Weekly East River South Dakota Hay Market

All prices per ton, unless noted, FOB the stack.

   Compared to last week:  Alfalfa hay prices mostly steady on light reported sales.
Demand and interest for all types and qualities of hay mostly moderate as the drought
conditions across the state has increased in in intensity.   According to the latest
Drought Monitor map released on July 13th, over 93 percent of South Dakota is experiencing
some level of drought with near 11 percent in Extreme Drought Conditions.  Livestock producers
in the most affected counties have been making marketing decisions as pastures are well beyond
saving for this grazing year.  2nd cutting of Alfalfa in the eastern half of the state is nearing
completion, with reports of yield being 20 to 50 percent of 1st cutting.  3rd cutting could be
even lighter, as the lack of measurable moisture for most areas has hindered regrowth.  All hay
and straw sold by the ton FOB, unless otherwise noted.

   Alfalfa:  Supreme:  Large Squares, 145.00-165.00.  PremiuM:  Large Squares,
130.00-150.00.  Fair:  Large Rounds, Old Crop 100.00.

   Sun-cured Alfalfa pellets:  15 pct 145.00; 17 pct 150.00.  Alfalfa
Meal: 17 pct 155.00.

   Alfalfa/Grass Mix:  Premium:  Old Crop Small Squares, 7.50 per bale.

   Grass:  No Reported Sales.

   Cornstalks:  Large Rounds, Delivered 65.00.