The Kansas Buffalo Association held their 36th Annual Show and Sale earlier this December. Following is a summary from Dick Gehring of Black Kettle Buffalo and member of the Kansas Buffalo Association. Dick will be sharing his insights on how to raise market ready bison calves at the National Bison Association Winter Conference in January. (NBA Staff)
Prices were higher across the board again this year and tracked with other sales around the country. We had another good set of animals with very few fly weights or disadvantaged animals in general. Consequently, the variances in the breakdown of typical weight and quality divisions were minimal. Meat market animals reflected the state of the industry—long on demand, across the board. Bidding was strong on all bull calves, with the majority bringing $5.50 to $5.70. Heifer calves averaged $4.67, with most solid heifers in the 4-weight range bringing $3.80 to $4.60. A number of heavyweight yearling bulls brought $3.10 to $3.20, while most yearling bulls ranged from $4.15 to $4.35. Fall calves fell into the calf range provided they weren’t disadvantaged, and good quality late calves pushed $5.00. Yearling heifers were fairly steady in the mid-$3 range. Two-year-old bulls weren’t really tested with just 13 head, but held steady at $3.50, while two-year-old open heifers had just 2 head.
Top bred heifers were in high demand, bringing $4,000 or better, and top bred cows were strong at $3,500. Opens brought $2.35 to $3.00. This was our 36th year at Farmers and Ranchers, and as usual, our hats are off to Mike and his crew. A special shoutout goes to Mason Winter and Winter Livestock at Farmers and Ranchers for allowing us to continue our tradition.
Looking ahead to next year, remember that live sales are the one true price discovery for this industry. Having those animals in front of you and all in one place is invaluable. Consider selling your stock with us—we’d love to have you. Many believe they can’t afford the commission, but when prices are this high, it’s hard to argue. Becoming established as a quality producer pays dividends, and when the market drops—as it inevitably will—the value of your animals selling at our sale will be realized over and over. Those who choose not to become established may be at the mercy of buyers looking to make up for lost revenues during the last run of high prices, and that will be at your expense. Just food for thought—value that for what it cost you to get it.
Thanks to buyers and consignors. It was our pleasure. For those who missed the opportunities, don’t miss next year. From all of us at the KBA Sale, Happy Holidays and have a great new year.
—Dick Gehring