The USDA has announced up to $500 million in assistance for meat processors, a move aimed at expanding packing capacity and strengthening the nation’s meat supply chain. On this week’s Cattle Chatter, we break down what the investment could mean for the cattle market, both in the near term and for the industry’s long-term infrastructure. The cash cattle market started the week on softer footing, with Southern trade showing early signs of weakness. As the industry navigates historically tight cattle supplies, Brad Kooima of Kooima Kooima Varilek says producers need to remain disciplined in their marketing decisions. While fundamentals