Texas sheep and goat production still strong in changing market

ProAg recently highlighted the strength of Texas’ sheep and goat production, saying the livestock are still in demand and getting good prices despite slightly declining numbers, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service economist Bill Thompson.

“Prices in the lamb market are good, but not near what they were,” Thompson said. “But the market is interesting because there are really two markets now as hair sheep have become popular.”

Texas sheep producers are now raising both Rambouillet sheep and hair sheep, the latter of which are now two thirds of the market. Lamb production is still profitable, despite a slight dip in prices in the first quarter of this year, from $2.13 per pound last year to $2.12 per pound.

“They do a good job, when there is opportunity to put lambs in feedlots to run their weight up,” he said. “When buyers can pencil out profits on higher weights, they will do that.”

The goat market is increasing dramatically, which Thompson attributes to growing immigrant markets and improved logistics in the industry.

“Prices are as strong as they were a year ago and above the five-year average," Thompson said. "They’ve really been on a tear the last few years."

Thompson, however, noted that sometimes the cost benefits do not outweigh the difficulties of raising goats.

“Goats can be trouble,” he said. “They can be aggressive and are really good at causing damage and getting out of pens. Some producers are weighing the costs and benefits and many have switched to hair sheep.”