Oklahoma Cattlemen Assess Losses as Ranger Road Fire Leaves a Lasting Impact on Cattle Country

Michael Kelsey of the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association joined us with the latest on the Oklahoma wildfires, recovery efforts for ranchers, and the role agriculture leaders are playing in supporting rural communities.

OKLAHOMA CITY (RFD NEWS) — Wildfires across Oklahoma, including the devastating Ranger Road Fire that broke out last week, have caused widespread damage to farms and ranches across the state and in neighboring Kansas, prompting rural communities to begin the long process of recovery while assessing the full impact on agriculture.

Michael Kelsey with the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to provide an update on current fire conditions and what cattle producers are facing on the ground.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Kelsey shared what he is hearing directly from ranchers, including impacts to livestock, fencing, forage, and overall operations. He also discussed the association’s ongoing fire relief fund and outlined what the recovery process is beginning to look like, as well as where the greatest needs are moving forward.

Finally, on a personal note, Kelsey reflected on his time in the National FFA Organization as the industry celebrates National FFA Week, and how that experience helped shape his career in agriculture.

Related Stories
Former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and Kansas congressman Dan Glickman joined RFD News to share his outlook on agricultural policy, bipartisan cooperation, and the challenges facing farmers today.
Katie Keener with the National Women in Agriculture Association joins us to celebrate women in agriculture and spotlight programs and initiatives aimed at empowering female producers across the country.
Nationwide’s Elizabeth Duncan and Traci Via with Agriculture Future of America highlight the impact of women in agriculture and how mentorship and partnerships empower future farmers and ranchers.
UNL student fellow Alison Walbrecht shares her perspective on building support for agricultural research, extension, and teaching while gaining hands-on insight into federal policymaking.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains how geopolitical developments in the Middle East can create energy-driven pressures that impact the supply chain and reshape demand for certain ag products.
Jake Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance offers his perspective on current cattle market conditions and shares advice for producers seeking to stay protected in an uncertain market.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Mexican livestock officials are emphasizing surveillance and inspection systems to preserve access to the U.S. cattle export market. Texas’ Bovina Feeders explains the rising stakes as the border stays closed.
University of Arkansas’ Allen Szalanski discusses a news study on rice stink bugs, what it could mean for farmers, and pest management strategies for the future.
Weak crop margins and tariff uncertainty are delaying machinery purchases and signaling slower capital investment across U.S. agriculture.
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum explains the role farm safety net programs play in supporting farm finances as growers head into the 2026 planting season.
Watch AARP Live tonight at 7:30 PM ET on RFD-TV to learn more about ways to reduce expenses and make smart financial choices.
Corn demand is rising thanks to ethanol expansion, yet year-round E15 remains missing from the Farm Bill—leaving farmers questioning the policy gap.