WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — The latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimate (WASDE) report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for February (PDF Version) points to tighter dynamics and stronger prices across much of the livestock and dairy complex in 2026, even as total red meat and poultry production edges higher.
Beef and pork production were both revised upward, while poultry output was trimmed, reflecting shifting herd dynamics, disease impacts, and evolving demand.
Beef production is now projected to be higher due to increased slaughter of steers, heifers, and cows, along with slightly heavier dressed weights. While the January Cattle Inventory report confirmed a smaller 2025 calf crop, USDA expects more cattle outside feedlots to be available for placement early in 2026. Pork production was also higher due to higher slaughter levels and modestly heavier weights in the first half of the year.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Higher livestock prices reflect resilient demand, even as disease and herd shifts reshape 2026 supply expectations.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
In contrast, broiler and turkey production forecasts were lowered for early 2026. Recent hatchery data and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza-related culling weighed on poultry and egg production, tightening supplies into the first quarter.
Trade and price outlooks turned supportive. Beef imports rose due to strong demand for lean processing beef, while pork exports increased due to improved competitiveness. Fed-cattle and hog prices were raised across all quarters, and the all-milk price was lifted to $18.95 per hundredweight.
Watch highlights and reactions to the February WASDE Report from today’s Market Day Report:
New Resource Makes It Easier for People to Access Data on Rural Development funded Projects in Rural Communities
January 19, 2026 11:50 AM
U.S. agriculture entered the week with mixed signals as weather, logistics, and markets shaped early-year decisions. Here is a regional breakdown of domestic crop and livestock production for the week of Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.
January 19, 2026 11:40 AM
·
While short-term volatility remains a risk, softer ocean freight rates in 2026 could improve export margins.
January 18, 2026 12:00 PM
·
Trade volatility and shifting export destinations increase marketing risk for producers heading into 2026.
January 18, 2026 07:00 AM
·
RFD NEWS Correspondent Frank McCaffrey speaks with Texas’s Sen. Ted Cruz and Rep. Vicente Gonzalez about USMCA renegotiation and its impact on U.S.–Mexico agriculture trade.
January 17, 2026 05:00 PM
·
Rising rural business confidence supports local ag economies, but taxes and labor shortages remain key constraints.
January 17, 2026 02:00 PM
·
The Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas features a competitive steer showcase highlighting top-quality cattle and the accomplishments of driven youth exhibitors.
January 16, 2026 01:48 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses how January’s WASDE report could impact ARC and PLC payments and updates on disaster relief programs as farmers navigate a challenging market environment.
January 16, 2026 01:34 PM
·
Shaun Haney joined us to discuss Canada’s new trade agreement with China, the potential impact on farmers and exporters, and what it could mean for U.S.–Canada trade relations going forward.
January 16, 2026 01:16 PM
·
