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Optimal Marketing Dates for Feedlot Enterprise Profitability

John Lawrence (November, 2009)

Summary

Cattle feeding is an important value added enterprise on Iowa farms. While production efficiencies impact feedlot success, buying and selling prices are the largest determinant of cattle feeding profits. Because of seasonal fed and feeder cattle and corn price patterns, some months are more profitable to produce and market cattle. Iowa State University Extension has calculated Estimated Returns to Feeding Steer Calves and Yearlings each month since 1974. This barometer of livestock profitability holds production parameters constant and changes the price variables each month for feeder cattle, fed cattle, corn, protein supplement, and interest rates.