OCA Annual Summer Ranch Tour Goes International In 2016

Jun 29, 2016

By Dr. Derrell Peel

Oklahoma State University Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist

Dr. Derrell Peel, Oklahoma State University Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist, recently led a group of Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association members south across the border to take a closer look at both culture and agriculture in Mexico. The Oklahoma cattle producers visited ranches and feedlots from Veracruz on the Gulf Coast up to Mexico City.

The group learned about the limitations Mexican cattle producers face in terms of the kind of cattle best suited for the country’s tropical climate. Peel says the Zebu/dairy cross often used as the basis for Mexican cattle limits the genetic opportunity for beef quality and quantity. Despite the challenges, Peel says the Mexican cattle feeding sector is still quite progressive.

“One of the things I think producers were impressed by was the fact that there’s a growing, very modern, very technologically advanced feeding industry developing in those tropical regions,” he says.

Peel says trade between Mexico and the United States has evolved significantly over the last few years.

“For many, many years, of course, the U.S. has been a recipient of Mexican cattle exports. That was augmented about 20 or 25 years ago with Mexico becoming a significant destination for U.S. beef exports,” he says. “Most recently, Mexico has become a significant producer of boxed beef and is now a significant global trader, with the U.S. being the predominant destination for Mexican beef exports.”

OCA Annual Summer Ranch Tour Goes International In 2016

Business News by Better Farming

General News by Better Farming

Forums by Agriville.com

Machinery News by Better Farming

Crop News by Better Farming

Livestock News by Better Farming

Sponsored Links: