Massachusetts § 17 - Experiments and investigations; nature and scope

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 17 — Experiments and investigations; nature and scope, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 17. Experiments and investigations; nature and scope

Section 17. The trustees shall cause experiments and investigations to be made at said station in the following subjects:

First, The causes, prevention and remedies of diseases of domestic animals, plants and trees;

Second, The history and habits of insects destructive to vegetation, and the means of abating them;

Third, The manufacture and composition of both foreign and domestic fertilizers, their values and adaptability to different crops and soils;

Fourth, The values, under all conditions, of forage, grain and root crops, as food for farm animals, for various purposes;

Fifth, The comparative value of green and dry forage, and the cost of producing and preserving them in the best condition;

Sixth, The adulteration of any article of food intended for the use of men or animals;

Seventh, Testing poultry to eliminate disease;

Eighth, Other subjects deemed advantageous to agriculture and horticulture in the commonwealth.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 17

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 17 cover?

Section 17 ("Experiments and investigations; nature and scope") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 17?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 17" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 17 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.