Cattle Carcass Weights Swell

[ALLFARMER]

I would second that motion SMC. Smaller
operators likely dont have as much over head.
No big bi weekly payroll to make, not trucking
feed in as far as big outfits. Never actually had to
write the big check & truck them feeders in. If the
cow calf guy doesnt need the money and has
lots if available feed why sell?

[smcgrath76]

Allfarmer - as they get worth more they
die better, also I don't know very many
that don't need the money. I am convinced
in excess of 85% of marketing decisions
are made based on cash flow and not
economics or maximum returns.

[kato]

It's the farmer buyers that I'm talking about. The ones who pick up a few extra to feed, and sometimes more than a few. We generally "pick up" over 400 a year, but this year it's going to drop.

A lot of sales around here depend on the farmers in the stands, like us, to support the calves that were mismatched, or odd sized, or in small lots. For instance, we buy the under 400 pound calves, which the big guys can't handle. If we don't buy any this fall, I know one other guy who's going to be very happy that he doesn't have to bid against us. He's pretty much the only other big buyer for these calves. We prevented a lot of bargains from coming his way, and he did the same to us. So unless someone else steps up and decides to live life in the fast lane, there won't be nearly the competition for those little calves. Feeding 350 pound calves is not a business for the faint of heart.

I agree that a farmer who feeds his own calves is in a much better position.

As for the corn price.. bring it on. It will help the entire cattle business, no matter if it's feeders or cow/calf.

[smcgrath76]

kato, I see your point and I agree.