It should be noted that only active cattle buyers are allowed in the auction ring, due to coronavirus public health guidelines causing current social constraints.

“We’re considered an essential business,” said auction market employee Paul Anderson of Leavenworth. “We’re having decent-sized sales considering the conditions now. The (cattle) market goes with the economy. We’re doing the best we can for our customers.”

While most cattle buyers and sellers come from the local area, a number of them come from as far away as Worthington and other places in southern Minnesota.

Most of the auction market Holstein (cows) are hauled to Green Bay and Dakota City, Neb.

Livestock fill a pen at Sleepy Eye Auction Market. Wednesday auctions continue at the market.

A family-owned business for 67 years, the auction market invites producers to bring their livestock to the auction market and let buyers bid competitively in order to establish true market values.

Dean Ibberson, who owns the auction market with Joe Wersal, said the market is very volatile now.

“It’s usually up or down to the limit each day, depending on whats in the news,” Ibberson said.

“People still enjoy and eat beef. People are starting to cook out now. Everybody looks forward to grilling their first steak. May is beef month, a time to celebrate,” said Ibberson has been working at the auction market since 1974.

For the latest auction market updates and to let the auction market know if you have cattle to move, visit the Sleepy Eye Auction Market Facebook site.

Paul Anderson of Sleepy Eye Auction Market watches over livestock.

Producers with feeder cattle for sale or those looking for feeder cattle, the auction market plans to handle those through private treaty sales.

Ibberson said southern Minnesota still has a good number of auction markets operating.

According to the Minnesota Board of Animal Health, there are 22 permitted livestock auction markets in Minnesota. They serve Minnesota and out-of-state producers by providing a location to buy and sell livestock that contributes to the state’s agricultural economy.

Markets are required to have well-maintained grounds and equipment The market manager ensures all livestock meet identification requirements for sale in addition to record keeping.

Market managers also employ an official veterinarian. Both work to make sure livestock sold is healthy.

For more information, visit www.bah.state.mn.us