U.S. cattle herd contraction continues

by | Jun 24, 2024 | 5 Ag Stories, News

The June USDA Cattle on Feed report was published on Friday June 21st and is considered somewhat bearish when compared to the industry’s pre-report estimates.

The June USDA Cattle on Feed report did not feature any big surprises, but the placements number was up compared to a year ago says USDA livestock analyst, Mike McConnell.

McConnell says that report signals the same general trend for the U.S. cattle supply.

Despite lower slaughter numbers, heavier cattle weights also need to be taken into consideration, says McConnell.

He says the demand for feeder cattle on feedlots remains consistent.

Despite the continued contraction of the herd size, pasture conditions have improved quite dramatically due to the rainfall received so far this year. Industry experts have frequently stated that improving pasture conditions will be one of the first necessary conditions for the herd size to begin to expand once again.

For more information and the complete June 2024 Cattle on Feed report visit