Forage Fodder: September 2023

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Hay Market Demand and Price Report for the Upper Midwest

Demand and Sales Comments

Corn silage harvest may have reduced demand for hay. Markets are reporting limited sales and reduced demand. As always top quality alfalfa hay demands top price. Remember to be safe during the harvest season. If you have, questions on this report contact richard.halopka@wisc.edu. If you need forage or have forage to sell or straw, connect to the Farmer-to-Farmer website. You may contact your local county agriculture educator if you need help placing an ad. There is no charge for the service.

Straw prices are for oat, barley, or wheat straw. Limited supply at the auctions. Small square bales averaged $4.80 a bale (range of $3.50 to $7.00). Large square bale straw averaged $52.00 per bale (a range of $33.00 to $76.00). Large round bale straw averaged $62.00 per bale (a range of $50.00 to $80.00). Limited sales available.

In Nebraska, alfalfa hay prices are steady to weak. Demand is rather bleak this for this time of year.

In South Dakota, Prices are steady to weak, with moderate demand. Grass hay has demand for calves coming off pasture.

In Missouri, supply is light; prices are steady with light demand. Hay harvest may be done for the year.

In Kansas, demand increased this week, with very slow activity in the market with mixed prices.

In Wisconsin, prices for hay are steady. Hay yields are down in the state for 2023. Corn silage harvest is wrapping up as dry weather allowed many acres to be harvested in a short time period. Corn silage is filling bunkers and silos with little interest in hay buying.