S. McLain, Editor-in-Chief Dispatch and Pioneer Press, St. Paul, Minn. The proposition to interest the boys of the country, particu- larly of the rural districts, in tree planting appeals to me as not only an excellent idea but a very practical one. In this State we have made considerable progress in the way of agricultural education, and have developed an interest in the rural communities in every- thing which makes for the betterment of country life. I think your plan would meet with a very hearty reception in this State. Maurice H. Newmark, M. A. Newmark & Company, Los Angeles, Cal. Relative to “The Tree planters of America,” the remedy that you suggest, to reforest, through the instrumentality of the farmer boys of America, must meet with the hearty approval of the people of this broad commonwealth. Reforestation is one of the prime necessities of the present day, and, when, at the same time, you educate the farmer youth of the country, you are compounding a beneficent act—‘killing two birds with one stone’—and doing a tremendous amount of good for the future. Honorable William J. Bryan, Editor and Proprietor “The Com- moner,”’ Lincoln, Neb. I am pleased with the plan you outline for ‘““The Tree Planters of America.” It will do the boys good to enlist in so worthy a cause, and the country will profit by the enthusiasm aroused in forestry. I. J. Truman, President Truman Investment Company, San Francisco. The idea is an excellent one and should be encouraged, as our wood supply should be kept up in some way, and the suggestion in your pamphlet would accomplish much. On every farm there are corners and waste places which could be supplied with trees to the great benefit of the planters and also to the parties who may come after them. In this State there are vast acres of land which could be planted to trees which would supply fuel for a large portion of the population. W. C. Patterson, Vice-President First National Bank of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Cal. The scheme for reforestation of the country through the organization of the farmer boys and youth of America is certainly novel and attractive, and is one in which I believe the boys would enter with zest and enthusiasm. I know of no more important problems than those of conserving the forests which now exist, and reclaiming the districts which have been denuded. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 21 PUBLIC OPINION A. G. Sherry, F. W. Edgerton Company, Troy, N. Y. I am in full accord with the plans for the “Tree Planters of America.” Get the rising generation started right, and “When they are old they will not depart from it.” For years I have wondered why hundreds of the steep hillsides in this part of the country were not, long ago, planted with trees. They are so steep the grass dries quickly, and they are of very small value for pasturage and are good for nothing else. You have struck the right idea, and I hope you will have great success. Along with this teach the young ideas to respect trees and grass planted in cities and towns. They are very prone to destroy these. Frederick S. Fish, Chairman Executive Committee, Studebaker Brothers Manufacturing Company, South Bend, Ind. Relative to the suggestion of a plan to reforest the country, through an organization of farmer boys and youth, to be known as the ‘“Tree Planters of America.” it seems to me if it can be organ- ized along the lines as suggested, it is not only practicable, but it will be a rational and successful way of solving the problem. Arthur Young, Arthur Young & Company, Chicago. I have been much interested in reading the pamphlet suggesting a plan to reforest the country through an organization of farmer boys, to be known as “The Tree Planters of America.” Such a plan cannot fail to meet the hearty approval of every- one that has at all considered the subject. It will be a good thing for the farmer boys. If it is under the efficient direction that is proposed, it should be a great thing for the conservation of the country’s resources. John Marsellus, President John Marsellus Manufacturing Com- pany, Syracuse, N. Y. In our opinion the people of the United States, after unaccount- able and lamentable neglect, are at the present time thoroughly united in demanding the protection of public interests, chief among which is the conservation of our forests. Carelessness and indif- ference are to be succeeded by practical as well as permanent efforts towards the rehabilitation of our timber supply. We heartily com- mend the organization, now suggested and being pushed by the National Business League of America, to be known as “The Tree Planters of America.’ It is our cherished hope that the youth of this country are to be inspired to thus provide lasting results against a lumber famine, as well as securing prevention against that prodigal destruction of national wealth which has characterized our history during recent years. 22 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA PUBLIC OPINION Dr. Benjamin Ide Wheeler, President University of California, Berkeley, Cal. I think your plan for the organization of the “Tree Planters of America” -is a good one. Anything that can be done to interest our young people in trees and the planting thereof cannot be amiss. Thomas P. Egan, President J. A. Fay & Egan Company, Cincinnati, Ohio. We think your idea is great if any plan can be devised to reforest the country through an organization of the farmer boys. It would be the greatest benefit to this country that could be promul- gated. We are in a position to know that the waste of the forests is actually 50 per cent. In other words, there is not 50 per cent of the actual lumber gotten out of the trees. In 90 per cent of the cases where saw-mill people cut over the ground they cut down both small and large and simply leave the small stuff to rot. If, in addition to the reforestation of the country, you could devise some method of supervising the cutting of the timber it would be the greatest boon to this country. In other words, when they cut the large timber out of a large tract of land, to have a supervisor to save the small timber, and make them leave standing the stuff that they know cannot be used in the saw-mills. We offer this as a suggestion and hope you can make use of it, and we know it would be a great step in keeping the country forested as it should be. George W. McKerrow, Superintendent Department of Farmers’ Institutes, The University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wis. Concerning “The Tree Planters of America,’ the work your organization has undertaken and outlined is a good one. You will find the Wisconsin Farmers’ Institutes always ready to co-operate with you in any practical lines you may have to suggest for the for- warding of this work. L. A. Ault, President The Ault & Wiborg Company, Cincinnati. I am heartily in sympathy with the movement, and entirely approve of the plan. E. H. Keeler, Secretary-Treasurer Rockford Lumber and Fuel Company, Rockford, III. I have read with great interest the pamphlet, suggesting a plan to reforest the country through an organization of the “Tree Plant- ers of America,” and assure you that the plan meets with my enthusiastic approval. The American boy is quick to grasp a good idea, and if his interest is aroused I am sure good results would be accomplished. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 23 PUBLIC OPINION A. L. Martin, Director of Farmers’ Institutes, Department of Agriculture, Harrisburg, Pa. “The Tree Planters of America.” This work gives to me a new inspiration for the development of better forestry conditions in the United States, and I cannot but commend the National Busi- ness League of America. David S. Gray, Vice-President The Hayden-Clinton National Bank, Columbus, Ohio. Referring to the suggestion of a plan to reforest the country, through an organization of farmer boys and youth, to be known as the “Tree Planters of America,’ I beg to say that I have care- fully read the plan proposed and believe it to be not only practicable but highly desirable, and, if organized and put in operation on lines indicated, it would be effective in the accomplishment of the important end“in view. Edward J. Parker, President State Savings, Loan and Trust Com- pany; President Illinois Outdoor Improvement Association, Quincy, Il. In re. “The Tree Planters of America,’ I am glad the National Business League of America has taken up this matter, and in a very practical way. The intelligent and self-sacrificing work of the Honorable Gifford Pinchot and others in the matter of conservation and reforestation, should be supplemented with the co-operation, not only of other citizens, but of organizations, both municipal and state. The effort of a single citizen, namely, the Honorable Sterling Morton, has made Arbor Day a very practical matter in the country at large. Travelers over the transcontinental lines in this country and Canada, are surprised at the vast natural waste from cyclones, avalanches, fires, etc. Careless hunters, beginning with the aborigines have laid waste the forests of mountains and plains. It is thought by some scientists that the plains between the Missouri River and the Rocky Mountains were at one time covered with forests, and that they were burned by the Indians in their hunting expeditions. In Japan, the permission of the state and municipal authorities must be obtained to cut timber, and, when it is cut, the forests are renewed by intelligent planting, as the traveler plainly observes. The old forest lands of China, Italy and Spain have been denuded, and the commerce and wealth of those countries are injuriously affected thereby. On the other hand, Germany has carried on the work of reforestation for generations, and it has been said that her planting has been done with reference to the ultimate exportation 24 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA PUBLIC OPINION to this country of varieties of timber which we have destroyed by careless and thoughtless waste. The plan of The National Business League to organize the “Tree Planters of America” is an excellent one. In some of our States, farmers’ clubs and debating societies have been organized with reference to the conservation of the soil. We should impress upon the farmers’ boys, particularly, that their assistance and co-operation is needed in preserving and replant- ing our forests. The question is important enough also to be taken up by the combined educational influences of our country. Henry F. Whitcomb, Milwaukee, Wis. The plan outlined seems to me to be wholly practicable, and likely to bring good results if prosecuted vigorously and persistently. J. C. Van Riper, President American Trust Company, St. Louis. Concerning the “Tree Planters of America,’ I am greatly pleased at the interest shown in the proposed organization. Any plan of reforesting the country, I think, must be done on private property, therefore the suggested organization of the “Tree Planters of America” appeals to me as a practicable proposition. When the other side of the question is considered, the growing of trees where waste places at present exist, and its effect on the coming generation, I cannot believe but that men, generally, will heartily and sincerely endorse your plan. William Spencer, President The First National Bank of Erie, Erie, Pa: Your tree-planting scheme is a most excellent one and I predict a great success. It will be the first attempt to let the farmer boy feel a real interest in the national uplift, and to realize he is a factor in national affairs as well. It is high time the farmer boy was recognized. Ezra J. Warner, Jr., Secretary Sprague, Warner & Company, Chicago. Concerning the plan to provide for the reforestation of this country by means of an organization of farmer boys and youths, to be known as the “Tree Planters of America,’ the writer cannot see how anyone can well dissent from the opinion that here is an excellent idea, and one, which, if worked out in the right way, will go far toward solving one of the most serious problems confronting this and coming generations. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 25 PUBLIC OPINION M. C. Rankin, Commissioner of Agriculture, Frankfort, Ky. The principle of your plan to reforest the country is a good one. It will take a long and active campaign of education to have it universally adopted. Cordial best wishes for success. E. P. Bacon, President E. P. Bacon Company, Milwaukee, Wis. I have perused, with much interest, the pamphlet entitled, “The Tree Planters of America.” The project of the formation of an organization of American boys for the purpose of promoting the reforestation of the country from year to year seems to me a thoroughly practical one, and I believe it will prove a most important instrumentality of accomplishing the purpose. I have seen some allusions to it in the daily press previously, and it seems to me it will contribute more largely towards the accomplishment of the desired result than any other single instrumentality that has come within my observation. I wish to congratulate you heartily on the initiation of the plan, the progress of which I shall observe with interest, and I sincerely hope it may be carried into effective opera- tion throughout our entire country at an early period. H. M. Kinney, General Manager Winona Wagon Company, Winona, Minn. I want to congratulate you upon devising a plan for reforesta- tion that seems to me will do great things. If you stir up the ambition and pride of the farmers’ boys of this country you will set in motion a force that in time will accomplish wonders. Charles S. Burton, Cashier The State Bank of Utah, Salt Lake City. I regard the suggestion as a most excellent one, and the proper solution of one of the most important problems the Nation has to solve. L. H. Kittredge, President Motor Car Company, Cleveland, Ohio. I have carefully read the pamphlet and approve most heartily of this movement. J. G. Battelle, President The Columbus Iron and Steel Company, Columbus, Ohio. The plan for the organization of the “Tree Planters of America” seems to me practical, and if so, it certainly would prove immensely valuable for the permanent betterment of all the people. 26 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA PUBLIC OPINION Honorable William M. O. Dawson, formerly Governor of West Virginia, Charleston, W. Va. It appeals to me as a good move in a very desirable object. I wish the League every success in the effort to conserve our forests. J. Ralston Cargill, General Manager Penick & Ford, Ltd., Columbus, Ga. I have read with a great deal of interest and pleasure your pamphlet outlining a plan of organization for the ‘Tree Planters of America.” The idea is an excellent one, and it appeals to me strongly as affording a definite and tangible working basis for the reforestation of the country. Volumes have been written and much has been said about “Conservation,” and yet today many people have only a hazy idea of what conservation really is. It is in danger of becoming an empty phrase, as vain as “sounding brass and tinkling cymbals.” But your plan has a handle to grip to. I was an interested listener to the speeches of Mr. Pinchot and others recently at a banquet at The Piedmont Driving Club in Atlanta. The Southern Conservation Congress was in session, and I attended as the representative of The Columbus Board of Trade. The talks were all entertaining and instructive, but there was the lack of a definite working plan whereby tangible results might be gained. On my recent trip through South Georgia and Florida I was struck by the enormous waste “of forest land denuded of its yellow- pine growth. The turpentine and saw-mill interests have cut a wide swath through that section, and down there now they have the problem of reforestation, or digging up the stumps to prepare the land for agriculture or of allowing the land to remain idle—a dead investment—with soil erosion going on and depriving the land of its virgin fertility. I was with Mr. Hardaway, of Hardaway, Fla., for a brief stay on his Columbus and Rosemeads sugar-cane and tobacco plantation, and he told me that he intended to plant three hundred acres of his land, of the kind just described, in pecan trees. This is being quite generally done by the more progressive planters and land owners in that section, and there is no doubt they will reap a rich harvest in the next decade as a result of their foresight. I think I would be safe in estimating that ten thousand acres “of old pine tree land in South Georgia alone had been planted in pecans in the last few years. I not only think your plan is practical, but, as a member from Georgia of your National Advisory Committee, I want to suggest that you form your first organization of a state group in this State. I am persuaded that the Governor, Commissioner of Agriculture and other officials would heartily co-operate, and I think, too, that you could rely on the assistance of the various Boards of Trade. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 27 PUBLIC OPINION Alexander H. Revell, President Alexander H. Revell & Company, Chicago. The more attention we pay now to preserving the forests of the Nation and to the planting of trees, the less attention we shall have to pay to ‘other successes which we are anticipating in the coming fifty to a hundred years. Not that these other anticipated values in upbuilding shall be neglected. Perish the thought. We should care for the forests and plant the trees, not only for the money value, but also for the valuable sentimental side. Each of these values can easily be estimated at hundreds, perhaps thousands of millions of dollars, as the years go by. Wesley Webb, Corresponding Secretary The State Board of Agriculture, Dover, Del. I most heartily and cordially approve the plan to reforest the country through an organization of farmer boys and youth, to be known as the “Tree Planters of America.” Honorable George C. Pardee, formerly Governor of California, Oakland, Cal. If the farmers’ boys and youths can be interested in the matter of reforestation, the thing is done. It is, I am sure, a good way to get at the matter, which is of so much importance, not only to the farmers, but also to every other American citizen. I sincerely hope your plan will be effective. Arthur H. Devers, Closset & Devers, Portland, Oregon. The plan suggested is an excellent one, and with careful work on the part of the League, should be productive of wonderfully good results. George R. Brown, Secretary Board of Trade, Little Rock, Ark. There is ample work to do in this State in tree planting. Trees should be planted along the country roads; old fields should be protected by forests; the mountain section of the State should be prevented from washing; gullies can be prevented, streets improved, etc. Our river bottoms could be made prolific with the cultivation of pecans, while a great industry in basket-making could be built up by securing willows. William P. Ketcham, Seattle, Wash. I have been in perfect accord with the progress and work in this very important channel of reforestation, and I find that it is hailed among practical people with whom I have talked since I reached the coast, as the most business-like and simple project of reforestation that has been offered up to this time. 28 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA PUBLIC OPINION J. A. Jeffrey, President The Jeffrey Manufacturing Company, Columbus, Ohio. I cordially endorse the suggestion of the ‘Tree Planters of America.” Such a movement would be worth a great deal to the Nation in forest preservation and reforesting our country. The great benefits which our boys and the coming men would receive through such training and education would more than pay any expense and efforts that may be put forth. I most heartily com- mend the movement. H. R. Groff, Manager Childs-Groff Shoe Company, Cleveland, O. The “Tree Planters of America,” well organized by men who know and love boys and trees, cannot help but make its impress on the next generation for the good of all the country and its people. The idea is a fine one. N. E. Shaw, Department of Agriculture, Columbus, O. The plan suggested seems to me to be a good one. The hope of accomplishing anything along this line depends upon interesting the rising generation in this work. Although nearly all thinking men realize the importance of tree planting and forest preservation, it is difficult to induce them to undertake practical work, because they do not expect to see definite results accomplished. It seems. therefore, that your plan of interesting the boys of America in this movement is a step in the right direction. Dr. Francis P. Venable, President University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, N. C. I feel great interest in the “Tree Planters of America.” I realize how much it means to the people of the United States and shall be glad to do anything in my power to aid in the movement. Honorable George W. Dixon, Vice-President Arthur Dixon Transfer Company, Chicago. It must be evident to every man familiar with the vast inroads on the forests of the United States that only a persistent and wide- spread movement can restore that which, often with wasteful meth- ods, is being rapidly consumed by the industries of the country. As a remedial proposition the suggestion of an organization of farmer boys and youth, as the “Tree Planters of America,” appeals to me as clearly being the effective means of restoring our forests, and at the same time becoming a powerful factor in con- serving the rain-falls and water-powers of the Nation. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 29 PUBLIC OPINION Honorable Robert S. Conklin, Commissioner of Forestry, Pennsyl- vania Department of Forestry, Harrisburg, Pa. Regarding an organization for reforesting the country, to be accomplished by the “Tree Planters of America,’ I believe if the plan can be carried out that it will be the means of stimulating interest in our tree-planting problems. This department is heartily in accord with any organization which will assist in doing this work. Should the tree planters’ organization become popular, which it undoubtedly will under the plan you suggest, I see no reason why its influence should not extend throughout the Nation. Forbes Lindsay, New York City. The plan outlined in the “Tree Planters of America’ excites my hearty sympathy. It is admirable, no less on account of its simplicity than for its unquestionable effectiveness. It goes directly to the root of the matter by providing for general reforestation by the creation of innumerable wood lots. If the trees of the future are largely in private ownership the destructive exploitation of timber will be minimized. Your project is quite practical and I believe that it will be successful, because the proposition is one calculated to appeal to our farmers’ boys if attractively presented, but the outcome must depend largely upon the manner in which the details are designed and carried out. Honorable Edgar E. Ring, Forest Commissioner, State of Maine, Augusta, Me. Anything that can be done to awaken an interest in the boys of this country as to the very great importance of the proper conserva- tion of our great forest wealth, would certainly do much towards perpetuating our forests. In my opinion, the way to do this is to get them interested. I think your plan is worth trying. George S. Brooke, President The Fidelity National Bank, Spokane, Wash. I believe the proposed plan is an excellent one and cannot fail to bring good results. Ellsworth Regenstein, State Superintendent, Department of Educa- tion, Frankfort, Ky. I have carefully examined the pamphlet suggesting the plan to reforest the country through an organization of farmer boys and youth. It appears to me that the “Tree Planters of America” should accomplish wonders, provided they have proper organization and guidance. The plan appears to be very feasible and I give it my hearty commendation. 80 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA PUBLIC OPINION E. C. Bishop, Superintendent, Department of Public Instruction, State of Nebraska, Lincoln. Concerning the “Tree Planters of America,” I am very much interested in the work, and shall be glad to encourage it wherever I can. I would like especially to have it adapted in some way so that our boys’ and girls’ clubs, through the public schools, may become interested. We have in this State about 32,000 young people organized into boys’ and girls’ clubs. I would like to give them the “Tree Planters’ Idea” and help extend the work through the public schools. Colonel Robert J. Lowry, President Lowry National Bank, Atlanta, Ga. I know of no question before our thinking people today that is of greater importance than the question of conservation of our resources, and the most important branch of that subject is the question of the re-establishment and maintenance of our forests. This being a new country, so to speak, we have been disposed in the past to be lavish in using resources in its rapid development. We have magnificent cities, but some of them exist at the expense of natural resources of the section surrounding them. Pursuant to the demand for the very best quality of everything, much good stock is thrown away that might serve a less esthetic taste with perfect satisfaction. It has been said that every family in the United States wastes enough to feed another one, and the products of our mines and forests have not been properly conserved in the past. We should bring ourselves to a realization of the fact that we are not the only people who are to occupy this soil, and that it is the duty of every generation to conserve and preserve and propa- gate resources for the use and benefit of succeeding generations. We should teach our boys that wastefulness sooner or later brings want, and that all their acts should be constructive instead of destructive. Future generations will need our forests, and, as we utilize virgin resources at hand, we should replace these, where possible, that succeeding generations may not only have as good a basis of commerce as we have enjoyed, but that their supply may be greater to meet the demands of the increased population. I especially commend the efforts of the League along the line of reforestation of the United States. It is a burning question of great importance, and particularly does it concern those to come after us. The little pamphlet, “The Tree Planters of America,” I have perused with a great deal of pleasure, and it is just such effective literature as this that will bring before “Young America” the necessity of the daily practice of conservation. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 31 PUBLIC OPINION A. B. Farquhar, President A. B. Farquhar Company, Limited, Work, Bat The plan of interesting the youth of the country in forest culture and preservation is certainly an admirable one. Since trees planted will only be of value to the next generation, they must certainly see that our action is altruistic—all for their benefit. The plan unques- tionably appeals to me as practical, and is entitled to all possible encouragement and assistance. I believe it will succeed. Professor John H. Gray, Department of Economics and Political Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis. I am delighted with the proposition for the “Tree Planters of America,” and am glad to know that the League is taking this matter up. It seems to me that this is one more strong element back of the movement for conservation, as well as for education. The two seem to me vitally connected. La Verne W. Noyes, President Aermotor Company, Chicago. It seems a very practical way of accomplishing the purposes of beautifying and benefiting our country and utilizing its waste places. I hope the plan will succeed and will do anything I can, personally, to forward the movement. Herman A. Hertel, Pasadena, Cal. I am heartily in favor of forming an organization to be known as the “Tree Planters of America.” The benefit to future genera- tions, if the idea is carried out, can hardly be overestimated. James W. Nye, Manager Chicago Laboratory, Chicago. From rather frequent visits to the semi-arid portions of the United States, and also to the semi-arid portions of Mexico, I can appreciate the absolute necessity for reforestation in many localities. It appears to me that the “Tree Planters of America” afford a very possible solution of the necessities of sections with either a scant or an irregular rainfall. If the active support of the boys in the United States is secured they can do the necessary work, thus adding many millions to the value of the lands now practically useless. R. H. Downman, President Bowie, Des Allemands, and other Lumber Companies, New Orleans. Relative to the proposed organization of an association to be known as the “Tree Planters of America.” I have read the pros- pectus of this work with a great deal of gratification, as I feel that it is, unquestionably, a step in the right direction, and every one who is at least interested in the future of America should lend every possible aid to the development of this good work. 32 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA PUBLIC OPINION R. A. Long, President The Long-Bell Lumber Company, Kansas City, Mo. The plan appeals to me as most practical, and I believe if put into effect will create an interest on the part of the boys of our land in the subject that otherwise they would not give consideration, and, besides, I believe such a movement will inspire patriotism, and hence I shall be very glad indeed to see it made effective. Luther Burbank, Santa Rosa, Cal. I am heartily in sympathy in having the children learn the value of trees, how to grow them, their names, habits and qualities, and I think the plan which you have laid out is of great importance; more to the children than can be estimated just now. On the care of the trees depends their prosperity in the future, so not only for their own benefit in preserving and increasing the forests and wood and timber supply, but the discipline which they will reecive in com- pensation for their interest, will a thousand times repay them. Edwin Chamberlain, Vice-President The San Antonio Loan and Trust Company, San Antonio, Texas. The tree-planting movement promises to be of incalculable bene- fit to the country, for various reasons. It is along the line of reforestation so extensively carried out in Europe and Asia, under the British regime, with the added advan- tage here, that instead of a service of paid forest rangers and foresters, this would enlist the membership and activities of practi- cally the whole rural population—and it need not be limited neces- sarily to the rural. From the conservation standpoint, the idea is a very grandly useful one. But, even deeper and farther than the line of economic industrial value, through the asset of the trees themselves, goes the benfit to be derived from the effect of this training on the characters of the young, our future citizens; give a boy something to do that he can accomplish “all by himself ;”’ inspire him with the spirit of creating, instead of that of destruction; endow him with a sense of responsibility ; make him feel that he is doing a thing which will benefit, not merely himself and his associates, but all future hu- manity ; give him to understand that he is doing his part—“pushing his pound”—towards the welfare of his country, and you have laid the foundations for a pretty good and useful citizenship. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 33 PUBLIC OPINION R. W. Douglas, Secretary Washington Conservation Association ; Washington State Commission on Forest Legislation, Seattle, The plan as outlined for the “Tree Planters of America” is an excellent one, and when carried out—as it can be with a very mod- erate expenditure of time and money—will yield results vastly benefiting the Nation, from an esthetic as well as a practical standpoint. Frederic W. Upham, Upham & Agler; President City Fuel Com- pany, Chicago. The suggestion of an organization of farmer boys and youth, to be known as the “Tree Planters of America,” appeals to me as a thoroughly practical plan for the restoration and conservation of the forests of the United States. Every farmer should make his woodland a profitable part of his farm. Millions of trees, large and small, are rotting on the farms all over this country today. The ravages of parasites also destroy much valuable timber. Here is a field of patriotic effort and usefulness for the boys of America. The movement has my cordial approval. Honorable Marion E. Hay, Governor of Washington, Olympia, Wash. Concerning the pamphlet issued by The National Business League of America, which sets forth the purpose of that association to interest the boys and young men of this country in an organization to be known as the “Tree Planters of America,” the idea seems feasible, and if such an organization is perfected, it will prove a long step forward in practical conservation. The plan should appeal forcibly to every patriotic American, and I stand ready to lend what aid | can to the movement in this State. OPINIONS OF THE PRESS THE CHICAGO RECORD-HERALD There is a plan on foot to bring the boys and young men of the country districts into a comprehensive organization of “tree plant- ers,’ whose energies shall go to replacing in some measure the for- ests that fire and the ax are laying low. The working out of the idea ought to be good for the boys and good for the country. 34 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA OPINIONS OF THE PRESS THE TROY (N. Y.) RECORD The plan is to enroll the lads in the rural regions in an army whose desire will be to plant the waste places with proper trees; line ravines with timber; put out ornamental shrubs on the lawns, and replace timber which is cut with young growth. In this way it is believed a custom will be started, which will become a fixed part of the farmer’s life and which will save the land from denudation. This is a splendid idea and deserves success. It should spread beyond the farm to the suburbs of cities and even to the cities them- selves. A sapling is easily planted and in a few years becomes a sturdy tree, valuable, ornamental and useful. If such a national association be organized, it will have accomplished as much for the future generations as any of the agencies now engaged in conserv- ing the natural resources of the country. LEAVENWORTH (KANSAS) TIMES It was the Laird of Dumbiedykes who, when he came into what was practically a treeless estate, determined to accomplish its refor- estation. He supplied himself with desirable seedlings, and, as he went about his lands, he was ‘‘aye stickin-in,”’ as a matter of habit, and it is recorded that they flourished exceedingly, and he handed down to his descendants a valuable wooded estate. If the farmer boys of this country can, through intelligently directed organization, be induced to acquire the habit of “aye stick- in-in” a valuable seedling tree at the right place and time, more would be done in the way of timber restoration in half a century than has been accomplished by scientific reforesting efforts in a like period. THE REPUBLICAN, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH: The plan is entirely practical and possesses great merit, for reared in the practice of tree planting, conservation of the timber supply, and schooled in the science of forestry, the habit will be- come fixed for life, and the custom of tree planting will have been extended to all parts of the United States, and all the farmers will be practical foresters. For some years the public schools in the cities have been observ- ing Arbor Day, and an effort has been made to interest the children of all ages in the planting of trees. But the opportunities for tree planting in the cities are limited. With the country boys organ- ized a much greater amount of good can be accomplished. ARGUS-LEADER, SIOUX FALLS, S. D. “Reforestation by the farmer boys of America” would be the battle cry, and while the work was in progress, the country would THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 35 OPINIONS OF THE PRESS be educating the coming generation in the importance of tree cul- ture, the best trees to be grown, and the best ways to grow them, as well as how to fight the parasites which attack the growing trees. COLUMBUS (OHIO) DISPATCH Perhaps it has come as a fulfillment of the dream of the late Professor William James of a project that would claim and employ the militant spirit in something better than war. THE NEWS, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH There is no doubt that it is a good idea to take up the work of forestation in a systematic manner. Vegetation means so much to a country. Animal life could not exist without vegetation. It is the beginning and foundation of higher forms of life. In the canyons of Utah and in other suitable places trees ought to be planted, and if an organization with state, or government, aid could see to it, it would be done. More vegetation would mean more rain and better crops. Tree planting would give the boys the best and most useful occupation. It would draw them nearer to nature, and the beauties of nature. By all means let there be a tree planters’ association. PLAIN DEALER, CLEVELAND, OHIO The rural youth of the United States would be bound together for the promotion of an interest upon whose success much of the nation’s future prosperity depends. This looks like a splendid extension of the Arbor Day idea. Boys enjoy organization and would, it is believed, take hold of such a movement as this with avidity. Tree culture would become a pleasure and timber of untold value might owe its existence to the inspiration that comes of fellowship in a good cause. NEWS-TRIBUNE, DETROIT, MICH. It is a movement to be commended, in that it conserves two natural resources—the BOY and the TREES. When boys and trees are good comrades, nothing is to be feared for either of them. THE GAZETTE, TRENTON, N. J. The idea is one that has its appeal not only to the farmer boys, bui to the entire communities that have been denuded of their for- est growth by fire, by the hand of the spoiler, or by the myriad legiti- mate uses to which timber is constantly put. 36 THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA OPINIONS OF THE PRESS PITTSBURG (PA.) POST This suggestion carried to a conclusion would probably do more to solve the problem of trees in this country than any other move- ment. It is a broad, practical and promising recommendation. The land owners of the future would not only be educated in the value of trees and in how to promote their growth, but would witness trees of their own planting maturing as the boys developed into the responsibilities of citizenship. THE NEWS, BUFFALO, N. Y. Tree Planters Cheered The National Business League has issued a pamphlet in behalf of the “Tree Planters of America,” to be organized for the purpose of reforesting where that is needed and to encourage the intelligent growth of opinion and of action on that subject. No doubt there is a profound wisdom in the injunction that boys should be taught that which they shall practice when they become men; so should girls be taught that which they should practice when they become women. It is a good sign of the times that many employ their leisure, their command of their own time, in educational work that is inspiring and useful in about the same degree. Many think that the salvation of the country depends on the expansion of the boy scout idea, which is no doubt, well enough in its way; though the tendency of our country has always been away from militarism for daily use, but all will agree, without exception, ‘that training children to appreciate the value and the vital need of a proper proportion of forests to other lands, is a work in which there is all good and no evil in itself. It is, however, particularly desirable that boys should be taught to have regard for trees and to be active in their preesrvation until large enough to grow. The reason is that boys are more apt than girls to be careless in such things when they become men in charge of public affairs. The carelessness of youth is apt to be continued with consequences that are damaging beyond calculation to the commonwealth. Every such good work as that of tree planting should have every reasonable encouragement on the part of citizens. Much more can be done by an energetic and enlightened public opinion acting upon citizens than by mere appeal to the Government to resort to taxation, and through that highly expensive method to reach an end greatly desired. THE TREE PLANTERS OF AMERICA 37 OPINIONS OF THE PRESS THE COURIER-JOURNAL, LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY The National Business League of America, with headquarters in Chicago, is trying to interest the farmer boys of the United States in the reforestation of the country. To that end, it is proposed to form an organization to be known as the “Tree Planters of America.” It is designed to push the movement largely through the co-operation of farmers’ institutes, unions, societies and State and local associations. Once the organization is effected with State, county and town- ship groups, it would be expected to bring about systematic tree planting in “profitless pastures, nooks, ravines; on useless or worn- out spots or partly denuded forest acres on the farm, and in every place where the soil is not yielding a reasonable contribution to the general welfare.” These forestry enterprises would be visited from time to time by experts from the United States forest service, and there would be systematic effort through these visits and by publica- tions, to instruct the “Tree Planters” in all the branches of scientific tree culture. © This is a good plan for inducing general interest in the subject of forest preservation and perpetuation. It is really an elaboration of the Arbor Day which is observed by the children of the public schools. It is a better plan, of course, for, if carried out as its promoters suggest, every day would be Arbor Day, and the ultimate results would be a future timber supply, which, by proper methods of conservation, might be maintained indefinitely. There can be no enduring forestation movement without the co-operation of the youth of the country. The boys of today are to be the future directors of the destiny of the Nation. Unless they and their succeeding generations can be induced to enlist in the work of conservation that work is certain to fail. The suggestion of The National Business League of America is sensible and practical. By all means let the League proceed with the organization of its Tree Planters. CONSERVATION COMMISSION The National Business League of America CHICAGO, U.S. A. Victor Falkenau, Chairman, Chicago. La Verne W. Noyes, Chicago. Robert W. Hunt, Chicago. Lewis L. Barth, Chicago. Frederick S. Fish, South Bend, Indiana. A. B. Farquhar, York, Pennsylvania. J. Ralston Cargill, Columbus, Georgia. George R. Brown, Little Rock, Arkansas. Mahlon D. Thatcher, Pueblo, Colo. Henry M. Wallis, Racine, Wisconsin. Franklin Murphy, Jr., Newark, New Jersey. Thomas F. Cole, Duluth, Minnesota. Edgar G. Barratt, New York. W. E. Dennison, San Francisco, California. Charles D. Mitchell, Chattanooga, Tennessee. THE NATIONAL BUSINESS LEAGUE OF AMERICA OFFICERS LaVerne W. Noyes, President. Alexander H. Revell, Vice-President. Granger Farwell, Treasurer. FE. Allen Frost, General Counsel. Austin A. Burnham, General Secretary. BOARD OF DIRECTORS FREDERIC W. UPHAM, Chairman. Walter Fitch. Elliott Durand. Philetus W. Gates. George W. Sheldon. Eugene J. Buffington. Granger Farwell. Alexander H. Revell. LaVerne W. Noyes. Benjamin J. Rosenthal. Mather Smith. Samuel Insull. E. Allen Frost. Fred S. James. Austin A. Burnham. FINANCE COMMITTEE SAMUEL INSULL, Chairman. Granger Farwell. George Lytton. John W. Scott. Milton W. Kirk. Rudolph Ortmann. James W. Nye. Kenneth Barnhart. Frederick C. Austin. COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE ELLIOTT DURAND, Chairman. William H. Bartlett. William O. Coleman. Edward J. Nally. George W. Dixon. Granger Farwell. William C. Thorne. Harry B. Clow. COMMITTEE ON MANUFACTURES PHILETUS W. GATES, Chairman. William L. Brown. Horace E. Horton. Ward W. Willits. Charles M. Hewitt. Albert B. Dick. William G. Holbrook. John B. Lord. Silas J. Llewellyn. OFFICIAL ACCOUNTANTS FOR THE LEAGUE Arthur Young. Frank Stanley Young. VICE-PRESIDENTS Charles B. Boothe, Los Angeles, California. James F. Morgan, Honolulu, Hawaii. Frederick S. Fish, South Bend, Indiana. Col. Frederic E. Boothby Portland, Maine. William B. Mershon, Saginaw, Michigan. Franklin Murphy, Jr., Newark, New Jersey. Arthur H. Devers, Portland, Oregon. Col. Robert J. Lowry, Atlanta, Georgia. William H. Parlin, Canton, II1linois. Edward J. Nally, New York City, N. Y. Silas H. Burnham, Lincoln, Nebraska. Edwin Chamberlain, San Antonio, Texas. William P. Ketcham, Seattle, Washington Henry M. Wallis, Racine, Wisconsin, TINT 0 021 528 435 9