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.
Market activity at the Oklahoma National Stockyards saw a slight dip in numbers during the first week of April, something Hale attributed in part to holiday timing and recent weather. “Numbers down just a little bit after Easter, I had a few of them canceled because of that,” Hale said, noting that scattered rains also played a role. Even so, receipts still came in near expectations, with “right at 2800 I think,” and strong quality cattle helped support the trade.
Despite the lighter run, Hale emphasized the market’s strength across the board. “The market was extremely stout on all of them,” he said, adding that demand remains especially firm for grazing cattle. “Grazing cattle were higher again, which we kind of knew they would be,” he explained, reflecting continued confidence among buyers as spring grass conditions begin to improve.
Weather continues to be a major driver of producer sentiment, and recent widespread moisture has boosted optimism. Hale pointed out that “a big majority of them soaked up pretty good,” referring to areas across Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas that received beneficial rainfall. Looking ahead, he said additional moisture could further tighten supply. “If we get all this rain… you’re going to tighten these runs up,” he said, adding that improved conditions “gives you a lot more confidence in these cows and bred heifers… It’s all in all a good, good sign to me.”
Across other markets in the region, Hale expects a steady but weather-dependent flow of cattle. He highlighted activity in Waurika, Oklahoma, Comanche, Oklahoma, and Woodward, Oklahoma, noting, “going to be kind of busy this week,” with special sales and solid runs scheduled. Still, the outlook hinges on incoming rain. “If that’s the case, it’s probably going to slow it back,” Hale said, reinforcing how closely market volume is tied to improving pasture conditions this time of year.
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
