Cow price barometer may mean cooler market

Beef prices held steady at factories this week, but the pressure on cow prices will cause some concern among finishers of prime beef animals.

There is a well-established belief, at least among the older beef farmers, that cull cow prices are a barometer for prime beef, and many experienced cattle men firmly believe there is a correlation that should not be ignored.

The supply of cows is strong, and the difficulties in the dairy sector could add to cow culling this year.