USDA’s milk production forecast for 2024 reflects a reduced cow inventory for the year and slower growth in milk output per cow. Total production is forecast to be 228.3 billion pounds, which is a 0.75 percent increase from 2023. As of the end of 2023, the dairy cow inventory was 9.36 million head, down from 9.43 million head at the beginning of the year, and on a faster pace of contraction than 2022. The contraction led to a year-long average herd size of 9.395 million head, down from the average in 2022 of 9.402 million head. That contraction is forecast to continue down to 9.35 million head in 2024.
More clarity on the herd size will come at the end of the month with USDA’s Cattle Inventory report which will provide an in...
What You Need to Know Today: Markets got a surprise with a corn yield of 181.2 bushels/acre in the October WASDE, above the average estimate of 177.6 bushels/acre and up from USDA’s September estimate of 178.5 bushels/acre. Although stronger demand is expected to absorb some of the addit...
Key Takeaways: On Friday afternoon, President Trump announced that Russia will “immediately supply over 300,000 Tons of Diesel Fuel” to the United States. The deal, typical of this administration, is light on details but promises an additional 500,000 tons in November and 1 m...
The USDA has lowered its 2026 red meat production forecasts slightly while forecasting a slight increase in broiler production. Beef is now projected at 24.802 billion pounds, 75 million pounds less than in September. Cow slaughter is expected to be up; however, this will be offset by lower ste...
