The feeder cattle market has been very active up to this point across the Northern Plains. That can partially be attributed to the favorable weather for feeding cattle this winter. Compared to the same period last year, Napoleon Livestock Auction co-owner Paul Bitz says prices are better and calves are moving faster. “We’re definitely getting down to smaller sales throughout the whole northern region.” Because of dry conditions, Bitz thinks some ranchers decided to sell their calves sooner rather than later to conserve feed piles and give pastures an extra rest. Throughout the winter run of cattle in the Northern Plains, bred female prices have also remained relatively strong. Bitz thinks those strong prices are a combination of more open cows and more optimism. “$120 fat cattle in the fall pricing is fairly appealing. I sure that everybody that bought bred cattle can make money because they industry has to improve to make it work.” Listen to the full Red River Farm Network interview.