Beef Backgrounding Planning Budget

Editor’s note
The following abstract describes a publication that is only available as a downloadable PDF.

See the Beef Budgets workbook (XLSX) for related information.

Wesley Tucker
Field Specialist in Agricultural Business

Zachary Erwin
Field Specialist in Livestock

Elliott Dennis
Associate Professor, Agricultural and Applied Economics

Drew Kientzy
Senior Research Analyst, Agricultural Business and Policy

Abstract

Using this planning budget, beef backgrounders may estimate their costs and returns for 2027. Table 1 presents estimates for steer calves purchased and backgrounded in Missouri. Assumptions were based on price forecasts as of October 2026. Detailed inputs, feed requirements, and machinery investments are summarized in Tables 2, 3, 4, and 5. Drylot backgrounded cattle are purchased in October 2026 and sold in March 2027. Pasture backgrounding assumes calves are purchased in May 2027 and sold in September 2027. The production practices used to develop these cost estimates are common in Missouri beef farms. Use the “Your estimate” column to plan your operation’s costs and returns for 2027.

Topics

• Beef backgrounding
• Farm budget
• Steer calves

Pages

• 2