Growing Headwinds: One rancher is making the best of volatility and bringing in profits

Despite recent issues, cattle producers are holding steady right now.

One rancher says there is still money to be made, but notes it has been difficult.

“We continue to face extreme costs as it relates to fertilizer, of course, our insurance, and just anything you touch that’s in our space. Fortunately, good Lord willing, and that the creek doesn’t rise, we’ve got unbelievable markets right now,” said Carl Ray Polk.

Polk says his costs have risen consistently over the last few years. Market access has been a concern for some beef producers, with China now largely removed from the U.S. market.

Related Stories
The dairy industry continues adapting to changing consumer habits and evolving labor technology.
NPPC President Rob Brenneman says rising fuel and input costs are creating pressure across pork production despite steady trade.
With U.S. cattle supplies already tight, drought response remains a long-term supply issue.
Shrinking Select beef supplies are continuing to reshape cattle pricing and beef demand trends.
The ranch’s stewardship practices are designed to support both cattle production and long-term sustainability.
Texas officials say sterile fly releases and expanded surveillance efforts are helping slow the spread of the flesh-eating pest.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney says producers should continue to watch tariff negotiations, market access, and the possibility of a more transactional trade relationship with China.
RFD News Farm Legal Expert Roger McEowen discussed red flags landowners should watch for during property transactions.
ASFMRA’s Howard Halderman says several economic and policy issues are continuing to influence the farmland market.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to discuss spring planting progress and the outlook for trade and demand as the season continues.
USMCA review nears a critical stage as the U.S. and Mexico advance talks while Canada risks being left behind, raising concerns across North American agriculture trade.
Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas joins us to discuss the Food for Peace program’s Kansas roots, its place in the Farm Bill, and the importance of the USDA’s visit to the state.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.