The last major expansion was from 1990 to 1995 when the herd
grew by 10 per cent.
Hurt says farmers are optimistic because prices are at
record highs, pastures are in good condition and the outlook for feed costs
remains optimistic.
Hurt was obviously not referring to pastures in Alberta and British Columbia where conditions are so dry that farmers are culling already-small herds.
And while I'm at it, I may as well point out that the CBC is obviously lacking experienced farm reporters because it says the drought in Alberta is driving beef prices higher.
An increase in culling, and therefore of beef on the market, can't be driving prices higher. In the longer run, yes, because the herd will be smaller. But not right now.
