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If you need help setting up services or accessing your accounts, please call our Customer Care Team at 866.552.9172 during business hours (7 a.m. — 5 p.m. PST, M-F) or email us at CustomerCare@AgWestFC.com.
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If you need help setting up services or accessing your accounts, please call our Customer Care Team at 866.552.9172 during business hours (7 a.m. — 5 p.m. PST, M-F) or email us at CustomerCare@AgWestFC.com.
Location
If you need help setting up services or accessing your accounts, please call our Customer Care Team at 866.552.9172 during business hours (7 a.m. — 5 p.m. PST, M-F) or email us at CustomerCare@AgWestFC.com.
Securely update and exchange balance sheet information with your AgWest team.
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Cattle industry’s cautious approach to rebuilding herds.
The prevailing sentiment among cattle producers remains positive, with many anticipating sustained prosperity in the industry extending through 2026. Despite strong demand for beef products in the U.S. and robust cattle prices, domestic production has dwindled. Cattle producers downsized their herds following four consecutive years of drought throughout the major cattle producing regions. In the western U.S., cattle herds have reduced by over 500,000 head since 2019. While cattle prices are now strong and drought recovery has greatly improved feed availability, cattle producers are cautious about herd expansion. Historically high costs for replacement heifers, labor shortages, interest rates and a sharp decline in the cattle market from 2015 to 2021 have all contributed to this cautious approach.
In California and Arizona, expensive replacements have been a challenge for some feed yards. Some yards are pulling back and only stocking 60% to 80% of their capacity while others are supplementing with subleasing to neighbors or cow-calf producers due to the expensive cost of purchasing cattle. While still profitable, many are left wondering when they will see relief from high replacement prices.
March 31, 2024
AgWest cattle producers are poised to see advantageous pricing and strong returns. With the current market conditions, cow-calf producers are presented with a favorable dilemma: retain their cows to benefit from strong calf prices or opt for culling to take advantage of the significant value of cull cows. Additionally, cow-calf operations will benefit from lower feed costs and improvements in pasture conditions. While higher interest rates, almost double those of the last expansion period (2013-2015), do pose a challenge, revenues will surpass the rise in input costs. Cow-calf operations are projected to see margins surpassing $500 per head in 2024. As the cattle cycle replenishes the national herd, cow-calf producers should benefit from sustained high prices until at least 2025.
12-Month Profitability Outlook
Aug 15, 2024, 11:00 AM
AgWest is pleased to be joined by Derrell Peel, livestock marketing specialist from Oklahoma State University, for a timely outlook on the cattle market. In this one-hour webinar, Derrell will look at expected production levels, profitability forecasts and essential risk management tools to ensure you’re well-prepared for the cattle market’s future.