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.
Oklahoma National Livestock Auctions ran 4,200 head yesterday compared to 5,150 a year ago. He suspects the major rainfall event is the main cause for reduced numbers, as many areas of the state have experienced catastrophic floods.
“There is still lots of wheat grazing out there,” Hale said. “Since it has been cooler and wetter, that’s helping the grazing.”
Hale described the quality of cattle being sold as “quite a bit better.” Overall, the market was called $2 to $11 higher. Low, nine-weight cattle brought $2.70 to $2.86. High, nine-weights brought $2.66 to $2.69.
Hale expects 1,000 head to sell in Waurika today, and another good run in Comanche tomorrow. He noted that the Woodward Sale was off last week but expects good numbers this Thursday, so long as cattlemen can get them out of the potentially muddy pastures.
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
