CATTLEUSA DRIVE - Saturday, February 1st

Cattle: We saw a midweek sell off but feeders rallied on Friday with March closing up 2.52 at 275.72. The auction saw no weakness!! By far the hottest sale of the last 12 months was Wednesday in Dodge. If this trend continues, we will easily be looking a $4 five weights for grass. I have noticed a definite interest in breedable heifers. Several quality strings of six weight, non-implanted, reputation ranch heifers are bringing north of $2000 per head across the High Plains. With current bred heifers at $2,800-$3,400 a handsome gross is still able to be figured. It will take a little creativity and discipline to monetize purchases at this level. My most asked question this week was to sell or continue to graze wheat. Either way will work, take the profit or “get protected!!!” and pull a few more dollars off this turn. We can use some moisture in the Midwest. Heat is not an issue, but signs of Spring will soon be here by mid-February. Fats had continued strength with all time highs, the average live steer price is $207.70 with a 1450# average weight. Gains are in the 80 to 1.05 per pound range and good weather expected. Nobody really know what to expect from the tariff talks so GET PROTECTED!!!!! Have a great week!

Brian Winter

“We are not here to curse the darkness, but to light the candle that can guide us through that darkness to a safe and sane future.”  – John F. Kennedy

January was a busy time in the United States. We inaugurated a new President, and hundreds of men and women settled into their new offices in Congress. With all this change, I can’t help but think about who’s representing us—the people making laws that impact our daily lives. Only about 6% of Congress has a farming or ranching background. (house.acosta.org) Years ago, that number was much higher, but as rural populations shrink and fewer people go into production agriculture, our voice in Washington has diminished. And let’s be honest—it would be tough to run a ranch from D.C.

But here’s the thing: even though fewer producers are walking the halls of Congress, that makes it even more important for us to stay politically engaged. If we don’t advocate for ourselves, who will? As producers know all too well, policies that come out of Washington have a direct impact on our livelihoods. Trade agreements, labeling laws, and environmental regulations can make or break our bottom line. This becomes even more important as the demand for beef from consumers rose 4.3% in 2024 and is projected to continue rising in 2025.

So, what can you do? Plenty.

· Call your representatives—a short call can make a big impression.

· Attend local legislative events like town halls and coffees with lawmakers.

· Send a thank-you note when legislators support policies that help agriculture. They remember that.

The reality is, we do more than just raise beef. We feed and clothe the world, conserve the land, and contribute to national security. Our voices matter. Let’s make sure they’re heard.