The cattle industry and markets have been as strong as expected over the last two years. Yes, we have seen pressure spots along the way that cause a ripple or mild concern, but folks, it’s still really good. Now, for the seedstock and purebred business, we all expected this fall bull sale season to kick off with a bang. It’s absolutely been a complete firework show, exceeding all expectations as producers ante up to make their next generation of calves bigger, better and more storied.
I know the bull market typically goes hand in hand with the feeder market, like the old saying goes: “four to five calves to a bull purchase.” But then you add in the high-yielding cull bull market we saw late spring and summer and it opened the door that much more for you to trade up in quality for fresher genetics and more years of breeding use, and gain value-added market access.
It has been a ride the last 12 days of purebred bull sales, from the first bull offered in California to kick off the season bringing $420,000 to a young progressive Angus operation in Oklahoma. The next day we sold a paternal brother for $300,000. So far, we have sold five bulls for more than $50,000, and about six more sold for more than $30,000.
All these purchases are fellow purebred breeders excited to add the next promotional piece to their herd bull battery. Now, to the core group, the commercial cattlemen, we have sold nearly 1,400 bulls thus far in 13 sales to average just shy of $8,300.
I would say, boy it’s as good as it gets! So hats off to you all. Thank you for being astute producers, valuing elite progressive genetics, supporting WLJ customers and doing business with our local and trusted seedstock producers over the years. It means the world to all of us and helps our ranching communities’ connectivity as our rural arena continues to change with new names and faces.
In recent years, the American ranching landscape has undergone quite a shift that demands our attention. Traditional, family-owned cattle operations—the backbone of rural communities—are increasingly being squeezed out by corporate conglomerates and new landowners. This consolidation isn’t just a business trend; it raises profound questions about the future of agriculture, the vitality of local economies and the preservation of our rural heritage.
Family ranches have long been more than just businesses. They embody a way of life rooted in generations of tradition, stewardship and community. These ranchers have a deep understanding of the land and its ecosystems, honed through years of practice and a personal investment in their communities. When these operations are supplanted by corporate interests, we lose more than just local jobs; we lose a critical connection to our rural identity and values.
The rise of corporate ranching often means a focus on maximizing profits rather than nurturing the land. Large companies may prioritize efficiency over sustainability, using industrial practices that can lead to environmental degradation. This shift is alarming, especially in an era when climate change and ecological preservation are at the forefront of global concerns. Sustainable ranching practices not only protect our natural resources but also support local biodiversity—something that large, profit-driven entities often overlook.
Moreover, the economic impact on local communities is significant. Family-run ranches contribute to rural economies in unique ways, supporting local businesses and providing employment opportunities. When these ranches disappear, local economies can suffer, leading to a ripple effect that diminishes the quality of life for residents. Small-town cafes, supply stores and service providers that rely on ranchers as customers may find themselves struggling to survive in a landscape dominated by corporate giants.
But there is hope. Many consumers are becoming more aware of where their food comes from and are willing to support local farmers and ranchers. Initiatives promoting farm-to-table practices and local food sourcing are gaining traction. This consumer shift can bolster family-owned operations and help revive the rural economy. Additionally, policies that support sustainable agriculture and provide resources for family ranchers can make a tangible difference in leveling the playing field.
As we look to the future of American ranching, it’s essential to recognize the value of family-owned operations, not just for their economic contributions but for their role in preserving the rich tapestry of our rural heritage. We must advocate for a balanced approach that supports these vital operations and ensures a sustainable, equitable future for our agricultural landscape. The choices we make today will shape the rural communities of tomorrow, and it’s time to prioritize the voices that have long been the heartbeat of America’s heartland.
Salute to our continued fellowship and tri-tip lunches this fall on the California bull sale run. — JARED PATTERSON
