PACKEES AND STOCKYARDS ADMINISTRATION. 671 



A matter which has ah^eady introduced a difficulty is that the in- 

 formation which is often furnished about scales is unreliable. It is 

 not always possible to get an idea of the actual condition of scales 

 from the statements made about them, or from the reports of the 

 tests of scales. Frequently the inferences to be drawn from the re- 

 ports and from statements are that the scales are in an entirely 

 satisfactory condition, but an investigation shows that this is not 

 the case. Trouble from such sources will in course of time be elimi- 

 nated, but imiform methods and standards must be realized first. 



A general survey of the whole situation has been made and steps 

 have already been taken to safeguard the methods of weighing and 

 the facilities thereon. This has been done by the preparation of 

 weighing instructions which outline the duties and responsibilities 

 of weighmasters and the practices which they should follow in 

 using a scale. These have been drafted and issued in preliminary 

 form to determine what provision is necessary properly to cover the 

 subject, and to determine the extent and character of the criticisms 

 which can be raised against them. Up to the present time no im- 

 portant criticisms or objections, other than calling for slight ampli- 

 fications of the matter presented, have been made. 



In order to acquaint our market supervisors with the requirements 

 for correct weighing and put them in a position to be of as much 

 help in realizing accuracy in livestock weights as is practicable, and 

 in order that accurate weights be realized at a minimum of expense 

 and organization, a series of articles dealing with various phases of 

 livestock weighing have been prepared and issued in the weekly 

 summaries and sent to our market supervisors. These articles have 

 touched upon different subjects which have arisen from time to time. 



The cooperation of stockyards companies has been enlisted and 

 promises to bring about conditions which will increase accuracy in 

 livestock weights. 



Scale manufacturers and scale-testing agencies have been given an 

 opportunity to act with us. Plans are being perfected to confer 

 with them and to cooperate closely, so that a full, proper, and effective 

 undei'standing will be realized in reference to the construction, instal- 

 lation, testing, and maintenance of scales. 



In bringing about changes which are necessary, in every case those 

 directly concerned and responsible for the accuracy of the scales are 

 given every opportunity to carry on the work in a satisfactory man- 

 ner. In following out this policy, so far good results have been 

 obtained. 



The attention which has been given to the subject has indicated the 

 more important problems which should receive further attention in 

 reference to livestock weighing, and much practical benefit should 

 result in the following fiscal year. 



MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS. 



As an example of the different matters to which the attention of the 

 Packers and Stockyards Administration is given, the following is 

 quoted from a report of one market supervisor : 



All livestock consigned to the market is placed on the open market. String 

 sales are not indulged in on the market. 



