By Scout Nelson
CattleFax Market Analyst Terrel Platt provided an update on cattle market conditions during the KLA/Kansas State University Ranch Management Field Day near Hoxie, Kansas. Speaking to nearly 140 producers, he said tight cattle supplies and strong consumer demand for beef continue to support the market.
Platt noted that cattle prices have reached record levels in recent years due to limited inventories. Although prices may have peaked for the current cycle, he expects them to remain strong, with fed cattle, feeder cattle, and calf prices staying at historically high levels.
A panel of local ranchers discussed the benefits of rotational grazing and its role in improving pasture management. They said the practice helps increase forage utilization while improving pasture quality and diversity over time.
The ranchers emphasized the importance of extended rest periods for pastures, sometimes lasting up to a year. They also highlighted the use of cover crops as an alternative grazing option, allowing native grasslands additional recovery time.
According to the panel, combining rotational grazing with cover crops has reduced dependence on hay feeding. This approach has helped lower costs while making more efficient use of available forage resources.
Cam Tew, western Kansas territory manager for virtual fencing company Halter, demonstrated technology that manages cattle movement without traditional fencing. The system uses solar-powered collars and mobile controls to guide livestock, helping producers improve pasture utilization and reduce overgrazing.
The field day was hosted by HP Rafter Lazy T Ranch, owned by Keith and Shirley Popp and their son Trevor. The event was sponsored by the Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and Huvepharma.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imaginegolf
Categories: Kansas, Livestock