Packers chased finished cattle into the evening on Wednesday last week and the result was another rally in cash prices to new record highs, eclipsing the mark set in November 2014.

In a steady market, fed prices would typically peak seasonally about now and move lower through the third quarter before increasing to year end, but there is good reason to expect the uptrend will continue in 2023.

Beef producers are always looking for an efficient steer to feed. Perhaps none was better than a calf raised near Kokomo, Ind.

“A commitment to additional financial resources for the farm bill will help to transition our farm and food supplies away from ad hoc support,” the Committee members said in a letter.

The U.S. bovine semen industry reports a decline of 5% in total unit sales, reaching 69 million total units reported for all categories combined. However, Beef-on-dairy semen sales continue to increase.

Calving is underway across the country, which means calf processing and branding (if applicable in your area) is just around the corner. Here’s some things to remember heading into the season.