llowing the advice of
commercially interested persons, results which have had much to do with
retarding and discouraging nut planting and counteracting the labors of
our association.

But now, however, I believe that we have reached a state of knowledge
where we can confidently recommend the commercial planting of nut
orchards. We recommend the Indiana pecan in many states; the improved
black walnuts over a much wider area, and the chestnut in many
localities where it is not a native tree. The top-working of native
hickories and black walnuts also can be confidently recommended. In
every case, however, the adaptability of the kind of nut to the locality
should be passed upon by an expert. In every case, also, even in that of
top-working native hickories and walnuts, intelligent and generous care
is essential for any degree of commercial success.

It is probable also, that the planting of the European filbert can be
recommended under conditions of intelligent care.

Now what of the association's future? The field is boundless but the
working cash is wanting. Faith is unlimited but works are conditioned by
want of appeal to commercial powers. It is almost a vicious circle, no
commercial appeal no money, no money no development to appeal to
commerce. But we do make progress and it is accelerated progress. In
time we must necessarily arrive at our goal. Our lines of advance are
sketched out and our progress along these lines depends on the energy of
the workers and the means with which they have to work.

I shall ask the association to establish a rule as to when members are
in good standing and when they should be dropped from the rolls for
non-payment of dues.

I shall also ask for a clear understanding, in the form of an amendment
to the by-laws, on the question of annual dues and their combination
with the American Nut Journal.

It is desirable that we have a ruling as to a fiscal year.

The delay in the issuance of the annual report was due to my
unwillingness to contract debts for the payment of which funds were not
in sight.

The treasurer's report will show that we have a surplus in the treasury
to date of about $50. The report of the treasurer is too long to be read
at this time, so I will simply repeat that it shows on hand a cash
surplus of $50. I will turn the detailed report over to the auditing
committee for their action.

TREASURER'S REPORT

STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS OF THE NORTHERN NUT GROWE