Wool Production 239 



it comes out of the bale. The fleeces are not tied but are 

 placed in the bale as rolled by the skirters. The bales 

 are marked, showing the number and weight of the bale, 

 class of wool, and the name of the owner. 



The most important advantages of the Australian sys- 

 tem of packing wool are as follows : Well-arranged catch- 

 ing pens, proper sweating, and good light make shearing 

 easier and prevent the crippling and cruel cutting of sheep 

 so prevalent under the usual system. Sheds having good 

 sanitation, ventilation, equipment, and light draw the 

 best class of shearers. Removal of the dirt, classing, and 

 proper packing put the wool in condition to go on any of 

 the world's markets, whereas the common American pack 

 is salable only on American markets. The classification 

 corresponds with the usual market quotation and thus 

 enables the grower to know the true value of his wool. 

 The classification of the wool at the shearing shed also 

 acts as an accurate and an immediate indicator of any 

 progress that is being made in the breeding and manage- 

 ment of the flock and is thus a potent factor for improve- 

 ment. 



