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
National Corn Growers Association Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses corn supply pressures, market fundamentals, policy considerations, and producer outlook for the year ahead.
January 16, 2026 01:13 PM
·
January 16, 2026 09:57 AM
·
Soft equipment sales signal cautious farm spending as producers prioritize cash flow over expansion.
January 16, 2026 07:00 AM
·
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses market conditions, policy priorities, and his outlook for agriculture moving forward.
January 15, 2026 01:36 PM
·
Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss key ag policy developments and his outlook for agriculture in 2026.
January 15, 2026 12:51 PM
·
House Agriculture Committee Democrats are calling for action on the Farm and Family Relief Act, warning that proposed SNAP cost shifts to states could reduce food assistance for low-income families amid ongoing tariffs and trade disruptions that continue to strain U.S. farmers.
January 15, 2026 12:30 PM
·
