For the week ending January 10, Western Canadian feeder cattle markets were up $8-$10/cwt on average compared to three weeks earlier. Strength was noted in backgrounded pre-conditioned replacements weighing 700 pounds plus. Quality genetic packages with full processing were up $20/cwt in some cases.
The weather was quite variable and feedlots have experienced above normal cases of pneumonia over the past month. Feedlot operators were willing to pay premiums on vaccinated feeders.
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Ontario buying interest set the price structure in many cases with orders stretching into north-central Alberta.
The TEAM Auction report had medium to larger frame Fleckvieh Simmental-cross red steers averaging 1,020 pounds with full processing records on backgrounding silage and barley diet valued at $450 fob farm near Carrot Creek, Alberta. Southeast of Edmonton, a farmer reported a larger package of Angus cross heifers averaging 925 pounds on backgrounding ration with full health data were valued at $430/cwt fob farm.
The Yorkton pre-sort sale included a smaller package of medium to larger frame black steers averaging 866 pounds that traded for $499/cwt. In central Alberta, a buyer reported a smaller package of medium flesh mixed heifers with a scale weight of 820 pounds moved through the ring at $482/cwt.
The Clyde pre-sort sale had a group of 49 black, medium to larger frame steers weighing 737 pounds that traded for $539/cwt. At the same sale, a group of Simmental cross heifers weighing 729 pounds sold for $496/cwt.
Northwest of Calgary, a rancher reported that a group of 70 Charolais weaned steers evaluated at 610 pounds with full processing records sold for $640 fob ranch. The Lloydminster pre-sort sale included a package of 12 red heifers averaging 619 pounds that sold for $551/cwt.
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At the Vermillion sale, smaller package of exotic steers averaging 546 pounds traded for $690. At the same sale, a group of 26 black steers on the card at 492 pounds were last bid at $746/cwt.
Feedlot margins have been in red ink over the past month but there is an optimistic view moving forward. The industry is bracing for a sharp year-over-year decrease in U.S. beef production during the second quarter of 2026, which is driving the nearby feeder market higher.
I’m hosting a hot lunch and cattle market outlook for cow calf producers and feedlot operators in Lethbridge on January 26, 2026. Cattle buyers are also welcome. Call Jerry at 204-504-8339 by January 17 to book your spot.
