The beef
herd has declined by more so far this year than in the previous 35 years, according
to an agricultural economist at Oklahoma State University.
National
cow slaughter has increased by 14 per cent.
In Oklahoma
it’s because of severe drought that has driven ranchers to sell cattle.
Auction-house
volumes doubled and cull cow prices plunged from $89 to $69 hundredweight.
Calves
are being weaned early and cattle on pasture are going to market at lighter
weights.
