In early October, the North Dakota and South Dakota cattle runs will ramp up. Napoleon Livestock’s Paul Bitz expects cattle numbers to be close to normal due to better market conditions. “We expect those who normally sell calves off the cows do so for cash flow purchases. You might see some guys buying extra calves to background.” With good demand for feeder cattle, Bitz adds Cattle-on-Feed numbers and strong feed supplies are influencing the market. “In the Southern Plains, ranchers have been weaning calves early. That’s obviously one reason why there’s higher COF numbers. Also, there will be plenty of feed available throughout the country. The market sure acts like it will be good this fall.” Hear more from Bitz in this interview.
