The U.S. Agriculture Department saidan estimated 8,700 head of dairy cattle were slaughtered during
the week ending March 13 as a result of the Whole Herd Dairy
Buyout program.
    The cumulative total of cattle slaughtered under the
program from April 1 through March 13 is estimated at 1,032,300
head, it said.
    Cumulative meat purchases through March 27 total
376,897,330 lbs, the department said.
    Dairy cattle reported for export under the program for the
period April 1 through March 27 totaled an estimated 55,055
head, the department said.
    Live cattle exports are in addition to the meat purchase
requirements, the department said.
 Reuter
