The 2025 Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) Convention and Trade Show is just around the corner, and cattle producers across the state are preparing for what promises to be an informative and innovative event. In today’s Beef Buzz, Executive Vice President Michael Kelsey shared that the event will be held July 25–26 at the Embassy Suites in Norman, Oklahoma. This year’s theme at the convention is “A Heritage of Innovation,” emphasizing both tradition and forward-thinking practices in the cattle industry.
One major highlight of the event will be a session with Dr. Rod Hall, who will discuss the potential threat of screw worm infestations. Kelsey expressed concern, stating, “We know that it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when regarding screw worm.” He commended Dr. Hall and Secretary Arthur for their proactive efforts in preparing Oklahoma for such challenges and stressed the importance of staying informed and responsive. “We want to give Dr. Hall an opportunity to update us on that,” he said, suggesting the topic may warrant further input from the cattle community.
Weather will also be a key topic, with meteorologist Matt Makens returning to provide insight into current and future climate conditions. Kelsey noted the unusual greenness of the landscape this year, saying, “I’ve never seen it this deep green, like this. This is phenomenal.” Makens’ session will explore whether the favorable conditions will persist or give way to drought, particularly in light of possible La Niña patterns. His talks are “always extremely popular, extremely beneficial,” according to Kelsey.
Economics will take center stage with Dr. Derrell Peel providing the market outlook, a staple of the OCA convention. Kelsey emphasized the importance of Peel’s insights, especially now as “we’re starting to rebuild, and we’re seeing some consistency.” Another crucial session will cover red meat yield, a topic gaining attention due to outdated grading methods. “We developed our yield grade system back in the ’60s,” Kelsey explained, adding, “We don’t sell cattle. We sell beef,” and the industry must adapt to better reflect the value of what producers are truly selling.
Rounding out the educational offerings will be a discussion on emerging ranch technologies, including virtual fencing and ranch bots. “We want to investigate some of this new technology… give our members an opportunity to learn,” said Kelsey. The accompanying trade show is expected to be packed with both new innovations and trusted industry staples. “The trade show is bumper full. It’ll be sold out,” Kelsey confirmed.
The Beef Buzz is a regular feature heard on radio stations around the region on the Radio Oklahoma Ag Network and is a regular audio feature found on this website as well. Click on the LISTEN BAR at the top of the story for today’s show and check out our archives for older Beef Buzz shows covering the gamut of the beef cattle industry today.
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