Tightening cow and heifer numbers pushed average prices for U.S. replacement dairy cows to a nine-year high in January, according to latest USDA quarterly estimates.

The USDA’s semiannual estimate of cattle inventories indicates the number of dairy cows to start 2024 are the lowest in four years.

The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released its latest Ag Prices report on Jan. 31, including factors used to calculate the December 2023 Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) margin.

Progressive Dairy provides monthly online updates of important dates, reports and factors affecting risk management decisions.

A smaller milking herd and improving milk income margins are contributing to lower U.S. dairy cull cow marketing this winter. Through Dec. 30, the number of dairy cows marketed for beef had trailed year-ago levels for 17 consecutive weeks and was down 82,400 from the same period a year earlier.

Monthly U.S. milk production was lower than the year earlier in December 2023, extending the decline to six consecutive months.

Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program software updates necessary for 2024 enrollment will be available in February or March.

Here’s an update on economic factors impacting your dairy profitability during the fourth week of January 2024.

Here’s an update on economic factors impacting your dairy profitability during the third week of January 2024.