Oklahoma’s plains were gradually enclosed as ranchers transitioned from open-range grazing to closed-range ranching due to several interrelated factors. Two significant factors that contributed to this change are:
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Overgrazing and Land Degradation: As the cattle industry expanded during the late 19th century, the open range became increasingly susceptible to overgrazing. Large herds of cattle would often strip the land of its natural vegetation, leading to soil erosion and degradation of the land. This environmental impact diminished the quality and availability of pasture, prompting ranchers to seek more sustainable practices. Enclosing land with fences allowed ranchers to manage grazing more effectively, protect their resources, and promote regrowth of vegetation.
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Increasing Conflict and Regulation: The rise of ranching also led to conflicts between cattle ranchers and farmers, as well as conflicts among ranchers themselves over grazing rights. The phenomenon of "rustling," where cattle were stolen or strayed onto other ranches, became a common issue. In response to these conflicts, many ranchers began enclosing their ranches to clearly delineate property boundaries, thereby reducing disputes over grazing land and livestock ownership. Additionally, state and federal regulations began to support the establishment of property rights, making it legally advantageous for ranchers to adopt closed-range practices.
These two factors—land degradation due to overgrazing and the need to resolve conflicts—led ranchers in Oklahoma to embrace closed-range ranching, leading to the widespread enclosure of the plains.
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