LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Cull cow prices continue to grind higher as lean beef demand keeps supporting the market. Dr. David Anderson of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension says Southern Plains cull cow auction prices climbed to nearly $180 per hundredweight in late April, up about $15 since January, while cutter cows have gained roughly $30, or almost 25 percent, since the start of the year.
Anderson says one underappreciated support factor is the unusually heavy carcasses of fed cattle. Average federally inspected fed steer dressed weights have stayed above 980 pounds since late 2025, creating more fat trim and increasing the need for lean beef in ground beef blends.
Cow slaughter trends are also helping. Dairy cow culling, which ran above year-ago levels early in 2026, pulled back to about year-ago levels in April. Total cow slaughter for the year is reported down 5 percent from last year, even though dairy cow slaughter remains up 6 percent.
Record calf prices are likely keeping more cows on ranches and dairies for one more calf. Anderson says that should continue to support prices, even if some culling increases after calves are weaned.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Dr. David Anderson says lean beef demand and lighter cow culling are still giving cull cow prices room to push higher.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Distillers dried grains (DDG) values follow corn and soybean meal trends, with ethanol grind and feed demand shaping costs into early 2026.
November 07, 2025 10:45 AM
·
Pork producers should prioritize health and productivity gains, hedge feed and hogs selectively, and watch Brazil’s export pace and China’s sow policy for price signals.
November 06, 2025 03:03 PM
·
For tight margins, contract grazing leverages existing acres into new income streams and spreads risk. Here are some tips for row crop farmers looking to diversify.
November 06, 2025 02:45 PM
·
AFBF Economist Danny Munch shares how passing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act could give the dairy industry a needed boost.
November 06, 2025 02:31 PM
·
Texas Cattle Feeders Association Chairman Robby Kirkland explains how the ongoing U.S.-Mexico border closure impacts feed yards that rely on Mexican cattle due to the New World Screwworm.
November 06, 2025 12:01 PM
·
Global nitrogen and phosphate prices remain high despite improved supply fundamentals, with limited Chinese exports and stronger fall applications tightening availability.
November 06, 2025 11:16 AM
·
