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Buying Land

Finding the Perfect Pasture for Your Stocker Cattle in Texas and Oklahoma

January 22, 2025

Embarking on a stocker cattle operation in the southern states of Texas and Oklahoma offers promising opportunities due to the favorable climate and rich ranching heritage. However, securing suitable land and understanding the associated costs are crucial steps toward a successful venture. 

This guide will navigate you through the essential factors to consider when finding the perfect pasture and managing the financial aspects of your stocker cattle operation!

Land Selection and Evaluation

The foundation of a thriving stocker cattle operation lies in selecting land with high-quality pasture. The nutritional value of available forage directly influences the health and productivity of your cattle. Therefore, prioritize land with nutrient-rich soil, which can be determined through a soil test to assess pH and nutrient levels. 

Look for established forage grasses such as Bermuda, Bahia, or improved varieties like Tifton 85, as these are well-suited for grazing. Additionally, ensure the area receives adequate rainfall, ideally around 30-45 inches per year, to support healthy grass growth without excessive reliance on irrigation.

Consider the stocking rate, which refers to the number of cattle the land can sustain. In Texas and Oklahoma, this typically ranges from 1 animal unit (AU) per 5-10 acres on poorer soil to 1 AU per 2-4 acres on fertile, well-managed pastures. Avoid overcrowding to allow your cattle ample space to graze comfortably. Access to water is also essential, so prioritize land with natural water sources like ponds, streams, or creeks, or existing water infrastructure such as wells and troughs.

Furthermore, sturdy and well-maintained fences, such as barbed wire, are crucial for containing your cattle and maintaining good relationships with neighbors. The proximity of the land to working pens, barns, and storage facilities for feed and equipment should also be considered for operational efficiency. 

Lastly, evaluate the accessibility of the land and its location relative to markets. Efficient transportation of your cattle to livestock auctions and/or feedlots is essential, and well-maintained roads and proximity to highways can significantly reduce transportation costs and the shrink you may incur on your cattle.

Financial Planning and Cost Analysis

Raising stocker cattle entails both fixed and variable costs. Understanding the typical expenses in Texas and Oklahoma is crucial for effective financial planning. Land costs can range from $3,000 to $6,000 per acre, depending on how many acres, location, quality, and existing infrastructure. Leasing land is an alternative option, with costs typically ranging from $10-$25 per acre per year. The purchase price of stocker cattle typically falls between $1000-$2500 per head, influenced by factors such as weight, breed, and market conditions.

Feed and forage costs can be minimized through effective pasture management. Supplemental feed and minerals may cost around $50-$150 per head per year. Health management, including vaccinations, deworming, and veterinary care, should be budgeted at approximately $20-$50 per head per year. Equipment costs depend on the size of your operation but typically range from $25-$75 per head per year. 

Additionally, allocate $50-$100 per head for miscellaneous expenses such as insurance, fence repairs, and transportation. You’ll also need to include your death-loss ratio because predators and sickness are bound to happen; anticipate a 1:10 ratio at least.

Profitability and Management Strategies

Implementing effective management practices can enhance the profitability of your stocker cattle operation. Rotating pastures promotes healthy grass regrowth and prevents overgrazing. Buying cattle strategically during seasonal dips in prices can also optimize costs. 

Additionally, optimizing stocking rates ensures efficient land use and maximizes the productivity of your herd. You’ll need to check cattle often to prevent illness from spreading and doctor those that need it weekly if not daily during the winter months. Managing this yourself or hiring a ranch manager to do so, could prove cost-effective depending on the size of your operation.

Establishing a successful stocker cattle operation in Texas and Oklahoma requires careful planning and execution. By selecting suitable land, understanding the associated costs, and implementing effective management strategies, you can position your operation for long-term profitability and sustainability in the dynamic cattle industry. You can also reach out to a TCU Ranch Management or King Ranch Institute graduate for a management plan to ensure you have the right resources to keep a profitable operation.

For help finding the right property for your operation, reach out to the land experts at National Land Realty today!

About the Author
Kelly Balderrama is a marketing enthusiast from Valley Mills, TX. She has two children, Ridge and Hadley Ray and her husband, Matthew is a cattleman and horse trainer. Kelly is a rodeo and sports mom and enjoys working cattle with her family on the weekends. She loves to serve in the women's ministry at her church and go deer hunting when she has time. Her love for the outdoors and the cowboy way of life allows her passion to flow into her work on a daily basis at National Land Realty.