Farm Director KC Sheperd is visiting with Bob Rodenberger, a partner with Stockman Oklahoma Livestock, as he gives the latest on the cattle markets. Together, discussed the impact of recent weather patterns on the livestock industry in Oklahoma, with mixed results of improved crop yields and livestock conditions but potential challenges from an upcoming heatwave. They also touched on the financial constraints many farmers are facing, leading to the decision to continue selling cattle to meet cash needs.
“We’ve had good rain, and there is a lot of wheat being cut in places,” Rodenberger said. “I haven’t really got a feel of how it is turning out, but a few people have told me they are getting better than average yields.”
In general, Rodenberger said everyone is in better shape than they were six months ago. Looking at the number of cows being eliminated, Rodenberger said soon he expects runs to be much lighter compared to last year.
“The market is still good,” Rodenberger said. “There is not any slack in that calf market. They are buying some calves, and our margins are getting slimmer based on what we can insure them for.”
Regarding the potential for rebuilding the cattle herd, Bob indicated that many producers are still hesitant due to concerns about future weather conditions.
