ANALYSIS OF FACTORS AFFECTING COW AUCTION PRICE DIFFERENTIALS

tions reflected their genetic characteristics. But Data from Kansas cattle auctions were analyzed to these studies did not examine the effect of physical estimate the impact a wide variety of physical char- characteristics on cow prices. Given the importance acteristics had upon cow prices. Weight, lot size, of cull cow revenue to cow-calf producers, and the health, pregnancy, grade, dressing percent, breed, existence of previous research demonstrating that time of sale, and market location were important physical characteristics can significantly impact cat- factors affecting the differences in cow prices across tle prices, there is a need for research quantifying the lots on a given day. Results suggest that producers impacts of physical characteristics on cow prices. interested in maximizing the price they receive for PURPOSE OF STUDY