After a cold winter, backyard grills are getting dusted off as grilling season is under way. May is beef month and cattle producers are optimistic as the demand for beef remains upbeat despite higher prices.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), feeder and stocker cattle sold firm to 5.00 higher than last week. Feedlots need a steady supply of feeders even as supplies are tight. In many areas, steers weighing 700-750 pounds and heifers weighing 600-650 pounds are passing the 2.00 mark on a regular basis.
Pasture conditions and feed supplies are of great concern as summer approaches. USDA reported 39 percent of pastures were in good to excellent condition, but that number remains below the 10 year average.