BOISE, Idaho — One year ago, an examination of soaring beef prices nationwide explored what was driving increased costs at the grocery store. Those prices have only continued to rise.

Cameron Mulrony, executive vice president of the Idaho Cattle Association, said several factors are at play.

"When you look at the beef price in the retail market store, it really boils down to supply and demand," Mulrony said. "Our national cow herd is down. With the work of the beef checkoff and the Idaho beef council and all the other partners, demand is up, and that combination then creates a higher price in the marketplace. As consumers choose how to spend their dollars, they're noticing."

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the nation's cattle inventory has dropped to its lowest level in

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