Pasture conditions are beginning to improve across parts of the country, but recovery remains uneven following last year’s dry conditions.
Recent moisture has helped kick off spring green-up in some regions, while others continue to deal with lingering drought stress.
Producers are taking a cautious approach, holding back stocking rates until grass conditions become more consistent.
That hesitation is contributing to slower herd rebuilding, even as cattle prices remain strong.
Timely rainfall over the coming weeks will play a critical role in determining how quickly pastures, and livestock numbers, can fully recover.