DENVER – In recent history, drought has been isolated to various regions of the country, rather than a widespread drought threatening most of the country. Last year, for example, drought was centered primarily in the Southern Plains. According to Kevin Good, senior market analyst for CattleFax, 70 percent of the U.S. cattle inventory is located in regions of drought. “The widespread drought has ultimately led to the worst pasture conditions in the past 15 years,” said Good. “The U.S. calf crop is down 800,000 head. The bottom-line, when all is said and done, the cattle herd will decrease by about 500,000 head. This is compared to a 900,000 decrease a year ago, so we are seeing a liquidation but at a slower pace than last year.” Despite the obvious challenges facing America’s cattlemen and women, Good offered reason for optimism. Consumer demand remains strong with solid retail and foodservice sales.