State-By-State Hay Summary
Colorado—In the April 24 report, compared to last report, trade activity and demand light. Feedlots don’t have new crop hay pricing available currently. Offers from the dairy are at $1.00/point delivered on both old and new crop hay.
Missouri—In the April 24 report, compared to last report, hay prices are steady to weak, supply and demand are light to moderate. Heavy rains over the last week stopped all field work once again. Flooding occurred along many smaller creeks and rivers across the state and standing water became common in many low-lying fields. All but a few counties in the northwest and northeast parts of the state have been removed from the drought monitor now. With most areas having ample moisture the above average temperatures this week should really get pastures and hay fields growing. As of earlier this week 69% of the state’s pastures were rated in good to excellent condition, 23% fair and 4% poor.
Nebraska—In the April 24 report, compared to last week, reported forage prices steady. Demand was light to instances moderate. Some hay going to out of state feedlots in bales or as ground and delivered product. Quite a few forage producers are holding hay over into the new crop year due to the dryness in the area. Also, they are hoping to increase the price per ton they are selling their hay. Next report will be released May 8.
Oklahoma—In the April 25 report, compared to last report, prices remain steady, and demand is at a standstill compared to the last report. Rain has covered Oklahoma multiple times, preventing hay producers from moving hay. No end in sight for cattle being sold. Producers are officially in the between season of old hay and new hay. Alfalfa cutting season is here, and prices for alfalfa are still undetermined for new crop hay. Preparation for the new crop of grass hay is underway as well. The availability of grass hay is still high when it comes to supply across Oklahoma. Next report will be released May 9.
Texas—In the April 18 report, compared to last report, hay prices are mostly steady to firm across all regions. Recent rains in portions of the panhandle, north, south and east have been welcome but brought on the cool season weeds. Hay supplies have tightened up and first cutting is still a few weeks away in the south and at least a month or more out in other regions. Drought conditions have worsened in the west and southwest. Stage 3 water restrictions were in effect for the San Antonio Water System, and Stage 4 restrictions were present for farmers and pumpers operating in the Edwards Aquifer. Next report will be released May 2.
South Dakota—In the April 25 report, compared to last report, movement of hay demand is light planting of new alfalfa crops have started in some parts of the state.
New Mexico—As of the Nov. 22, 2024 report, the hay season was complete. No more reports will be issued until May 2025.
Wyoming—In the April 24 report, compared to the last report, all reported hay sales sold steady. Demand was mostly light to instances moderate. Sellers are starting to let go of some tonnage since new crop will be here before we know it and they all need space in hay barns for the 2025 product. Some producers still have some 2023 sitting around the farm.
Montana—In the April 25 report, hay sold fully steady. Producers continue to push to sell as much hay as possible as they try to lower supplies and reduce carryover into the next hay season. Supplies continue to move across the state at a steady pace. Many producers continue to have hay priced to move as they are serious about limiting carryover. Larger hay sales over 500 ton continue to sell with discounts to smaller sales. A few larger old crop hay sales continue to be seen, however most producers have sold through all of their 2023 hay and are working on 2024 hay. Supplies have decreased over the last few weeks. Light to moderate supplies are being reported in most locations. A cool or wet start to spring has limited grass growth and slowed many ranchers from turning out. This has helped sell some higher quality mixed hay and grass hay as ranchers need quality hay to keep cows from chasing grass. Demand for hay in the eastern portion of the state has improved in recent weeks as dry conditions are beginning to become worrisome for ranchers. Market activity was mostly moderate to active this week.
