The number of cattle and calves in Oregon is up four percent from last year, though the national average is slightly down. The national agricultural statistics service reports that the cattle count in Oregon is nearly one point four million.
Agricultural statistician Jeremy Beach attributes the numbers to rising prices in corn and hay paired with increased market value of cattle.
Though Oregon is not well known for cattle production, beach says it plays an important role in the state’s economy.
Beach: “The majority of our cattle would be down in the south east region of the state. Oregon may not be as well known for cattle as some other western states, but I think it plays a pretty vital role.”
The number of dairy cows in the state remains steady, while beef cows jumped five percent, accounting for the larger cattle stock. About half of the state’s cattle are comprised of beef cows.
