Talking beef prices and rail logistics

Beef price transparency is getting more attention these days because of two major events, a fire in 2019 and the pandemic. Industry groups and lawmakers are taking action. To get some perspective about what's a play here, we connected with Jacqui Fatka, policy editor for Feedstuffs and Farm Futures to learn more. She shares some history on the issues, how regional differences impact the beef market and looks at a two-track plan in the works, one voluntary and the other mandatory. Then she turns her attention to the railroad industry. Consolidation in the industry, and a pandemic, have impacted how freight moves in this country. She sat in on a hearing recently and learned plenty, which she shares in the podcast. About 25% of the grain raised in the United States still moves to market by rail. Photos: Beef – Steve Oehlenschlager; Railroad – BCFC – iStock/Getty Images Plus