Sort & Cull

If you're reading this blog, do yourself a favor and grab your calendar because we've got a busy next couple weeks ahead of us in the cattle complex and you need to jot these dates down.

First, this week on June 16-17, Superior Livestock Auction is hosting the Corn Belt Classic, which is the market's first big test of feeder cattle sales for the summer. Right at 73,000 head of cattle are consigned to the sale, which will give cattlemen across the country a better idea of what to expect for feeder cattle prices this year. After that, on Thursday, June 18, the monthly Cattle on Feed report will be released as the markets will be closed on Friday, June 19 for the Juneteenth holiday. The report is expected to be somewhat of a wild card as pre-report estimates have placements sitting at anywhere from 89% to 104% compared to a year ago.

Last, but certainly not least, please join us next Wednesday, June 24, for the DTN Beef Industry Exchange webinar. The webinar will highlight the risks and opportunities ahead for the cattle complex in 2026 and beyond. I will be presenting a recap of what the market has accomplished thus far this year and pinpoint some factors to watch for moving forward. In addition, DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick will share his thoughts on the weather outlook for the year ahead and how that may affect pasture conditions. And University of Nebraska Lincoln Beef Systems Extension Educator Aaron Berger will share different strategies to set up cow herd rebuilding following drought. The webinar will be moderated by DTN Senior Livestock Editor Jennifer Carrico and is free. Click the link here to register: https://events.zoom.us/….

As a mentor of mine once said: Markets work best with active and informed participants. I sincerely hope you'll join us next week and take this opportunity to circle the wagons and hash out where the market sits currently, what obstacles could be lingering, and what opportunities may arise for those who are ready. As you know, it's tough getting ahead when you're stuck playing defense. Put yourself and your operation in the driver's seat this year and join the conversation. See you there!

ShayLe Stewart can be reached at ShayLe.Stewart@dtn.com

(c) Copyright 2026 DTN, LLC. All rights reserved.