It's also the lowest number since the agency began a July cattle count in 1973. The agency now estimates the size of the nation's herd each January and July.

Kansas State University agriculture professor Glynn Tonser says cattle numbers have been falling for several years, but that sped up last year with the drought in the Southwest. Many ranchers sold animals then, and more are selling this year amid widespread drought. 
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—From AP Newsfinder