Genetic progress has led to a significant increase in the number of carcasses grading high Choice and Prime over the past decade. It is not a matter of luck, but the result of hard work and dedication.

Little change was found for livestock feeders last week as near identical week-to-week market prices held margins solidly in the black. Beef packers saw modest improvement with higher wholesale beef prices.

The outside trades of $186 in the South and $193 in the North are a telling sign that leverage is there for the cattle feeder. Given the chance to capitalize with multiple bidders the market should respond favorably.

Aside from the added carcass tonnage, the leap in carcass weights - driven by extra days on feed - has generated a noted shift in carcass marbling and quality grade achievement.

“If handled improperly, transition events can be the death of your business. Or it can strengthen your business and clearly outline who you are and where you want to go,” says Dick Wittman.

Formulating your farm’s succession plan is likely not a straight line. Polly Dobbs, an Indiana attorney who is part of a seven-generation farm family, says it’s important to stay focused on your end goals.