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.
Hale said the Oklahoma National Stockyards saw a strong market despite cattle numbers running below year-ago levels. Recent rainfall across Oklahoma may have slowed cattle deliveries, with some producers dealing with muddy conditions. Hale described the market as “pretty snappy,” particularly for feeder cattle, noting that some of the best-quality feeder steers and heifers brought stronger prices.
Hale said demand for feeder cattle remains strong as feedlots look to fill their pens. “They must be getting a little short because they’re wanting some cattle,” Hale said. He added that buyers are actively competing for available cattle in Oklahoma City, with “just about everybody” having a place for them. While fewer lightweight calves have been coming to market, Hale said there is still plenty of interest when those cattle arrive.
Looking ahead, Western Livestock expected around 2,000 additional cattle at Oklahoma City, along with approximately 700 cows each at Woodward and Comanche. Hale said rain had forced some cattle to be held back from the previous Woodward sale, setting the stage for a stronger run later in the week. He expects cattle numbers to gradually increase as the weather changes, adding that “whatever run we have, we’ll have when that first frost is” will likely be a sizable one.
Hale also discussed the importance of establishing wheat pasture to help spread calves out rather than concentrating them in grow yards and feedlots. Some producers are still waiting to see whether they will need to replant, but Hale said there is encouraging progress across the state. “There’s quite a bit of it up, and there’s lots and lots of wheat deals going to be running,” he said. With more time and favorable weather, Hale hopes producers can get enough wheat grazing established to help accommodate calves this fall and winter.
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
