The United States Department of Agriculture has launched an on-line database to help farmers and ranchers negotiate the sale of their cattle.
It’s linked to government initiatives to counter the bargaining power of the largest meat packers.
The USDA’s pilot Cattle Contracts Library sheds light on the terms, conditions and volumes under which cattle are contracted, the USDA said in a news release.
“USDA is committed to creating a more level playing field for cattle producers,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said. “The Cattle Contracts Library pilot program supports this commitment by providing producers with the market information they need.”
The database does not identify purchasers or sellers.
The information could potentially benefit the cattle industry, said Justin Tupper, president of the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association.
“I know the big corporate feeders are getting a better deal than me, but I don’t know what it is,” said Tupper, owner of a ranch and livestock auction in St. Onge, S.outh Dakor Dakota.
“If we know they’re getting $6 more than us, then we should be able to hold out for a better price,” he said.
Mandated by Congress, the pilot will continue through September 30. Lawmakers will then determine if the database should continue.
The federal and provincial agriculture departments in Canada offer nothing like it, nor are they every likely to.
