Beef Cattle Economic Outlook

Projected prices for beef cattle in 2016 show a decline of three to seven percent depending on export levels according WSU Extension Economist Shannon Neibergs.

But it’s not all gloom and doom said Neibergs.

“Although the price has declined, it will be well above their cost of production. Profits on the cow, calf side won’t be as strong as it has in the past but at least it will be positive.”

Part of the challenge according to Neibergs is the strong U.S. dollar which is impacting trade.

But the Northwest is uniquely positioned to handle many challenges thanks to water supplies in the Columbia River and our hay production that Neibergs said, “Gives some ability of ranchers to look to source hay in times of drought or in times of fire, that those feed sources are available.”

Neibergs noted that puts Washington at a competitive advantage over many other Western States.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (590) 547-1618, or e-mail krounce@cherrycreekradio.com.