Washington-Oregon (Columbia Basin) Weekly Hay Report

Tons:  17,150    Last Week:  1890    Last Year:  5730                       

   Compared to last Friday, Alfalfa firm in a light test. Trade slow this 
week for old crop. Active trade was noted this week for new crop export hay 
un-tarped. Some discounts may apply if rain damaged. Exporters say inventories 
of 2017 Alfalfa and Timothy hay should sell out this spring. Retail/Feedstore 
steady.  The Federal Reserve Bank Chairman Powell announced an quarter point 
interest rate increase yesterday but indicated a much more aggressive path 
for interest rates in the future. In addition to the increase yesterday, he 
suggested two or three more increases this year and three more increases next 
year. Borrowing cost for many will undergo sharp increases after remaining low 
for the past decade. All prices are dollars per ton and FOB the farm or ranch 
unless otherwise stated. 

                        Tons      Price      Wtd Avg    Comments
  Alfalfa                                                                 
    Mid Square                                                            
      Premium            850  170.00-170.00  170.00     Export            
      Good/Premium      8000  165.00-165.00  165.00     New Crop          
      Fair/Good         8000  145.00-145.00  145.00     New Crop          

  Alfalfa                                                                 
    Small Square                                                          
      Premium             65  200.00-200.00  200.00     Retail/Stable     

  Orchard Grass                                                           
    Small Square                                                          
      Premium             35  240.00-240.00  240.00     Retail/Stable     

  Timothy Grass                                                           
    Mid Square                                                            
      Fair               100  175.00-175.00  175.00     Export            

  Timothy Grass                                                           
    Small Square                                                          
      Premium            100  340.00-340.00  340.00     Export