Modeling the Optimal Location of the Cattle Feeding Industry

A variety of interregional linear programming models have been used to study the optimal location of the cattle feeding industry. An analysis is performed to determine which factors are most influential in determining feedlot location and thus need to be included in these models. In addition to traditional factors, consideration is given to the effects of region definition and regional land use patterns. Results indicate the importance of feeders, grain, and land use patterns. The implications of these results in the analysis of future trends in feedlot location is discussed.