The U.S. Department of Agriculture launched a special library to increase transparency for cattle producers by providing insight on key terms, conditions and volumes related to cattle contracting.

While the Cattle Contracts Library pilot has a similar appearance to the working model shared with stakeholders last year, it now includes information from active contracts submitted by packers slaughtering at least 5% of fed cattle in the past five years, as per a final rule published in December 2022, according to a Jan. 31 news release.

“USDA is committed to creating a more level playing field for cattle producers and a more balanced, equitable economy for everyone working in food and agriculture,” USDA Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in the release. “The Cattle Contracts Library Pilot Program supports this commitment by providing producers with the market information they need to make informed production, marketing and business decisions.”

The initial release allows users to browse terms and information in active contracts for fed cattle purchases, according to the news release. Cattle producers will also be able to obtain information on base price; contract specifications for quality, delivery and financing; and premiums and discounts.

“America’s ranchers will enjoy an exciting new window into market opportunities and trends in cattle contracts, one of the most critical parts of the cattle marketplace,” USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt said in the release. “Transparency is the foundation of fair and competitive markets and critical for producers seeking to grow economic opportunities. As we continue to lay the groundwork for more and better markets, USDA looks forward to working with all stakeholders and Congress to enable this pilot library to deliver meaningful and lasting value to producers.”