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NEWS

🤝 Protein Protection Pact

🤝Protein Protection Pact - Leaders from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Confederación Nacional de Organizaciones Ganaderas (CNOG), and Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) signed a joint statement advocating for greater oversight of lab-grown proteins, protecting cattle from diseases, and promoting industry sustainability. They also addressed a letter to government officials urging stronger oversight of beef imports and re-engagement in opening markets for beef exports to prevent competitive disadvantages. This collaboration emphasizes cooperation among American, Mexican, and Canadian cattle producers.

🐄 Slaughter Stats - USDA's April slaughter data shows historically heavy carcass weights, impacting beef production positively. However, focusing on beef cow slaughter rates reveals insights into herd dynamics and producer decision-making. Through April, around 3.55% of the starting inventory has been marketed for slaughter, suggesting a potential annual liquidation rate of approximately 11%. This indicates a continued drawdown of the cowherd in 2024, challenging expectations of herd rebuilding. Non-monetary factors like producer age and forage availability may influence expansion, but current trends suggest that 2024 is unlikely to be a year of herd expansion in the beef industry.

🕷 Tick Troubles - The Asian longhorned tick, a health threat to humans and livestock, has been found in Illinois for the first time. Residents are advised to report sightings and take preventive measures. Strategies include consulting veterinarians for tick prevention and avoiding tick-infested areas. Collaboration among state agencies and the USDA is underway to address this invasive species.

✍ Lawmakers Against HPAI - A bipartisan group of Senators urged USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to adopt a collaborative approach, heightened surveillance, and increased resources to combat the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza. Meanwhile, another bipartisan group of lawmakers questioned USDA's decision to cancel key agricultural reports due to budget cuts. In other news, USDA announced $22.3 million in funding to support underserved and veteran farmers and ranchers through its 2501 Program.

🥩 Marvelous Marbling - In recent years, there's been a significant increase in the percentage of US fed cattle reaching the USDA Quality Grade of Prime, driven by higher marbling levels. Historically at 1-2%, now it's 8-10% weekly. This success is attributed to genetic improvements and modern finishing practices, showcasing the industry's dedication to quality.

🇦🇺 Hay Highs - USDA-NASS reported a significant national increase of over 46% in May 1 hay stocks from 2023, reflecting continued recovery from the tight supplies of 2022 due to drought. Regional variations in hay stocks highlight localized market dynamics, emphasizing the importance of early assessment of hay inventory and future needs. In the markets, feeder cattle prices showed mixed trends, while boxed beef and fed cattle prices remained steady, with slight increases in live cattle and corn futures prices.

🧬 Neurological Unknowns - Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service specialists collaborated with a Texas cattle operation for seven years to diagnose neurological issues in their calves. Through genetic research and reproductive efforts, they identified a mutation linked to the condition in 2023. This discovery led to the development of a DNA test to help producers prevent the issue in their herds.

RANCHING KNOW-HOW

Is HPAI a Risk to Beef Cattle?

K-State vets addressed the emergence of influenza in unexpected areas, discussing its transmission and implications for beef producers. Highly pathogenic avian influenza, known for high bird mortality rates, has crossed over to cattle, particularly in dairy operations, with unique clinical signs.

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