Richard Moody is reporting for Columbia-Greene Media Empire Livestock in Chatham will close its doors May 1. Empire Livestock General Manager Kenneth Krutz made the announcement April 20. He said the closure was due to changes in the market and challenges in finding experienced and willing employees in this region. According to its website, Empire Livestock is the largest full-service dealer of livestock in the Northeast, and currently maintains nine locations statewide. The company buys animals from farmers to sell at auction. “The beef industry has changed and the competitive nature is driving changes in the marketplace,” Krutz said. “The Chatham market is in a region where some cattle buyers are able to offer direct pick-up services.” With the closure of the Chatham market, the nearest Empire location will be Central Bridge, Schoharie County. Read the full story at HudsonValley360 [dot] com.