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.
Hale noted that the markets opened slightly lower during the week, especially for feeder cattle. “We had 6,800 head compared to 8,600, and Thursday at Woodward, it was pretty much a runaway,” he said. However, things shifted after Trump’s comments on beef imports, which caused the market to go “down the limit ” on Friday.” Despite the decline, Hale said he was “really pleased” noting that strong demand remains for quality feeder steers and calves.
Hale emphasized that quality continues to drive prices, saying, “If the quality is right, the prices are right.” He pointed out that the market isn’t seeing an overwhelming number of feeder cattle, especially on the front end, which has helped keep optimism alive. “They called it a little higher on the steer calves weaned,” he explained, suggesting that strong demand for lighter-weight cattle is supporting the market. Even amid short-term volatility, he believes many see the downturn as “kind of a knee-jerk deal.”
Turning to weather and pasture conditions, Hale said producers are hopeful for rainfall to improve wheat pasture and support calf performance. “I wish western Oklahoma would get more, because that would sure help,” he said. Hale mentioned that he personally has “over 1,000 acres- if we just get a half inch or an inch on it.” He believes that with some moisture and stable futures prices, “we’ll probably see a big difference in these calves,” and that the market “could get better on these calves” if wheat pasture conditions improve.
Addressing the volatility triggered by recent political comments, Hale cautioned that the cattle market remains “plenty jittery.” He said, “When you make a statement like that, you’re going to bring prices down, and people don’t like that very good—especially when you’re talking about a foreign country that you could be importing a lot of beef from.” Hale added that while imports of lean beef are already a reality, “just let the markets work itself out. When you go to saying you’re going to make something cheaper, that just don’t sound good in a capitalistic society.” Despite the market’s ups and downs, Hale reported steady runs across Western Livestock’s locations this week, with “well over 2,000 Thursday, maybe 2,500” head expected at Woodward.
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
