The Cattleman Update

Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) was well represented at the various National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), American National CattleWomen (ANCW), Federation and Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) meetings held last week in conjunction with the Cattle Industry Convention in Nashville, Tenn. A delegation of 23 members, headed by TSCRA officers Joe Parker, Clay Birdwell and Pete Bonds, represented TSCRA on the NCBA board of directors and the various policy committees. more…

On Feb. 3 the U.S. House Subcommittee on Energy and Environment held the second day of a hearing, initially convened in November 2011, to receive testimony on external perspectives on the need to reauthorize and reform science, and research and development activities at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Witnesses repeatedly emphasized the need for greater transparency of scientific data and research results. more…

For the week ending Feb. 4, feeder cattle prices at Texas auctions covered by USDA Market News were steady to $5 higher per hundredweight, with a few to $10 higher. Texas direct feeder sales were steady to $2 higher. Oklahoma City was mostly steady to $2 higher on feeder cattle and $3 to $6 higher on calves. Heifer calves posted the biggest gains at many locations as feeder and replacement buyers competed for the limited offerings. Fed cattle cash prices were $1 lower in moderate trade as packers continue to limit purchases and cut slaughter rates in response to stagnant beef prices and ongoing negative margins. more…