WEST OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER. 861 



erable loss in many portions of the State, especially in the wooded dis- 

 tricts, from wolves and foxes. In some portions of the State the ex- 

 treme wet weather causes much discomfort if not loss to flocks. Wire 

 fences add an additional expense and should also be set down as one of 

 the hindrances. 



Among the natural advantages of the industry to be considered is the 

 central geographical location of the State. It is one of the most pro- 

 ductive agricultural regions of the country. The population of the 

 State is large and the local demand for mutton products is good. Its 

 proximity to the principal live-stock and wool markets of the country 

 is of great advantage to the industry. The greater portion of the sur- 

 face of the State is gently rolling, well-drained land, with plenty of 

 timber, shade and natural protection from w^ind and storms. The water 

 supply is excellent, because it comes largely from wells in the sections 

 of the country where sheep are now being raised. Not many sheep are 

 kept jlong the principal rivers, as such localities are not considered 

 suitable for sheep, nor is the water from the larger rivers very good for 

 such stock. Almost every variety of tame grasses and the different 

 cereals are easily produced in every portion of the State. Outside of 

 cold and wet winters and early springs, the climate is very good and 

 well adapted to sheep-raising. 



Generally speaking, there are no serious complaints as to the health 

 of sheep, at least not to such an extent as to be considered a drawback. 

 The only ailments reported are grub in the head, and trouble with 

 scours or worms with the lambs. Occasionally a case of scab is heard 

 of in the fall of the year. 



Of late years very little loss is reported from destruction of sheep by 

 wild animals, except in the extreme southern portion of the State, 

 where the country is thinly settled. The loss from exposure is generally 

 light, except where they are poorly cared for or practically neglected 

 altogether. The only general source of loss throughout the State is 

 ravages of dogs. That the annual loss of sheep is not much greater 

 throughout the State is something wonderful, because so many men 

 have been exceedingly careless in their management of sheep. But 

 since they have come to be regarded as more valuable they are receiv- 

 ing much better treatment and care. Suitable shelter and better ac- 

 commodations are now provided, and if the growers could only make a 

 united effort to secure the necessary State legislation which is due the 

 industry, the future outlook would be greatly improved. Probably the 

 best method for conducting the industry in Missouri is for the farmers 

 to keep smaller flocks in connection with other stock and general farm- 

 ing, and avoid handling more than one breed, keeping as nearly as 

 possible to the pure-bred. The matter of cross breeding is something 

 to be deplored, especially in farmers' hands. As a rule, it is best to 

 breed so that the lambs will come by the time the pastures are ready 

 for use. In other words, if the farmers of Missouri would handle sheep 



