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.
The cattle trade at Oklahoma National Stockyards closed out May with steady yearling prices and active buyer interest, according to Hale, even as lighter volumes and softer calf prices reflected seasonal shifts. Hale said feeder cattle “held in there pretty good,” adding that in some areas “ it was very active.” He noted grazer cattle traded a bit lower as more new crop calves entered the market, explaining that “when you mix in that many new crops, it kind of affects [prices] a little bit,” even though quality front-end calves continue to “sell extremely well.”
Hale acknowledged USDA reports showing weaker prices for weaned steer and heifer calves but said demand remains strong despite the seasonal slowdown. “Still very active, but yes, I think you’re kind of getting to the point in time,” he said, pointing to the Memorial Day break and hopes for widespread rainfall. Hale added, “Got good rain chances all next week, so we hopefully get it over a big area. We sure need it.”
As producers head into summer, Hale said many customers remain surprised by the value cattle are bringing. “I think a lot of them are still amazed at what they bring, dollars per head,” he said, especially for sellers who do not market cattle regularly. While markets may be leveling off after weeks of sharp gains, Hale said optimism remains if the weather cooperates. “There’s still a lot of energy in the market, on both sides, feeders and grazers,” he explained, adding that rain could restore confidence in grazing and stock cow demand.
Cull cows are another bright spot in the market, Hale said, with prices remaining historically strong despite large runs. “Still running quite a few cows, but even as many as they’re running, that market just seems to be holding them,” he said. Hale added, “We just kind of break new highs every week,” as beef demand continues to support stronger cow values. Those higher cull cow prices are also helping producers replace older females with younger stock, saying, “The cows are bringing a lot, and those bulls are bringing a lot,” while risk protection tools make replacement decisions easier.
Looking ahead, Hale said Western Livestock’s sale barns across the state remain busy despite Oklahoma City pausing for the Memorial Day holiday. He said markets at Waurika, Comanche, and Woodward are expecting strong runs of cattle and cows, adding, “Just full speed ahead next week in the out markets.” While Oklahoma City will be off for Memorial Day, Hale confirmed sales at regional markets will continue as normal.
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
