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
Tyson’s closure reflects deep supply shortages in the U.S. cattle industry, tightening packing capacity, weakening competition, and signaling more volatility ahead for cow-calf producers and feedyards.
Screwworm.gov has targeted resources for a wide range of stakeholders, including livestock producers, veterinarians, animal health officials, wildlife professionals, healthcare providers, pet owners, researchers, drug manufacturers, and the general public.
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses industry reactions to the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, the Surface Transportation Board’s review process, and current conditions on the Mississippi River.
Sen. Roger Marshall discusses the Senate’s unanimous passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and what expanded milk options could mean for students and dairy farmers. Industry groups say it is a win for student nutrition and dairy producers.
Crop producers face tightening credit and lower incomes, while strong cattle markets continue to stabilize finances in livestock-heavy regions.
Supplemental Disaster Relief Program Stage Two will disburse around $16 billion, approved by Congress last year. Sign-ups begin Monday, and producers have until April to return applications.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Lewie Pugh, with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on what the bill could mean for truckers.
With port fees now lifted, economists believe that could help ease tensions. However, American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Faith Parum said trade deals with smaller Asian countries are helping stabilize the ag economy.
Ohio AgNet’s Dusty Sonnenberg takes us up in the cab with a popcorn farmer bringing in this year’s haul.
The DOJ’s new antitrust probe could reshape beef-packer behavior, with potential impacts on fed-cattle prices, processor margins, and long-term competition across the supply chain.
Congressman Blake Moore of Utah discusses the bill’s potential to promote both economic growth and healthier forests on this week’s Champions of Rural America.
Mike Newland with the Propane Education & Research Council shares how producers can prepare for winter weather and the benefits of propane.