The total number of cattle on feed in Alberta and Saskatchewan on September 1, 2008 was 689,256 head, down 13% when compared with last September but had a 2% increase from last month. Compared further back this September was down 14% from September 1, 2006. A total of 194,015 animals were placed in Aug., up 6% from last year and 5% higher than August 2006 placements. This higher placement is a reflection of the large numbers of grass cattle that hit the market in the last half of the month. The less than 600 lbs range saw 608 more animals placed compared to August 2007 and spring calf offering remained light. August placements in the 600-699 lb range were down 10% compared to 2007. Placements for 700-799 lb feeders were down as well with 20% fewer animals placed compared to the previous year. The largest placement increase was in the over 800 lb. range with 17% more animals placed this August compared to 2007. Although this is an anticipated seasonal cycle, yearlings this fall have been placed 2 to 4 weeks earlier than 2007 as grazing conditions deteriorated. Generally 2008 summer placements have trended consistent with 2007.
The number of cattle marketed in August by the Canfax survey group was 168,314 head, down 7% from last month and 2% lower than the same month last year. The Canfax survey group marketings represented 95% of total actual marketings. The number of steers and heifers that were either killed domestically or exported for slaughter in Alberta and Saskatchewan in August totaled just under 178,000 head, down 21% from this month last year and 3% lower than last month. Marketings this month were lower than projected relative to placements. This is a result of a 55% YTD increase in U.S. feeder exports as of September 1, 2008 totaling 152,079 head which has caused a 130,214 head YTD fed cattle marketing deficit. Although these feeders were placed and backgrounded, they did not remain in Canada to be finished. Disappearance total in August was down 23% compared to this month last year.
Source: Calgary Cattlemen’s Association