From my outfit to yours, have a very Merry Christmas! But, let’s not forget the real meaning of the season. Hopefully you’ll take time to pause and give thanks for the privilege of being in the greatest business, in the greatest country, and with the greatest people in the world.
It’s been a wonderful year to be in and around the livestock business and everywhere I go folks are grateful for the record prices they are receiving. Some are even selling inventory they’d normally keep but due to strong prices and the opportunity to reduce debt load they are turning loose. How long will it last? That’s the sixty four thousand dollar question. Wish I knew!
From a supply & demand standpoint we look to be in a very favorable position for some time to come. However, supply and demand mixed with greed and ignorance has always proven to be a volatile mix. Pay attention to detail and stay abreast of what the experts reveal. The cattle business has always been cyclical so be prepared, these good times may not last forever. In the meantime, be good stewards of the industry, thank God for all you have today and pray for more of the same for tomorrow.
GOD BLESS!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Friday, December 2, 2011
REPLACEMENT MAINIA
There's something magical about December first when it comes to the replacement female trade. October is 'lot of talk' month. November is 'gear up' month. Then December hits and 'all heifer' breaks loose!
If prices of bred females are any indication, the market for feeder calves stands to remain strong for some time down the road. Everywhere I go folks are asking about replacements, either how are they priced, or where can they be found. It seems like those who have them for sale are holding firm and those who are looking to buy are running a little scared.
It's a lot like the political scene, those that 'got 'em' and those who 'want 'em'. Both are in the same business but sitting on opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to makeing the deal. Those paying high dollar for bred heifers and replacement heifer calves are hoping the market continues to climb. Bet their bankers are thinking that too! That same banker is smiling over pay downs from those selling on this fantastic market.
GOOD TIMES in our business...wonder how long it will last? I have to keep reminding myself that we are in the 'wow' part of the cydle.
If prices of bred females are any indication, the market for feeder calves stands to remain strong for some time down the road. Everywhere I go folks are asking about replacements, either how are they priced, or where can they be found. It seems like those who have them for sale are holding firm and those who are looking to buy are running a little scared.
It's a lot like the political scene, those that 'got 'em' and those who 'want 'em'. Both are in the same business but sitting on opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to makeing the deal. Those paying high dollar for bred heifers and replacement heifer calves are hoping the market continues to climb. Bet their bankers are thinking that too! That same banker is smiling over pay downs from those selling on this fantastic market.
GOOD TIMES in our business...wonder how long it will last? I have to keep reminding myself that we are in the 'wow' part of the cydle.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR?
Did you know the Department of Labor is proposing that children under the age of 18 be restricted in being able to work around farms, ranches, and auctions. Basiclly, the DOL belives that it's too dangerous for anyone under 16 to work around livestock. IF the rule becomes law, no longer will ranch kids get to go brandin' with their parents. Kids won't be able to get a job working cattle or hauling hay. What about showing cattle at the 4-H and FFA level?
Everythng I learned about how to work and see a project thru to the end, I learned as a young boy on the ranch from my father and grandfather. What's this world coming to? My brother and I drove Model A Buck Rakes that had 4 inch wood blocks wired to the pedels (one way to make your legs longer). My grandfather braded seat belts from left over baler twine so we'd 'stay on the job' that we loved and were proud to do. The days were long and hot for us but so were they for everyone else in the family. That's what families are all about.
Anyway, the public comment period on this foolish notion has been extended from November 1st for an additional 60 days. May I suggest that you contact the Department of Labor and tell them your story and encourage others to do the same. We as farmers and ranchers need to take control of this country....again!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Everythng I learned about how to work and see a project thru to the end, I learned as a young boy on the ranch from my father and grandfather. What's this world coming to? My brother and I drove Model A Buck Rakes that had 4 inch wood blocks wired to the pedels (one way to make your legs longer). My grandfather braded seat belts from left over baler twine so we'd 'stay on the job' that we loved and were proud to do. The days were long and hot for us but so were they for everyone else in the family. That's what families are all about.
Anyway, the public comment period on this foolish notion has been extended from November 1st for an additional 60 days. May I suggest that you contact the Department of Labor and tell them your story and encourage others to do the same. We as farmers and ranchers need to take control of this country....again!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING