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Archive for scarcity

Hidden Treasure: Ohio Dairy Farm Family’s Rare Coin Expected to Fetch Over $500,000 at Auction

Sunday, September 8th, 2024

Unearth an Ohio family’s hidden rare coin, set to fetch over $500,000 at auction. Could you have a hidden treasure, too? Discover more.

Summary: Imagine unearthing a small fortune from a seemingly modest item tucked away for decades. That’s precisely the story of an Ohio farm family who discovered a hidden gem—a rare 1975 “No S” dime. This coin, initially bought for $18,200, is now expected to fetch over $500,000 at auction. The coin’s extraordinary value stems from a missing “S” mint mark, making it one of only two known. These three sisters, who inherited the coin, had no idea its worth until recently. Ian Russell, president of GreatCollections, orchestrates its auction and expects it to send shockwaves through the numismatic world. As this piece of history prepares to hit the auction block, it promises a significant financial windfall and an emotional one for the family involved. “They were hidden for decades,” Russell said. “Most major collectors and dealers have never seen one.” The 1975 “No S” proof dime, minted by the US Mint in San Francisco, was part of over 2.8 million uncirculated proof sets for $7 each. However, two dimes from these sets lacked the “S” mint mark, passing through quality control unnoticed. Only a few years later, astute collectors spotted the missing mint mark, sparking interest in the numismatic world. The value of this dime lies in its scarcity and the narrative behind its construction, with other similar rare coins achieving exorbitant prices at auction, such as another 1975 “No S” proof dime sold for $456,000 in 2019.

  • The Ohio farm family discovered a rare 1975 “No S” dime, hidden away for decades.
  • The coin, bought for $18,200 in 1978, is now expected to fetch over $500,000 at auction.
  • The coin’s extraordinary value comes from a missing “S” mint mark, making it one of only two known examples.
  • GreatCollections president Ian Russell is handling the auction and believes it will significantly impact the numismatic community.
  • The two “No S” proof dimes were part of over 2.8 million uncirculated proof sets minted in San Francisco in 1975.
  • Collectors first noticed the missing mint mark a few years after the sets were released.
  • Another 1975 “No S” proof dime sold for $456,000 in 2019, indicating the high value of these rare coins.
1975 "No S" proof dime, United States Mint, San Francisco, auction, rare coin, mint mark, scarcity, numismatic, collectors, investors

Imagine finding that a piece of family history stored in your cabinet for decades is worth a small fortune. That is precisely what occurred to an Ohio dairy farm family who received a regular dime only to discover it is expected to bring more than $500,000 at auction. This unusual coin, minted by the United States Mint in San Francisco in 1975, lacks a significant “S” mint mark, making it one of just two known to exist. “Is that possible?” one of the sisters inquired upon learning of the coin’s enormous worth. These three sisters, who want to remain nameless, received the dime from their late brother and now possess a unique piece of history. Ian Russell, president of GreatCollections, is in charge of the online auction, which will run until October. Please continue reading to discover how this little penny became a hidden treasure ready to transform their lives.

A Hidden Gem in Plain Sight: The Tale of the 1975 “No S” Dime 

Now and again, the world of numismatics (coin collecting for the uninitiated) gets excited over a rare find. And this 1975 dime with a missing “S” mint mark is one of those exciting finds.

The narrative starts in the US Mint in San Francisco, known for its strict production standards. In 1975, the mint issued remarkable uncirculated proof sets as collector’s items rather than for public circulation. Each set included six pieces with the “S” mint mark, indicating they were produced in San Francisco. This mark is significant in numismatics as it denotes the coin’s place of origin and can significantly affect its value. Over 2.8 million of these proof sets were made, initially offered to collectors for $7 each.

However, two dimes from these sets lacked the “S” mint mark in an almost fantastic turn of events. These mistake coins passed past quality control unnoticed, making them very unusual. Only a few years later, astute collectors spotted the lack of the mint mark, sparking a desire among the numismatic world.

But how does this dime’s lack of a “S” make it valuable? The value is in its scarcity and the narrative behind its construction. Coin collectors value pieces that are distinctive or have an exciting past, and the 1975 “no S” proof dime fits both criteria. With just two known to exist, possessing one is like holding a piece of history—a relic from when strict minting standards allowed this aberration to slip through.

To put it in context, other comparable rare coins have achieved exorbitant prices at auction. Another 1975 “no S” proof dime sold for $456,000 in 2019, demonstrating the increasing value of rare coins. These sales are more than simply transactions; they are events that attract both collectors and investors.

So, while it’s doubtful that you would stumble upon one of these dimes in your pocket change, the fact that such coins might and did make their way into circulation-proof sets adds to the mystery and intrigue. The 1975 “no S” proof dime is a numismatic gem, not just due to its rarity but also because of the mistake and the story behind it.

Meet the Ohio Family Behind the Rare Coin 

Let me discuss the Ohio family behind this rare coin. Imagine a simple dairy farm handed down through generations in Ohio’s heartland. This family ran their dairy farm with commitment and arduous labor, which is the foundation of American agriculture. Their days were spent milking cows, managing farms, and repairing machinery. This life may seem tedious, but it provides security and a feeling of purpose.

So, how did a rare coin become one of their most valued possessions? Well, it all started in 1978. The family’s grandmother and her son stumbled across a rare opportunity: an erroneous coin without the standard “S” mint mark was for sale. They considered it a sensible financial option, spending $18,200 (now equivalent to almost $90,000). They saw this transaction as a hidden treasure that may provide financial stability during turbulent times.

Fast forward to the present, and one of the sisters recently saw the coin she had heard so much about. Her brother had been the coin’s watchful caretaker, recognizing its potential value but keeping it hidden. He contacted Ian Russell of GreatCollections around seven years ago, revealing the coin’s existence but keeping it a family secret. The sister’s surprise at the coin’s worth was palpable. “Is that possible?” she questioned, reflecting on the shock and disbelief anyone would feel after uncovering a fortune hiding in plain sight for years.

She was surprised when Russell notified the sister of the coin’s astonishing worth. “Is that possible?” she questioned, reflecting on the surprise anybody would experience after uncovering a fortune lurking in plain sight for years. The emotional impact of this discovery, the mix of shock, disbelief, and joy, is a testament to the human fascination with unexpected wealth.

And here we are, with the “1975 ‘No S’ Proof Dime” set to make a splash in the coin-collecting world. The family’s experience exemplifies the unexpected intersections between regular living and remarkable wealth. It makes you question what secret riches could exist in our life. Perhaps, like this Ohio family, you, too, have a hidden gem in your collection waiting to be discovered.

The Numismatic Maestro: Ian Russell’s Endeavor to Elevate the 1975 “No S” Proof Dime

Ian Russell, president of GreatCollections, is instrumental in revealing the tale behind this rare 1975 “No S” proof dime. Russell, who has vast experience with rare coins and currencies, believes the coin’s market value might approach $500,000. “The last known sale of such a coin fetched $456,000 in 2019, and we have seen heightened interest in rare numismatic items since then,” Russell told me, igniting excitement in the numismatic community.

The importance of the impending auction cannot be emphasized enough. The event allows collectors to compete for a piece of history and rekindles public interest in rare coins. “Most major collectors and dealers have never seen one of these dimes in person, making this auction a landmark event,” according to Russell.

Russell’s knowledge has been critical in identifying and verifying the coin. He said the family’s brother had been aware of the coin’s existence and contacted GreatCollections seven years ago. “When he initially contacted me, I was fascinated yet apprehensive. Russell said, “Once we verified its authenticity, I knew this was extraordinary.”

The coin’s journey from an Ohio safety deposit box to the auction floor in Irvine, California, exemplifies its rich history and Russell’s ability to bring uncommon treasures to the market. He said, “It’s not every day that such a rare specimen emerges, and being part of this process is incredibly rewarding.”

Witness History: The 1975 “No S” Proof Dime on Display and Up for Auction

For anyone anxious to see this extraordinary piece of numismatic history, the 1975 “No S” Proof Dime will be on exhibit at an upcoming coin show in Tampa, Florida, starting Wednesday. This presentation is a prelude to an online auction that will take place in late October. The auction, organized by GreatCollections, provides a unique chance for severe collectors to bid on this rare treasure.

Interested parties may join the auction via the GreatCollections website, ensuring they take advantage of acquiring a piece of history. The coin’s last auction in 2019 netted $456,000, and analysts predict this event will yield considerably more. The frenzy surrounding the auction highlights the importance of the dime and the passion it elicits from collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Mark your calendars and get ready to join the crowds of bidders looking to get this one-of-a-kind coin. The rumors surrounding this dime, which has been buried in an Ohio bank vault for almost four decades, contribute to its fascination and mystery, capturing the attention of the numismatic world.

The Emotional and Financial Impact: A Treasure Trove Beyond Monetary Value 

Imagine the amazement and excitement the Ohio sisters felt when they discovered the dime’s worth stashed away for so long. The coin signified more than simply a cash windfall; it was an essential connection to their family’s history and their brother’s vision. The sisters, who desired to remain unknown, felt accomplishment and nostalgia as their brother’s memories about the currency became a treasure trove.

Financially, the effect is significant. Their parents, who had worked diligently to run a dairy farm, purchased the currency as a possible safety net. This choice has now paid off enormously. “Is that possible?” one sister said when she learned of the coin’s current worth. This unexpected financial windfall creates new prospects and a feeling of stability, playing the exact function their parents had intended for the coin when they originally purchased it.

Emotionally, the finding has brought the family closer together as a poignant reminder of their late sibling and the legacy left by their parents. It’s more than the money; the tale, memories, and emotional connections make this discovery powerful. Such a narrative resonates well with families working in agriculture, where uncertainty may sometimes define their livelihood. It emphasizes the value of forethought, luck, and the hidden gems that might lurk just under the surface of ordinary life.

Unveiling the Possibilities: Are More 1975 “No S” Proof Dimes Hidden in Plain Sight?

The discovery of the Ohio family’s rare 1975 “No S” proof dime sparks an intriguing discussion regarding the possibility of more rare coins that have yet to be discovered. Could there be further hidden gems among us? Russell alludes to this possibility, implying that extra 1975 “No S” proof dimes may still exist, waiting to be discovered among the original proof sets.

This discovery is fascinating for coin collectors. Imagine having such a coin in your collection! If you have any proof sets, now is the time to give them another look. The stakes couldn’t be more significant, with a possible reward of more than $500,000.

Aside from the immediate cash reward, finding a rare coin is like owning a piece of history. It reminds us of the complicated history of coin creation and the potential for inadvertent rarities. So, ask yourself: Could you be sitting on a secret treasure? Begin browsing your collections now; you never know what you’ll uncover.

The Bottom Line

This astonishing tale of an Ohio dairy farm family and their long-hidden 1975 “No S” proof dime reminds us that extraordinary riches may be found in plain sight. This dime, purchased for peace of mind and security, is expected to fetch more than $500,000. Ian Russell’s skill and the coin’s unusual rarity have elevated it to the forefront of collectors’ and enthusiasts’ minds.

What more undiscovered jewels may be hiding in your possession? Could their finding change your life, like it did for one family? Stay educated and interested, and you could discover a life-changing gem.

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How Dairy Farmers Can Benefit from Embryo Surrogacy

Saturday, August 10th, 2024

Boost your income with embryo surrogacy. Could renting your cows’ uteruses be your farm’s following ample cash flow?

Summary: Embryo surrogacy offers a promising way for dairy farmers to earn extra income by using dairy cows as surrogate mothers for beef cattle embryos, solving the beef industry’s excess embryo problem and achieving higher conception rates. Farmers benefit from premium prices for these calves, potentially boosting the commercial beef herd and requiring excellent management. In Ohio, Jake Osborn and his son Wyatt partnered with a dairy farm, turning leftover embryos into six live newborns, showcasing this method as a viable extra cash source.

  • Dairy cows can be surrogate mothers for beef cattle embryos, turning a surplus problem into a profitable solution.
  • Utilizing dairy cows for embryo surrogacy can yield higher conception rates compared to traditional methods.
  • Farmers receive a premium price for embryo calves, offering a potential boost in income.
  • This practice can contribute to rebuilding the commercial beef cattle herd in the U.S.
  • Successful implementation requires excellent management and knowledge of nutrition and calf care.
  • Innovative collaborations, like the one between Jake Osborn and an Ohio dairy farm, demonstrate the viability of this method.
dairy farms, income sources, embryo surrogacy, selling milk, innovative approach, increasing demand, meat, high cost, beef-recipient cows, breeding, dairy cows, beef animals, crossbred calves, revenue stream, resource-efficient, methane-powered energy, cow dung, reducing waste, cutting energy costs, beef industry, high cost, scarcity, meat-recipient cows, collaboration, Ohio dairy farm, club calf producer, Jake Osborn, Wyatt Osborn, repurpose, leftover embryos, live newborns, precision breeding procedures, conception rate, development, conformation, profitable, higher price, embryo calves, beef-cross calves, consistent extra cash source, higher fees, calves, healthy, $800-$900 per head

What if I told you that your dairy farm might make additional money by “renting out” its cows? Yes, you read it correctly. Consider your cows as surrogate moms. The current income trend for dairy farms is to get into embryo surrogacy, a relationship that offers high financial rewards. Intrigued? You should be. “Right now, there are so many more embryos sitting in tanks than sitting in cows,” said show stock photographer J. Brad Hook, host of the “Genuine JBH” podcast.

From Manure to Methane: The Creative Ways Dairy Farmers are Cashing In 

Have you ever wondered how dairy farmers generate additional money besides selling milk? They are investigating new income sources, such as making composted manure a viable commodity for gardeners and farmers. It benefits the environment as well as their pocketbook.

Then there’s the increase of beef-cross calves. Farmers are capitalizing on the increased demand for meat by mating dairy cows with beef animals. These crossbred calves are reasonably priced, offering another revenue stream.

Not to add, some farms are becoming innovative with their resources. Consider producing methane-powered energy from cow poo! These farms are decreasing waste and lowering energy costs, with some even selling excess power back to the grid.

Have You Ever Thought About Renting Out Your Cows’ 

Have you ever wondered how dairy farmers make extra money besides selling milk? They are looking at additional revenue streams, such as making composted manure a marketable item for gardeners and farmers. This helps both the environment and their wallets.

Then there’s a surge in beef-cross calves. Farmers are capitalizing on the rising demand for meat by breeding dairy cows with beef animals. These crossbred calves are affordably priced, providing another money source.

Furthermore, some farms are becoming very resource-efficient. Consider generating methane-powered energy from cow dung! These farms are reducing waste and cutting energy costs, with some even selling extra energy back into the grid.

But you might be wondering why the beef industry needs this innovation. 

But you may be asking why the meat market needs this innovation.  According to J. Brad Hook, the supply of embryos has far outpaced the availability of beef recipient animals, particularly in today’s high-dollar-value beef sector. “Recip cows are now too costly to acquire. Custom beef recipient herds are fully booked and have significantly raised their rates owing to the worth of the animals,” he said.

Jake Osborn, a club calf producer from Lynchburg, Ohio, also contributes, emphasizing the financial benefits of this relationship. “At my location, a 20-30% fertilization rate on embryos was very normal, which is not favorable to producing money,” Osborn told me.” “Currently, we’re running 55-70% conception in the dairy cows, which is way better on IVF embryos than I’ll ever do at my house.”

Furthermore, Osborn highlights the practical advantages for dairy producers. “The dairy is capable of synchronizing a huge number of recipes simultaneously. “You can get a whole string of calves from the same mating, born just a few days apart,” he stated.

Embryo surrogacy is a possible answer to some of the beef industry’s most urgent issues, particularly the high cost and scarcity of meat-recipient cows. J. Brad Hook summarized it: “Right now, there are so many more embryos sitting in tanks than in cows.” This novel strategy has the potential not only to ease those concerns but also to generate new cash for dairy producers.

Jake Osborn’s Creative Collaboration: Turning Dairy Surrogacy into a Profitable Venture 

Jake Osborn’s collaboration with an Ohio dairy farm demonstrates the possibility of embryo surrogacy to improve dairy profitability. Osborn and his son Wyatt worked with an 800-cow dairy to repurpose leftover embryos. Beginning with a small experiment of nine embryos, they produced six live newborns owing to the dairy’s synchronized breeding cycle and strict care for the cows’ health.

Osborn stressed the benefits of cooperating with the dairy farm, citing a substantially higher conception rate—55-70% vs 20-30% on his farm. The dairy’s success stems from its precision breeding procedures. The resultant calves had no difference in development or conformation from their dam-reared counterparts, demonstrating the attentive care given by the dairy workers, whom Osborn rewarded with incentives depending on the calves’ selling price.

Financially, the venture was profitable for both sides. The dairy earned a much higher price for the embryo calves than for its beef-cross calves, giving a consistent extra cash source. Meanwhile, Osborn successfully brought excellent embryos to life, providing buying families with gentler, well-handled show calves ideal for young handlers. This partnership demonstrates how innovation in agricultural operations may result in win-win situations for all parties involved.

Why Embryo Surrogacy Could Be Your Farm’s New Cash Cow 

The advantages of using embryo surrogacy for dairy producers like yourself are many and considerable. One of the key advantages is that dairy cows have more excellent conception rates than average beef recipients. You may wonder why conception rates are crucial. Higher conception rates result in more successful pregnancies, calves, and, eventually, more money.

Furthermore, you may charge higher fees for calves born from these embryos. Osborn said the dairy earns more than the already healthy $800–$900 per head for beef-cross calves. This assures a consistent and profitable revenue stream, providing a valuable financial buffer to your conventional dairy business. It’s all about maximizing each cow’s potential in your herd, increasing their value.

So, if you’re seeking a strategy to increase your farm’s profitability and efficiency, embryo surrogacy might be the creative option you’ve been looking for. It’s a win-win scenario, with more results for the same work.

The High-Quality and Family-Friendly Calves Emerging from Embryo Surrogacy

The calves born via embryo surrogacy have shown exceptional quality and demeanor. Regarding development and conformation, Osborn’s calves are indistinguishable from those raised in dams. This high level of quality is mainly due to the meticulous care given by the dairy’s outstanding caretaker, who ensures that the calves flourish and achieve high standards.

Furthermore, the temperament of these show calves has proven beneficial. Families that purchase these calves are especially impressed with their gentle attitude and willingness to lead, making them perfect for young caretakers. Osborn pointed out, “You can buy one for your 10-year-old without worrying about them getting hurt.” This temperament difference provides customers with peace of mind and distinguishes surrogate-born calves.

If You’re Wondering About the Bottom Line, Let’s Break It Down 

If you’re curious about the bottom line, let us break it down. Traditional beef-cross calves cost a reasonable $800-900 per head. However, the cost of embryo surrogacy is much higher. Consider Osborn’s business, for example. His carefully nourished embryo calves fetch prices that exceed this baseline, often at a premium to conventional procedures.

Let’s try some elementary math. The difference is startling if a typical beef-cross calf earns $850 on average and an embryo calf earns $4,000-$5,000 per head. Even at a lesser cost of $4,000, the income is over five times higher (4,000 / 850 = around 4.7). Multiply this by 150 calves, and your potential profits rise from $127,500 to an impressive $600,000. That’s before you factor in any extra expenditures.

The price per calf isn’t the only important aspect here; teamwork also results in more excellent conception rates and simplified operations. This increased efficiency and premium pricing make embryo surrogacy a feasible and perhaps transformational option for your dairy farm.

Weighing the Risks: Challenges Every Dairy Farmer Should Know About Embryo Surrogacy

Of course, every opportunity has its own set of problems and hazards. Embryo surrogacy is no exception. Let’s start with the initial investment expenses. While the rewards might be substantial, starting up may need a considerable initial investment. You will need to acquire high-quality embryos, which are not inexpensive. Not to mention the expenditures associated with hormonal synchronization and veterinary care. This may make some farmers afraid to enter this terrain.

Then, there’s the requirement for specialized expertise. If you’re considering embryo surrogacy, you should be prepared to learn new skills or employ someone who already does. The technological know-how used during embryo implantation may significantly impact the success rate. It’s not just about implanting an embryo in a cow; it’s about doing it correctly to increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy.

During the procedure, complications may emerge. Even with experienced hands at work, conception rates may be a problem. Mistakes in hormone delivery or timing might result in unsuccessful implantations. Furthermore, if the receiving cow has stress or health concerns, it may undermine the whole operation. Calves may not flourish as predicted, introducing another degree of danger. Embryo transfer is both an artistic and a scientific process.

The Sky’s the Limit: Unlocking New Horizons with Embryo Surrogacy 

Looking forward, the possibilities for embryo surrogacy business options are endless. Consider bespoke raisers that specialize in raising embryo calves from birth and developing them into high-quality show cattle. This might be game-changing for purebred cattle ranchers looking to expand their herds without the trouble of controlling pregnancies.

Another promising option is to use dairy cows to help restore the commercial beef cattle herd in the United States. Did you know the nation’s beef herd is now the lowest it has been in over 70 years? Dairy cows calving out beef embryos may provide a much-needed remedy. This methodology might increase beef output by giving a more consistent and efficient means of herd growth.

These prospects don’t simply benefit the cattle business. They’re also a lifeline for dairy farmers wanting to diversify their revenue sources in an age when every dollar matters. So, why not pursue this novel path? Your farm might be at the forefront of a whole new specialized industry in agriculture.

The Bottom Line

For dairy producers, diversifying revenue sources is more important than ever. From innovative methane-powered energy to beef-cross calves, new avenues are opening up for extra money. Embryo surrogacy, the newest game-changer, benefits the dairy and meat sectors. By taking advantage of dairy cows’ natural reproductive cycles, you may pay a premium over market prices for embryo calves. Consider how this may fit into your organization after seeing how Jake Osborn is benefiting from it. It’s not only about making additional money but also maximizing resource use and increasing the commercial beef cattle herd. Consider renting out your cows’ uteruses since this might be an untapped specialty.


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Why Are Dairy Farmers Desperately Holding onto Their Cows in 2024? Uncover the Truth

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

Why are U.S. dairy farmers holding onto their cows amid a 20-year low in replacements? How is the beef-on-dairy trend reshaping the industry?

Summary: U.S. dairy farmers are shifting gears, sending fewer cows to slaughter to keep herd sizes stable. This move is driven by the profitable beef-on-dairy market, with high cash flows from selling beef-on-dairy calves. The drop in dairy replacements and rising heifer costs since September 2023 has led producers, especially in the West, to keep more cows, causing slaughter numbers to hit a 20-year low. The high value of week-old beef-on-dairy calves ($800 to $1,000 each) offers a profitable opportunity for dairy farmers, who are also investing in gender-sorted dairy semen to plan for future replacements. This trend shows no signs of reversal, presenting both challenges and opportunities.

  • Record drop in cow culling, reducing slaughter by 397,200 head over 10 months.
  • Shift driven by profitable beef-on-dairy market, boosting cash flow for dairy farmers.
  • Beef semen sales surged 276% from 2017 to 2023, with most sales to dairy farmers.
  • Dramatic decline in dairy replacements, pushing heifer costs to $3,000+ per head.
  • Week-old beef-on-dairy calves now fetching $800 to $1,000 each, a lucrative opportunity.
  • Growing trend of using gender-sorted dairy semen to ensure future heifer replacements.
  • Current trends show no signs of near-term reversal, creating both challenges and benefits.
dairy farming industry, crisis, beef-on-dairy concept, drop in dairy replacements, rising heifer costs, western areas, herd numbers, profit, cull cows, slaughter numbers, 20-year low, strategic move, beef-on-dairy market, economic incentives, milk production, high-yielding dairy cows, cattle semen sales, dairy-beef calves, $800 to $1,000, dairy cow replacements, scarcity, costs, auction markets, supply-demand mismatch, high pricing, profitable opportunity, demand, limited availability.

Imagine being a dairy farmer in 2024, facing a harsh reality in which every choice might make or break your existence. Farmers have been forced to reconsider their strategy due to the 2024 dairy crisis, mainly caused by a drop in dairy replacements and rising heifer costs. Are you interested in knowing why this is occurring and what it implies for the future of your farm? Since September 2023, dairy farmers in the United States have sent fewer cows to slaughter for 46 weeks, indicating a desperate attempt to protect their herd.

YearCows Sent to SlaughterBeef Semen Sales (in Millions)Dairy Replacements AvailableAverage Heifer Replacement Value
2017665,0002.51,000,000$1,200
2023606,0009.4800,000$2,800
2024397,0009.4709,100$3,000+

Why U.S. Dairy Farmers Are Clinging to Their Cows: Unraveling the Staggering Industry Shift

Since September 2023, dairy producers in the United States have kept more of their cows, especially in western areas. This strategic move was made due to a lack of dairy alternatives and high beef-on-dairy market pricing. Farmers want to protect their herd numbers and profit from the lucrative beef-on-dairy business by limiting the number of cows sent to slaughter.

The dairy business has seen the impact of a considerable decline in cull cows during the last ten months. Between January 1, 2024, and July 6, 2024, dairy producers in the United States slaughtered 259,400 fewer cows. Extending this pattern to September 2023, we observe a stunning reduction of 397,200. Culling numbers have fallen to a 20-year low in parts of the United States, including the West.

This rapid fall represents a strategic move as farmers stick to their herds, aided by a beef-on-dairy solid market. Record-high beef prices encourage producers to keep cows for extended periods to crossbreed calves, contributing to the historic low culling rate.

Beef-On-Dairy: The Game-Changer for Dairy Farmers’ Cash Flow 

The beef-on-dairy market is at the center of this movement, drastically altering the economic incentives for dairy producers. Traditionally, dairy producers prioritized milk production and keeping a consistent herd of high-yielding dairy cows. However, the growth in cattle semen sales to dairy producers has wholly transformed the scene. Farmers produce more lucrative calves for the meat market by inseminating dairy cows with beef semen.

This rise in cattle semen sales has improved cash flow for various reasons. First and foremost, dairy beef calves are much more expensive than purebred dairy calves. According to the National Association of Animal Breeders, beef semen sales will increase by 276% by 2023, with dairy producers receiving 84% of the proceeds. This move has resulted in week-old dairy-beef calves commanding between $800 and $1,000 each. The most excellent purebred dairy bull calves sell for less than half that amount.

The record prices for dairy-beef calves are partly due to the beef sector’s low feeder supplies, which have been at their lowest since 1972. This scarcity raises demand and, as a result, the price of beef-on-dairy calves, making it a very successful investment for dairy farmers. Dairy producers that include beef genetics in their herds do more than preserve their dairy cows for milk output. Still, they use high market prices for beef calves to boost their cash flow.

Beef Semen Sales Surge: A 276% Leap That’s Revolutionizing Dairy Farming

Some surprising facts support the enormous rise in beef-on-dairy initiatives. According to the National Association of Animal Breeders, beef semen sales to dairy producers in the United States have increased by an astounding 276% between 2017 and 2023. Specifically, sold units significantly increased from 2.5 million in 2017 to 9.4 million by 2023  [National Association of Animal Breeders].

Dale Woerner of Texas Tech University believes there are between 3 and 3.25 million beef-on-dairy animals in the United States. “The growth in this area has been exponential, creating a significant shift in both the dairy and beef industries,” says Woerner [Texas Tech University].

The Heifer Crisis: Soaring Prices and Scarce Supply Challenge Dairy Farmers

YearDairy Heifer Inventory (in 1,000s)
20044,200
20084,350
20124,500
20164,650
20204,300
20243,500

The effects of dairy cow replacements have been nothing short of remarkable. With the inventory of dairy heifer replacements at a 20-year low, scarcity pushes up costs. At auction markets nationwide, prices for dairy heifer replacements have risen beyond $3,000, indicating a significant supply-demand mismatch. This fast jump in replacement prices presents a considerable problem for dairy producers, who must now negotiate a more competitive market to renew their herds.

High Prices for Beef-On-Dairy Calves: A Golden Opportunity for Dairy Farmers

The current trend of high pricing for beef-on-dairy calves is a profitable opportunity for dairy producers. Week-old calves sell for between $800 and $1,000 a head, twice the price of the finest purebred dairy bull calves. This increase in value is caused by a combination of inadequate feeder supply and continued high demand from the beef industry. Because beef-on-dairy calves fetch such high prices, and it takes almost three years from a heifer’s pregnancy to her first calf, there are no indications of a near-term reversal. As demand for excellent beef rises and availability remains limited, dairy producers will prioritize this lucrative crossbreeding technique.

The Smart Bet on Heifers: Dairy Farmers Embrace Gender-Sorted Semen for Expansion

Meanwhile, dairy producers looking to expand their operations are increasingly resorting to gender-sorted dairy semen. This strategy ensures that more female calves, or heifers, are produced to replace old cows and sustain milk output. In 2023, 54% of all dairy bull semen sold in the United States was gender-sorted, representing a 5% rise over the previous year. This trend emphasizes the need for dependable replacements in an industry facing a dairy cow crisis.

The Bottom Line

The dairy farming environment in the United States is rapidly changing. Farmers resort to the beef-on-dairy concept to save their income flow when faced with a steep fall in dairy alternatives. While this trend gives a much-needed financial boost, it has resulted in a heifer shortage issue, raising replacement prices and forcing the sector to adjust. The increase in beef semen sales and the strategic shift to gender-sorted semen demonstrate dairy producers’ inventive methods for overcoming these obstacles. With milk supply staying static and replacement costs skyrocketing, the economic viability of dairy farming is jeopardized. The demand for smaller but bigger dairy farms and growing input prices are altering the business. The choices made today will likely affect the future of dairy farming in the United States, requiring farmers and industry stakeholders to reassess their strategy and plan for the difficulties.

Download “The Ultimate Dairy Breeders Guide to Beef on Dairy Integration” Now!

Are you eager to discover the benefits of integrating beef genetics into your dairy herd? “The Ultimate Dairy Breeders Guide to Beef on Dairy Integration” is your key to enhancing productivity and profitability. This guide is explicitly designed for progressive dairy breeders, from choosing the best beef breeds for dairy integration to advanced genetic selection tips. Get practical management practices to elevate your breeding program. Understand the use of proven beef sires, from selection to offspring performance. Gain actionable insights through expert advice and real-world case studies. Learn about marketing, financial planning, and market assessment to maximize profitability. Dive into the world of beef-on-dairy integration. Leverage the latest genetic tools and technologies to enhance your livestock quality. By the end of this guide, you’ll make informed decisions, boost farm efficiency, and effectively diversify your business. Embark on this journey with us and unlock the full potential of your dairy herd with beef-on-dairy integration. Get Started!

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