Overview. The Act authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to establish experimental stations to determine species of fish most suitable for culture on a commercial basis in shallow reservoirs and flooded rice lands, and to develop methods for the control of parasites and diseases.

Research Program. The Act authorizes and directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish experimental stations for a program of research and experimentation to:   determine species of fish most suitable for culture on a commercial basis in shallow reservoirs and flooded rice lands; determine methods for production of fingerling fishes for stocking in commercial reservoirs; develop methods for control of parasites and diseases of brood fishes and fingerlings prior to stocking; develop economical methods for raising the more desirable species of fishes to a marketable size; determine, in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture, the effects of fish-rice rotations upon fish and other crops commonly grown on rice farms; develop suitable methods for harvesting the fish crop and preparing it for market, including a study of sport fishing as a means of harvest. § 778.

To carry out the program, the Secretary is authorized to acquire land, construct buildings, employ workers, disseminate research and cooperate with state and other institutions and agencies, including the Department of Agriculture. § 778-778b.

Appropriations Authorized. Congress authorized the appropriation of sums necessary to carry out the provisions of the Act. § 778c.