American cattle ranchers are finally rebuilding their devastated herds after years of drought forced painful liquidations, marking a crucial turning point for rural economies and food security.
Story Snapshot
- Nebraska rancher Craig Uden purchased 200 additional mother cows and calves in May 2025 as rainfall revived grazing conditions
- South Dakota rancher Troy Hadrick retained 16 more heifers than usual, signaling broader regional herd rebuilding
- Extended drought from 2022-2024 forced widespread herd reductions across the Midwest and Plains states
- Improved weather patterns since late 2024 have rejuvenated pastures, enabling ranchers to expand operations
Drought Forces Strategic Herd Liquidation
The extended drought from 2022 through 2024 devastated cattle operations across the Midwest and Plains states, forcing ranchers to make difficult decisions about herd sizes. Reduced pasture productivity left many producers with no choice but to cull herds, selling breeding stock they had spent years developing. This drought-induced contraction mirrored previous cycles in 2012 and 2017, demonstrating the cattle industry’s vulnerability to weather patterns in major beef-producing regions like Nebraska and South Dakota.
Rainfall Triggers Aggressive Expansion
Craig Uden, a Nebraska rancher and former president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, exemplifies the industry’s recovery momentum. In May 2025, Uden purchased 200 mother cows and their calves over several weeks, capitalizing on improved grazing conditions following significant rainfall. His operation at Darr Feedlot represents the calculated risk-taking that successful ranchers employ when conditions improve. This aggressive expansion strategy requires substantial capital investment but positions operations for long-term profitability as pastures recover.
South Dakota rancher Troy Hadrick’s decision to retain 16 additional heifers reflects similar optimism across the region. These retained heifers represent future breeding stock, indicating ranchers’ confidence in sustained improved conditions. The retention of breeding females is a critical indicator of industry recovery, as these animals form the foundation for multi-year herd expansion. Such decisions demonstrate ranchers’ shift from survival mode to growth strategy.
Industry Leaders Drive Recovery Narrative
Uden’s leadership background with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association provides credibility to the expansion trend. His dual role as successful operator and industry advocate offers insight into broader market dynamics. The Nebraska Cattlemen Association and U.S. Meat Export Federation emphasize the importance of maintaining export markets during this rebuilding phase. Their focus on international trade access reflects understanding that expanded domestic supply requires global demand to maintain profitability.
Market analysts project increased beef supply in late 2025 and 2026 as expanded herds mature. This potential supply increase could create downward pressure on prices if not matched by corresponding demand growth. However, industry experts note that strategic rebuilding, focused on improved genetics and drought resilience, positions American beef producers for stronger long-term competitiveness in global markets.
Sources:
University of Nebraska – Craig Uden Profile
Nebraska Cattleman Magazine – April/May 2025
