cattle

Cattle Pulse: Cattle Counts and Market Moves

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CattlePulse is a monthly update from Virginia Farm Bureau on the Virginia feeder cattle markets, the national trends that affect them and stories of cattle producers across the commonwealth.

In this month’s episode of CattlePulse, host Elijah Griles sits down with Dr. Josh Maples from Mississippi State University to unpack the July Cattle Inventory report and explore what it means for producers. With feeder cattle futures hitting all-time highs, Elijah and Dr. Maples discuss actionable strategies cow-calf producers can consider to manage price risk.

Want to get in touch? Contact Elijah at 804-290-1713 or elijah.griles@vafb.com.

Listen to the latest episode

Enjoy It While It Lasts – CattlePulse

Feeder cattle prices are at historic highs — but challenges are mounting. In this month's episode, host Elijah Griles breaks down the latest futures markets, unpacks what a softening choice-select spread could mean for beef demand, and shares drought conditions across the Commonwealth. Plus, Elijah talks with Gene Copenhaver, newly elected president of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and a Washington County native at the Virginia Beef Expo.In this episode:Feeder cattle futures are trading in the low $370s, with May at $372, August at $373, and September at $371 — all up roughly 1% from a month agoThe April Cattle on Feed report showed 11.6 million head on feed as of April 1st, down 1% from a year ago, with placements down 7% and marketings down 6%Heifers on feed came in at 37.3% — slightly above the 20-year average — with a downward trend over the last 2–3 years that may signal early heifer retentionThe choice-select spread has narrowed significantly in 2026, hovering between $0–$10 and even turning negative at points, raising questions about softening consumer demand for higher-quality beef grades80% of Virginia is in severe drought, with 18% of the state in extreme droughtVirginia feeder calf prices surged again — the six-market average for 500 lb. Medium & Large #1 steers hit $469/cwt, up 3.1% from last month, with Winchester approaching $500/cwtNCBA President Gene Copenhaver shares his priorities: supporting the next generation of cattle producers, easing farm transition costs, and navigating the ongoing drought and border reopening questionsResources mentioned:Kenny Burdine's Cattle Market Notes weekly newsletter (University of Kentucky)USDA Cattle on Feed Report (April 2026)NOAA Climate Prediction Center May outlookU.S. Drought MonitorAgriStress helpline: call or text 833-897-2474CattlePulse is produced by Virginia Farm Bureau. Have a question or topic suggestion? Email Elijah at elijah.griles@vafb.com.
  1. Enjoy It While It Lasts
  2. Fertilizer Prices and Product of the USA
  3. Consumer Demand Counts
  4. Virginia Heifers Heat Up Despite Statewide Freeze
  5. New Year's Reflections

Cattle Pulse: Virginia Verified Beef Goes Live

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CattlePulse is a monthly update from Virginia Farm Bureau on the Virginia feeder cattle markets, the national trends that affect them and stories of cattle producers across the commonwealth.

In this month’s episode, host Elijah Griles unpacks the factors fueling the feeder cattle futures rally. He also shares positive developments in the battle against the New World Screwworm fly. Plus, Franklin County cattle producer and meat processor Chase Scott shares his motivation to use the new Virginia Verified Beef label.

Want to get in touch? Contact Elijah at 804-290-1713 or elijah.griles@vafb.com.

Listen to the latest episode

Enjoy It While It Lasts – CattlePulse

Feeder cattle prices are at historic highs — but challenges are mounting. In this month's episode, host Elijah Griles breaks down the latest futures markets, unpacks what a softening choice-select spread could mean for beef demand, and shares drought conditions across the Commonwealth. Plus, Elijah talks with Gene Copenhaver, newly elected president of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and a Washington County native at the Virginia Beef Expo.In this episode:Feeder cattle futures are trading in the low $370s, with May at $372, August at $373, and September at $371 — all up roughly 1% from a month agoThe April Cattle on Feed report showed 11.6 million head on feed as of April 1st, down 1% from a year ago, with placements down 7% and marketings down 6%Heifers on feed came in at 37.3% — slightly above the 20-year average — with a downward trend over the last 2–3 years that may signal early heifer retentionThe choice-select spread has narrowed significantly in 2026, hovering between $0–$10 and even turning negative at points, raising questions about softening consumer demand for higher-quality beef grades80% of Virginia is in severe drought, with 18% of the state in extreme droughtVirginia feeder calf prices surged again — the six-market average for 500 lb. Medium & Large #1 steers hit $469/cwt, up 3.1% from last month, with Winchester approaching $500/cwtNCBA President Gene Copenhaver shares his priorities: supporting the next generation of cattle producers, easing farm transition costs, and navigating the ongoing drought and border reopening questionsResources mentioned:Kenny Burdine's Cattle Market Notes weekly newsletter (University of Kentucky)USDA Cattle on Feed Report (April 2026)NOAA Climate Prediction Center May outlookU.S. Drought MonitorAgriStress helpline: call or text 833-897-2474CattlePulse is produced by Virginia Farm Bureau. Have a question or topic suggestion? Email Elijah at elijah.griles@vafb.com.
  1. Enjoy It While It Lasts
  2. Fertilizer Prices and Product of the USA
  3. Consumer Demand Counts
  4. Virginia Heifers Heat Up Despite Statewide Freeze
  5. New Year's Reflections

Cattle Pulse: Smart Herds and High Rewards

/ VFB Governmental Relations / Leave a comment

CattlePulse is a monthly update from Virginia Farm Bureau on the Virginia feeder cattle markets, the national trends that affect them and stories of cattle producers across the commonwealth.

In this month’s episode, host Elijah Griles breaks down the record-setting feeder cattle prices driven by tight national inventories and strong seasonal demand. He also discusses the impact of the New World screwworm fly on U.S. cattle imports and what it could mean for Virginia producers. Plus, Halifax County cow-calf producer Adam Davis shares how he’s using genetic data to improve herd performance.

Want to get in touch? Contact Elijah at 804-290-1713 or elijah.griles@vafb.com.

Listen to the latest episode

Enjoy It While It Lasts – CattlePulse

Feeder cattle prices are at historic highs — but challenges are mounting. In this month's episode, host Elijah Griles breaks down the latest futures markets, unpacks what a softening choice-select spread could mean for beef demand, and shares drought conditions across the Commonwealth. Plus, Elijah talks with Gene Copenhaver, newly elected president of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and a Washington County native at the Virginia Beef Expo.In this episode:Feeder cattle futures are trading in the low $370s, with May at $372, August at $373, and September at $371 — all up roughly 1% from a month agoThe April Cattle on Feed report showed 11.6 million head on feed as of April 1st, down 1% from a year ago, with placements down 7% and marketings down 6%Heifers on feed came in at 37.3% — slightly above the 20-year average — with a downward trend over the last 2–3 years that may signal early heifer retentionThe choice-select spread has narrowed significantly in 2026, hovering between $0–$10 and even turning negative at points, raising questions about softening consumer demand for higher-quality beef grades80% of Virginia is in severe drought, with 18% of the state in extreme droughtVirginia feeder calf prices surged again — the six-market average for 500 lb. Medium & Large #1 steers hit $469/cwt, up 3.1% from last month, with Winchester approaching $500/cwtNCBA President Gene Copenhaver shares his priorities: supporting the next generation of cattle producers, easing farm transition costs, and navigating the ongoing drought and border reopening questionsResources mentioned:Kenny Burdine's Cattle Market Notes weekly newsletter (University of Kentucky)USDA Cattle on Feed Report (April 2026)NOAA Climate Prediction Center May outlookU.S. Drought MonitorAgriStress helpline: call or text 833-897-2474CattlePulse is produced by Virginia Farm Bureau. Have a question or topic suggestion? Email Elijah at elijah.griles@vafb.com.
  1. Enjoy It While It Lasts
  2. Fertilizer Prices and Product of the USA
  3. Consumer Demand Counts
  4. Virginia Heifers Heat Up Despite Statewide Freeze
  5. New Year's Reflections

Cattle Traceability Rule Becomes Effective in November

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A new USDA- APHIS rule for animal disease traceability begins November 5 regarding what type of identification is used for transporting certain classes of cattle across state lines. This new rule covers the same classes of cattle that have been required to have some type of visual identification since 2013. Those classes of cattle are breeding cattle that are sexually intact over 18 months of age, all female dairy cattle of any age, male dairy cattle born after March 11, 2013; and all cattle used for rodeo, recreational events, showing or exhibitions.

The former “official identification” included metal ear tags, RFID tags, tattoos and, in some cases, brands. The new 2024 rule requires that the “official identification” be both visually and electronically readable. The only approved electronic identification will be an 840-RFID tag. Cattlemen can currently order the 840-RFID tags at no cost by contacting the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) Office of Veterinary Services- Richard Odom at 804-692-0600 or richard.odom@vdacs.virginia.gov.

This rule does not apply to feeder cattle, cattle of any age going directly to slaughter or cattle being transported within the state and not crossing state lines. For example, if you sold bred heifers into another state or purchased bred heifers from another state, those heifers would have required some type of visual permanent identification. The change this year will require that the identification be visually and electronically readable, which will be the 840-RFID tag.

More detailed information and frequently asked questions can be found here:

V5 FAQs for ProducersDownload

Cattle Pulse: Is Beef for Dinner?

/ VFB Governmental Relations / Leave a comment

CattlePulse is a monthly update from Virginia Farm Bureau on the Virginia feeder cattle markets, the national trends that affect them and stories of cattle producers across the commonwealth.

The host, Virginia Farm Bureau’s Elijah Griles, covers economics, market trends and stories about Virginia’s cattle industry from across the Commonwealth. CattlePulse is the home for regular market updates about Virginia feeder cattle sales, timely and relevant production advancements, and interviews with producers and industry professionals.  

This month’s episode details national beef demand expectations as summer grilling season arrives, regional feeder steer price comparisons, and another new Virginia monthly average price record. Do you have questions, comments or suggestions for Elijah? Contact us at 804-290-1713 or elijah.griles@vafb.com.

Listen to the latest episode

Enjoy It While It Lasts – CattlePulse

Feeder cattle prices are at historic highs — but challenges are mounting. In this month's episode, host Elijah Griles breaks down the latest futures markets, unpacks what a softening choice-select spread could mean for beef demand, and shares drought conditions across the Commonwealth. Plus, Elijah talks with Gene Copenhaver, newly elected president of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and a Washington County native at the Virginia Beef Expo.In this episode:Feeder cattle futures are trading in the low $370s, with May at $372, August at $373, and September at $371 — all up roughly 1% from a month agoThe April Cattle on Feed report showed 11.6 million head on feed as of April 1st, down 1% from a year ago, with placements down 7% and marketings down 6%Heifers on feed came in at 37.3% — slightly above the 20-year average — with a downward trend over the last 2–3 years that may signal early heifer retentionThe choice-select spread has narrowed significantly in 2026, hovering between $0–$10 and even turning negative at points, raising questions about softening consumer demand for higher-quality beef grades80% of Virginia is in severe drought, with 18% of the state in extreme droughtVirginia feeder calf prices surged again — the six-market average for 500 lb. Medium & Large #1 steers hit $469/cwt, up 3.1% from last month, with Winchester approaching $500/cwtNCBA President Gene Copenhaver shares his priorities: supporting the next generation of cattle producers, easing farm transition costs, and navigating the ongoing drought and border reopening questionsResources mentioned:Kenny Burdine's Cattle Market Notes weekly newsletter (University of Kentucky)USDA Cattle on Feed Report (April 2026)NOAA Climate Prediction Center May outlookU.S. Drought MonitorAgriStress helpline: call or text 833-897-2474CattlePulse is produced by Virginia Farm Bureau. Have a question or topic suggestion? Email Elijah at elijah.griles@vafb.com.
  1. Enjoy It While It Lasts
  2. Fertilizer Prices and Product of the USA
  3. Consumer Demand Counts
  4. Virginia Heifers Heat Up Despite Statewide Freeze
  5. New Year's Reflections

Cattle Pulse: Records Are Made To Be Broken

/ VFB Governmental Relations / Leave a comment

CattlePulse is a monthly update from Virginia Farm Bureau on the Virginia feeder cattle markets, the national trends that affect them and stories of cattle producers across the commonwealth.

The host, Virginia Farm Bureau’s Elijah Griles, covers economics, market trends and stories about Virginia’s cattle industry from across the Commonwealth. CattlePulse is the home for regular market updates about Virginia feeder cattle sales, timely and relevant production advancements, and interviews with producers and industry professionals.  

Listen to the latest episode

Enjoy It While It Lasts – CattlePulse

Feeder cattle prices are at historic highs — but challenges are mounting. In this month's episode, host Elijah Griles breaks down the latest futures markets, unpacks what a softening choice-select spread could mean for beef demand, and shares drought conditions across the Commonwealth. Plus, Elijah talks with Gene Copenhaver, newly elected president of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and a Washington County native at the Virginia Beef Expo.In this episode:Feeder cattle futures are trading in the low $370s, with May at $372, August at $373, and September at $371 — all up roughly 1% from a month agoThe April Cattle on Feed report showed 11.6 million head on feed as of April 1st, down 1% from a year ago, with placements down 7% and marketings down 6%Heifers on feed came in at 37.3% — slightly above the 20-year average — with a downward trend over the last 2–3 years that may signal early heifer retentionThe choice-select spread has narrowed significantly in 2026, hovering between $0–$10 and even turning negative at points, raising questions about softening consumer demand for higher-quality beef grades80% of Virginia is in severe drought, with 18% of the state in extreme droughtVirginia feeder calf prices surged again — the six-market average for 500 lb. Medium & Large #1 steers hit $469/cwt, up 3.1% from last month, with Winchester approaching $500/cwtNCBA President Gene Copenhaver shares his priorities: supporting the next generation of cattle producers, easing farm transition costs, and navigating the ongoing drought and border reopening questionsResources mentioned:Kenny Burdine's Cattle Market Notes weekly newsletter (University of Kentucky)USDA Cattle on Feed Report (April 2026)NOAA Climate Prediction Center May outlookU.S. Drought MonitorAgriStress helpline: call or text 833-897-2474CattlePulse is produced by Virginia Farm Bureau. Have a question or topic suggestion? Email Elijah at elijah.griles@vafb.com.
  1. Enjoy It While It Lasts
  2. Fertilizer Prices and Product of the USA
  3. Consumer Demand Counts
  4. Virginia Heifers Heat Up Despite Statewide Freeze
  5. New Year's Reflections

RMA Announces Listening Sessions on Livestock Risk Management Products

/ VFB Governmental Relations / Leave a comment

The USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) has announced they will be conducting listening sessions throughout the country this winter to gather feedback and to discuss policy improvements to livestock products.

RMA will be conducting more than a dozen in-person and virtual workshops this winter for producers to learn about new and expanded livestock risk management products. This “Roadshow” will highlight policy improvements based on the feedback from producers as a way to promote, educate, and broaden RMA’s outreach to livestock producers.

Specifically, RMA will be discussing and soliciting feedback on the following products:

  • Annual Forage
  • Dairy Revenue Protection
  • Livestock Gross Margin
  • Livestock Risk Protection
  • Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage
  • Weaned Calf Risk Protection (New for Calendar Year 2024)

Virtual sessions will take place on January 8 and January 17, 2024. Unfortunately, there are no in-person listening sessions in Virginia or adjacent states. Producers can register for these virtual programs on RMA’s website.

The Livestock Roadshow builds on other recent outreach and education efforts. Earlier this year, RMA held a roadshow highlighting insurance options for specialty crop, organic, and urban producers, drawing more than 3,000 attendees. Additionally, since 2021, RMA has invested around $13 million in partnerships to advance risk management education.