After a cooler than normal spring and hotter than normal summer, my question is, what will the fall and winter bring? Pastures are short, feed prices are high, brood cow numbers are down, and chatter is rampant with producers wondering what the future will bring for the livestock sector. Where will calf prices settle and what kind of winter is in store for us? Did the hot dry summer affect breed back? The answers, critical to the bottom line for all of agriculture.
In a conversation earlier this week regarding fall and spring beeding bull prices, lots of factors came up as possible indicators. Like cow numbers, feed prices, calf prices, winter conditions, bankers, slaughter bull prices, heifer retention, AI utilization, fat cattle prices, you name it. The days of $2,500 averages are behind us one would think. Demand for heifer bulls will most likely be strong. Breeders with volume sire groups to select from may by rewarded. Positive slaughter bull prices should be a factor. The concensus, who knows?
Can't speak for all but many of us are in the livestock business because of the 'Next Year' factor. We work hard this year hoping next year will be the one. Gotta love it! I would enjoy and encourage your comments to the blog. Your insight and knowledge on the subject is more than welcome.
