Date of Award

8-2024

Degree Type

Report

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Applied Economics

Committee Chair(s)

Dillon Feuz (committee chair)

Committee

Dillon Feuz

Committee

Ryan Feuz

Committee

Ryan Larsen

Abstract

This study examines the risk associated with finishing cattle in a feedlot, specifically in the context of historically high cattle prices and quality grade grid marketing systems that have not adjusted to these elevated prices. The analysis also looks at performance factors that drive profitability differences in pens of cattle in a commercial feedlot, and how market factors also impact profitability. Regression analysis determines the significance of performance variables such as days on feed, average daily gain, feed conversion rates, and carcass characteristics on pen profitability. The impact of cattle breeding and pre-feedlot management of the cattle are also considered in the analysis. The outcomes of this research provide essential insights for stakeholders aiming to optimize economic gains in the contemporary cattle feeding industry.

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