October 19, 2009

US feed grain production for 2009-10 is forecast at 346.2 million tonnes, up from 344.8 million tonnes last month, according to the USDA Economic Research Service's most recent Feed Outlook.

 

The increase reflects additions in corn, barley and oats production but a reduction in sorghum production.

 

Yields per harvested acre for the four grains combined are increased slightly to 3.87 tonnes per acre, compared with 3.81 tonnes last month. Beginning stocks in 2009-10 are lowered slightly to 47.1 million tonnes.

 

Total 2009-10 feed grain supply is forecast at 395.8 million tonnes, up from 394.6 million last month and up from 373.9 million in 2008-09. Total 2009-10 feed grain utilisation is projected at 348.6 million tonnes, down from 349 million last month, but up from 326.9 million in 2008-09.

 

Feed needs for all the livestock classes are down from 2008-09 because producers are reducing livestock numbers as measured by grain-consuming animal units (GCAU).