Lock in a Floor Price, Reap the Upside: LRP Protects Producer Gains When Cattle Markets Fluctuate

Jake Charleston, with Specialty Risk Insurance, joins us now for an industry update and advice for cattle producers as they consider options for managing the risks of a murky market.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (RFD-TV) — With recent volatility in the cattle market, producers across the country are taking a closer look at their risk-management options. Many are turning to Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) as a tool to help shield their operations from sudden price swings. Jake Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to break down how LRP fits into today’s market conditions and what livestock producers should keep in mind moving forward.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Charleston explained that the recent drop in cattle prices is a clear example of when LRP can provide major benefits, noting that the program allows producers to lock in a floor price while still leaving room to capitalize on any market gains. He said those who were already enrolled likely saw meaningful protection during the downturn.

For those who have not signed up, Charleston emphasized that it is not too late. LRP can be purchased year-round, and amid continued market uncertainty, he encouraged producers to consider coverage options that align with their marketing plans and risk tolerance. He also urged producers to stay aware of deadlines and review other insurance tools that may support their operations — from pasture and forage coverage to policies designed specifically for livestock operations. He noted that having a full understanding of available programs is key to building a strong risk-management strategy.

Related Stories
This week in Washington, National FFA members are advocating for the agriculture industry on Capitol Hill for National Ag Day.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains how conflict in the Middle East is affecting spring planting as farmers navigate the evolving situation.
The Mosaic Company’s Keith Byerly shares smart input investment strategies, fertilizer considerations, and ways growers can manage risk heading into the 2026 growing season.
NCGA Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses the evolving role of ethanol in the current energy crisis, opportunities for expanding corn discusses the evolving role of ethanol in the current marketdemand, and the industry’s outlook moving forward.
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins surveys Nebraska wildfire damage as cattle losses, tight supplies, rising imports, and beef industry investigations impact U.S. markets. Roger McEowen outlines legal and tax considerations for ranchers recovering from wildfire damage.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart breaks down CAFO permits, EPA enforcement, and what cattle producers need to know as rules continue to evolve.
Rebuilding domestic textiles depends on automation and vertical integration, not tariffs or legacy manufacturing models.
RFD NEWS correspondent Frank McCaffrey spoke with U.S. Congressmen Henry Cuellar (D-TX) and John Rose (R-TN), who say bipartisan cooperation will be key to getting the Farm Bill to the president’s desk.
Merck’s Gary Tiller discusses new virtual fencing technology and how fence-free livestock management could change the way ranchers manage land and cattle.
At CattleCon 2026 in Nashville, RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses profitability, consumer demand, and how the integrated U.S.–Canada beef supply chain impacts cattle producers across North America.
The USDA’s February WASDE report looms as the CME Ag Economy Barometer shows declining farmer confidence, and more ag industry groups calling for swift policy action.