A:   Input cost in the beef cattle enterprise have risen sharply over the last three to four years, mainly feed, labor, and fuel costs. Calf proces have remained relatively high mainly due to the low beef cow inventory. Because calf prices have remained high, profit potential has been reduces because of the items mentioned above. I would suggest that you go to your local extension office as they will have budgets that will help you work through different scenarios. This approach will help you out a lot.