I just read today that according to the USDA, in the first quarter of 2009, U.S. cattle ranchers received the smallshare of the consumer's beef dollar in 7 years. The price paid to U.S. cattle ranchers in May 2009 for raising a choice beef steer from birth to 18 months of age was approximately $1,059. Consumers who purchased choice beef after the packer slaughtered athe animal paid about $2,168 for the meat.

Further evidence that not only is locally raised, grass fed beef healthier but also cheaper.