Kansas Feedlots- A January Snapshot

By Scout Nelson

The latest figures from the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service show a slight decrease in the number of cattle in Kansas feedlots with capacities of 1,000 head or more. As of February 1, the inventory totaled 2.37 million head, marking a 1% decrease from the previous year.

January witnessed significant activity in these feedlots, with placements totaling 450,000 head, an increase of 15% from January 2024. This rise indicates a robust demand for cattle placements despite the overall lower inventory numbers.

The fed cattle marketings for January remained consistent with the previous year, totaling 465,000 head. This stability in marketings suggests that while there have been fluctuations in placements and inventory levels, the output from feedlots has remained steady.

Additionally, the report noted that other disappearances, which include deaths, losses, or thefts, stayed unchanged from last year, totaling 15,000 head. This consistency further highlights the steady management and conditions within the feedlots despite the dynamic market and environmental factors.

The slight decrease in overall cattle numbers could reflect broader economic trends, market conditions, or changes in feed costs, which are crucial factors for feedlot operators. With the increase in placements, industry watchers will be keen to see how these trends affect the market in the coming months.

Overall, the data provides a snapshot of the health and dynamics of the cattle feeding industry in Kansas, a key player in the U.S. agriculture sector. The figures help stakeholders make informed decisions and anticipate shifts in the livestock market.

Photo Credits:gettyimages-digitalvision