We are seeing a disturbing trend in small to mid-sized feeder lots.
They are sitting empty, while the packer-owned lots are running at full capacity. R-Calf USA CEO Bill Bullard warns that it could lead to a decline in independent farm feeders.
“We have extremely high prices because of the incredibly tight supplies, and that means the feeder cattle that would be moving into feed lots are in short supply, and so those prices have skyrocketed to never-before-seen prices. However, the fat cattle market is not keeping pace with the feeder cattle markets. That means there are a lot of independent feeders out there that would like to. Fill their feed yards, but they can’t pencil out a profit, nor can they hedge their purchases.”
Bullard adds that this situation could further reduce market outlets for cow-calf and yearling operators.
Jones Hamilton Company shares insights on herd health, efficiency, and innovation for cattle producers this year at NCBA CattleCon in Nashville.
February 05, 2026 03:07 PM
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The House Agriculture Committee is set to debate a new, “skinny” Farm Bill at the end of February, according to a release from Committee Chairman Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson.
February 05, 2026 12:35 PM
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The fun continues in Nashville next year at CattleCon 2027!
February 05, 2026 11:24 AM
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As cattle markets show renewed strength, producers gathering at CattleCon are focused on protecting operations, managing risk, and positioning for opportunity in the year ahead.
February 04, 2026 01:41 PM
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The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo continues through Saturday, showcasing livestock, youth involvement, and agricultural talent, with the Junior Sale of Champions serving as the culmination of the 23-day event.
February 04, 2026 12:54 PM
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We caught up with John Deere’s Hay & Forage Got-To Market Manager Kaylene Ballesteros to learn how tech is evolving how producers make hay, from baling efficiency to operator confidence.
February 04, 2026 12:38 PM
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