Degree Name
Master of Science
Graduate Program
Agribusiness Economics
Advisor
Sanders, Dwight R.
Abstract
The bison market has been becoming increasingly popular within recent years. However, this market is challenging for producers due to disease concerns, aggressive bison behaviors, nutritional and facility requirements and market risks for bison operations. Since most bison data began in 2020, forecasting bison meat prices remains difficult. This raises an important question: can bison meat cut prices be effectively hedged by using live cattle futures prices? This paper examines USDA bison meat cut price data and live cattle futures prices to determine potential correlations. A regression analysis, along with a dummy variable approach is utilized to evaluate the relationship. The results suggest that bison producers may be able to mitigate price changes by using live cattle futures as a hedging tool.