One cattle group leader is expressing concerns with not only keeping processing plants open during the coronavirus pandemic but also the need for further investigation into the cattle market price downturn. South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association President Eric Jennings says whatever’s done to correct the cattle markets must be done carefully.

He says as the federal government takes an in depth study of the markets, at least they’re not starting from scratch with their investigation.

Jennings says he and other cattle producer are facing several challenges now, not only the low market prices for their animals but also the concern of any stoppage of processing plant operations due to the coronavirus.

The USDA responded quickly to the request from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association for that further study into the cattle market conditions. Jennings is encouraged by that response.