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.
At the Oklahoma National Stockyards on Monday, cattle numbers were higher than a year ago, with about 5,800 head compared to 4,400 last year. Hale said the market was somewhat uneven, but better-quality cattle saw stronger demand. “We did have some good black steers, weighed like eight and a quarter at $355, so it was awful good,” Hale said. Calf prices were not quite as strong, but Hale said there was still plenty of activity among buyers.
Hale said widespread rainfall could have a major impact on the cattle market as producers look toward wheat pasture. “As we get some widespread rain, that’ll make a world of difference,” he said. Producers are working to get wheat planted and established, with the goal of having enough pasture to spread calves out. “That’s what we need. We need them scattered out,” Hale said.
Hale also discussed the cattle market following last Friday’s Cattle on Feed report, which showed placements below expectations for the second consecutive month. “The placements aren’t as big as what they have been being,” Hale said. Despite stronger feeder cattle and fed cattle markets, Hale said some buyers remain cautious after taking losses. “Those guys have been losing some money, so they’re probably a little bit cautious to just jump out there and give it all again,” he said.
Looking ahead, Hale said Western Livestock has several markets scheduled across Oklahoma, including runs in Waurika, Comanche and Woodward before returning to Oklahoma City next Monday. Waurika is expected to have about 2,800 head, while Woodward will have around 450 cows along with yearlings later in the week. Hale encouraged producers with questions about the current markets to reach out directly.
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
