Farms.com Home   News

U.S. Beef Cattle Numbers Continue Decline

Feb 14, 2025
By Farms.com

January 2025 Report Shows Further Contraction

The USDA-NASS has released its January 1, 2025, cattle inventory estimates, highlighting a 0.6% decrease in total cattle numbers to 86.66 million head, continuing the trend of contraction since the 2019 peak.  

The beef cattle sector, in particular, has seen a significant reduction, with beef cow inventories decreasing by 0.5% from the previous year to 28.86 million head.

Notably, states like North Carolina and Kentucky have experienced sharper declines, while others like Mississippi have maintained stable cattle numbers.

The report underscores a gradual but persistent downward trend in cattle inventories that began in the mid-1970s, emphasizing increased beef production efficiency per cow despite the decreasing herd size. 

The USDA’s revisions to prior year estimates pose challenges to accurate forecasting, often leading to adjustments in expected industry metrics. For example, a revision in the 2024 beef cow inventory led to a smaller-than-anticipated decline in 2025 numbers. Such revisions are critical as they can influence market perceptions and planning within the industry.

This year's report not only reflects the current state of the U.S. beef cattle industry but also highlights the importance of regular monitoring and adjustment of cattle management strategies to respond to ongoing market dynamics.

The industry remains optimistic despite the challenges, with a focus on adapting to changing conditions and maintaining production efficiency.


Trending Video

Demco Dual Aguer Grain Carts — Fire Safety Systems, Right or Left-Handed Unload, and More!

Video: Demco Dual Aguer Grain Carts — Fire Safety Systems, Right or Left-Handed Unload, and More!


Demco's dual auger grain cart is designed for unloading efficiency, operator visibility, and safety in the field.

This dual-auger design features both an unload auger and a floor auger for enhanced grain cleanout and consistent flow, and the 22-inch unload auger is capable of moving up to 600 bushels per minute.

Farmers can also choose between right or left-handed unload options—right-handed unload improves visibility from the tractor cab. A new design allows both vertical and horizontal movement for precise grain placement during unloading.

Another key feature is the built-in fire safety system; a 300-gallon onboard water tank with a hose reel that provides field-ready fire suppression capability.

These dual auger grain carts are available in 1100, 1300, 1500, 1700, and 2200 bushel sizes.