Good morning! Coming off of the holiday weekend, cattle prices have seen contract highs. Last week, live cattle prices were up over $3, and have continued the push this week. Feeder cattle prices were also driven up by cheaper corn prices and limited supplies. August, September, and October feeder cattle contracts rose over $3 to new highs on Tuesday. Meanwhile, corn prices closed at a little over $5 on Tuesday, down from last week. |
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A genetically modified calf is resistant to BVDV
Scientists with the University of Nebraska have produced a genetically modified calf, which is resistant to BVDV. The viral infection can negatively affect the animal’s respiratory and digestive system and spread to other cattle. The calf was exposed to the virus, but has remained healthy. The researchers will continue to monitor the calf and work to expand the experiment on other cattle breeds. |
Several regions experience flash drought conditions
Experts with the USDA have identified several conditions which may signal that the Corn Belt is experiencing a flash drought. Some portions of the Midwest have been dry for a time period of one to three months, which could impact crop production in areas of Iowa, Texas, Oklahoma, Illinois, and South Dakota. |
Report highlights Iowa’s conservation progress
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship recently released a report that details the progress that Iowa has made towards conservation. The data shows that, over the past decade, there has been substantial progress towards adopting conservation practices, though Iowa’s Secretary of Agriculture, Mike Naig, said that there is still a lot of work to do. |
Producers expand drone usage in the field
As many producers introduce new technology into their operations to help create more efficient processes, many are turning to using drones for a wide range of uses, from spraying to spreading cover crop seeds. For smaller producers and farmers, experts suggest drones as a cheaper alternative to big sprayers. |
Why Should You Use Livestock Risk Protection?
As we look at today’s high cattle prices, it can feel like livestock insurance is unnecessary. However, the market is volatile and there’s no telling what tomorrow may bring. LRP helps you protect what you have against unexpected market price drops.
With LRP’s price floor, you’re able to lock in your guaranteed minimum price, but the sky’s the limit. Don’t wait for prices to drop – visit stockguard.io to learn how you can get started with LRP today!
