By Scout Nelson
Cattle prices are going up again, like they did in 2014. Right now, the price for cattle is about $275 for every 100 pounds, and sometimes it's almost $300. Even in 2014, the highest price was just over $250 for every 100 pounds.
Tim Petry, a livestock expert from North Dakota State University, said this situation reminds him of something Yogi Berra said, which means it feels like it's happening again. The last time prices went up in 2014 was because there wasn't enough rain for four years. Now, there hasn't been enough rain for many years again, and that's why prices are going up.
With half the beef cow herd still facing drought conditions, increasing the beef cow numbers is a challenge. For North Dakota, the drought has especially affected the northern and southeastern regions. Regular good rainfall is the key to stabilizing prices. Considering the current conditions, prices might rise even higher next year.
Higher prices are good for people selling cattle, but not for those who don't have many because of the drought. People buying meat might see prices go up in stores. Also, North Dakota is one of the top ten places in the U.S. that has the most beef cows.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imaginegolf
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle