Oklahoma Cattle Ranchers See Improving Conditions, but Drought's Effects Linger

Jun 05, 2023

By Xcaret Nuñez

Recent rainfall across Oklahoma has chipped away at drought-stricken areas, bringing some relief to cattle ranchers.

But full recovery is still a ways away, said Derrell Peel, an extension livestock marketing specialist for Oklahoma State University.

With dried-up ponds and little to no forage, the drought has forced some ranchers to sell their livestock early for the past two years. Last year had the most beef cows slaughtered since recordkeeping began in 1986, according to a USDA livestock report.

Rebuilding cattle herds will be a slow process, Peel said.

“I think at this point, it's highly unlikely that we could actually turn this thing around and stop the liquidation completely,” Peel said on SUNUP. “Now, we don't expect a lot of liquidation, but it does depend on what happens to the drought as we go forward.”

The USDA crop progress report shows pasture conditions are improving with recent rains. The latest report shows pasture and range conditions were rated at 80% fair to good, while the first report in May was rated 45% fair to good.

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Video: Shearing Delay Leads To Kingston 4H Sheep Show!

What started as a disappointment turned into a day full of surprises, fun, and celebration as we leave Ewetopia Farms behind and head out to the Kingston Fair to watch the 4H sheep show

Today’s vlog was supposed to be another sheep shearing day here at Ewetopia Farms, but when our shearer had to cancel, we suddenly found ourselves with an unexpected free day. Lucky for us, the Kingston Fair was happening — and some of our own sheep (and friends) were competing!

We brought along our shearing helper and headed to the fairgrounds to cheer on the 4H kids and see how our sheep did in the show. From last-minute preparations and sheep showmanship to market lamb competitions and ewe classes, we take you behind the scenes of what it’s really like at a country fair.

We couldn’t be prouder — our girls walked away with wins in both showmanship and breeding ewe classes! Afterwards, we toured the fair, met a beekeeper with fascinating insights, admired other livestock shows, and wrapped up the evening with motocross stunts and a demolition derby!

Sometimes farm life throws curveballs — but today, it gave us the chance to celebrate community, our sheep, and the next generation of shepherds.