Schaefer spoke to Brownfield during the WPS Farm Show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin
A consultant says this is a good time for young people to consider starting a beef cattle operation.
Dan Schaefer of Schaefer Beef Consulting tells Brownfield the combination of aging producers, strong consumer demand, and unique opportunities are allowing new producers to enter the beef business. “I do think that there are land resources that could be available for a beef cow operation or a heifer development operation, or growing from the weanling stage to the yearling stage. I’m optimistic for young people.”
Schaefer says the biggest obstacle has been start-up capital, but one option is good for both the new and the retiring producer. “There are leasing options that are available. They’re not really prevalent here in this state, but in South Dakota and in the high plains, there are people who have leased their cow herds to young people on a cost-sharing, revenue-sharing basis.”
Schaefer also expects cattle prices and consumer beef demand to remain high, lowering the risk for new beef producers.
