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Prairie forecast: Is winter making one last push?

Issued March 20, covering March 20-27, 2024

A sprawling Arctic high pressure system is poised to dominate the region, ushering in colder-than-normal temperatures reminiscent of January's grip, but not as cold. While cold snaps this time of year often bring snow, the prevailing high pressure suggests storm activity will largely skirt the area, save for southern and southwestern Alberta where significant snowfall is anticipated.

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Klassen: Feeder market adjusts to lower supplies

Western Canadian prices for backgrounded replacements were $2 to $4 higher than last week. Lower flesh yearlings were valued $3 to $8 above week-ago levels. Prices for calves under 800 pounds were up $3 to $7 compared to seven days earlier with noted strength in feeders under 600 pounds.


(Photo courtesy Canada Beef Inc.)

Klassen: Yearling price trend stalls while calves ratchet higher

Larger players aggressively securing lightweight calves on expectations of low yearling supplies

Western Canadian feedlots are carrying sufficient numbers for the time being and feeding margins remain deep in red ink on unhedged cattle. Secondly, carcass weights are sharply above year-ago levels and Alberta finishing lots are backed up with market-ready supplies.






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Prairie forecast: Storm system heads for southern Prairies

Updates forecast issued Feb. 29, covering Feb. 29 to March 6, 2024

The weather models have come into fairly good agreement for the storm system forecasted to impact much of the southern prairies over the next 24 to 48 hours. An area of low pressure is developing over Wyoming with an inverted trough stretching northwestwards.

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Prairie forecast: More much-needed moisture expected

Issued Feb. 29, covering Feb. 29 to March 6, 2024

Cold Arctic air has invaded the Prairies much to many people’s surprise. We have gotten so used to mild spring-like weather that some people may be put off that winter has returned. For those who read my last column, this type of weather shouldn't be surprising since we are now moving into what can be the snowiest time of the year.