Beef Marketing and Economics

All Beef Marketing and Economics Content

A rancher sitting at a laptop near a cattle pen.

Simplifying the Replacement Heifer Dilemma: To Buy or To Raise?

Purchasing or raising replacement females represents a significant investment for cow/calf operations and the impact may be felt for years after.

a creep feeder unit in a pasture. Photo by Alice Welch, USDA

Considering Creep Feeding

Despite what Mother Nature seems to think the summer months are approaching and for some that means rolling out the creep feeder and for others considering whether creep feeding is a necessary investment.

Two beef heifers standing in a pasture. One is red, the other black and white.

Replacement Heifer Calculator

Excel decision aid to assist producers decide whether to raise or purchase replacement heifers.

Two blue feed buckets filled with distillers grains.

Evaluating Feedstuffs on Nutrient Cost-Comparison Basis

Feed costs in dairy diets typically make up half or more of the input expenses of a ration. Thus, it is imperative to keep a handle on input costs by comparing ingredients on an apples-to-apples basis when looking for cost-effective diet solutions.

A group of cattle grazing in fall pasture.

Organizers Unveil Lineup for the XXVII Range Beef Cow Symposium

September 21, 2021

Cattle ranchers and industry professionals are invited to hear the latest cutting-edge information and updates at the upcoming Range Beef Cow Symposium Nov. 16-17 in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Small group of black angus cattle at pasture.

SDSU Offers Two Delivery Dates for 2021-2022 Calf Value Discovery Program

August 30, 2021

The South Dakota State University Calf Value Discovery Program will accept steers at two delivery times this year due to dry conditions.

Last Chance to Register for 2021 SDSU Extension Feedlot Shortcourse

August 02, 2021

South Dakota State University Extension encourages cattle feeders and backgrounders from South Dakota and surrounding states to attend this year's Feedlot Shortcourse.

A black cow grazing on a public grassland.

Grazing and Recreation on South Dakota School and Public Lands

Ryan Brunner, Commissioner of State School and Public Lands, shares some excellent information for those interested in understanding more about grazing and hunting on South Dakota school and public lands.

Herd of black angus cattle grazing in a well-managed, grassland area.

Grass-Fed Beef: Production Costs, Quality, Voluntary Certifications and Marketing

Generally speaking, grass-fed beef producers are challenged with production expenses that are greater than those of conventionally raised beef. However, profit margins can be greater than those of conventionally raised beef if marketed wisely and creatively.

Herd of mixed cattle grazing in a well-kept pasture.

Grass-Fed Beef: Market Share of Grass-Fed Beef

So, how significant is the grass-fed beef industry in America? About four percent of U.S. beef retail and food service sales is comprised by grass-fed beef with a value of roughly $4 billion.