Based on latest USDA monthly Livestock Slaughter data, the number of dairy cull cows marketed through U.S. slaughter plants in April 2026 was estimated at 215,100.

With beef from dairies contributing an estimated $5 per hundredweight of milk-equivalent revenue, exposure to beef price volatility now carries real weight in culling and calf marketing decisions. Managing the downside without limiting upside is where Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) fits.

Prices for U.S. replacement dairy cows continued climbing into the first half of 2026, reaching a new record high in April, according to the latest quarterly estimates from the USDA.

Based on the latest USDA monthly Livestock Slaughter data, the number of dairy cull cows marketed through U.S. slaughter plants in March 2026 was estimated at 239,200.

Based on latest USDA monthly Livestock Slaughter data the number of dairy cull cows marketed through U.S. slaughter plants in February 2026 was estimated at 237,300.

In contrast to the start of last year, U.S. dairy markets are in a far more unsettled place to begin 2026. Dairy farmers are seeing noticeably lower pay prices than this time a year ago.

While removing animals from the herd can be a difficult decision, addressing problem cows early helps prevent repeated issues in future calving seasons.

Based on latest USDA monthly Livestock Slaughter data, the number of dairy cull cows marketed through U.S. slaughter plants in January 2026 was estimated at 246,800.

Based on latest USDA monthly Livestock Slaughter report data, the number of dairy cull cows marketed through U.S. slaughter plants in December 2025 was estimated at 248,400.