Wednesday, 09 May 2012 08:24

Cows still failing to “run”

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The North Island cow kill has still yet to find its feet. This continues to help support beef schedule prices which continue to hold fairly steady. Returning to a full kill week a fortnight ago, the kill increased slightly from the shorter Easter weeks but was still struggling to match levels seen at this time of the year. Just over 21,000 cows were slaughtered the week ending April 21st, down on the usual 27,000/wk for this time of the season.

Despite a drier autumn in some regions, dairy farmers are milking longer. There is also strong demand for carry-over cows. Most areas have plenty of cattle feed still availability of store cattle is limited. This is seeing significant number of cull cows being taken into the winter.  For the season to date the NI cow kill is down by over 100,000 head on last season and nearly 70,000 head down on 5yr ave levels. 

Market Brief by iFarm.co.nz

iFarm the leading source of agri-market prices, information and analysis for NZ farmers. Receive benchmark prices for the works, store and saleyard markets delivered direct to your inbox. Visit www.ifarm.co.nz or call 0508 873 283.

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