Cattle herds shrink as Southeast drought impacts beef supply

Ongoing drought and high temperatures in the Southeast are reducing cattle herds and beef production, leading to higher consumer prices. Matt Henley of Pee Dee Premium in Mt. Gilead reduced his herd from 170 to 130 cows due to resource scarcity, with hay yields at 30% of expected levels and slower grass growth. Beef prices have risen over 70 cents per pound since June of the previous year, and prices are expected to remain high for three to five years.