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Optimal Beef Cow Weights in the U.S. Southern Plains

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  • Bir, Courtney
  • DeVuyst, Eric A.
  • Rolf, Megan
  • Lalman, David

Abstract

This research investigates net present value–maximizing beef cow weights for U.S. Southern Plains cow–calf operations. The relationship between cow weight and calf weaning weight was estimated and weaning weights were simulated for a 15-year time period. Annual returns were computed using cow–calf revenues and production costs for cows with mature weight between 950 and 1,800 pounds. A grid search showed that optimal cow size was 950 pounds across scenarios. Selection for growth may improve feedlot profitability but has deleterious effects on cow–calf producers. Development of smaller-framed maternal lines may improve sector profits.

Suggested Citation

  • Bir, Courtney & DeVuyst, Eric A. & Rolf, Megan & Lalman, David, 2018. "Optimal Beef Cow Weights in the U.S. Southern Plains," Journal of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Western Agricultural Economics Association, vol. 43(1), January.
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:jlaare:267612
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.267612
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. repec:ags:jrapmc:122309 is not listed on IDEAS
    2. Mitchell, James L. & Peel, Derrell S. & Brorsen, B. Wade, 2018. "Price Determinants Of Bred Cows," Journal of Agricultural and Applied Economics, Cambridge University Press, vol. 50(1), pages 64-80, February.
    3. Williams, Galen S. & Raper, Kellie Curry & DeVuyst, Eric A. & Peel, Derrell S. & McKinney, Doug, 2012. "Determinants of Price Differentials in Oklahoma Value-Added Feeder Cattle Auctions," Journal of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Western Agricultural Economics Association, vol. 37(1), pages 1-14, April.
    4. Ramsey, Ruslyn & Doye, Damona & Ward, Clement & McGrann, James & Falconer, Larry & Bevers, Stanley, 2005. "Factors Affecting Beef Cow-Herd Costs, Production, and Profits," Journal of Agricultural and Applied Economics, Cambridge University Press, vol. 37(1), pages 91-99, April.
    5. Doye, Damona G. & Lalman, David L., 2011. "Moderate versus Big Cows: Do Big Cows Carry Their Weight on the Ranch?," 2011 Annual Meeting, February 5-8, 2011, Corpus Christi, Texas 98748, Southern Agricultural Economics Association.
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    Cited by:

    1. Maples, William E. & Brorsen, B. Wade & Hahn, William & MacLachlan, Matthew & Chalise, Lekhnath, 2022. "Structure of the USDA Livestock and Poultry Baseline Model," USDA Miscellaneous 323861, United States Department of Agriculture.

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