Joplin Regional Stockyards: Pioneering Excellence in Livestock Marketing
For over 70 years, Joplin Regional Stockyards has stood as a beacon of excellence in the beef industry, earning its reputation as the largest cow/calf auction in the nation.
Joplin Regional Stockyards: Pioneering Excellence in Livestock Marketing
For over 70 years, Joplin Regional Stockyards has stood as a beacon of excellence in the beef industry, earning its reputation as the largest cow/calf auction in the nation. With more than 10 acres under its roof and 50 weeks of cattle sales each year, Joplin Regional Stockyards is a vital hub for buyers and sellers in the four-state region.
Annual Magnitude
The sheer magnitude of Joplin Regional Stockyards is staggering, with more than 450,000 head of cattle marketed annually. This impressive figure solidifies the stockyards' position as a pivotal player in the industry, attracting cattle enthusiasts, ranchers, and buyers from far and wide.
Value-Added Programs
Joplin Regional Stockyards takes pride in offering value-added programs that set a new standard in livestock marketing. These programs provide producers with the opportunity to market their cattle through special sales, emphasizing specific value-added practices. These practices, including health programs, optional feeding programs, weaning, and individual identification, result in premium payments, showcasing the industry's preference for high-quality, value-added cattle.
The dedication to quality is evident in the meticulous requirements of these programs. For instance, castration of bulls and dehorning are prerequisites for participation. Specialized tags, available for purchase through the facility, ensure traceability and adherence to program standards.
Several distinct vaccination programs, such as JRS Calf Vac, JRS Vac 45, JRS Vac 60, and JRS Stocker Vac, cater to different needs and timelines. These programs not only promote healthier calves but also offer flexibility for producers, aligning with the industry's evolving demands.
Commingle Sales: A Winning Strategy
Since September 2001, Joplin Regional Stockyards has been at the forefront of commingle sales, conducting them on a weekly basis. This innovative approach involves processing cattle through a modern sorting facility, bringing together cattle from multiple producers into larger, more uniform lots based on various criteria like weight, shape, color, and sex.
The benefits of commingling are manifold. Larger lots attract more buyers, translating to premium prices compared to smaller drafts. Smaller producers, in particular, benefit by selling at a premium sale time. The process is streamlined, with cattle arriving on Sunday for Monday sales, undergo sorting, and then are measured, weighed, sexed, and tagged for individual identification.
The unique aspect of commingle sales lies in the fair computation of ownership percentages for sellers, ensuring equitable returns. This service is offered at no charge, further enhancing its appeal to producers.
By embracing commingle sales, Joplin Regional Stockyards not only enhances the marketability of cattle but also provides a prime selling opportunity during the 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. time frame. Additionally, the Internet auction option allows sellers to view their cattle sales remotely, adding a layer of convenience to the process.
In conclusion, Joplin Regional Stockyards continues to be a trailblazer in the beef industry, combining tradition with innovation to serve the diverse needs of cattle producers and buyers. Through value-added programs and forward-thinking approaches like commingle sales, the stockyards remain a cornerstone of success for those engaged in the dynamic world of livestock trading.