While record prices for cattle should paint a picture of profitability, ranchers continue to wrestle with the increased cost of land and capitol. The cattle industry remains on edge, as a mixture of low cattle inventory and surging expenses continue to limit the natural cycle of expansion for the nation’s cattle herd. A renewed sense of optimism is in place after several years of hardship and drought, as cattle prices are expected to remain high in the coming year hopefully allowing ranchers the economic upside to prepare for future challenges.