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 and Knoxville, Iowa.
Oklahoma City sold 4,600 compared to 7,600 a year ago, and Hale said that concerns about the weather played a part in that slowdown. The feeder market, especially steer calves, was under pressure which Hale contributed to a reduction in quality because quality feeders still brought good money.
While moving cattle North across the Mexican border has resumed, Hale has heard that they are moving slowly.
Hale reported that while sellers would like to get top dollar for their cattle, they are still overall happy with the prices. “The market is still extremely good,” Hale said. “Fats brought over $2.05 in the panhandle last week.”
He expects the winter weather to play a major factor in the runs at Comanche and especially Woodward later this week.
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
