Drought conditions strain beef cattle production and market prices
By Farms.com
The US beef cattle industry is facing critical challenges due to increasing drought severity, as reported by Paul Beck from Oklahoma State University. His findings indicate a significant shift from the historical wet conditions that supported beef cattle production in the late 20th century to more frequent and severe droughts affecting the industry today.
Beck’s analysis highlights a disturbing trend of drought periods drastically reducing beef cattle numbers, exemplified by the notable decreases in 2011-2013 and again in 2021-2023.
These reductions are closely tied to the natural drought cycles and their impact on feed availability and water resources.
In response to these challenging conditions, the industry has seen fluctuations in beef cattle numbers, with temporary recoveries followed by further declines.
As of the latest data, the US is managing a beef cow herd of about 28.2 million, well below the required numbers to adequately supply feedlots, which Beck estimates at around 32.3 million head.
The shortfall in cattle numbers has led to increased prices for feeder cattle and has forced changes in production practices, such as extending the days on feed and reducing the weights at which cattle enter feedlots. These adaptations are necessary to cope with the reduced availability of grazing land and other resources.
Beck's report underscores the broader implications of these droughts, not only on the cattle industry but also on the overall agricultural productivity and the economies of rural communities dependent on beef production.
The study calls for a reassessment of current practices and strategies to enhance resilience against ongoing climate challenges.