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.
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
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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
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Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller joined us to discuss data center expansion, farmland preservation, rural economic impacts, and imminent cattle biosecurity concerns affecting agriculture today.
January 16, 2026 01:28 PM
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January 16, 2026 09:57 AM
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Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas features swine competition with top exhibitors, including Grand Champion Brinley Wilson, ahead of Saturday’s premium sale.
January 15, 2026 04:07 PM
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Tight beef cow supplies and steady demand point to continued record-level cull cow prices in 2026.
January 15, 2026 11:23 AM
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