11211 - Beef Cattle Ranching and Farming, including Feedlots

Introduction

When it comes to the backbone of America's beef industry, NAICS code 11211 stands out as a key classification in government contracting and agriculture analysis. Known as Beef Cattle Ranching and Farming, including Feedlots, this code captures the full spectrum of operations involved in raising and feeding beef cattle. Whether you're a business owner, contractor, or researcher, understanding this NAICS code is essential for identifying opportunities in the agricultural sector.

What is NAICS Code 11211?

NAICS code 11211 encompasses establishments primarily engaged in raising beef cattle. This includes a variety of operations such as:

• Cow-calf operations: Breeding and raising calves until weaning.
• Backgrounding cattle farms: Growing calves post-weaning and before entering feedlots.
• Beef cattle feedlots: Feeding cattle to achieve market weight.

Activities cover breeding, raising, and feeding cattle destined for beef production. Essentially, this industry involves the full life cycle management of beef cattle to supply the meat industry.

Sector Overview

• Sector: Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
• Subsector: Animal Production and Aquaculture
• Industry Group: Cattle Ranching and Farming

Farming under NAICS 11211 plays a critical role in agricultural production and food supply chains, supporting both domestic consumption and export markets.

Typical Business Types & Activities

Businesses classified under NAICS 11211 generally include:

• Cow-calf operations: Managing herds to produce calves that will be sold to backgrounders or directly to feedlots.
• Backgrounding cattle farms: Raising weaned calves through grazing or feeding for several months prior to finishing.
• Beef cattle feedlots: Intensive feeding operations where cattle are fattened with grain and forage until ready for processing.

These operations might range from small family farms to large commercial ranching enterprises with specialized feedlot facilities.

Small Business Size Standards

To qualify as a small business under NAICS code 11211 for government contracting purposes, the SBA sets the following size standard:

• Maximum employee size: 1,000 employees

This size standard ensures that small to mid-sized operations can compete for federal contracts designated for small business participation in agricultural services.

NAICS 11211 Code Details Table

Attribute	Detail
NAICS Code	11211
Title	Beef Cattle Ranching and Farming, including Feedlots
Description	Establishments primarily engaged in raising beef cattle, including cow-calf operations, backgrounding, and feedlots. Activities include breeding, raising, and feeding cattle for beef production.
Sector	Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
Subsector	Animal Production and Aquaculture
Industry Group	Cattle Ranching and Farming
Typical Businesses	Cow-calf operations, Backgrounding cattle farms, Beef cattle feedlots
Size Standard	1,000 employees

Examples of Businesses under NAICS 11211

• Smith Family Beef Ranches: Operates a large-scale cow-calf operation supplying calves to regional feedlots.
• Green Pastures Backgrounding Farm: Specializes in backgrounding operations, growing calves before selling them for finishing.
• Prairie Plains Feedlot LLC: A commercial feedlot with capacity for over 20,000 head, focused on finishing cattle for meat processors.

These examples reflect the diversity and scale of businesses operating under this classification.

FAQ - Beef Cattle Ranching and Farming (NAICS 11211)

1. What types of cattle operations are included in NAICS 11211?

This NAICS code includes cow-calf operations, backgrounding farms, and feedlots all focused on beef cattle production.

2. Is dairy cattle ranching covered by NAICS 11211?

No, dairy cattle ranching falls under a different NAICS code (11212). NAICS 11211 is specifically for beef cattle.

3. Can feedlots alone be classified under NAICS 11211?

Yes, beef cattle feedlots that feed and finish cattle for beef production fall under this NAICS code.

4. What is the size standard for small businesses in NAICS 11211?

Firms with fewer than 1,000 employees typically qualify as small businesses under this classification.

5. How can NAICS 11211 be used in government contracting?

Businesses use this code to identify relevant agricultural contracting opportunities, qualify for programs, and register in procurement systems.

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Understanding NAICS code 11211 is vital for anyone involved in beef cattle production or seeking government contracting opportunities in agriculture. If you operate or plan to start a beef cattle ranching or feedlot business, knowing the scope and size standards of this NAICS classification will help you navigate the market effectively.

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