WASHINGTON, DC – The combined U.S. and Canadian cattle inventory increased 1% from a year ago, offering another sign that North American cattle supplies may be stabilizing after years of contraction. USDA reports 106.3 million cattle and calves were on hand July 1.
The U.S. inventory rose slightly to 94.2 million head, while Canada increased 3% to 12.1 million. U.S. beef cows declined 1% to 28.45 million, while Canadian beef cows increased 2% to 3.51 million.
Replacement numbers provide the stronger rebuilding signal. U.S. beef replacement heifers increased 3% to 3.8 million head, while Canada posted a 6% increase to about 634,000.
For cattle producers, those gains suggest expansion is beginning, but the breeding herd remains historically tight, and rebuilding will take time.
USDA says the joint report was requested by the cattle industry to provide producers a broader view of potential North American beef supplies.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Replacement heifer growth points toward gradual herd rebuilding, but U.S. beef cow numbers remain below year-ago levels.