Tag: cattle
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Dry Spring Raises Forage Concerns Across North Dakota
North Dakota ranchers are beginning to brace for potential forage shortages as dry weather and slow pasture growth continue across much of the state heading into summer grazing season. Extension specialists say below normal precipitation and cooler than average temperatures this spring have delayed forage development on both pasture and hay ground, raising concerns about…
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USDA Expands Livestock Coverage Options
Cattle and livestock producers will see several updates to federal insurance programs beginning with the 2027 coverage year after USDA approved a round of changes aimed at expanding protection options and updating policy rules. The changes impact Livestock Risk Protection, Livestock Gross Margin, and Dairy Revenue Protection programs administered through USDA’s Risk Management Agency. For…
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Feedlots prepare for summer heat as cattle weights continue climbing
With summer weather approaching across the Midwest and Plains, cattle feeders are already preparing for the risk of heat stress in feedyards as heavier cattle and volatile weather patterns increase concerns heading into the hottest months of the year. Even during years forecast to bring cooler temperatures or above normal rainfall, livestock specialists say short…
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China renews U.S. beef plant approvals as cattle industry watches export demand closely
U.S. cattle producers received a boost in international trade this week after China renewed export registrations for hundreds of American beef processing facilities, reopening access for a large portion of the U.S. beef industry. The move follows months of uncertainty after numerous plant registrations expired, limiting the ability of some American beef suppliers to ship…
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Dairy producers tighten biosecurity as new H5N1 cattle transport rules take effect
Dairy operations across several states are adjusting cattle movement plans and on farm biosecurity protocols following USDA changes tied to the ongoing H5N1 avian influenza response in dairy herds. Federal animal health officials are now using a tiered surveillance system that changes testing requirements depending on a state’s disease status. Dairy cattle from states meeting…
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Cattle on Feed Report Raises Questions About Herd Rebuild Pace
Heifers make up 37% cattle on feed April’s USDA Cattle on Feed report is adding a new layer to the ongoing conversation about whether the U.S. cattle herd is beginning to rebuild, or if the industry is still holding steady under tight supply conditions. The report showed heifers accounting for roughly 37 percent of total…