LIVESTOCK REPORT: March 23, 2010

Moses Lake, Wash. – Feeder cattle this week, 6,700; last week, 14,350; year ago, 4,200.

Compared to last week’s close, feeder cattle firm to $1 higher. Trade active with good demand.

The feeder supply included 74 percent steers and 26 percent heifers. Nearly 89 percent of the run weighed more than 600 pounds.

Prices are FOB weighing point with a 1- to 4-percent shrink or equivalent and with a 5- to 10-cent slide on calves and a 3- to 6-cent slide on yearlings. Delivered prices include freight, commissions and other expenses.

Feeder steers: Medium and large 1-2 FOB prices: 700-800 pounds $97-$109; 850-900 pounds $95-$99 WA-ID; 900-950 pounds $94-$94.50 WA.

Delivered price: 800 pounds $98 WA; Future delivered prices: 550-600 pounds $130 for May ID; 800-850 pounds $99-$104 WA-OR for May-Aug.

Large 2-3: future FOB price: 900-950 pounds $91 for June-July OR. Future delivered price: 900-950 pounds $96 for June-July ID.

Feeder heifers: Medium and Large 1-2 FOB prices: 550-600 pounds $110 WA; 800-850 pounds $90.50-$95 WA-ID. Delivered price: 700 pounds $97 ID. Future delivered price: 800 pounds $96 for July-Aug. OR. Medium and large 2-3 future FOB price: 800-850 pounds $88 for June-July OR; Future delivered price: 800-850 pounds $93 for June-July ID.

Weekly Combined Cattle Report

Receipts this week: 2,325; last week, 1,740; last year, 1,900.

Compared to last week, feeder cattle steady to $5 lower with the most declines on heifers. Slaughter cows and bulls steady to weak. Slaughter cows made up 56 percent of the offering; Slaughter bulls 5 percent, and feeders 39 percent of the supply. The feeder supply included 51 percent steers and 49 percent heifers. Nearly 49 percent of the run weighed more than 600 pounds.

– USDA Market News