De SMET, S.D. (WNAX) – A study released this week commissioned by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic, cattle losses could reach $13.6 billion. NCBA Policy Division Chair and South Dakota cattle producer Todd Wilkinson (of De Smet) says the purpose of the analysis is to quantify producer losses.

The study shows cow-calf producers will see the biggest impact with losses totaling an estimated $3.7 billion or $11.91 per head for each mature breeding animal in the U.S. And without offsetting relief payments, those losses could increase to $135.24 per animal. Wilkinson says those type of losses are shocking.

He says even if the coronavirus were to go away, those losses will only increase.

Wilkinson says federal relief is needed immediately as the U.S. cattle industry is currently experiencing a national disaster.