Vol. I. HEARINGS ON ESTIMATES OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE Vol. II. HEARINGS ON BILLS FOR THE PREVENTION OF "DEAL- Vol. III. HEARINGS ON MISCELLANEOUS BILLS VOL. III SIXTY-FIRST CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION WASHINGTON GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 1910 PROTECTION OF WATERSHEDS OF NAVIGABLE STREAMS. COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Washington, D. C., Wednesday, February 23, 1910. The committee met at 10.30 o'clock a. m., Hon. Charles F. Scott in the chair. The committee thereupon proceeded to the consideration of the bill (H. R. 11798) to enable any State to cooperate with any other State or States, or with the United States, for the protection of the watersheds of navigable streams, and to appoint a commission for the acquisition of lands for the purpose of conserving the navigability of navigable rivers. The CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to an order made some days ago, the committee has met this morning to consider H. R. 11798, commonly known as the Weeks bill, relating to the protection of the watersheds of navigable streams and the purchase or acquirement in other ways of forest lands in the White Mountains and the Appalachians. Mr. Weeks called this morning to say that on account of another hearing it would be impossible for him to be present at the moment, although he hoped he might come in later. I notice, however, that Representative Currier, of New Hampshire, who is also identified with this legislation, is present, and I will ask him to make such a statement as he desires and to present other gentlemen who wish to be heard on the subject. Let me suggest to members of the committee that the hearing will probably be expedited if gentlemen are allowed to conclude their remarks before being interrupted by questions. Mr. CURRIER. Mr. Chairman, Mr. Weeks expects to return in a few moments, and he asked me to take charge of the hearing until he could get back. We appear here this morning in behalf of a bill which excites a higher degree of interest in New England than any other proposition pending before Congress, and I think that is also true of the southern Atlantic States. I shall not address the committee at this time, but shall simply present to the committee certain gentlemen who desire to be heard. I will first ask Representative Peters, of Boston, Mass., to speak to the committee. STATEMENT OF HON. ANDREW J. PETERS, REPRESENTATIVE FROM MASSACHUSETTS. Mr. PETERS. Mr. Chairman and gentlemen of the committee, several gentlemen will address you in regard to this bill, and I shall try to confine my remarks to the phases of the situation that come particularly under my observation, and try to avoid commenting 5 |