Size of the herd is smallest since 1973
Dry conditions over the last three years have driven the number of cattle in Texas to lows not seen since the early 1970's.
Ranchers culled herds after the worst drought since 1956 eroded crop yields sending feed prices up over 60%. Russell Woodward with the Texas Beef Council says even though the supply for beef is down the demand is still high, driving prices up.
Woodward says retailers are still offering good weekly deals on premium cuts so there are still deals to be had this holiday season. It is speculated that if the dry conditions do not continue it will take over two years for the herd numbers to rebound.
