Do T-Bone and Sirloin live, or die?
According to my latest research a 1,200 lb. steer yields about 450 lbs. of "product". Since our steers will only be about 700 - 750 pounds they will yield much less. Should we grow them another year? That will result in an additional $300 - $500 worth of hay for the winter. Current total investment (variable costs only, not fixed or capital costs) is roughly $800.
1,200 lb. steer <> 700 lb. steer
Cuts Lbs. <> Lbs.
T-Bone 35 <> 13
Sirloin 30 <> 11
Round steak 50 <> 19
Rib & Rump Roast 50 <> 19
Chuck Roast 90 <> 34
Ground Beef & Stew Meat 125 <> 47
Soup Bones & Ribs 70 <> 27
TOTAL PRODUCT 450 <> 170
Price per pound $2.66 ($1200/450#) <> $4.71 ($800/170#)
It seems simple: grow them for another year as the marginal cost ($300 - $500 worth of hay) is less than the marginal benefit (additional 500# lowering the average cost per pound to $2.66). BUT the concern is whether my pasture will sustain now four cows (considering the purchase of Salt and Pepper). I doubt it. Now my feed costs will rise, but assuming total costs of $1,500 for 450# yields only $3.33 per lb.
So, do T-Bone and Sirloin live, or die?
7 comments:
Beef-it's what's for dinner!
"...decrease the surplus population." :)
"What win I, if I gain the thing I seek? A dream, a breath, a froth of fleeting joy?"
Which do you value more, T-Bone and Sirloin OR t-bone and sirloin? Which will be "one sweet grape" or which will be the "vine"?
What if you killed one, and let the other one get to 1,200 lbs? Then you would have 1 big cow on your pasture, 2 smaller cows that will still be growing, and steak in your freezer.
Abe makes a good point. Have your "steak" and eat it too!
This is so funny, Garvin! SO....what happened? I think Abe's idea is good....
No decision has been reached...yet...but, we do know that "T-Bone" for sure...will meet the fulfillment of his creation...this fall...(smile) He has ATTITUDE...which he has earned to go FIRST!
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