From technology use to drought strategies and marketing plans, this year’s survey paints a picture of how working ranches are adapting — and where they’re still holding back.
The numbers behind the 2026 State of the Beef Industry tell a story most cow-calf producers only see once or twice in a career: Record‑high calf prices, strong demand and profits that finally feel like they cover the risk.
But the same data — shrinking calf crops, aging herds, stubborn drought, rising land costs and a chronic labor shortage — also say this run won’t last unless producers rebuild carefully, invest strategically and stay locked on what consumers value most: consistently high‑quality beef.
In its fourth year, Farm Journal’s State of the Beef Industry Survey provides a comprehensive overview of the current status and outlook of the beef industry. The report surveyed 354 beef producers from across the U.S., focusing on those with cow herds that exceed 50 pairs or more than 500 on feed.
The year-over-year comparisons tell a story about what’s going on in the industry and the shifts producers are experiencing. On the next few pages, we’ll share some highlights of this year’s survey.
Here are some other key takeaways:
- Drought continues to reshape the beef industry. Since 2024, approximately 80% of survey participants have reported they have experienced drought. Of those impacted, 50% say they have reduced their breeding herd and 37% have not taken any action to mitigate drought. Of those who reduced their herd, 38% say they will begin restocking this year, 28% next year and 9% say they have no plans to restock. When asked if they had considered exiting the business due to drought, only 10% responded they are, which is down 4% compared to 2025.
- Comparing all four years of survey data, the number of respondents who precondition calves before marketing has been consistent — 84% in 2026, 83% in 2025, 79% in 2024 and 82% in 2023.
- 83% of survey participants selected genetics and performance information as a consideration when buying bulls — consistent with 2025 data. Other top factors included disposition (74%) and phenotype or appearance (66%). Value came in at 51% and source 45%.
At Drovers, we share your passion for agriculture and the beef industry. Our State of the Beef Industry report sought to gauge producer attitudes, commitment and management practices. The report is designed to provide a benchmark of information to help you make successful decisions. Join us the week of Sept. 14 on Drovers.com, FarmJournalTV.com, AgDay, AgriTalk and our Drovers daily e-newsletter as we analyze the survey results and discuss what they mean for your herd.
