IV. _Attempts to develop the Industry._--Various efforts have been made to restrain overdigging the clam flats, by local regulations, particularly by "close" seasons. These attempts have been productive of little good. Other efforts, designed to develop extensive tracts made barren by wasteful methods of fishing, have been put in operation. These efforts have been along two independent lines: the first, an effort on the part of the community to seed in common flats by the appropriation of money for that purpose, as in the case of Wellfleet; the second, an attempt to arrive at the same end by leasing private grants to individuals, as at Essex and Plymouth. These efforts, while tending in the right direction, have not as yet yielded the results that might be wished for. Within the past three years the State has taken hold of the problem, and by an extensive series of experiments is endeavoring to devise practical means of developing the great inherent possibilities in this extensive industry. CLAM PRODUCTION TABLE FOR MASSACHUSETTS, OBTAINED FROM THE REPORTS OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. =======+==========+=========+=================== | | | YEAR. | Bushels. | Value. | Price per Bushel | | | (Cents). -------+----------+---------+------------------- 1880, | 158,626 | $76,195 | 41.73 1887, | 230,659 | 121,202 | 52.54 1888, | 243,777 | 127,838 | 52.44 1889, | 240,831 | 137,711 | 57.14 1892, | 191,923 | 133,529 | 69.57 1898, | 147,095 | 102,594 | 69.74 1902, | 227,941 | 157,247 | 68.98 1905, | 217,519 | 209,545 | 96.19 =======+==========+=========+=================== _The Clam Industry._ _Methods of Digging._--The ordinary method of taking clams is so simple as hardly to need explanation. Although simple, clam digging requires considerable skill, and it takes years of experience to become a good clammer.