Blizzards and storms have hit the plains of the USA this winter, leaving cattle stranded to the elements. Many have died and the hide markets have felt the force of the storms as the stressed cattle that survived have failed to gain weight, thus reducing the number of head that reach grade choice and therefore yielding less money for the cattle feeders. Furthermore, due to the current high cost of corn and the lack of pastureland available to graze on because of the storms, hay is running out in the west, especially in the Colorado area and feeders, which are losing in the region of $100-125 per head are now facing a no-win situation—either sell their cattle and take a loss, or hope for better days later this winter and spring and continue to feed their livestock on expensive corn.
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