Bass Encourages Producers To Grow The Herd

Is the national beef herd expanding? 

That question has been before the livestock industry for several months at this point, as the herd reports some of the smallest numbers in a generation.  Recent reports indicate the herd may have hit bottom and is on the way up, but only time will tell. 

Phil Bass, University of Idaho meat science professor said producers that can expand their herd need to do so.

“Grow your herd. The demand for the meat is there. It's unbelievable where wholesale prices have reached, which is going to trickle out to the retail and the food service," Bass said.  "The value is absolutely there. So if you can expand your herd, please do so. We don't want to get into a point where beef is no longer affordable, even in the ground form. Folks are going to start jumping to other proteins in that case.”

Bass said expanding the herd is good for everyone in the cattle business, inducing the packers.  And he stressed that everyone in the chain needs to make money at some point.

“Otherwise, that's where we start having real issues and consolidation," he said.  "And we don't want that. We still want a strong competitive market out there. It's good for everyone. And so if we can continue to provide the supply of cattle, that's going to make a big difference.”

Bass added those looking at expanding their herd are doing it at a good time.  Not only are meat prices elevated, but input costs, such as corn are reasonable, and in some cases low.

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