Wyoming ranchers struggling amid drought, higher costs and new pressures from beef imports

Updated on: September 7, 2026 / 3:15 PM EDT / CBS News

Wyoming ranchers struggling amid drought, higher costs and new pressures from beef imports

TL;DR

  • Wyoming ranchers are contending with drought, rising costs, and scarce land.
  • President Trump's 90-day waiver of higher tariffs on some ground beef imports has created uncertainty.
  • The announcement of the tariff waiver caused an immediate drop in cattle futures.
  • The White House stated the waiver aims to lower beef costs for consumers.
  • Ranchers argue the import plan could harm their businesses and efforts to rebuild herds.
  • High input costs, including tariffs and diesel, are also affecting ranchers.
  • Experts believe the tariff plan may not substantially lower consumer prices but could hurt U.S. ranchers.
  • Concerns exist about the long-term viability of cattle businesses and national food security.