In preparation for our upcoming bull sales, I have visited with many PCC® customers in the past month. Some are longtime customers – and some are relatively new. Those who are relatively new wish they had started utilizing Pharo genetics and philosophies sooner. Even so, they are well ahead of the curve – and they deserve a pat on the back. It’s not easy to break away from conventional ways of thinking and doing.
Why are they changing the way they operate? They are preparing for the future. According to Dr. Dave Lalman, OSU Extension Beef Cattle Specialist, the average cost to run a cow in 2010 was $615. In 2024, the cost was $1,348. Expenses more than doubled in just 14 years – and they’re still going up. I have not found anyone who thinks this trend will be reversed. When cattle prices break, expenses will continue to go up.
Eventually, all cow-calf producers will be forced to make the transition from high-input genetics and management practices to low-input genetics and management practices. Many of those who don’t make the transition will be forced out of business. Once again, I commend those who have already made the transition and those who are in the process of making it. They’re ahead of the curve!
There is reason to believe we will have at least two more years of high calf prices. Therefore, I urge you to start making the necessary changes in your operation. Making those changes after cattle prices break will be nearly impossible because survival will take precedence over all else. If you don’t plan to make any changes, then I strongly advise you to get out of the cow-calf business – while we are at the top of the market. NOW is the time to make the necessary changes – or to sell out.
If you would like to join the forward thinkers who are making this transition, call us at 800-311-0995 or click on the link below to request a catalog for our upcoming bull sales. In the meantime, you can take a look at the Online Version of our Sale Catalog. There are always advantages to being ahead of the curve – and there will always be consequences for being late!
Quote Worth Re-Quoting
“There is never a crowd on the leading edge.” ~ Esther Hicks