WEST PLAINS, MO., Aug 12, 2026 — Compared to last week, slaughter cows and bulls were $2 to $3 lower at Ozarks Regional Stockyards Wednesday. Demand was moderate on a light supply. Receipts of slaughter animals were affected by the excessive heat and humidity.
Replacement numbers were affected by the special cow sale held Friday with most producers holding back bred cows and pairs for that sale. Total receipts reached 324 head.
Watch for Friday’s special sale report in the Quill next week.
Top Prices of the Day
• The top slaughter bull sold for $236/cwt.
• The top slaughter cow sold for $182.50/cwt.
• The top bred cow sold for $3,850/head with pairs not well tested.
Pricing Averages Snapshot
• Breaker Cows (75-80% dressing): Averaged $173.46/cwt.
• Boner Cows (80-85% dressing): Averaged $172.19/cwt.
• Lean Cows (85-90% dressing): Averaged $159.07/cwt.
• Slaughter Bulls (Yield Grade 1-2): Averaged $205.76/cwt.
Steady trade amid light feeder supply and selective bidding
Compared to last week, feeder steers and heifers calves were steady Tuesday. Demand was good on a light supply of 622 head. Higher heat and humidity returned this week keeping supplies lighter than normal.
Market Highlights
• The majority of the offering was presented in small and single drafts with only one draft of 20 head or more.
• Buyers continue to be very selective in what they are willing to take home in this heat with fleshy, long-haired bawling calves being discounted.
• Feeder cattle supply over 600 lbs made up just 18% of the offering.
Pricing Snapshot (Per Cwt / Avg Price)
• Steers (Medium & Large 1):
◦ 339 lbs: Sold at $580.
◦ 399 lbs: Sold at $540.
◦ 415 lbs: Sold at $527.50.
◦ 458-465 lbs (461 lbs avg): Averaged $493.03.
◦ 500-522 lbs (517 lbs avg): Averaged $454.67.
• Heifers (Medium & Large 1):
◦ 333 lbs: Sold at $535.
◦ 427 lbs: Sold at $465.
◦ 512-533 lbs (522 lbs avg): Averaged $390.43.
◦ 560-579 lbs (570 lbs avg): Averaged $366.42.
Current and September deliveries tested during video auction
Demand was good on a light supply for this video auction held in conjunction with ORS' regular feeder cattle sale. Total receipts were 368 head reported sold. All cattle offered are in Arkansas. Deliveries are current through Sept. 14, with current deliveries representing cattle delivered up to 14 days from the video sale date (through Aug. 25).
Video Auction Highlights
• Southeast Steers (M&L 1-2, 875 lbs avg): Current delivery averaged $326.34/cwt.
• Southeast Steers (M&L 1-2, 900 lbs avg): Current delivery sold for $324/cwt.
• Southeast Steers (M&L 1-2, 850 lbs avg): September delivery sold for $332.50/cwt.
• Southeast Heifers (M&L 1-2, 840 lbs avg): Current delivery sold for $309/cwt.
Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News MO Dept of Ag Market News - Dan Hill, Market Reporter Jefferson City, MO | (573) 751-5618 www.ams.usda.gov/lpgmn
