Livestock Articles
No Relief in Sight for Ag Labor Challenge
Published April 9, 2024
Workforce shortages are an issue throughout the economy. "That issue of labor is a big deal to us," said Rob Brenneman, vice president, National Pork Producers Council. California's Prop 12 policy has only added to the problem. "We have a…Working on a Farm Bill Solution to Prop 12
Published April 9, 2024
National Pork Producers Council President Lori Stevermer, who farms at Easton, Minnesota, said Prop 12 continues to be a legislative priority. "We are looking to the farm bill as a federal solution for Prop 12. That's what the Supreme Court…Activists Target Restaurant Shareholders
Published April 9, 2024
Animal rights activists have renewed their focus on major restaurant chains. Denny’s and Papa Johns are the latest chains being challenged to end the use of gestation stalls for pregnant sows. Institutional Shareholder Services is advising investors in Papa Johns…Ranchers Slam Endangered Species Act Change
Published April 9, 2024
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council are not happy with the Biden Administration’s changes to the Endangered Species Act rules. According to a statement, the one-size-fits-all strategy will drastically increase the regulatory burden for cattle producers and…Meat Exports Up Over Last Year
Published April 8, 2024
The U.S. Meat Export Federation reports a 14% increase in pork exports for February from a year ago and a 15% value increase during that time. Federation President Dan Halstrom attributes the growth to Mexico and strong global market performance.…Uncertainty Sends Cattle Futures South
Published April 7, 2024
A handful of states have confirmed the presence of HPAI in dairy cattle. The uncertainty surrounding avian influenza sent cattle futures lower. "It seems like every time we get really enthused about the fundamental bull story in cattle we run…Cull Cows and Bulls at All-Time High
Published April 6, 2024
Cattle futures dropped to a three-month low this past week. Mitch Barthel, who owns the Perham Stockyards and the Tri-County Stockyards, is continuing to see strong prices at auction. With record values for 90 percent beef trimmings, weigh-up cows and…MN Beef Update
Published April 6, 2024
Minnesota State Cattlemen's Association Executive Director Kaitlyn Root provides a preview of the organization's advocacy efforts and events. This Minnesota Beef Update highlights an upcoming trip to visit with lawmakers in Washington, D.C. and the annual Steak on a Stick…MN House Ag Committee Update on HPAI
Published April 6, 2024
The Minnesota House Agriculture Committee heard an update on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza after the virus has infected dairy cattle, goats, and one human. Minnesota Board of Animal Health Executive Director Dr. Brian Hoefs says their agency is working with…