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Feedlot Report

published: March 19th 2010
by: Dr. Marcus A. Hoelscher

Feedyard managers reported that severe winter conditions have reduced performance of cattle and increased production costs. When compared to the previous month daily gains were reduced, feed conversions and cost of gains were higher.
    Cost of gain varied within and between yards. Gain costs ranged from $75 to $85/cwt. Most yards reported costs in the $80 range with an overall average of $80.59 for steers and $84.66 for heifers.
    Steers were placed on feed with a purchased weight of 757 lbs., marketed at 1278 lbs. and gained 3.32 lbs. daily for the 157 day feeding period. Steers fed for $80.59 per cwt., up $3.71 when compared to the previous month.
    Heifers were placed on feed at 716 lbs., marketed at 1189 lbs., and gained 2.96 lbs. daily for 160 days. Cost of gain was $84.66, up $5.07 per cwt.
    Rations for March are priced at $235 to $240 per ton. Costs of rations are on a dry basis with a ration markup. Costs of rations are higher than the previous month due to higher ingredient costs.
    Cattle feeders are reporting profits of $10 to $30 per head with a $92 fed cattle market. One year ago feeders were reporting losses in excess of $200 per head with unheadged cattle.
    Hide and offal values continue to move higher. Recent values were in $9.80 per cwt. range. Last year, values were in the $6.60 range.
    Recent rains have improved wheat pasture conditions and will make for good spring and summer grass. Some wheat pasture cattle have been moved into feedyards. Gains ranged from 1.25 lbs. to 2.25 lbs. daily.
    Feedyard inventory of finished cattle are in good shape. Managers report that show lists are current.
SLS