High prices means that beef producers need protections as well

Crop growers are not the only ones needing a risk management system this year. Farm analysts say now is the best time for cattle ranchers to check out their options.

“Some people are checking cattle at night. We’re calving heifers. We’re calving cows. Those calves are hitting the ground, and just think about if you could insure those cattle for today for, let’s just say, $1,600, and you’re spending about $50 to $60. Maybe you don’t want to spend that much. Maybe you want to insure that calf for $1,000 and spend $10 or $15. Those are some of the options that we could look at on those cattle that are hitting the ground right now,” said Clay Burtrum.

Butrum says at the end of the day, you want to make sure you keep yourself profitable while protecting the business for the next generation.

Related Stories
Dr. David Anderson says lean beef demand and lighter cow culling are still giving cull cow prices room to push higher.
The inverted Choice-Select spread is not a strong warning sign in today’s tighter, higher-quality beef market, according to new analysis from Terrain.
Based on USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation, pork exports increased by six percent in March compared to the previous year, while beef exports weakened overall.
New trade access, tariff concerns and international negotiations are reshaping the global beef market.
National Pork Producers Council President Rob Brenneman joins us to discuss Prop 12 provisions in the House’s Farm Bill as it heads to the Senate for debate.
Officials say no additional spread has been detected as containment and monitoring efforts move forward.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Geomagnetic storms have been occurring with increased frequency in space this year, with significant consequences for agriculture.
Crop diseases and pests are taking a toll on Kansas corn. Two crop experts from Kansas State University share tips for producers dealing with cutworms and armyworms.
The Illinois Farm Bureau shows how hemp can regenerate the earth and boost rural economies.
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.
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.