Montana Livestock Markets Show Mixed Signals: Light Feeder Offerings, Strong Cow Demand Drive Week of May 3-9, 2026
Montana livestock auctions saw lighter feeder cattle offerings and robust replacement cattle demand during the week of May 3-9, with total receipts of 3,529 head—down from 4,680 the previous week but up from 3,137 head during the same week last year. Market activity reflected ongoing drought concerns across the state, with some ranchers beginning to market pairs earlier than typical.
Market Highlights
Feeder cattle made up just 26.2% of total receipts this week, significantly down from 54.0% last week. Light offerings and mostly plain to average quality limited buyer interest, though steady undertones were evident where comparable sales occurred. CME futures provided little support, with May contracts closing 4.025 lower and August contracts down 7.95 from the previous Friday.
Replacement cattle dominated the market at 43.6% of total receipts, up from 29.9% last week. Young feeding cows saw exceptional demand, selling $10.00-12.00 higher with buyers willing to take cows up to 7 years old for rebreeding programs. Strong Canadian demand continued to support cow prices, with a large portion of offerings shipping north.
Slaughter cattle comprised 30.2% of receipts. Bulls sold fully steady on good packer demand for lean meat, while cow prices held steady despite slightly weaker southern packer interest.
Key Price Summary
| Category | Weight Range | Price Range ($/cwt) |
|---|---|---|
| Feeder Steers (M&L 1) | 400-500 lbs | $532.50-$610.00 |
| 650-750 lbs | $383.00-$437.00 | |
| Feeder Heifers (M&L 1) | 465-540 lbs | $460.00-$512.50 |
| 675-725 lbs | $362.00-$407.50 | |
| Slaughter Cows (Boner) | 1225-1700 lbs | $185.00-$194.00 |
| Slaughter Bulls | 1510-2490 lbs | $202.00-$221.00 |
| Feeding Cows (Young) | Various | $10.00-$12.00 higher |
Drought Impacts and Market Outlook
Persistent dry conditions across Montana are beginning to influence marketing decisions, with some producers bringing pairs to market earlier than normal. Hay prices continue climbing, creating pressure on cattle retention decisions. However, strong demand from Canadian buyers and feeding operations is providing price support for cows suitable for feeding or rebreeding programs.
The lighter feeder cattle offerings suggest producers may be holding back, waiting for better market conditions or dealing with drought-related feed challenges. Quality remains a concern, with most offerings grading plain to average, which limited buyer enthusiasm despite steady underlying demand.
Looking Ahead
Market participants should watch weather patterns closely as drought conditions continue to impact grazing and hay production across the state. The strong Canadian demand for feeding cows appears likely to continue, providing support for that sector. Feeder cattle markets will need improved quality and larger lot sizes to attract more active buyer participation.
Source: USDA AMS Montana Weekly Livestock Auction Summary
