COWBOYS AND RANCHERS
What was the primary role of cowboys?
They were hired to drive herds to market, minimizing costs.
What city was known as "Porkopolis"?
Cincinnati, due to its high number of pigs marketed and harvested.
What is a multi-store processing plant?
A facility that processes multiple species of livestock, often segregating them by floors.
What are cooperative markets?
Markets where ranchers join forces to share costs and increase profits.
What are edible byproducts?
Byproducts from livestock that are safe for human consumption, like organ meats and fats.
How did ranchers transport their cattle?
Many ranchers transported cattle thousands of miles to markets, often using cowboys instead of railroads.
Why were livestock markets centralized?
Centralization was due to the need for major processing plants and efficient distribution.
How did processing plants change over time?
They evolved to specialize in single species and increased in size as the industry decentralized.
How do auctions work for livestock sales?
Animals are sold to the highest bidder during auctions, with some sold for breeding and others for slaughter.
How are hides used in various industries?
Hides are processed for leather and other products, contributing to various markets.
What was the cost of using railroads?
The cost was considered pricey compared to hiring cowboys.
What were the benefits of centralization?
It allowed for streamlined processing and marketing of livestock, making operations more efficient.
What does "cutability" refer to?
It refers to the yield of usable meat from a carcass, which is a key factor in grading.
What is the purpose of fairs and shows?
To exhibit animals and allow producers to showcase quality, often leading to sales.
What are some inedible byproducts?
Inedible byproducts include bones and fat used in non-food products like glue and candles.
What is the significance of the term "Manifest Destiny"?
It refers to the belief that settlers were destined to expand across North America, influencing westward movement.
What changes occurred in the livestock industry over time?
The industry became more commercialized and decentralized as population growth increased.
What is the role of USDA in grading?
The USDA assigns quality and yield grades to ensure meat safety and quality standards are met.
What are Checkoff programs?
Programs where a fee on the sale of livestock supports marketing and research for the industry.
How is insulin derived from livestock?
Insulin is extracted from the pancreas of animals, used for treating diabetes.
How did cowboys influence the livestock industry?
They provided a cost-effective method for transporting livestock, which helped shape the industry.
How did population growth affect livestock markets?
Increased demand for food led to more processing plants and cooperative markets among ranchers.
How has technology impacted grading processes?
Instrumentation, such as video analysis, is used to reduce subjectivity in grading carcasses.
How is carcass value determined?
Based on live weight, quality grades, and yield grades according to established pricing grids.
What role do livestock play in soil conservation?
They help fertilize the land through grazing and manure, enhancing soil health.