Archived Content

Growing Teff Grass

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 21:07:45 GMT

Teff grass may be a good forage or cover crop option for producers.
By: Rutendo Nyamusamba, Agronomy-Crops Field Specialist, SDSU Extension

“Have you considered teff grass?” This is a growing response to those who are looking for more crop choices in their operations. In Western South Dakota the growing interest is linked to no-till systems and cover crops. Teff (Eragrotis tef), is native to Ethiopia in Africa where it is mainly grown for its grain used in making the staple, injera. Although there is an increasing market for its grain, teff is mainly a forage crop in the US.

Can I grow teff?
Most likely. Teff grows well in many environments and soil types. Teff is best sown when soils warm-up to 65oF followed by warmer growing temperatures of at least 80oF. Teff is very intolerant of cold temperatures and frost, with a reported 100% kill when temperatures dropped to below 32oF. A firm seedbed is important when sowing teff, with a shallow sowing depth of between 1/8 and ¼ inch. Seeding deeper than ½ inch has great potential of a stand failure. However, seeding this shallow can be a challenge. At Dakota Lakes Farm, teff is seeded deeper, packing the seed into the bottom of the trench and leaving the trench open. Surface seeding is possible if there is enough moisture Teff seed is small with a seed count of 1.14 million to 1.50 million un-coated seeds/lb. In 2013, at Dakota Lakes farm, seed was even smaller with a seed count of 1.8 million un-coated seeds/lb. Seeding rate of 4-8lbs/acre is the general recommendation. Teff produces many tillers (Picture 1). With favorable temperature and moisture, teff germination is rapid, taking 3 – 5 days. The 1st two weeks following germination are concentrated in establishing the roots hence the need to think about weed competition at crop establishment.

According to teff research results at SDSU, summarized in the Extension Extra (ExEx 8071) entitled, “Teff: A new annual forage grass for South Dakota?”, teff can be seeded from late May to July. Optimum production was achieved in late May planting where 1st cutting was done in early August and a second harvest mid-September or can be grazed. Because of its shallow root system, it is recommended that grazing be done on re-growing teff after the 2nd cutting. Grazing before the 1st cutting might result in animals pulling plants out of the ground. A 1st cutting height of 3 – 4 inches gives better regrowth as it allows blade to remain for photosynthesis. Trials at SDSU yielded 1.3 to 5.3 tons/acre of biomass. There has not been many concerns with disease and insect problems. However, a stem-boring wasp caused significant damage and stunting of growth in one year of the trials conducted by SDSU at Highmore and Brookings.

What are other possible uses/ reasons to plant teff?

As an emergency forage or rescue crop
To supplement hay during the ‘summer slump’ months
For double cropping following cereal grain like wheat
As a rotational crop following alfalfa
As a green manure crop
For soil erosion control
To make use of field corners for those with center pivots
To extend production months of an old alfalfa stand

Profit Tracker: Beef Margins Near $200 Per Head

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:17:04 GMT

Cattle feeding margins jumped nearly $17 per head higher last week to average $196.50. The increase in profitability was due to an average $1.63 per cwt. increase in cash cattle prices and a decline in total feed costs for the calculated feeding period, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker .

Profit margins for pork producers fell $11.46 per head last week to $75.63 per head. The decline was tied to a $3.15 per cwt. decline in negotiated cash prices. Both beef and pork margins are calculated by John Nalivka, president, Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

Cattle feeders’ profits last week were $287 per head more than at the same time last year when $91 per head losses were recorded. Beef cutout values were nearly steady with the previous week, but packer margins declined $6.42 per head, leaving packers with per head profits at $16.67. A month ago packers recorded losses of $36 on every animal processed, and losses totaled $21 per head at the same time last year.

Farrow-to-finish hog margins have experienced decline for several weeks and are now $36 per head lower than the $111 per head profits recorded a month ago. Pork packers saw their margins improve last week, but the average was still $2.73 in the loss column for every animal processed.

The spike in both cattle feeding and farrow-to-finish profits this spring is due to significantly higher cash prices and lower overall feed prices. Cash prices for fed cattle are more than $20 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are more than $25 per cwt. higher than last year.

Profit Tracker: Beef Margins Tick Higher

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:17:04 GMT

Profit margins for both beef and pork producers moved slightly higher last week, ending a month-long downward trend. Both sectors remain solidly profitable.

Cattle feeders recorded average profits of $179 per head last week, about $3 per head more than the previous week, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . The margins represent a $229 per head improvement over the average losses of $49 recorded last year at this time, according to estimates developed by John Nalivka, president of Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

Beef cutout values improved $7.32 per cwt. last week, boosting beef packer margins $83 per head to end the week with profits of $23 per head. A month ago packers recorded profits of $32on every animal processed, and losses totaled $59 per head at the same time last year.

Farrow-to-finish hog margins improved $2.49 per head with average profits at more than $87 per head. Negotiated cash hog prices declined $1.42 per cwt. to $116.68 per cwt. Pork packers were estimated to earn $4.19 for every animal processed.

The spike in both cattle feeding and farrow-to-finish profits this spring is due to significantly higher cash prices and lower overall feed prices. Cash prices for fed cattle are more than $18 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are more than $33 per cwt. higher than last year.

Profit Tracker: Feeding Margins Decline $22 Per Head

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:17:02 GMT

Cattle feeding margins declined $22 per head last week, but remain more than $280. That’s a tidy profit, especially considering feedyards were losing more than $123 per head at the same time last year. The decline in profit margins was due to higher feeding costs and breakevens that were nearly $2 higher than the previous week, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . Farrow to finish pork margins increased $1 per head to $111. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by John Nalivka, president, Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

Cattle feeders’ profits last week were a whopping $404 per head more than at the same time last year. Beef cutout values increased by just 24 cents per cwt., but packer margins improved nearly $15 per head last week to total $67 per head. Packer profits totaled $37 per head at the same time last year. Pork packers saw an increase in profit margins from a 52-cent per head loss to a $3.11 profit per head.

Farrow-to-finish hog margins are about $20 per head above where they were a month ago, and significantly better than the $15 per head profits seen last year. Cash prices for fed cattle are nearly $37 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $32 per cwt. higher than last year.

Profit Tracker: Feeding Margins Top $300

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:17:02 GMT

Cattle feeders saw another significant bump in profit margins last week. The unseasonal rally in fed cattle prices saw the market gain $4 to $5 per cwt. last week, which pushed average cattle feeding profits to $319 per head, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . Farrow to finish pork margins increased slightly to $103 per head. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by John Nalivka, president, Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

Cattle feeders’ profits last week were a whopping $514 per head more than at the same time last year when $195 per head losses were recorded. Beef cutout values increased nearly $3 per cwt. last week, but the higher cost of cattle reduced packer margins by $33 per head. Per head packer profits last week were estimated at $47. Packer profits totaled $77 per head at the same time last year. Pork packers saw a slight increase in profit margins from an 18 cent loss to $2.47 per head profits.

Farrow-to-finish hog margins are about $28 per cwt. above where they were a month ago, and significantly better than the $24 per head profits seen last year. Cash prices for fed cattle are nearly $39 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are nearly $28 per cwt. higher than last year.

Profit Tracker: Feeding Margins Above $230 Per Head

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:59 GMT

Cattle feeding margins increased $11 per head last week despite slightly lower cash cattle prices. The gains were found in lower overall feed costs and lower prices paid for the feeder cattle that were marketed as fed cattle last week, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . The increase in margins was the third consecutive weekly gain, leaving average profits above $230 per head. A year ago feedyards were losing nearly $30 per head. Farrow to finish pork margins improved $14 per head to $47. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by John Nalivka, president, Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

Feed costs continue to decline for livestock feeders, and both cattle and pork margins are significantly higher than a year ago. The estimated cost of feed to finish a steer in a feedlot is more than $70 less than it was last year at this time, and cattle placed on feed last week have estimated feed costs that are $164 less than cattle marketed a year ago.

Beef packer margins declined $18 per head last week leaving profits at just more than $12 per head. While packer profits have been on the decline in recent weeks, they remain well above the $13 per head losses recorded last year at this time. Pork packers saw a $6.50 per head decline in profit margins to fall into the red at $1.95 per head. Cash prices for fed cattle are nearly $37 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $6 per cwt. higher than last year.

Profit Tracker: Feeder, Packer Margins Ugly

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:54 GMT

The pain eased somewhat for cattle feeders last week, but losses remain more than $170 per head.

Cash cattle prices rallied $2 per cwt., with the 5-area direct cash price at $163.45. That was well below the average breakeven price of $176.67, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . Still, average feeding margins were about $40 per head better than the previous week when feedyards lost $212 per head. A year ago cattle feeders were earning $247 on every animal sold.

Beef cutout prices trended about 50 cents per cwt. lower to $245.86, and packer margins declined more than $14 per head, resulting in losses of $48 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins slipped nearly $10 per head, producing losses of $15.46 per head. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was about $2.50 per head lower compared to the previous week. Feeder cattle represent more than 81% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 73% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were losing $96 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were making $65, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins improve $7 per head, with profits now at $5 per head. Cash prices for fed cattle are $12 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $65 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $579 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feedyard Losses Exceed $200

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:54 GMT

It was another ugly week for cattle feeders. Despite steady cash cattle prices, average losses jumped another $60 per head, leaving closeouts with $212 losses. Last week’s 5-area direct cash price for fed steers was $161.26, well below the average breakeven price of $177.60, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . A year ago cattle feeders were earning $246 on every animal sold.

Beef cutout prices trended $2 per cwt. lower to $246.33, and packer margins declined more than $37 per head, resulting in losses of $33 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins slipped nearly $5 per head, producing losses of $5.54 per head. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was up about $6 per head compared to the previous week. Feeder cattle represent more than 81% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 73% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were losing $99 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were making $74, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins improve $5 per head, with losses now at $1.83 per head. Cash prices for fed cattle are $10 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $50 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $579 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Packers In The Black, Feedyard Margins Ugly

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:54 GMT

Beef packers put away the red ink last week as they turned modest profits on every animal processed. Feedyard margins, however, slipped a little further away from positive.

Despite a near $3 per cwt. gain in cash cattle prices last week, feedyard losses increased about $3 per head, leaving average per head losses at more than $153. Last week’s 5-area direct cash price for fed steers was $161.34, well below the average breakeven price of $173.13, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . A year ago cattle feeders were earning $233 on every animal sold.

Beef cutout prices trended more than $3 per cwt. higher to $248.33, helping packer margins improve more than $20 per head, resulting in profits of $3.94 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins slipped nearly $8 per head, producing losses of nearly $1 per head. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was up about t$5 per head compared to the previous week. Feeder cattle represent more than 81% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 73% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were losing $7 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were losing $55, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins slip $2 per head, with losses now at $6 per head. Cash prices for fed cattle are $12 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $47 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $579 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feedyard Losses Exceed $150 Per Head

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:54 GMT

Packers are making headway against negative margins, but feedyards are losing ground. Cash cattle prices dipped nearly 50 cents per cwt. last week, increasing feedyard losses $45 per head, leaving average per head losses at more than $150. Last week’s 5-area direct cash price for fed steers was $158.67, well below the average breakeven price of $170.23, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . A year ago cattle feeders were earning $284 on every animal sold.

Boxed cutout prices trended nearly $7 per cwt. higher to $244.95, helping packer margins improve nearly $80 per head, leaving losses at $15 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins improved nearly $15 per head, producing profits of $7 per head. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was up about t$5 per head compared to the previous week. Feeder cattle represent more than 81% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 73% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were losing $7 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were losing $80, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins slip $6 per head, with profits now at $10 per head. Cash prices for fed cattle are $7 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $31 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $579 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feedyard Losses Exceed $100 Per Head

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:54 GMT

Whether you’re cattle feeder or packer, ledger sheets are full of red ink. Cash cattle prices dipped nearly $2 per cwt. last week, increasing feedyard losses $28 per head, leaving average per head losses at more than $105. Last week’s 5-area direct cash price for fed steers was $159.04, well below the average breakeven price of $167.12, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . A year ago cattle feeders were earning $253 on every animal sold.

Boxed cutout prices trended nearly $1 per cwt. higher to $238.67, but packer margins only improved $3 per head, leaving losses at $95 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins declined $6 per head, dropping closeouts to $7.68 in the red. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was relatively unchanged from the previous week. Feeder cattle represent more than 80% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 73% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were earning $48 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were losing $82, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins improve $1 per head, with profits now at $16 per head.

Cash prices for fed cattle are $13 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $33 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $579 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feedyard Margins Plunge Lower

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:54 GMT

Cattle feeding margins declined $45 per head last week, leaving average per head losses at more than $77. Last week’s 5-area direct cash price for fed steers was $161.74, up more than $1 from the previous week, but still below the average breakeven price of $167.67, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . A year ago cattle feeders were earning $209 on every animal sold.

A $2.50 per cwt. decline in the boxed cutout price drove packer margins $45 per head lower, leaving losses at $99 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins declined $14 per head, dropping closeouts to $1.23 in the red. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was $8 per cwt. higher than the previous week, while the total costs for the animal and feed was $56 per head lower. Feeder cattle represent nearly 80% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 69% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were earning $12 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were losing $83, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins improve $4 per head, with profits now at $15 per head.

Cash prices for fed cattle are $20 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $26 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $579 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feedyard Margins Improve, Remain Red

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:54 GMT

Cattle feeding margins improved nearly $25 per head last week, but average per head losses remain more than $32. Last week’s 5-area direct cash price for fed steers was $160.62, up more than $1 from the previous week, but still below the average breakeven price of $163.11, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker. A year ago cattle feeders were earning $145 on every animal sold.

A $5 per cwt. decline in the boxed beef price drove packer margins $45 per head lower, leaving losses at $52 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins were unchanged at a positive $13 per head. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was unchanged last week, while the total costs for the animal and feed was $8 per head lower. Feeder cattle represent nearly 80% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 69% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were losing an average of $58 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were losing $56, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins decline about $2 per head, with profits now at $11 per head.

Cash prices for fed cattle are $20 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $4 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $579 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Margins Back In The Black

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:54 GMT

After two weeks of losses, cattle feeding margins are back in the black. Closeouts improved $47 per head last week, moving average feeding margins from a $25 loss to a $27 per head profit, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . A month ago feeders were earning $144 profits per head, and a year ago profits were $57 per head.

Average cash cattle prices improved $3 per cwt. last week, with the 5-area Direct price at $161.82. The cost of feeder cattle factored into last week’s Profit Tracker was unchanged, while feed costs declined modestly. Feeder cattle represent 79% of the total cost for finishing a steer. A year ago feeder cattle represented 67% of that total cost.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins fell nearly $13 per head last week, closing with a per head profit of $13. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

Beef packers saw their margins improve $14 per head, though losses remain at $14 per head, Sterling Marketing estimates. Those losses are $13 per head less than last year’s average losses of $59 per head. The beef cutout was up slightly at $240.33 per cwt.

Pork packers saw their margins improve about $4 per head, with profits now over $14 per head.

Cash prices for fed cattle are $28 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are 50 cents per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $556 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $243 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feeding Margins Begin New Year Lower

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:54 GMT

Cattle feeders began the New Year with black ink on their closeouts, but profits were minimal. Average feedyard margins were $8 per head last week, a $14 per head decline from the previous week, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . A month ago feeders were earning $45 profits per head, and a year ago profits were $80 per head.

Average cash cattle prices improved $4 per cwt. last week, with the 5-area Direct price at $165.63. The cost of feeder cattle factored into last week’s Profit Tracker was $9 per head higher, while feed costs declined modestly. Feeder cattle represent nearly 80% of the total cost for finishing a steer. A year ago feeder cattle represented 68% of that total cost.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins fell nearly $4 per head last week, closing with a per head profit of $9. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

Beef packers saw their margins decline $5 per head, with losses now at nearly $50 per head, Sterling Marketing estimates. Those losses are $26 per head less than last year’s average losses of $76 per head. The beef cutout was up $5 at $245.23 per cwt.

Pork packers saw their margins decline about $3 per head, with profits now over $11 per head.

Cash prices for fed cattle are $27 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $2 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $743 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $556 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feedyard Losses Exceed $50 Per Head

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:51 GMT

Cattle feeding margins declined nearly $53 per head last week, leaving average losses at $56 per head. A year ago cattle feeders were earning $171 on every animal sold, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker.

Packer margins improved $37 per head to average $52 profits on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins improved $13 per head, pulling those averages out of slightly negative territory to a positive $13. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was $1 per cwt. lower, while average total feed costs were unchanged. Feeder cattle represent nearly 80% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 69% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were losing an average of $50 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were seeing profits of $32 per head, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins decline about $5 per head, with profits now at $14 per head.

Cash prices for fed cattle are $14 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $13 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $688 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Margins Improve, Remain Negative

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:51 GMT

The financial pain of feeding cattle eased again last week, but losses remain more than $125 per head.

Cash cattle prices rallied $2 per cwt., with the 5-area direct cash price at $165.77. That was well below the average breakeven price of $176.68, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . Still, average feeding margins were about $43 per head better than the previous week when feedyards lost $172 per head. A year ago cattle feeders were earning $242 on every animal sold.

Beef cutout prices trended about $2 per cwt. higher to $248.13, and packer margins improved about $2 per head, resulting in losses of $46 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins slipped more than $1 per head, producing losses of $17 per head. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was about $12 per head lower compared to the previous week. Feeder cattle represent about 81% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 73% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were losing $17 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were making $32, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins improve $2 per head, with profits now at $7 per head. Cash prices for fed cattle are $13 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $71 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $579 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feeder, Packer Margins Improve

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:51 GMT

The pain eased somewhat for cattle feeders last week, but losses remain more than $97 per head.

Cash cattle prices rallied $2 per cwt., with the 5-area direct cash price at $167.41. That was well below the average breakeven price of $174.92, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . Still, average feeding margins were about $30 per head better than the previous week when feedyards lost $129 per head. A year ago cattle feeders were earning $223 on every animal sold.

Beef cutout prices trended about $5.40 per cwt. higher to $253.57, and packer margins improved more than $15 per head, resulting in losses of $40 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins slipped more than $4 per head, producing losses of $21.23 per head. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was about $3 per head lower compared to the previous week. Feeder cattle represent more than 80% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 73% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were earning $4 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were losing $36, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins decline $5 per head, with profits now at $2 per head. Cash prices for fed cattle are $17 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $70 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $541 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feeder Margins Tumble Again

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:51 GMT

Cattle feeding margins took another turn south last week after a nearly $4 per cwt. decline in fed cattle prices. Cattle feeders lost an average of $190 per head last week, about $35 more than losses recorded the previous week.

Cash cattle prices declined nearly $4 per cwt., with the 5-area direct cash price at $160.59. That was well below the average breakeven price of $175.23, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker. A year ago cattle feeders were earning $176 on every animal sold.

Beef cutout prices trended about $1 per cwt. higher to $257.45, and packer margins improved more than $50 per head, resulting in average profits of $28 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins improved nearly $4 per head, producing losses of $10.67 per head. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was unchanged compared to the previous week. Feeder cattle represent more than 80% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 73% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were losing $48 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were losing $60, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins decline $6 per head, with losses of about $6 per head. Cash prices for fed cattle are $13 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $54 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $541 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feedyard Losses Exceed $200 Per Head

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:51 GMT

Cattle feeding margins took another tumble last week after a $1 per cwt. decline in fed cattle prices. Cattle feeders lost an average of $207 per head, about $17 more than losses recorded the previous week.

The 5-area direct cash cattle price declined $1 per cwt. to $159.58. That was well below the average breakeven price of $175.50, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . A year ago cattle feeders were earning $180 on every animal sold.

Beef cutout prices traded nearly equal to the previous week at $257.50, and packer margins improved more than $30 per head, resulting in average profits of $65 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins improved about $2.50 per head, producing losses of $8.14 per head. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was up only slightly compared to the previous week. Feeder cattle represent more than 80% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 73% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were losing $55 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were earning $24, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins improve $2 per head, with losses of about $4 per head. Cash prices for fed cattle are $13 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $51 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $541 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feeding Margins Put On Lipstick

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:51 GMT

Cattle feeders added a little powder and lipstick to closeouts this week, but the ugly continues to shine through. Modest gains in the cash market produced a $35 per head improvement to feedyard margins, but losses remained near $173 per head.

The 5-area direct cash cattle price increased $1 per cwt. to $161.72, but that was well below the average breakeven price of $174.94, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . A year ago cattle feeders were earning $216 on every animal sold.

Beef cutout prices traded $0.43 lower than the previous week at $254.33, and packer margins declined $20 per head, resulting in average profits of $24 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins improved more than $14 per head, producing profits of $21 per head compared to profits of just $7 per head last week. Negotiated lean hog carcass prices improved $6.19 per cwt. to $79.34. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was up only slightly compared to the previous week. Feeder cattle represent more than 80% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 74% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were losing $22 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were losing $47, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins erode $2 per head, with losses of about $16 per head. Cash prices for fed cattle are $13 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $34 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $541 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Margins Remain In ICU

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:49 GMT

Last week saw dramatic improvement in cattle feeding margins, yet triple-digit losses remain. Feedyard closeouts were $71 per head better than the week before, leaving losses at $112 on every animal sold.

The 5-area direct cash cattle price was $159.54 per cwt., well below the average breakeven price of $168.22, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . A year ago cattle feeders were earning $157 per head.

Beef cutout prices traded $1 per cwt. higher than the previous week at $260.47, and packer margins improved $22 per head, resulting in average profits of nearly $88 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins improved more than $3 per head, producing profits of $31 per head. Negotiated lean hog carcass prices declined $0.96 per cwt. to $81.69. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was down $12 per cwt. compared to the previous week. Feeder cattle represent more than 79% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 73% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were earning $65 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were earning $20, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins improve $10 per head, bringing the estimated margins back to near breakeven. Cash prices for fed cattle are $14 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $29 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $541 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feeding Margins Slip Further

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:49 GMT

A $6 per head decline in cattle feeding margins is tolerable, unless you were already losing $112. Feedyard closeouts finished last week $118 in the red as the 5-area direct cash price fell about 25-five cents per cwt. to $159.30. That’s well below the average breakeven price of $168.41 per cwt., according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker . A year ago cattle feeders were earning $165 per head.

Beef cutout prices traded nearly $4 per cwt. lower than the previous week at $256.73, and packer margins tumbled $20 per head, resulting in average profits of nearly $67 on every animal processed.

Farrow-to-finish pork margins improved about 25 cents per head, producing profits of $31 per head. Negotiated lean hog carcass prices also increased about 25 cents per cwt. to $81.94. Both beef and pork profit margins are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

The cost of feeder cattle factored against last week’s live cattle sales was unchanged compared to the previous week. Feeder cattle represent more than 78% of the total cost for finishing a steer, up significantly from last year when feeder cattle represented 73% of that total cost.

A month ago beef packers were earning $44 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were earning $61, Sterling Marketing estimates. Pork packers saw their margins decline $2 per head, leaving them with losses of slightly more than $2 per head. Cash prices for fed cattle are $14 per cwt. higher than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $41 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $541 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Feeding Losses Back To Triple Digits

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:49 GMT

Cattle feeding margins took two steps back last week as cash cattle prices hover around what producers hope are the summer lows. Feedyard closeouts revealed a $108 per head loss last week, significantly poorer than the previous week’s loss of just $11 on every animal shipped, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker .

Choice steer prices closed at $151 per cwt., nearly steady with the previous week. A $10 per cwt. decline in beef cutout values slashed beef packer operating margins by $107 per head. The cutout closed Friday at $241.57, and the result was packer operating margins at $33 per head.

Feedyard margins have improved in recent weeks, and just a month ago feeders were losing $270 per head. The improvement is due to significantly lower costs attached to the feeder cattle calculated against closeouts. Feeder cattle were priced into last week’s ledger at $10 per cwt. lower than a month ago. Feeder cattle represent 78.3 % of the cost of finishing a steer, significantly higher than last year’s 72.8%. A year ago feedyards were showing a profit of $302 per head.

A month ago beef packers were earning $34 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were earning $53, Sterling Marketing estimates.

Farrow-to-finish pork producers showed a profit margin of $25 per hog last week, $5 better than the previous week, and steady with a month ago.

Pork packers saw their margins decline $7 to a negative $7.55 per head. Pork packer margins hovered near the breakeven mark for several weeks before last week’s decline. Cash prices for fed cattle are $5 per cwt. lower than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $53 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $541 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Packers, Feeders Both In The Red

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:49 GMT

Cattle feeders and beef packers are hoping the price lows are in for the summer as both operated at a loss last week. Cattle feeding margins showed a slight improvement, yet per head losses remained more than $105. Packer margins declined nearly $50 per head, leaving packers with a $16 loss on every animal processed, according to the Sterling Beef Profit Tracker .

Choice steer prices declined $3 per cwt. last week to close at $147.89 per cwt. Feedyard closeouts were aided, however, by a $5 per cwt. decline in the price of feeder steers measured against last week’s marketings. Packer margins were hit hard by a $7.26 per cwt. decline in the beef cutout price.

While triple-digit feeding losses are common, feedyard margins are improved $150 per head from a month ago, chiefly due to the $23 per cwt. lower feeder cattle prices on last month’s closeouts. Feeder cattle represent 78 % of the cost of finishing a steer, still significantly higher than last year’s 73%. A year ago feedyards were showing a profit of $280 per head.

A month ago beef packers were earning $86 on every animal processed, while a year ago packers were earning $68, Sterling Marketing estimates.

Farrow-to-finish pork producers showed a profit margin of $23 per hog last week, $2 per head lower than the previous week and a month ago.

Pork packers saw their margins improve $3 per head from a $7 loss to a $4 loss per head. Pork packer margins hovered near the breakeven mark for several weeks before a $7 decline two weeks ago. Negotiated prices for lean hogs was $78.84 per cwt. last week, down slightly from $79.63 the previous week.

Cash prices for fed cattle are $8 per cwt. lower than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $53 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $658 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow.

Profit Tracker: No Relief In Sight

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:46 GMT

Already facing steep losses, cattle feeders saw their margins decline further in a dismal pre-Labor Day market. Cash fed cattle prices were $3 lower at $141.97, leaving feedyards with losses exceeding $270 per head, $49 more than the previous week, according to calculations by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

Beef packers saw their margins improve another $12 per head with average per head profits now at $115. The beef cutout declined $3 per cwt. to $238.95.

A month ago cattle feeders were losing $46 per head, while a year ago profits were pegged at $222 per head, according to Sterling Marketing . Feeder cattle represent 79% of the cost of finishing a steer, significantly higher than last year’s 73%.

A month ago beef packers were losing $5 for every animal processed, while a year ago packers were earning $30, Sterling Marketing estimates.

Farrow-to-finish pork producers showed a profit margin of $12 per hog last week, a decline of $8 per head from the previous week and down $9 from a month ago.

Pork packers saw their margins improve $6 per head to $18. Negotiated prices for lean hogs were $71.40, per cwt. last week, down $4.20 per cwt. from the previous week.

Cash prices for fed cattle are $20 per cwt. lower than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $26 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $606 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow. Cow-calf profits for 2016 are projected at $490 per cow.

Profit Tracker: Can It Get Any Worse?

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:16:46 GMT

Unfortunately, yes. Cattle feeding margins took another nosedive last week after cash fed cattle prices tumbled another $3 to $4 per cwt. to settle at $135.19. Feedyard closeouts saw another $52 added to losses already exceeding $300 per head. Calculations by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore., put average cattle feeding losses at $357 per head last week as feedyards ordered another barrel of red ink.

Beef packers saw their margins decline $12 per head with average profits now at $129. The beef cutout declined more than $6 per cwt. to $230.12.

A month ago cattle feeders were losing $127 per head, while a year ago profits were pegged at $186 per head, according to Sterling Marketing. Feeder cattle represent 79% of the cost of finishing a steer, significantly higher than last year’s 73%.

A month ago beef packers were earning $84 for every animal processed, while a year ago packers were losing $10, Sterling Marketing estimates .

Farrow-to-finish pork producers showed a profit margin of $11 per hog last week, an increase of $4 per head from the previous week and down $14 from a month ago.

Pork packers saw their margins decline $6 per head to $16. Negotiated prices for lean hogs were $69.78, per cwt. last week, an increase of $1 per cwt. from the previous week. Cash prices for fed cattle are $22 per cwt. lower than last year, and negotiated hog prices are $36 per cwt. lower than last year.

Nalivka projects average cash profit margins for cow-calf producers at $546 per cow this year. Last year’s estimated average cow-calf margins were $548 per cow. Cow-calf profits for 2016 are projected at $440 per cow.