Farm Director KC Sheperd is back talking with Bob Rodenberger, a Stockman Oklahoma Livestock Marketing partner, as he gives the latest on the cattle markets.
Producers from all over the state have reported getting 1 to 4 inches of rain over the past week or so, and their ponds are in good shape, and they are excited about their wheat pastures. Rodenberger feels confident that the conditions, today, will keep them at least until June.
As far as the sale numbers are concerned, Rodenberger said that runs were light earlier in the week, but were back to normal by midweek. “I know El Reno had a nice run of 6,500 or better, and Apache had 1,200. The little sales down in Waurika and Comanche both had 1,200 – 1,500, I think. That would be normal for all of us, right now,” he said. “In the past, you could add three to five hundred to those runs, but that’s going to be what we see for the next couple of years, just lighter runs.”
He was referring to the lower numbers of cattle in the nation and the lack of serious efforts to rebuild. He feels like the arrival of rain this spring will help more producers get on board with rebuilding and mentioned the Apache Livestock Auction Special Cow Sale next Saturday, May 3.
“There will be a lot of sure enough good type Angus and Red Angus replacement cows, if your wanting genetics and quality to go back in your herd,” he touted.
He discusses the outstanding prices that calves are bringing saying a calf right off of the cow can bring $1,700 to $1,800, and a seven- or eight-weight calf that is weaned and vaccinated may bring $2,100 to $2,200.
“If you are a cow calf man and carrying your own calves out, making them bigger, and protecting your bottom side, it’s the glory days; It’s fun again,” he added.
He expects lighter runs as the week continues into next week due to muddy conditions.
