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.
The first cattle sale of the new year at the Oklahoma National Stockyards kicked off with exceptional strength, according to Ben Hale of Western Livestock. Hale said the strong market made for a welcome return after the holidays, calling it “a great market and a fun way to come back when in such a strong market, great weather.” He added that the only missing ingredient was moisture, noting, “The only thing we need is a little rain.”
Hale reported a significantly larger run compared to last year, with nearly 9,600 head sold versus 7,600 a year ago. USDA reported steer calves trading sharply higher, and Hale said demand for lighter cattle was especially aggressive. “Some of that calf deal could have been higher than what it was quoted,” he explained, pointing out that six-weight cattle suitable for grazing “got way up in them, $4.04 to $4.50 on some of them.”
The high prices have caught the attention of producers, particularly when looking at the dollars per head. Hale said, “You figure what an eight or nine weight brings today versus what you’re given for a five and six weight today… there’s not much spread at all, dollars per head.” He added that despite futures lagging behind earlier highs, demand continues to push the cash market higher.
As the new year begins, Hale said buyer attitudes remain optimistic, even with dry conditions across much of the region. “Everybody’s just kind of shocked at the way this thing’s taken off,” he said. While lack of moisture has created challenges, Hale noted buyers are still stepping in, believing lighter cattle will remain in demand. “If and when it does rain these light cattle, I think, will run again just because of the sheer demand and not much inventory out there.”
Beyond Oklahoma City, Hale outlined a busy week across Western Livestock markets, including Waurika, Comanche, and Woodward. He said several cow dispersals and strong runs of calves and yearlings are already lined up. “It’s going to be a busy week,”
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
