WASHINGTON (RFD-TV)—The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) monthly Cattle on Feed report for September showed 11.1 million head in U.S. feedlots with capacity of 1,000 head or more on September 1, 2025, down one percent from last year.
Placements in August totaled 1.78 million head, 10 percent below 2024, with net placements at 1.73 million. Marketings reached 1.57 million head, 14 percent lower year over year, marking the lowest August marketing level since the data series began in 1996.
Ahead of the report, analysts expected August placements at 88.6 to 93.4 percent of last year, averaging about 91.3 percent. The USDA’s reported figure came in on the lower end of that range, underscoring a slowdown in feeder cattle availability.
Contributing factors include fewer Mexican feeder imports, earlier marketing of lighter-weight calves, and a historically small beef cow herd. The other disappearance was 51,000 head, down six percent.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: August placements and marketings confirm tighter fed cattle supplies heading into fall. Fewer cattle on feed suggest smaller slaughter numbers this winter, which could support strong prices if beef demand holds firm.
Strong corn and China-driven demand support the pace of U.S. grain exports. RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses Canada-China agricultural trade talks.
April 07, 2026 03:16 PM
·
Local groups distribute potatoes to support hundreds of families across the Idaho Panhandle to celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month.
April 07, 2026 02:14 PM
·
UNL’s Dr. Dirac Twidwell discusses wildfire recovery efforts in Nebraska and what producers should keep in mind in the days and weeks ahead.
April 07, 2026 01:52 PM
·
Rich Nelson with Allendale joined us to break down early planting progress, market expectations, and what producers should keep an eye on as the season moves forward.
April 07, 2026 12:23 PM
·
Tight global supply is likely to keep fuel and fertilizer costs elevated.
April 07, 2026 11:58 AM
·
Dr. Michael Langemeier with Purdue University provided perspective on the improving farmer sentiment and the trends shaping the agricultural economy moving forward.
April 07, 2026 10:06 AM
·
