Daily News Update, May 13, 2009

March beef exports remain solid but pace slows in some markets as inventories rise
Exports of U.S. pork and beef registered a solid performance in March, led by extremely strong pork sales to Mexico and a surge in beef exports to Vietnam, Japan and the Middle East. Beef plus beef variety meat exports for the month jumped by 5 percent in volume over March 2008, but declined by about 1 percent in value. This was due in large part to a 17 percent decline in variety meat export value, offsetting a 4 percent increase in muscle cut value. more

LMIC Trends: National pasture and range conditions are normal
This past week, USDA-NASS resumed the national weekly pasture and range condition report. The report contains weekly by-state survey results from University Extension staff and other area experts. Overall, pasture and range conditions in the U.S. are a tad better than last year and about the same as the 2003-2007 average. As of the first of May, 20 percent for the nation's pasture and range was rated Very Poor to Poor compared to 22 percent last year while nearly half was deemed to be in Good or Excellent condition. On a regional basis, pasture and range conditions in the Southern Plains are much drier than prior years due to a lack of winter moisture this year. more

Cow/Calf Corner: To castrate or not to castrate?
A question commonly discussed around small town coffee shops would sound like this: "Is it worth the trouble to castrate male calves at 'calf working time' or should I just leave them to sell as 'cutter bulls'?" more

It's what's for dinner: Texas herb steak rub
This steak rub recipe is a Texas Beef Council favorite. Use it to spice up your next cut of meat. more

Plan to attend TSCRA's 2009 Summer Meeting June 17-19 in Montgomery
TSCRA's 2009 Summer Meeting will take place June 17-19 at the Torretta Del Lago Resort in Montgomery, Texas. All TSCRA committees will meet to discuss important industry developments. The General Session will feature a panel discussion on Carbon Credit Trading and its impact on rural land values. This is a wonderful place for a family vacation, so plan to come early or stay over to enjoy all the amenities. go!

Market Information
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Events and Sale Calendar
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