Today, the United States observes Presidents’ Day, a federal holiday that typically sees government offices closed, mail delivery suspended, and financial markets at a standstill. However, while these closures are standard, the cattle market operates somewhat independently, with regional cash cattle auction markets remaining open for business. Retail stores across the country also generally remain open on this holiday.
This year, Presidents’ Day coincides with a significant weather event impacting the Southern Plains, particularly Oklahoma. An extreme cold snap is forecast for the region, prompting several livestock markets to adjust their schedules to protect both people and animals.
The Oklahoma National Stockyards, for example, has proactively combined its normally scheduled Tuesday Cow and Bull sale with its Monday sale. This consolidation aims to avoid the worst of the impending cold weather, which is predicted to hit Oklahoma from Tuesday through Thursday.
Similarly, OKC West is also responding to the extreme temperatures. They will hold their Monday Cow Sale as planned but have canceled their Tuesday and Wednesday sales. This decision prioritizes the safety of employees and the cattle themselves amidst the potentially dangerous conditions.
Further south, the Comanche Livestock Market has announced the cancellation of its Wednesday, February 19th sale due to the forecasted extreme cold. They anticipate resuming their regular schedule the following Wednesday. Stockman’s Livestock Auction in Apache will hold its online sale on Wednesday but will be closed on Thursday.
Southern Oklahoma Livestock Auction in Ada will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday this week as well.
There will also be no Sale on Tuesday at Woodward Livestock Auction, they will be selling cows after the stockers/feeders sale on Thursday.
The overarching message for anyone involved in the cattle market this week is to be prepared for potential disruptions. If you were planning to move or sell cattle between Tuesday and Thursday, it is crucial to contact your chosen market before loading up. With single-digit temperatures and wind chills expected to plummet to 20-30 degrees below zero, many sale locations are likely to close. Checking with the specific market is essential to avoid wasted time and ensure the safety of both livestock and personnel.
