Available consumer dollars for meat are now spread over more pounds of meat. The result has been lower average prices of beef and cattle. With strong promotion of beef by retailers, the average advertised-feature price of beef has been at the lowest level since 1989. Consumers can expect more beef bargains in 1996. The growth in beef production and consumption is expected to continue through 1997.
Cattle intensively graze one area, just as bison once did.
Their hooves grind dead plant material, dormant seeds and manure into the soil surface, just as bison once did. Then, when the food supply dwindles, they move along and give that site a rest, just as the bison once did. The rest phase is of particular importance to wildlife. Ducks Unlimited's main interest is in standing brown grass every spring because that's what ducks need for nesting cover. The rancher is interested in good green grass for the cattle during the grazing season, and to obtain that grass, a rest phase is critical.