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.
Cattle markets at the Oklahoma National Stockyards saw strong volume and generally steady demand this week, according to Hale. He said nearly 9,800 head moved through the sale, well above year-ago levels, and while some labeled the market as softer, he viewed prices as mostly steady. Flashier feeder cattle drew strong bids, and grazing cattle with good green fronts sold as well as, or better than, recent weeks, especially considering the market pressure following last Friday’s negative screwworm news.
Hale noted that buyer demand remains especially strong for cattle that are properly preconditioned, vaccinated, and not overly fleshy. While some cattle carrying extra wheat or feedyard flesh saw a bit of price pressure, the overall tone of the sale improved throughout the day. Aside from a few lighter-weight cattle trading slightly lower, Hale said most classes from 400 pounds on up held their ground through the end of the sale.
Much of the current conversation among both buyers and sellers centers on weather, particularly the need for widespread moisture. Hale said producers across Oklahoma, Texas, and surrounding regions are all hoping for rain to help green up wheat and pastures. Adequate moisture would allow cattle to stay out in the country longer, easing pressure on town markets and supporting better price structure through the rest of the year.
Looking ahead, Hale said upcoming runs could be lighter as colder weather approaches. He expects moderate numbers at markets early in the week, followed by a larger run at Woodward later in the week as producers try to move cattle ahead of winter weather. Some Texas markets have already canceled sales for next week, and Hale said if conditions worsen, volume could be light across the region. Despite ongoing cost concerns, he emphasized that producers remain engaged and active in the market.
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
