U.S. Cow Herd Hits Smallest Since 1951; Recovery Possible by 2027–28

Line on Agriculture
The US cow herd has experienced seven consecutive years of decline, with the 2025 inventory being less than the previous year, indicating ongoing liquidation. Bill Bullard of R-CALF USA suggests that the trend might reverse slightly in 2026 due to more heifers being retained for breeding, but significant growth may not be seen until 2027 or 2028