DICKINSON — On February 1, 2024, Dickinson, North Dakota will host the prestigious Greater Midwest Livestock Auctioneer Contest (GMLAC) at the Stockmen's Livestock Exchange. This event marks a significant comeback, as the competition was last won by Dickinson in 2009.
The competition's roots go back to 1989 when the Fargo stockyards hosted it for the first time. Although the Fargo yards have since been dismantled, the enduring tradition of cattle ranching and processing thrives in North Dakota.
James B. Miller
The Stockmen's Livestock Exchange, a cornerstone of the Dickinson community since the 1930s, remains a vital part of the area's rural landscape.
“Stockmen's local business has been here for almost 87 years,” said John Fischer, co-owner of the stock. “We just took over last year and we sell between 110,000-160,000 head of cattle a year.”
Fisher emphasized that all the cattle they sell go directly to local suppliers and residents.
This year, 25 contestants from various states, including Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Texas, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, South Dakota, North Dakota and Oklahoma, will converge on Dickinson. In addition, some contestants will make the trip from Canada to participate in this prestigious competition.
The competition will unfold in three sections throughout the day. In the opening segment, all contestants will participate in the long round, vying to sell weighed cattle to a captive audience of buyers. Weighed cattle usually consist of those born late in the season, older cattle or those with health problems that are likely to be sold for slaughter.
Dickinson Press file photo.
After the long round, the top ten auctioneers will return to compete in the feeder cattle sale. Feeder cattle are weaned calves in good health, suitable for grazing or ready for the finishing process.
As the event draws to a close, the top three auctioneers will receive well-deserved recognition for their exceptional skills. The first place winner will receive $1,000 and a buckle, while the second place winner will receive $500 and a buckle. The third winner will also be awarded a commemorative buckle.
For more information about GMLAC, visit their facebook page at
From the dirt roads of nowhere in Arizona, where I grew up on a family farm just a stone's throw from the river, to the open plains of North Dakota, I hope to cultivate the small-town Dickinson feel I've come to love. Whether it's connecting with a rancher on his out-of-town acreage or attending the latest community gathering, I'm excited to share updates on happenings in our community. In doing so, I aim to become a valued member of the historic communities that grace the beautiful land we call home.
