Cattle industry faces consolidation crisis as independent ranchers decline

In a recent government meeting in Utah, significant concerns were raised regarding the future of the cattle and sheep industries, particularly the alarming decline in independent family farms. Bill Bullard, a prominent figure in the agricultural sector, highlighted the critical stages of cattle production and the challenges faced by producers.

Bullard explained the journey of cattle from birth to the dinner plate, detailing the roles of cow-calf producers, backgrounders, and feedlots. He noted that the entire process typically spans 15 to 18 months, with calves weaned from their mothers and raised until they reach market weight. However, the industry is experiencing a dramatic reduction in the number of producers, with over half of cattle producers disappearing in just one generation. In 1980, there were approximately 1.3 million producers; today, that number has plummeted to around 622,000.

The meeting also addressed the sheep industry, which is facing its own set of challenges. Bullard pointed out that while sheep farming is often seen as a more accessible entry point for new ranchers, the current market prices for lambs are insufficient to cover production costs. This has led to a shrinking sheep population, the smallest in history, and calls for stronger tariffs and import restrictions to support domestic producers.

Bullard emphasized the consolidation within the cattle industry, where the number of feedlots has decreased from 113,000 in 1980 to just 25,000 today. This consolidation has resulted in a shift towards larger, corporate feedlots, which now dominate the market. He noted that while family-scale operations are environmentally friendly and sustainable, they are rapidly being replaced by mega feedlots that account for a significant portion of cattle feeding in the U.S.

The discussions at this meeting underscore the urgent need for policy changes to support independent farmers and ranchers, ensuring the sustainability of both the cattle and sheep industries. As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, the implications for local economies and food security remain critical.