Farm Director KC Sheperd is visiting with Bob Rodenberger, a Partner with Stockman Oklahoma Livestock, as he gives the latest on the cattle markets. Rodenberger discussed the current state of the cattle industry, highlighting that they were producing more with less cattle, aiming to keep consumers satisfied. He noted that while there had been some slowing in sales, there was still demand for their products.
“Runs were pretty much normal compared to a year ago,” Rodenberger said. “Out at El Reno, they had a bigger than normal run. Oklahoma City was at a little bit less than they had a year ago. We had a good run at Apache.”
The markets are looking positive, Rodenberger said, and feeders are selling higher than ever.
“We are still moving the beef, and that is going to be the key to our business for the next six months,” Rodenberger said. “We have just got to move beef and move what is available because we don’t have to have any cattle coming to town when you are making them 30 pounds heavier than they were a year ago.”
Regarding recent rainfall, Rodenberger confirmed that overall, it has been beneficial for crop growth and demand. He also predicted a stable market for the coming weeks, despite anticipating the sale of older cows to make way for younger ones.
“In general, the livestock industry is in a good state,” Rodenberger said.
Rodenberger said Monday and Tuesday at Oklahoma National Stockyards will be closed.