The Lexington Advertiser

The European corn borer, one of the most dangerous insect pests that ever threatened American agriculture, is now established in Massachusetts and in New York and will, unless checked, spread rapidly over all the corn-producing states. The ravages of this tiny enemy entail losses of colossal proportion. At a conference of state commissioners of agriculture and state entomologists held recently in Boston, a sub-committee including Entomologist R. W. Harned, of Mississippi, reported that owing to American crop methods there will be the greatest difficulty in controlling this pest if it should spread widely. A vigorous campaign of prevention is the best policy. The conference accordingly asked congress for $2,000,000, in addition to funds already available, for putting forces into immediate operation against a foe which menaces one of our largest economic interests. A solidified public sentiment which recognizes the imminent danger and urges prompt action on the part of our national legislators is earnestly sought by this conference of nearly 60 experts. Mr. Harned believes Mississippi will do her share.