Official Publication, North Dakota Beef Cattle Improvement Association
July 2000 -- Volume 5, Number 2    

1997 May be the year to retain ownership.

• By JAMES ODERMANN Editor

Beef cow producers need to look to the Corn Belt to see what is happing in the corn market, according to NDSU Extension Livestock Economist Harlan Hughes. Hughes wrote June 19, 1997, in an article entitled "Outlook Fundamentals for Developing Beef Drought Managment Strategies."

Hughes said 1997 is the "turnaround year" in the current 10-year beef price cycle and feed grain markets will change faster than cattle producers can change numbers. "The net result--volatile beef calf prices," he said. Corn is more than $2 per bushel lower than a year ago.

Hughes suggests "backgrounding of your 1997 calves. I think this is the time in the beef price cycle that the longer you own your calves, the higher the potential selling price."

• Individuals wanting more information can contact the NDBCIA, 1133 State Avenue, Dickinson, ND 58601. Telephone: 701-483-2348. Email: ndsu.chaps@ndsu.edu