Missouri Cattle Prices Decline as Livestock Markets Face Pressure in Early November

FARMINGTON, Mo. — Missouri cattle producers are navigating changing agricultural market conditions as feeder cattle prices decline and slaughter cattle markets continue experiencing downward pressure. Farmers throughout the state are also monitoring grain prices and preparing for the final weeks of the year.

According to the Missouri Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, recent livestock reports indicate lower cattle prices and limited trading activity, reflecting continued uncertainty across portions of the agricultural industry.

Missouri Feeder Cattle Prices Decline

Missouri’s November 9 Stocker Formula report showed declining feeder cattle values compared to the previous reporting period.

The weighted average price for qualifying feeder steers was $406.74 per hundredweight, a decrease of $12.69 from the previous week.

Feeder heifers averaged $362.25 per hundredweight, representing a decline of $14.22.

The report included:

• Feeder steers: 4,249 head, averaging approximately 544 pounds.
• Feeder heifers: 3,299 head, averaging approximately 533 pounds.
• Steer prices: $406.74 per hundredweight.
• Heifer prices: $362.25 per hundredweight.

The lower prices represent a shift in market conditions as producers evaluate livestock sales and purchasing decisions heading into the final months of 2026.

Despite the declines, cattle prices remain an important consideration for Missouri producers managing feed expenses, livestock inventories, and operating costs.

Slaughter Cattle Markets Remain Under Pressure

The Missouri Department of Agriculture’s November 6 report indicated that direct slaughter cattle trading remained limited, with some producers declining lower bids.

A small number of dressed cattle transactions were reported at approximately $340 per hundredweight, down $12 from the previous week.

The report also noted that December live cattle futures had declined more than $19 per hundredweight over eight trading sessions beginning October 26.

These developments highlight the uncertainty facing the broader cattle industry as producers and buyers respond to changing market conditions.

For cattle producers in St. Francois County and surrounding communities, price fluctuations can affect decisions involving livestock sales, replacement cattle purchases, and feed expenses.

Grain Markets Remain Important to Missouri Agriculture

Agricultural activity extends beyond livestock, with corn, soybeans, and wheat continuing to play major roles in Missouri’s farming economy.

Grain prices are influenced by several factors, including crop production, weather conditions, export demand, and international trade.

Changes in commodity prices affect not only farmers growing crops for sale but also livestock producers who rely on purchased grain for animal feed.

For agricultural operations throughout Southeast Missouri, these market conditions can influence decisions involving crop storage, feed purchases, livestock sales, and future planting.

Southeast Missouri Farmers Monitor Changing Conditions

Agriculture remains an important part of the economy throughout St. Francois, Madison, Washington, Ste. Genevieve, Perry, and surrounding counties.

Cattle producers throughout the region depend on livestock markets to determine the value of their animals and make informed business decisions.

Lower market prices can reduce expected sale proceeds, particularly for producers who purchased livestock or established financial projections when prices were higher.

However, the impact on individual farming operations varies depending on livestock weight, production expenses, marketing arrangements, and the timing of sales.

As 2026 approaches its final weeks, producers will continue watching whether cattle prices stabilize or experience additional fluctuations.

Local Producers Encouraged to Monitor Market Reports

The Missouri Department of Agriculture provides regular livestock auction reports, grain market information, and agricultural updates.

Reports include activity from Farmington Regional Stockyards and other livestock markets throughout Southeast Missouri.

Producers can access updated market information through the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Market News website at agmarketnews.mo.gov.

MyParkland News will continue following agricultural market developments affecting farmers, ranchers, and rural communities throughout St. Francois County and Southeast Missouri.

Sources: Missouri Department of Agriculture Agricultural Market News; USDA Agricultural Marketing Service.