East Texas ranchers optimistic about future of cattle market Cattle producers are faced with many challenges annually, but the past year has been particularly rough because of the pandemic and then last monthâs winter storm. East Texas ranchers optimistic about future of cattle market By Jeremy Thomas | March 16, 2021 at 11:47 AM CDT - Updated March 17 at 1:13 AM CROCKETT, Texas (KTRE) - The cattle market has seen difficulties in the past year. Even in the past month with the winter storm, the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service estimates at least $228 million in statewide livestock losses. But economists say they are already seeing signs the market is trying to recovery.