On Tuesdays, Senior Farm and Ranch Broadcaster Ron Hays visits with Ben Hale of Western Livestock Auctions as he talks about the latest in the markets and more. Established in 1995, Western has grown into a multi-generational family-owned and operated business and stands as a symbol of tradition, excellence, and a deep-rooted passion for the cattle industry. Western Livestock Auctions operates the Western Livestock Commission Firm, which sells cattle on Mondays and Tuesdays. They also operate the livestock auction markets in Woodward, Comanche, Waurika, and Knoxville, Iowa.
Farmers and cattle buyers are moving into mid-February with a renewed sense of optimism as weather conditions ease and market momentum builds across the region. Hale said recent snow and ice, while disruptive, may have helped winter wheat. “Towards the end of the week, it sure gave that wheat a good color,” Hale noted, adding that upcoming rain chances are boosting confidence. With winter starting to loosen its grip, Hale said the tone has clearly shifted to a more positive outlook.
Market action at Oklahoma National Stockyards reflected that optimism, with significantly larger runs and strong demand. Hale pointed out that receipts jumped to about 9,500 head compared to 4,700 a year ago, and buyers were aggressive. “Feeder steers were steady to higher, pretty good demand,” he said, emphasizing that cattle with grazing potential stood out. “ if they had any kind of grazing flesh, it was a lot higher. Grazers, 15 to 25 higher… just a snappy, snappy, strong market from 630 to the end last night.”
According to Hale, buyer attitude is being shaped by tight inventory expectations and the possibility of improved moisture. “If they see the right kind of cattle, they really want them,” he said, adding that even cattle that aren’t a perfect fit are drawing interest because “they’re just needing the inventory.” Hale believes buyers are looking ahead and getting more aggressive. “I think they realize these numbers will get tighter if it rains… people will hang on to what they got,” he explained, calling it a form of hedging into the future.
Strong markets aren’t limited to Oklahoma City, either. Hale reported solid runs and stout demand across multiple barns. “Woodward last Thursday was a ball of fire… extremely stout, just like Oklahoma City was yesterday,” he said, expecting that strength to continue through the week. With spring grazing season fast approaching, Hale summed up the mood simply: buyers are fast-forwarding the calendar, gearing up to stock grass, and ready to pay for cattle as momentum carries forward.
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
