A growing population of grizzly bears is threatening the livelihood of Montana farmers, but farm dogs have proven successful at protecting both people and predators.
Research out of Utah State University discovered a 90% drop in bear activity near farms with livestock guardian dogs.
It is an old solution that is proving successful for the state’s new bear challenge.
The lead researchers say that their sample size was small and more research is needed, but the farmers involved in the study are convinced the dogs make a real difference.
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NCBA CEO Colin Woodall says more conversations need to occur with stakeholders present surrounding President Trump’s proposal to lower consumer beef prices with Argentinian imports.
Beef industry groups seem to agree — market-based pricing, not federal intervention, best supports rancher livelihoods and long-term beef supply stability.
Cattle groups say additional imports would offer little relief for consumers but could erode rancher confidence as the industry begins to rebuild herds.
The USDA’s latest Hogs and Pigs Report caught some analysts off guard. Inventories came in lower than expected, signaling tighter supplies ahead, even as producers return to profitability this year.
The government shutdown has touched nearly every sector of the ag industry since it began, and now impacts are spilling over into dairy.
Expect firm calf and fed-cattle prices — pair selective heifer retention with prudent hedging and liquidity to bridge rebuilding costs.
