It allowed the cattle to graze wherever they wished without the ranchers having to worry about nor plan a proper grazing operation. The term "grazing operation" or "intensive grazing" never existed back then.
The introduction of barb wire to ranching. This led to range wars over lands and the herds of cattle.
Cattle ranching
owners branded cattle that roamed freely, and then cowboys rounded them up
cattle ranching
Cattle ranching shifted from open range to organized business operations in response to increasing demand for beef and the need for more efficient management practices. The invention of barbed wire in the late 19th century allowed ranchers to enclose their land, leading to more controlled breeding and grazing. Additionally, the expansion of railroads facilitated the transportation of cattle to markets, prompting ranchers to adopt business strategies such as herd management and branding. This transition marked a move towards a more structured and commercially viable ranching industry.
The open range system of cattle ranching allowed herds to intermingle without serious problems. As system of branding made separating the cattle by owner allowed this activity.
land use changes and other economic activities have eliminated the open range.
Cattle are left on the open range in order to feed on wild grasses and other plants. The wild grasses and plants are a free source of food, leading to a cheaper way to raise cattle.
owners branded cattle that roamed freely, and then cowboys rounded them up
Open Range refers back to the time when ranchers did not fence their property. The cattle roamed free with only brands to identify them to a rancher.
No fences, and all cattle must be branded so come round-up time, the cowboys know which cattle belong to which rancher.
The end of open-range cattle ranching in the mid-1880s was primarily due to overgrazing, which depleted grasslands, and the harsh winter of 1886-1887, known as the "Great Die-Up," which killed a significant number of cattle. Additionally, the expansion of barbed wire fencing allowed farmers to enclose their lands, restricting cattle movement and competition for resources. The economic shift towards more controlled and sustainable ranching practices also played a role in this transition.