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.
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Shrinking sheep numbers contrast with gradual goat expansion, signaling tighter lamb supplies but steadier growth potential for meat goats.
Falling livestock prices, combined with higher input costs, continue to squeeze farm profitability heading into 2026.
Smaller cow numbers and a declining calf crop point to prolonged tight cattle supplies, limiting near-term herd rebuilding potential.
Quinn Rutt of Upstream Ranch previews the Nebraska cattle operation’s 49th Annual Production Sale where buyers can expect standout sire groups and a blend of long-standing ranch practices with modern genetic selection.
CattleCon 2026 officially kicks off Tuesday and continues through Thursday, bringing producers together to shape the future of the U.S. cattle industry.
