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 said the Oklahoma National Stockyards saw about 5,800 cattle compared to roughly 3,500 a year ago. Feeder cattle prices continued to climb, with feeder steers selling $5 to $10 higher and six- to seven-weight steers quoted more than $20 higher. Calves also sold higher, and demand remained strong across nearly all classes of cattle. Hale said, “It was just very, very active,” with little discount on bulls or unweaned calves.

Hale said the latest cattle-on-feed report is another sign that cattle supplies are tightening. He noted it was the third consecutive month showing that trend, which could be contributing to the strength in the market. However, he said increased imports of Mexican cattle remain an unknown factor, along with efforts to increase cattle weights.

While sellers are pleased with the higher prices, buyers are trying to adjust to the rapid increases. Hale said wheat pasture could help support demand for calves as producers look for grazing opportunities. “There's wheat up, and there's some of that stuff up in Kansas that they irrigated that they've turned in on a little bit,” Hale said. He added that additional rainfall could improve grazing conditions, with reports of rain already reaching parts of West Texas. Hale also said some producers have held onto weaned calves while watching the market and may be ready to sell as prices improve.

Hale reported a busy week across Oklahoma's country markets, with Waurika expecting close to 3,000 cattle and about 450 cows. Woodward had around 600 cows, while Comanche was preparing for a strong sale. After seeing about 2,700 cattle the previous week, Woodward was expecting another sizable run. Overall, Hale said activity has remained strong as producers respond to higher prices and improving wheat pasture opportunities.

Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.