Beef Marketing and Economics

All Beef Marketing and Economics Content

herd of beef cattle grazing in a pasture

Beef

Home to more than 1 million head of cattle, South Dakota’s producers can rely on SDSU Extension for research-based information, best management practices and resources to support healthy and profitable herds.

Participants Kari Feldhaus and Kelsy Hokana work together on an educational activity during Annie’s Project in Britton.
Jun 18

Livestock Risk Protection Cattle HQ Live

Join SDSU Extension's beef team to gain valuable insights to improve the health, productivity and profitability of your herd. This month we will cover the basics of Livestock Risk Protection (LRP).

A herd of cattle feeding at a feed bunker with light snow on the ground.
Feb 19

Cattle Market Update Cattle HQ Live

Join SDSU Extension's beef team to gain valuable insights to improve the health, productivity and profitability of your herd. This month will cover an overview of the inventory levels and changes that will give insights into expansion.

A green cut alfalfa field dries as the sun sets.

Forage Inventory and Demand Calculator

Calculator for inventorying livestock and forage on hand to determine additional forage purchase needs, or livestock sales.

stack of coins with faded chart lines showing in the foreground

Move the Cows or Move the Feed

This calculator is designed to aid producers making the decision to buy feedstuffs and haul the feed to the operation, or to haul the cattle to the feedstuffs.

A group of red angus cattle.

The Calving Distribution Calculator

Excel calculator for calving distribution

Group of black cattle at a feed bunk.

Beef Cattle Budgets

What does it cost to maintain a cow for the year? This is a common question asked by producers across the nation.

Red angus cattle gathered in a feedlot in winter.

Livestock

South Dakota is home to a dynamic livestock industry.

Variety of different-colored beef calves in a pen.

Crossbreeding Systems – Maximizing Heterosis & Profit

By using planned breed combinations, producers can improve traits like growth, reproduction, and overall herd performance, helping make better financial and management decisions.

Cattle gathered in a sale barn.

Purchasing Bred Females

Weaning time is here and the decision to retain or sell heifers is front and center. Regardless of your decision, there is opportunity to purchase bred females and increase the calves available to market next season in a strong market.