As the cattle industry shifts away from seven years of herd liquidation, producers are at a pivotal turning point. FCS Financial is proud to share the results of our recent collaboration with Terrain, offering a deep dive into the current state of the beef cow herd.
What the Data Tells Us
The survey, representing over 1,000 operations across 28 states, reveals an industry in transition. While half of the producers surveyed bred more females in 2025, the pace of recovery remains mild.
Key Trends to Watch:
- The "Proven Cow" Preference: About 60% of expanding operations chose to add cows rather than heifers. This strategy maximizes immediate revenue but limits the speed of national herd growth.
- Weather is Still the Deciding Factor: Grazing conditions and drought forecasts remain the #1 and #2 reasons producers choose not to expand.
- Tight Supplies, Strong Prices: Because expansion is happening slowly, we expect calf and feeder cattle supplies to stay tight for several years, which should support strong prices for cow-calf producers.
A Resource for Your Operation
Whether you are planning to expand or holding steady, having reliable data is key to making confident financial decisions. We invite you to download the full report below to see how your plans compare to regional and national trends.
Download the Full 2026 Cow-Calf Survey Report.
Interested in discussing how these market trends impact your financial strategy? Contact your local FCS Financial loan officer today.
