Great year for cattle farmers means higher prices for consumers

As cattle markets across North America continue to set new price records, things are certainly looking up for Alberta beef producers.

However, customers looking forward to this years barbecue season may have to brace themselves for rising costs.

Todd Wagner has 3,000 cattle on his farm in Stony Plain. After a decade of struggle - thanks to the mad cow disease crisis, the drought in the United States and losses here in Canada - hes finally reaping rewards for his hard work.

Wagner called it a perfect storm." The dollar has dropped, feed prices are lower and the costof finished cattle has risensignificantly.

This year, Wagner said cows are being sold for $2,100 each - a price higher than anything hes ever seen in his life.

Ive never sold cattle that high as far as the finished price goes, said Wagner. Its not even close. Its 30 per cent above anything weve seen, for sure. Its high. Period.

Weve had a tough ride, said Wagner, reflecting on farming over the past 10 years. Its good to have some recovery.

Consumers should expect to see the effects of the rising costs the next time they pick up a steak at the grocery store.

You definitely see a bit of an increase in pricing, especially from the big chain stores that are buying from feedlots, said Corey Meyer, the owner of the ACME Meat Market. While he has been able to control the cost of beef at his store, he says consumers should expect to pay more.

I know that prices are fluctuating and a little bit on the up scale, he said. Its the way it is Right now prices are going up, but in time they will come down.

Until then, Meyer said he is happy to see local farmers doing well.

Back at the farm, Wagner is enjoying the current market but says you never know what lies ahead.

Theres always a crisis around the corner but at the moment its good and the future looks bright.