For the first time this fall, each of the cattle auction sites in Manitoba sold more than 1,000 head at their respective weekly sales during the week ending Oct. 21.
In total, 10,445 animals went through the rings at seven sites across the province (Virden’s numbers weren’t available at press time). During the week ending Oct. 14, 9,126 cattle (excluding Virden) were sold.
While the increasing numbers are good signs for an industry severely damaged by drought conditions over the summer, butcher prices saw marked declines. D1-D5 cow prices ranged from $44 to $73.50/cwt compared to $50-$89 the week earlier. Mature bulls were between $75 and $107/cwt, but were between $76-$117 the previous week. Prices also eased for some heifers.
Read Also
Canadian canola prices hinge on rain forecast
Canola markets took a good hit during the week ending July 11, 2025, on the thought that the Canadian crop will yield well despite dry weather.
“Exotic cows are selling fairly well, but there is pressure across the market,” said Brad Kehler, auctioneer and auction sales representative at Grunthal Livestock Auction Mart. “Grain markets, exchange rates, it is what it is.”
On the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, the December live cattle contract closed at US$129.55/cwt on Oct. 21, 75 U.S. cents lower than one week earlier, but on the lower end of a 2.5-cent range over the past two weeks. As for the January feeder cattle contract, it closed at US$160/cwt on Oct. 21, US$2.775 lower than nine days earlier.
The Canadian dollar broke the 81 U.S. cent mark during the week, closing at 80.97 U.S. cents on Oct. 21. High-delivered bids for feed barley and feed wheat have not increased by more than 50 cents per bushel over the past month as of Oct. 21, according to Prairie Ag Hotwire.
Kehler believes cattle prices still have more room to decline. “I have the feeling there will be cheaper cattle going forward,” he said.
Manitoba Beef Producers’ (MBP) district meetings will continue in November, with most to be held virtually. Odd-numbered districts will host meetings via Zoom on Nov. 9 at 7 p.m., with each registered attendee being emailed a package of materials along with a link and a call-in number about 24 hours before the meeting.
Districts with required elections will host their meetings in person and are subject to Manitoba public health orders. District 14 will host its meeting on Nov. 1 at Minitonas and District Arena, while District 12’s meeting will take place in Ste. Rose du Lac Community Hall on Nov. 2. District 8 will host its meeting on Nov. 3 at the Neepawa branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, while District 6’s will take place Nov. 8 at the Oak Lake Community Hall. All meetings start at 1 p.m.
Online registration can be found at the Manitoba Beef Producers website.
