After over 20 months of consistent pandemic impacts and constant turmoil that have kept the industry struggling to hold its own, cattle markets and producers are finally able to move forward with some optimism for 2022 and beyond. Even though the US cattle inventory has declined since 2019 and will likely continue that trajectory until at least 2023, strong demand for U.S. Beef both domestically and worldwide lead to this optimistic outlook.
Winter is a great time to evaluate your cattle herd and make plans for 2022 and beyond. Producers should take time this winter to evaluate your property, look at stocking rates, water sources, cross fencing for pasture rotation, and make plans for the upcoming breeding season. Consider your weaning weights and look at other breeding and management options that might add pounds that translate to money in your bottom line. Producers don’t get stuck in the mud when there is ground to be gained.
On the local side most markets where closed this week because of Thanksgiving holiday but several special sales and events are upcoming.
Dec. 3-4th Mountaineer Cattle College—Canaan Valley Resort (sponsored by West Virginia Cattlemen’s)
Dec. 4th Southwest Virginia’s Finest Angus Sale –Washington County Fairgrounds Abington, VA 12:00pm
Dec. 7th Narrows Livestock Market–Special Weaned Calf Sale 6:30pm
Dec. 10th Cattlemen’s Livestock Exchange—Preconditioned Calf Sale