LUBBOCK, TX – Cull cow prices have eased from summer highs, but Texas A&M AgriLife Extension livestock economist David Anderson says tight supplies and strong beef demand should keep values historically elevated even as seasonal slaughter increases into fall.
Southern Plains auction prices fell from about $187 per hundredweight to $172 in early August. National cutter cow values declined from roughly $156 to $142, while boxed cow-beef and 90% lean boneless beef prices also moved lower.
Dairy cow slaughter is running 4.6% above last year, or 66,300 head higher. Anderson says weekly culling typically rises about 10% from midyear into the fall, and a larger dairy herd could produce a stronger seasonal increase.
Beef cow slaughter remains historically low. The July 25 week totaled just 36,500 head, while recent slaughter has remained below last year despite the normal seasonal increase.
Anderson expects beef cow slaughter to rise after calf weaning but remain below last year. Seasonal pressure could pull cull cow prices lower, although limited supplies should moderate the decline.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Cull cow values may soften seasonally, but tight supplies should continue supporting historically strong returns for producers.