USDA announces proposed rule for requirements of the disposition of downer cattle
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Aug. 27 announced a proposed rule to amend the Federal meat inspection regulations to initiate a complete ban on the slaughter of cattle that become non-ambulatory after initial inspection by Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) inspection program personnel. Comments on this proposed rule must be received on or before Sept. 29, 2008. more
 

Beef and cattle market trends
A couple of months ago, just when the summer beef market was heating up, CME's Daily Livestock Report noted the curious resemblance between 2008 and 2006 beef prices (year/year percent change). Similar to this year, 2006 prices declined sharply in the spring, pressuring futures lower and providing retailers with the opportunity to book a lot of steak features for the grilling season. Going back and updating the chart from early June, the pattern in beef price action this summer has continued to track very closely with what took place back in 2006. But will the rest of 2008 continue in line with that familiar trend? more
 

Southwest Stocker Cattle Conference Sept. 30 in Lawton, Okla.
Stocker cattle operators are facing a unique year, but help is available in determining answers to the coming non-traditional management scenarios by attending the 6th annual Southwest Stocker Cattle Conference on Sept. 30. The conference will take place at the Great Plains Technology Center, located at 4500 SW Lee Blvd. in Lawton. There is no cost to attend. more
 

Texas crop, weather, 8-26-08
Many Texas counties received substantial rains, greatly alleviating drought conditions, greening up pastures and benefitting many late-planted crops such as soybeans, according to reports from Texas AgriLife Extension Service personnel. Along with rain, a few counties reported hail. In at least one county, the damage was extensive, affecting thousands of acres of cropland. more