May 12, 2010
Meat production for US state expected to do well this year
Following two years of economic struggles, 2010 is shaping up to be a better year for Montana's livestock producers.
"Livestock producers have seen a return to profitability in the past two months after going through probably the worst economic situation anyone can remember in 2008 and 2009," said John Anderson, livestock economist of American Farm Bureau Federation. "This is certainly good news for livestock producers because it provides a good opportunity to rebuild equity."
The USDA expects total meat production to be down in 2010, compared to 2009. USDA forecasts a 2% increase in broiler production this year, but a 1% drop in beef production. USDA estimates a 3.5% drop in pork production this year.
"Cows and calves bring a lot of money into Montana's economy, so it's great to see that our producers can finally look forward to receiving a little extra money at the sale barn," said Montana Farm Bureau President Bob Hanson.
The USDA also projected the total US meat production for 2011 to be slightly higher than 2010, as increased pork and poultry production more than offsets a decline in beef production. Beef production for 2011 is forecast to decline due to tighter supplies of cattle.
