Cattle producers in parts of South Dakota are going on their third year of lower conception rates in their cow herds. The rate of open cows in south central part is running from 20-percent to 50-percent, depending on the operation. Cody Moore is a cattle producer and co-owner of Winner Livestock. He says that trend has been reflected in their sales.

Frank Volmer also an owner with Winner Livestock Auction. He blames the poor conception rates on the cows being under more stress, especially tied to weather.

Volmer says it also has to do with the fall feeding program. With the open weather, producers have been trying to save on feed costs by having cows graze on lower quality corn stalks through December.

He says the end result will be a smaller calf inventory next year.