Prices for cull cows poised to set another record

Cull cow prices are on pace to set another record in 2012. Following the all-time high average price set in 2011, North Dakota State University Livestock Economist Tim Petry said cows are averaging about $10/cwt. higher this year. He attributed the stronger cow market to reduced numbers of cows available for processing and continued strong demand for 90% lean boneless beef.

Beef cow slaughter is down about 2.5% for the year, compared to 1% more dairy cows going to town. Petry said rainfall in key beef cow producing areas will determine slaughter numbers the rest of the year. U.S. pasture and range condition, as reported by USDA, indicated 17% of the acreage is in poor to very poor condition, compared to 24% last year and the five-year average of 17.6%. He suggested dairy cow slaughter may remain above last year’s levels for several months as increased milk production pressures prices.

For more information visit www.kla.org.

1. Beef is the centerpiece of many wacky minor league stadium menus
2. Commentary: Message to Occupy Monsanto: Occupy yourself
3. Canada cattle report: Canadian steer, heifer prices steady
4. A conversation with Dr. Jim Marsden about the safety of beef
5. Traders evening up positions ahead of the weekend Friday
6. Nearly 1,000 emaciated cattle found on N.M. ranch

1. Former Eastern Livestock CEO, CFO sentenced for federal crimes
2. Post-tornado composting a solution for disposal of dead livestock
3. TSCRA works with sale barns to catch Houston cattle thief
4. More beef cows in worst drought regions than a year ago
5. Michigan hay buyers should plan purchases early
6. New animal identification rules aid disease traceability

1. Commentary: In praise of animal foods
2. Meat industry associations quick to attack the new MCOOL rule
3. Seven jobs more dangerous than farming
4. What’s on America’s grill this weekend?
5. NASA backs 3D food printer to feed growing population
6. U.S. food labels seen heating up North America meat war