In the protein business, feed ingredients are over 50% of our cost. No two years in farming are alike or free of drama. Much can change between now and the harvest, The key is bringing order to chaos and having a long-term strategy.

Average U.S. beef production in the 12 months through May was up 0.9 percent compared with last year and up for the ninth consecutive month.

Average poultry production for the last 12 months is at an all-time high and is up 4.4 percent from the prior year. There are, however, some tentative signs of slower growth moving through early 2016.

After a year of volatility because of avian influenza, smaller cattle herds and weak exports, a quiet rebuilding year is welcome.

If you don’t believe the global factors affecting the U.S. cattle market are numerous and complicated, you probably haven’t heard Dan Basse, president of Ag Resource Company, give an economic outlook.