The U.S. cattle herd has shrunk to its smallest inventory in more than 70 years and rebuilding is going to be no small feat.
With that in mind, one expert has a few ideas on how the industry may be best suited to grow again.
Rabo Research Animal Ag Sustainability Analyst, Charlotte Talbott spoke with RFD-TV’s own Suzanne Alexander on where the industry currently stands, what it takes to rebuild, and a possible timeline.
Related Stories
Meat stocks rose seasonally but remain below last year overall, while tighter butter inventories could support dairy prices, and belly stocks warrant close watch for pork markets.
A mid-January winter storm delivered snow, ice, and extreme cold to a broad swath of the U.S., disrupting transportation, stressing livestock systems, and adding cost and complexity to winter farm operations as producers look toward spring.
Heavier weights and strong late-year slaughter supported December production, but lower annual totals highlight ongoing supply tightness heading into 2026.
Junior Livestock Champions Grand Champion Market Steer, topping out at $320,000
Rising import pressure and tougher export competition are likely to persist into 2026, supporting domestic supplies while capping export growth.