LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD-TV) — U.S. beef processors are navigating the tightest cattle supplies in decades, but Cargill says it has no plans to close any primary beef plants even as Tyson prepares to shut Lexington, Nebraska, and scale back Amarillo.
For producers, this signals widening differences in how major packers are responding to shrinking cattle numbers, rising procurement costs, and restricted imports from Mexico due to New World Screwworm controls.
Cargill confirmed it will continue operating all eight of its North American slaughter plants and is investing in modernization, including a $90 million upgrade at its Fort Morgan, Colorado, facility. The stance contrasts sharply with Tyson’s expected 7 percent national capacity reduction, which will narrow competitive bids in parts of Nebraska, Kansas, and the Texas Panhandle.
Other packers remain stable: JBS and National Beef report no pending closures, and several regional plants built after the pandemic continue running, though some operate below intended throughput. Looking ahead, tight feeder supplies may still pressure margins across plants through 2026.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Cargill’s commitment to keep plants open helps preserve competition as Tyson removes capacity amid historically tight cattle supplies.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
NRECA CEO Jim Matheson warns that rising electricity demand from AI and data centers could strain the grid and affect rural electric cooperatives if U.S. power infrastructure cannot keep up.
March 11, 2026 11:59 AM
·
Former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and Kansas congressman Dan Glickman joined RFD News to share his outlook on agricultural policy, bipartisan cooperation, and the challenges facing farmers today.
March 11, 2026 11:24 AM
·
UNL student fellow Alison Walbrecht shares her perspective on building support for agricultural research, extension, and teaching while gaining hands-on insight into federal policymaking.
March 10, 2026 03:57 PM
·
Jake Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance offers his perspective on current cattle market conditions and shares advice for producers seeking to stay protected in an uncertain market.
March 10, 2026 03:08 PM
·
Leadership continuity signals a steady focus on family farm advocacy.
March 10, 2026 02:48 PM
·
India trade tensions may affect the U.S. export outlook.
March 10, 2026 01:23 PM
·
