DELMARVA — Beef production nationwide is projected to drop nearly 1% next year. The USDA expects 25.31 billion pounds of beef in 2027, down from this year’s totals. Analysts say fewer cattle heading to slaughter will drive the decline, though heavier carcass weights should offset some of that loss.
Closer to home, cattle producers are wrestling with whether to background calves or sell them at weaning. With cattle prices at elevated levels, the temptation to cash in is strong, but industry observers say ranchers need to weigh the broader economic picture before making that call.
Markets
Dairy trading closed mixed Friday at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Butter gained $0.01.25 to finish at $1.69.25 per pound. 40-pound cheese blocks dropped to $1.47.25. Nonfat dry milk fell $0.06.50 to $2.04.50. Barrels held at $1.44. Dry whey was unchanged at $0.67.
For cash grain, corn at Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is bringing $4.61 a bushel for July delivery. Soybeans there are $10.57 for July.
Forecast
Mostly sunny today with a high of 73° and east winds at 10 mph. Tonight clears to 58°. Tomorrow stays mostly sunny, 73° again with light south winds. Rain chances arrive Wednesday.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, June 8, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
