LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD-TV) — Feedlot inventories continue to tighten, as expected, according to December’s Cattle on Feed Report (PDF Version) from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which delivered no surprises, with all key figures landing squarely within trade expectations. Cattle and calves on feed in feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 head or more totaled 11.7 million head on December 1, down 2 percent from a year earlier.
Placements during November fell sharply to 1.60 million head, 11 percent below last year and the lowest November placements on record, reflecting limited feeder supplies and high prices. Marketings also declined 12 percent from a year ago, marking the second-lowest November total since records began, reinforcing the picture of tight fed cattle availability moving into early 2026.
By state, Nebraska remained the largest feeding state with 2.67 million head on feed, followed by Texas at 2.61 million head and Kansas at 2.44 million head. Texas inventories were down 9 percent from a year earlier, a decline exacerbated by the ongoing closure of the Mexican border to feeder cattle due to concerns over New World screwworm, further restricting placements.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Tight feeder supplies and lower placements point to continued cattle market support, with regional impacts heightened in Texas by reduced feeder imports.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins joined us to discuss fertilizer markets, domestic supply efforts, trade priorities, and ongoing policy work aimed at stabilizing costs for U.S. farmers.
April 21, 2026 03:39 PM
·
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses the DOJ investigation into U.S. beef packers, concerns about cattle pricing, and ongoing trade and animal health issues affecting producers.
April 21, 2026 02:37 PM
·
Mobile unit supports first responders with equipment and hands-on training
April 21, 2026 02:23 PM
·
Event focuses on helping communities grow through local business
April 21, 2026 02:18 PM
·
Strong demand for U.S. beef in Mexico is boosting exports, with buyers seeking both variety meats and high-quality cuts like Prime and Choice ribeye.
April 21, 2026 12:49 PM
·
Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss rising input costs, proposed fertilizer legislation, and potential support for farmers navigating tight margins.
April 21, 2026 12:39 PM
·
