Forage Fodder: April 2018

Monday, April 30, 2018

Weekly Montana Hay Report

Compared to last week:  Hay prices sold fully steady. Demand for 
hay has lightened some as moderate to good demand was seen this 
week. Supplies remain very light to light. Limited hay sales were 
seen this week at generally steady prices. Limited loads of hay are 
becoming available the closer it gets to grass time as producers are 
selling the last of their available supply. Many producers were 
holding a limited supply of hay for emergency purposes for 
themselves or other buyers. The majority of hay that is being sold
continues to be delivered out of surrounding states. Delivered hay 
prices ranged from 175.00-205.00 this week. Straw supplies continue 
to run near zero, however demand has lightened significantly as many
places are beginning to dry out. All prices are dollars per ton 
and FOB unless otherwise noted.

                                              
  Alfalfa:    Supreme:  Small squares, 200.00-250.00
                        Large squares, NA
              Premium:  Large squares, 150.00-175.00
                        Large rounds,  150.00-170.00 
                        Small squares, 180.00
              Good:     Large squares, 150.00-175.00       
                        Large rounds,  150.00-165.00
                        Small squares, NA
              Fair:     Large squares, 130.00-160.00
                        Large rounds,  150.00-160.00 
                        Small Squares, NA
              Utility   Large rounds,  NA
                        Large squares, 115.00   

                
Grass/Alfalfa:Premium:  Small squares, NA
              Good:     Large rounds,  150.00-160.00    
                        Small squares, NA
              Fair:     Large squares, NA
                        Large rounds,  150.00-160.00
              Utility:  Large rounds,  NA


   Grass:     Premium   Large rounds,  NA
              Good:     Large squares, NA
                        Large rounds,  145.00-150.00
              Fair:     Large squares, 110.00
                        Large rounds,  NA
              Utility:  Large rounds,  100.00   
                          

Timothy 
Grass:        Premium:  Small squares, 210.00-240.00
              Premium:  Large rounds,  NA
              Good:     Large rounds,  NA
           

Barley                  Large squares, 90.00-125.00
straw:                  Large rounds,  100.00
                        Small squares, NA
                  

Wheat straw:

South central Montana   Large squares, NA
                        Large rounds,  90.00-125.00
Northern Montana        Large squares, 90.00
                        Large rounds,  90.00

Corn stalk:             Large rounds, NA

Pea/oat/barley Hay:     Large rounds, 115.00

Hay trade light in some areas, steady in others

In Nebraska, alfalfa, grass hay, ground and delivered hay and dehydrated pellets sold steady. All contacts stated that demand was good to very good this week before and after the blizzard that blew across the state, according to the USDA Market News Service, April 20. Prices given on per-ton basis, unless otherwise noted.

Eastern/central—Good alfalfa, large squares, $145-$150, large rounds, $85-$95. Good/premium grass hay, large rounds, $100-$120; fair/good, large rounds, $85-$90; premium, small squares grass hay, $150. Ground and delivered alfalfa, $120. Dehydrated alfalfa pellets, 17% protein, $230. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets 15% protein $210.

Platte Valley—Ground and delivered alfalfa, $125-$135. Ground and delivered alfalfa cornstalks, $120-$125. Grounds and delivered alfalfa/soybean stubble, $115. Ground and delivered cornstalks, $95-$100. Dehydrated pellets, 17% protein, $210-$215. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets 15% protein, $185.

Western—Supreme alfalfa, large squares, $185; good, large squares, $155-$165, large rounds, $170; fair, large squares, $135-$150. Straw, large squares, $65. Ground and delivered alfalfa, $150-$190. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets, 15% protein, $240.

In South Dakota, East River and West River areas, reported sales were very light this week. Prices mostly steady this week. Demand is good with very good interest.

East River—Premium alfalfa, large squares, $180; good, large squares, $155-$165; fair, large rounds, $145, large rounds, $140. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets, 15% protein, $175, 17% protein $180. Alfalfa meal, 17% protein, $185. Good alfalfa grass mix, large rounds, $135. Premium grass, large rounds, $135; good, large rounds, $110; fair, large rounds, $100. Wheat straw, large squares, $125-$130, delivered 30 miles, $140, large rounds, $120. Cornstalks, large rounds, $45, $55-$65 delivered.

West River—Premium alfalfa, large rounds, $185 delivered. Good alfalfa grass mix, large rounds, $165 delivered. Premium grass, large rounds, $185 delivered; good/premium, large rounds, $165 delivered.

In Iowa, all hay classes traded steady.

Rock Valley—Premium alfalfa, small squares, $220; good, large squares, $162.50-$175, large rounds, $162.50-$170; fair, large squares, $145-$155, large rounds, $140-$157.50; utility, small squares, $105, large rounds, $117.50-$122.50. Good grass, large rounds, $160-$170; fair, large squares, $135-$150, large rounds, $140-$150; utility, large rounds, $117.50-$130. Good alfalfa grass mixed, large squares, $160. Millet hay, large rounds, $115-$117.50. Straw, large squares, $100-$112.50, small squares, $5/bale.

In Minnesota, prices were generally steady.

Good alfalfa, large squares, $155-$160; fair, large rounds, $130-$145. Good grass, small squares, $5.20-$5.90/bale, large rounds, $155-$170; fair, small squares, $170, large rounds, $140-$145. Good alfalfa grass mix, large squares, $155, large rounds, $140; fair, large rounds, $125-$130. Straw, small squares, $3.50-$5.10/bale. Cornstalks, large rounds, $33-$58.

In Montana, hay prices sold fully steady. Demand for hay remains good to very good. Supplies are very tight.

Supreme alfalfa, small squares, $200-$250, large squares, NA; premium, large squares, $150-$175, large rounds, $150-$170, small squares, $180; good, large squares, $150-$175, large rounds, $150-$165, small squares, NA; fair, large squares, $130-$160, large rounds, $150-$160, small squares, NA; utility, large rounds, NA, large squares, $115. Premium grass alfalfa, small squares, NA; good, large rounds, $150-$160, small squares, NA; fair, large squares, NA, large rounds, $150-$160; utility, large rounds, NA. Premium grass, large rounds, NA; good, large squares, NA, large rounds, $145-$150; fair, large squares, $110, large rounds, NA; utility, large rounds, $100. Premium timothy grass, small squares, $210-$240, large rounds, NA; good, large rounds, NA. Barley straw, large squares, $90-$125, large rounds, $100, small squares, NA. Wheat straw, SCMT, large squares, NA, large rounds, $90-$125; NMT, large squares, $90, large rounds, $90. Cornstalk, large rounds, NA. Pea/oat/barley hay, large rounds, $115.

In Wyoming, alfalfa and grass hay sold steady. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets and alfalfa cubes sold steady. Demand was good.

Eastern Wyoming—Supreme alfalfa, large squares, $200, large rounds, $185; good, large squares, $170; fair/good, large rounds, $160. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets, 15% protein, $240.

Central/western Wyoming—Premium alfalfa, small squares, $200. Premium alfalfa/orchard grass, small squares, $200. Certified weed seed free alfalfa cubes, $230-$260.

In Colorado, hay trade activity light on good demand.

Northeast—Good corn stalks, large squares, $60. No reported quotes for all other classes of hay.

Southeast—Premium/supreme alfalfa, small squares, $240; good/premium, small squares, $220. Premium grass, small squares, $280. Good haygrazer, rounds, $120. No reported quotes for other classes of hay.

San Luis Valley—Supreme alfalfa, large squares, $200. Premium grass, medium squares, $250, old crop retail/stable. No reported quotes for other classes.

Southwest—No reported quotes from all other classes of hay.

Mountains/northwest—No reported quotes for all other classes of hay.

In Missouri, hay supplies are light to moderate, demand is moderate and prices are steady.

Supreme alfalfa, RFV 185 $180-$250, small squares, $6.50-$8/bale; premium, RFV 170-180, $160-$200; good, RFV 150-170 $120-$160, small squares $5-$7/bale; fair, RFV 130-150, $100-$120. Good mixed grass hay, $100-$150, small squares, $4-$6/bale, some alfalfa/grass mix. Fair/good mixed grass hay, $50-$100, small squares, $3-$5. Fair mixed grass hay, large rounds, $25-$50/bale. Good bromegrass, $100-$150; fair/good, $50-$80. Wheat straw, small squares, $3-$6/bale.

In Oklahoma, alfalfa trade and movement at a near standstill this week. Supplies and offerings becoming increasingly hard to find. Demand is good but most buyers waiting on new crop.

Central—Premium alfalfa, large squares, last confirmed sales, $165-$175. Good bermuda grass, 4 x 5 bales $45-$60; 5 X 6 bales $65-$80. Good mixed grass 4 x 5 round bales $30-$45, mostly $35-$40/bale.

Eastern—Alfalfa, no sales confirmed. Mixed grass hay, 5 x 6 bales, $40-$50. Good bermuda 5 x 6 bales, $50-$65/bale. Good mixed grass, 4 x 5 bales, $30-$40/bale, small squares, $4-$6/bale.

Western—Premium alfalfa, large squares, $170-$180. Good bermuda horse quality, $65-$75/bale in 5 x 6 bales. Good bermuda cow hay, 5 x 6 bales, $50-$70, 4 x 5 bales mixed grass, $35-$45/bale.

In Texas, most hay classes traded steady on moderate movement. Top quality alfalfa sold instances $15 higher as it proves difficult to find.

Panhandle/High Plains—Premium/supreme alfalfa, large squares, delivered, $225-$275; premium, small bales delivered, $321.75; good/premium, $205-$225. Ground and delivered to feedlots, $180-$190; calf, $200. Good/premium coastal bermuda, large rounds, delivered, $160-$180. Prairie, large rounds, delivered, $155. Wheat straw, small bales, delivered, $4.75/bale. Bluestem, large bales, delivered, $35/bale. Cotton burrs, delivered, $55.

Far west Texas/Trans Pecos—Premium/supreme alfalfa, small squares, delivered local or FOB, $300-$315, large squares, FOB, $240-$250; good/premium, $220-$240.

North/central/east—Premium/supreme alfalfa, large squares, delivered, $250-$270; good/premium, large squares, delivered, $240-$250. Good/premium coastal bermuda, small squares, FOB, $231-$297, large rounds, FOB $100-$120; fair/good, small squares, FOB, $198, large rounds, FOB $60-$100. Prairie hay, large bales delivered, $100.

South—Good/premium coastal bermuda, small squares, FOB, $231-$265, large rounds, FOB and delivered locally, $100; fair/good, small squares, $165-$198.

Sunday, April 29, 2018

U.S. hay price driven up by demand in China

LOS ANGELES, April 27 (Xinhua) -- As good quality hay is in demand in China but supplies dwindled after a drought-stricken 2017 winter season, the price of hay in the United States skyrocketed.

According to Friday's report of the Fence Post, a nationwide agricultural newspaper founded in Colorado in 1980, most hay products are selling 75 to 90 U.S. dollars per ton higher than last year.
In Colorado, where it is difficult to find good quality hay if it's not precontracted, the price of supreme alfalfa has risen to 275 to 300 U.S. dollars per ton, while in Wyoming, where the price is described "steady," Grade-1 large round hay bales are selling at 123 U.S. dollars per ton this year, compared to being pegged at 80 U.S. dollars per ton a year ago.

Besides of bad weather last winter, a key factor to hike the hay price is demand from other countries, especially in China, the report said.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service's data shows that alfalfa hay exports in 2017 totaled a record 2.7 million metric tons, up 7.2 percent from 2016 and the third consecutive year of growth.

China, the biggest U.S. hay exports destination, purchased 1.17 million metric tons of U.S. alfalfa during 2017, more than double the amount bought by Japan, the second-place importer of U.S. alfalfa.

Exports to China were 6.8 percent more than 2016, and since from 2012, alfalfa hay exports to China have risen a whopping 226 percent.

"The U.S. exported 356 million U.S. dollars worth of hay last year, with 44 percent going to China." the Fence Post report said, "and if the tariff war doesn't hit the hay, exports to China are expected to grow."

Friday, April 27, 2018

California Hay Report

 Compared to last week: All classes traded steady with very good demand.    
According to the NASS Crop Progess Report 4/23/18, wet and cold conditons were 
brought about due to the passing of two storm systems in northern California 
near the beginning and middle of the last week. Snow levels were reported around 
2500 feet in areas where stronger storm cells moved across the state. Drier and 
warmer conditions developed across the state as high pressure moved through the 
area near the end of the week and into the weekend.  Temperature highs for the 
week ranged in the 60s to 70s in the mountains, 70s to 80s in the valley, 60s to 
90s along the coast, and 80s to 100s in the desert. Temperature lows for the 
week ranged in the 20s in the mountains, 30s to 40s in the valley, 30s to 50s 
along the coast, and 30s to 50s in the desert region.  Fields were prepared to 
plant rice in the Sacramento valley, as farmers anticipated planting in the 
upcoming week. Corn fields were prepared and planted as weather and soil 
conditions permitted. Winter wheat and oat condition improved with the recent 
rains. Alfalfa matured and harvest began. Ground preparation continued for row 
crops.  Hay is reported FOB the stack or barn unless otherwise noted.  Regions 
are defined at bottom of report. 

Tons:  4355    Last Week:  6075    Last Year:  5907                            

Region 1: North Inter-Mountain: No New Sales Confirmed

Region 2: Sacramento Valley:                                                   
                             Tons   Price Range   Wtd Avg    Comments          
  Alfalfa                                                                      
      Supreme                 325  290.00-300.00  299.23 Del                   
      Premium                 100  270.00-280.00  272.50     Retail/Stable     
      Good/Premium            300  240.00-240.00  240.00                       
  Alfalfa/Orchard Mix                                                          
      Premium                  25  300.00-300.00  300.00     Retail/Stable     

Region 3: Northern San Joaquin Valley:                                         
                             Tons   Price Range   Wtd Avg    Comments          
  Alfalfa                                                                      
      Premium/Supreme         250  305.00-310.00  307.00 Del                   
      Premium                 250  240.00-240.00  240.00                       
                              100  265.00-265.00  265.00 Del                   
      Good                     75  240.00-240.00  240.00 Del                   
      Fair/Good               300  230.00-230.00  230.00 Del                   
      Fair                     75  220.00-220.00  220.00 Del                   
  Wheat                                                                        
      Good                    200  145.00-145.00  145.00 Del                   

Region 4: Central San Joaquin Valley: No New Sales Confirmed.                            

Region 5: Southern California:                                                 
                             Tons   Price Range   Wtd Avg    Comments          
  Alfalfa                                                                      
      Supreme                 250  242.00-242.00  242.00                       

Region 6: Southeast California:                                                
                             Tons   Price Range   Wtd Avg    Comments          
  Alfalfa                                                                      
      Premium/Supreme         300  240.00-240.00  240.00     Export            
      Premium                 775  225.00-230.00  226.94                       
                              230  235.00-235.00  235.00     Retail/Stable     
                              800  180.00-200.00  190.00     Weedy/High Moisture            

The following are the counties included in each region:                        
Region 1: Siskiyou, Modoc, Shasta, Lassen, and Plumas.                         
Region 2: Tehama, Glenn, Butte, Colusa, Sutter, Yuba, Sierra, Nevada, Placer,  
          Yolo, El Dorado, Solano, Sacramento, Amador, and Alpine.             
Region 3: San Joaquin, Calaveras, Stanislaus, Tuolumne, Mono, Merced, Mariposa.
Region 4: Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare, and Inyo.                             
Region 5: Kern, Northeast Los Angeles, and Western San Bernardino.             
Region 6: Eastern San Bernardino, Riverside, and Imperial.

Missouri Weekly Hay Summary

Week ending 04/27/2018

Field work continued this week as most areas had several days suitable 
for planting. Grass has finally started to grow in most of the state and 
many producers are finally turning cattle out to graze now. Northwest 
Missouri is however, having a hard time getting any moisture and growth 
has been very minimal. About 15 percent of the state is listed as 
moderately dry with another 15 percent surrounding that listed as abnormally 
dry. Nearly all of that falls in the northwest corner and reaches 
across most of the counties boarding the state line. Hay supplies are 
light to moderate, demand is light to moderate and prices are steady. 
The Missouri Department of Agriculture has a hay directory available for 
both buyers and sellers. To be listed, or for a directory visit 
http://mda.mo.gov/abd/haydirectory/ for listings of hay 
http://agebb.missouri.edu/haylst/ (All prices f.o.b. and per ton unless 
specified and on most recent reported sales price listed as round bales 
based generally on 5x6 bales with weights of approximately 1200-1500 lbs).

Supreme quality Alfalfa (RFV <185) 180.00-250.00
small squares 6.50-8.00 per bale
Premium quality Alfalfa (RFV 170-180) 160.00-200.00
Good quality Alfalfa (RFV 150-170) 120.00-160.00 
small squares 5.00-7.00 per bale
Fair quality Alfalfa (RFV 130-150) 100.00-120.00 
 
Good quality Mixed Grass hay 100.00-150.00
Small squares 4.00-6.00 per bale (some alfalfa/grass mix)
Fair to Good quality Mixed Grass hay 50.00-100.00
small squares 3.00-5.00 per bale
Fair quality Mixed Grass hay 25.00-50.00 per large round bale 

Good quality Bromegrass 100.00-150.00
Fair to Good quality Bromegrass 50.00-80.00

Wheat straw 3.00-6.00 per small square bale

South Dakota Weekly Hay Summary

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

Compared to last week: All hay and bedding materials sold steady to higher this
past week. Demand is good to very good, as the cold wet spring has increased the
need for betting materials and delayed pasture turnout. Interest is very good from
all areas of the state. Hay supplies are very tight as last summers drought conditions
and the cold snowy winter had many cattle feeders and ranchers using up their reserve
stores they had on hand. Spring may had finally arrived, as temperatures are returning
to more normal levels and things are starting to dry up a little. Very little spring
field work has been done yet, however if the weather holds over the weekend field work
will be going hard this coming week. The US Drought Montior released on April 26th,
has 41 percent of the state experiencing Abnormally Dry to Moderate Drought conditons for
counties in the northern two tiers of counties and much of the western half of the state.
All hay and straw sold by the ton FOB, unless otherwise noted.

East River:
Alfalfa: Premium: Large Squares, 180.00. Good: Large Squares, 155.00-165.00;
Large Rounds, Delivered 30 miles 160.00. Fair: Large Squares, 145.00; Large Rounds, 140.00.

Sun-cured Alfalfa pellets: 15 pct 175.00; 17 pct 180.00. Alfalfa
Meal: 17 pct 185.00.

Alfalfa/Grass Mix: Good: Large Rounds, 135.00.

Grass: Premium: Large Rounds, 135.00. Good: Large Rounds, 110.00.
Fair: Large Rounds, 100.00.

Wheat Straw: Large Squares, 125.00-135.00; Delivered 30 miles 140.00.
Large Rounds, 80.00-120.00.

Cornstalks: Large Rounds, 70.00.

West River:
Alfalfa: Premium: Large Rounds, 185.00 Del.

Alfalfa/Grass Mix: Good: Large Rounds, 165.00 Del.

Grass: Premium: Large Rounds, 185.00 Del. Good to Premium: Large Rounds, 165.00 Del.

Straw: Large Rounds 130.00 Del.

Cornstalks: Large Rounds, 120.00 Del.

Washington-Oregon (Columbia Basin) Weekly Hay Report

Tons:  2350    Last Week:  50,199    Last Year:  1975                                                                       

     Compared to last Friday, Export and feeder Alfalfa steady in a light 
test. Feeder hay supplies remain tight. Less interest was noted this week for 
contracting new crop export Alfalfa as most producers remain bullish on new 
crop prices. Some interests think cutting in the southern basin should start 
the 2nd week of May. Trade slow. Demand remains very good for all classes. 
Most feeder hay buyers are looking for large volumes to purchase. 
Retail/Feedstore not tested. All prices are dollars per ton and FOB the farm or ranch 
unless otherwise stated. 


                             Tons    Price          Wtd Avg    Comments
Alfalfa                                                                      
    Mid Square                                                                 
      Good                    300    150.00-150.00  150.00     Tarped            
      Fair/Good               800    165.00-165.00  165.00     Export            
      Utility/Fair            150    125.00-125.00  125.00     Bottom Bales      
                              600    135.00-135.00  135.00     Tarped            

  Timothy Grass                                                                
    Mid Square                                                                 
      Good                    300    180.00-180.00  180.00     Export            

  Wheat Straw                                                                  
    Mid Square                                                                 
      Good                    200    40.00-40.00    40.00

Idaho Weekly Hay Report

Tons:  130    Last Week:  950    Last Year:  2060                           

    Compared to last Friday, Alfalfa feeder hay steady in a light test. No new contracts 
for new crop reported this week. Trade very slow with good demand. Most interests are 
waiting for new crop. Old crop feeder hay is getting cleaned up in the trade area. 
Retail/Feedstore steady.  Prices are dollars per ton and FOB the farm or ranch unless 
otherwise stated. 
 
                       Tons      Price           Wtd Avg    Comments
Alfalfa                                                                      
    Mid Square                                                                 
      Utility/Fair      100      125.00-125.00   125.00     Weedy             

  Timothy Grass                                                                
    Small Square                                                               
      Premium            30      180.00-180.00   180.00     Retail/Stable

Weekly Texas Hay Report

   Compared to last report:  Hay traded steady to firm on light to 
moderate movement.  Hay in the panhandle has become nearly impossible to 
find; therefore supply and demand is holding prices firm.  Many feedyards 
are changing rations to use cotton burrs since it is readily available 
and cheaper.  Coastal Bermuda producers in North and East Texas were busy 
preparing for the new baling season and only a few weeks out from first 
cutting. South Texas Coastal Bermuda producers have some new crop baled 
but are in need of rain.  Prices for hay and pellets quoted per ton 
except where noted.

   The Texas Department of Agriculture has Hay and Grazing Hot Line set 
up for Buyers and sellers looking for hay or grazing; the number is 1-
877-429-1998. The website for the hotline is: 
www.TexasAgriculture.gov/hayhotline

Panhandle/High Plains:
   Alfalfa: Large Squares: Delivered: Premium to Supreme 240.00-275.00; 
  Good to Premium 205.00-240.00.
  Small Bales: Delivered: Premium 321.75, 9.75 per bale. 
   Ground Alfalfa: Delivered to feedlots: 180.00-195.00; Calf 195.00-
  200.00.         
   Coastal Bermuda: Large Rounds: Delivered: Good to Premium 160.00- 
  185.00, 80.00-92.50 per bale.
   Prairie: Large Rounds: Delivered: 155.00.
   Wheat Straw: Small Bales: Delivered: 4.75 per bale.
   Bluestem: Large Bales: Delivered: 35.00 per bale. 
   Cotton Burrs: Ground and Delivered: 60.00-65.00.
      
Far West Texas/Trans Pecos: 
   Alfalfa: Small Squares: Delivered local or FOB: Premium to Supreme
       300.00-315.00, 9.00-9.50 per bale.
   Large Squares: FOB: Premium to Supreme 240.00-250.00; Good to
  Premium 220.00-240.00.

North, Central, and East Texas:
   Alfalfa: Large Squares: Delivered: Premium to Supreme 250.00-270.00;    
  Good to Premium 240.00-250.00.                           
   Coastal Bermuda: Small Squares: FOB: Good to Premium 231.00-297.00, 
  7.00-9.00 per bale; Fair to Good 198.00, 6.00 
  per bale.
     Large Rounds: FOB: Good to Premium 100.00-120.00, 50.00-60.00 
  per roll; Fair to Good 60.00-100.00, 30.00-50.00 per roll.
   Prairie Hay: Large Bales: Delivered: 100.00.       
       
South Texas:
   Coastal Bermuda: Small Squares: FOB: Good to Premium 231.00-265.00, 
  7.00-8.00 per bale; Fair to Good 165.00-198.00, 5.00-6.00 per 
  bale. 
   Large Rounds: FOB and delivered locally: Good to Premium 
  100.00-140.00, 50.00-70.00 per roll.

Rock Valley Hay Auction

For Thursday, Apr 26, 2018

Receipts:  68 loads    Last Week:  46 loads    Last Year:  82 loads    

   All sales FOB Rock Valley, Iowa, vicinity.  One load Small Squares equals 
approximately 5 tons; Large Squares and Large Rounds range from 10-25 tons per 
load.

   Alfalfa:  Premium:  Small Squares, 2 loads 210.00-220.00; Large Squares, 7 loads
190.00-210.00.  Good: Small Squares, 1 load 172.50; Large Squares, 5 loads 167.50-172.50;
Large Rounds, 10 loads 157.50-180.00.  Fair: Large Rounds, 4 loads 145.00-150.00.  
Balage:  Large Squares, 1 load 30.00.

   Grass:  Good: Large Squares, 2 loads 145.00-147.50; Large Rounds, 8 loads 150.00-165.00.
Fair: Small Squares, 1 load 125.00; Large Squares, 2 loads 120.00-137.50; Large Rounds, 
14 loads 120.00-145.00. Utility: Large Squares, 1 load 100.00.

   Alfalfa/Grass Mixed:  Good: Large Squares, 3 loads 165.00-170.00; Large rounds, 
2 loads 157.50-165.00.  

   Straw: Large Squares, 3 loads 90.00-117.50; Large Rounds, 3 loads 92.50-95.00.

   Cornstalks:  Large Rounds, 17 loads 35.00-50.00, mostly 40.00-47.50.

Oregon Weekly Hay Report

   Compared to Apr 20:  Prices trended generally steady in an extremely
limited test.  Retail/Stable type hay remains the most demanded hay.  
Most hay producers are sold out for the growing year. 

Tons:  1178    Last Week:  276    Last Year:  970                              

Crook, Deschutes, Jefferson, Wasco Counties:                                   
                             Tons   Price Range   Wtd Avg    Comments          
  Orchard Grass                                                                
    Small Square                                                               
      Premium                  28  230.00-230.00  233.57     Retail/Stable     

  Five Way Mixed Grass                                                                  
    Small Square                                                               
      Premium                   5  250.00-250.00  250.00     Retail/Stable     

Lake County:                                                                   
                             Tons   Price Range   Wtd Avg    Comments          
  Alfalfa                                                                      
    Large Square                                                               
      Premium/Supreme        1000  175.00-175.00  175.00                       
    Small Square                                                               
      Premium/Supreme          30  250.00-250.00  250.00     Organic           
      Good                     60  150.00-150.00  150.00                       

  Alfalfa/Orchard Mix                                                          
    Small Square                                                               
      Premium                  30  185.00-185.00  185.00                       

  Mixed Grass                                                                  
    Small Square                                                               
      Good                     25  180.00-180.00  180.00     Organic           

Eastern Oregon: No New Sales Confirmed.                                        
Harney County: No New Sales Confirmed.                                         
Klamath Basin: No New Sales Confirmed.

Iowa Hay Summary

Week Ending April 27th, 2018

For this week: No price comparison. Demand was good. Supply was moderate. Temperatures for this
coming week start off in the 70's and steadily decrease into the 60's by midweek.

According to the Iowa Crop Progress & Condition report there were 1.5 days suitable for
fieldwork for the week ending April 22, 2018. When conditions allowed farmers applied anhydrous
and fertilizer to their fields and seeded oats with few reports of corn being planted. Topsoil
conditions varied with northern Iowa having recieved an abundance of snow, while southern Iowa
is in need of precipitation with south central Iowa the driest. Twenty-three percent of the
expected oat crop has been planted, almost 2 weeks behind last year and the 5 year average. Due
to extended winter conditions calving losses have been reported as higher than normal in areas
of northern Iowa.

According to the Drought Monitor abnormally dry conditions increased slightly this week 19.91%.
Moderate drought conditions also increased slightly up to 7.45%, which is focused in the south
eastern portion of the state. All prices FOB per ton unless otherwise noted.

Alfalfa Premium Small Squares $320.00 - $350.00
Large Squares $350.00 - $400.00

Alfalfa/Grass Premium Small Squares $205.00 - $205.00
Large Rounds $219.00 - $250.00

Good Large Squares $180.00 - $182.00
Large Rounds $125.00 - $160.00

Grass Good Large Rounds $170.00 - $170.00

Straw Oat Small Squares $120.00 - $165.00
Large Squares $117.00 - $120.00

Certified Organic Hay: None reported for the week of April 27, 2018.

Thursday, April 26, 2018

Wyoming Hay Summary

Week ending April 27, 2018

    Compared to last week large square bales of alfalfa sold fully 
steady. Demand was very good from local customers and from out of state 
buyers. There are a few producers holding some inventory just in case 
they need to supplement their own cattle herds until grass starts or if 
the summer is dry.  Some areas of the state could use some spring 
moisture with some areas in the Northern tier ok for moisture right now. 
All prices are dollars per ton FOB the field or hay barn unless otherwise 
noted. Prices are from the most recent reported sales. 

Eastern Wyoming 
Alfalfa: Supreme large square bales 200.00; Good large square bales 
170.00. Supreme large round bales 185.00; Fair to good large round bales 
160.00. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets 15 percent protein 240.00.
   
Central and Western Wyoming
Alfalfa: Good large square bales 120.00. Premium small square bales 
200.00. Alfalfa/orchard grass: Premium small square bales 200.00. 
Certified weed seed free alfalfa cubes 230.00-260.00.

Nebraska Hay Summary

Week Ending April 27, 2018

  Compared to last week alfalfa hay sold fully steady, grass hay, ground 
and delivered hay and dehy pellets in the East sold steady to 10.00 
higher with all other regions steady. All contacts have limited inventory 
left to market stated they have received a lot of calls from in-state and 
out of state users of hay. Many producers are quickly filling orders and 
are waiting for trucks to ship product. Quite a few producers are going 
to plant new seeding of alfalfa with some waiting until the middle of May 
in case there is a late freeze. All sales are dollars per ton FOB the 
field or hay barn, unless otherwise noted. 

Eastern/Central Nebraska
Alfalfa: Good large square bales 145.00-150.00, fair large square bales 
130.00. Good large round 85.00-95.00, few at 100.00. Grass Hay: Good to 
Premium large round bales 100.00-120.00; Fair to Good large round bales 
85.00-90.00. Premium small square bales of grass hay 150.00. Cornstalks 
large round bales 70.00. Dehy Alfalfa pellets 17 percent protein 230.00-
240.00. 

Platte Valley area of Nebraska
Alfalfa: Good large round bales 100.00. Ground and delivered alfalfa 
130.00-135.00, few at 140.00. Ground and delivered alfalfa/cornstalks 
120.00-125.00. Ground and delivered alfalfa/soybean stubble 115.00-
120.00. Ground and delivered cornstalks 95.00-100.00. Dehy pellets 17 
percent protein 210.00-215.00. Sun-cured Alfalfa pellets 15 percent 
protein 185.00. 


Western Nebraska
Alfalfa: Supreme large squares 185.00; Good large square bales 155.00-
165.00, Fair large square bales 135.00-150.00. Good large round bales 
170.00. Straw in large square bales 65.00. Sudan grass in large round 
bales 65.00. Ground and delivered alfalfa 150.00-190.00. Sun-cured 
alfalfa pellets 15 percent protein 240.00.

Oklahoma Hay Market Report

Alfalfa trading was at a near standstill this week as supplies and offerings 
dried up. Movement was likewise very slow with a few loads moving to areas in 
northwest Oklahoma affected by wildfire. Demand is very good but buyers are 
either looking out of state or waiting on new crop. Grass hay supplies are 
very light and much of the remaining offerings are of mostly fair quality 
mixed grass. Rain returned to the state this week but amounts varied from a 
few tenths of an inch to just under 2 inches. Many areas hardest hit by 
wildfire received rain over the past few days and more is in the forecast. 

Market News continues to maintain an online hay directory for both in-state
and out-of-state hay producers.  The directories are on the ODAFF homepage
at www.oda.state.ok.us. Producers wishing to list hay are encouraged to call
at 1-800-580-6543 or email jack.carson@ag.ok.gov. 
 
Alfalfa 
 
Central Oklahoma: Premium quality large square bales last confirmed sales 
165.00-175.00, few at 180.00.

Eastern Oklahoma: No sales confirmed.

Western Oklahoma:  Premium quality large square bales 170.00-180.00. Several 
loads Fair to Good quality large square bales 140.00-150.00.

Grass Hay 
Central Oklahoma: Good Bermuda 4 X 5 bales 45.00-60.00. Good mixed grass 4 X 
5 round bales 30.00-45.00, mostly 35.00-45.00 per bale.

Western Oklahoma: Last confirmed sales: Good Bermuda horse quality 65.00-
75.00 per bale in 5 X 6 bales. Good Bermuda cow hay 5 X 6 bales 50.00-70.00, 
4 X 5 bales mixed grass 35.00-45.00. 

Eastern Oklahoma:  Mixed grass hay in 5 X 6 bales 40.00-50.00. Good Bermuda 
in 5 X 6 bales 50.00-65.00. Mixed grass 4 x 5 bales 30.00-40.00. Small square 
bales good mixed grass or Bermuda 4.00-6.00.

Prices are dollars per ton and FOB unless otherwise noted.

Colorado Hay Report

   Compared to last week, trade activity light on good demand.  Hay movement in 
the state is comprised mostly of previously contracted hay.  Hay for sale is 
becoming less available as growers plan to use remaining inventories to feed 
their own livestock.  According to the U.S Drought Monitor Summary for April 24, 
2018, 42.49 percent of the state falls in a D0-D4 Drought Category compared to 
21.67 percent a year ago.  The USDA NRCS National Water and Climate Center’s 
Colorado SNOTEL Snow/Precipitation Update Report for Thursday, April 26, 2018 
has the Gunnison River Basin Snow Water Equivalent at 53 percent, the Upper 
Colorado River basin at 86 percent, the South Platte River Basin at 89 percent, 
the Laramie and North Platte River Basins at 100 percent, the Yampa and White 
River Basins at 86 percent, the Arkansas River Basin at 62 percent, the Upper 
Rio Grande Basin at 23 percent and the San Miguel, Dolores, Animas and San Juan 
River Basins at 25 percent as a percent of the median of all SNOTEL sites in 
each basin compared to previous years.  The NASS Colorado Crop progress report 
for week ending April 22, 2018, stored feed supplies were rated 4 percent very 
short, 18 percent short, 77 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus.  Pasture 
and range conditions percentages are 24 percent Very Poor, 23 percent Poor, 32 
percent Fair, and 21 percent Good.  The next available report will be Thursday, 
May 3, 2018.  All prices reported are FOB at the stack or barn unless otherwise 
noted.  Prices reflect load lots of hay.  If you have hay for sale or need hay, 
use the services of the Colorado Department of Agriculture website: 
www.coloradoagriculture.com.

Northeast Colorado Areas
  Sorghum
   Rounds: Good 100.00.
   No reported quotes for all other classes of hay.

Southeast Colorado Areas
  Grass
   Small Squares: Premium 280.00 (7.75 per bale).
   No reported quotes for all other classes of hay.

San Luis Valley Area
   No reported quotes for all other classes of hay.

Southwest Colorado Areas
   No reported quotes from all other classes of hay.

Mountains and Northwest Colorado Areas
  Grass
   Small Squares: Premium 275.00-300.00 (7.50 per bale).
   No reported quotes for all other classes of hay.

Northeast: Weld, Washington, Morgan, Cheyenne, Kiowa, Lincoln, Elbert, 
Adams, Sedgwick, Yuma, Larimer, Jefferson, Douglas, Kit Carson, Phillips, 
Logan, Boulder, Arapahoe, and El Paso.
Southeast: Fremont, Custer, Huerfano, Las Animas, Bent, Otero, Prowers, 
Crowley, and Pueblo.
San Luis Valley: Saguache, Alamosa, Costilla, Conejos, Rio Grande, and 
Mineral.
Southwest: Mesa, Delta, Montrose, Ouray, San Miguel, Montezuma, Dolores, 
San Juan, Hinsdale, Archuleta, and La Plata.
Mountains and Northwest: Moffat, Routt, Jackson, Rio Blanco, Garfield, 
Gunnison, Teller, Grand, Chaffee, Park, Clear Creek, Gilpin, Summit, 
Lake, and Eagle.

Montana Farmers Intend to Grow More Hay in 2018

Two years ago the U.S. had its lowest hay harvest in more than a century and this year is slated to be the second lowest hay harvest since 1906.

But Montana hay growers are more optimistic than some of their counterparts in other states.

In the latest Prospective Plantings report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, an estimated 53,726,000 acres of hay are projected to be harvested in 2018. That is a decrease of 58,000 acres from 2017.

Eric Sommer, Montana USDA NASS State Statistician, said Montana hay growers are optimistic about harvesting more acres than 2017.

“In Montana, all hay harvested is projected at 2.7 million acres and that’s 6 percent more than a year ago,” said Sommer. “A lot of that is we fed up a lot of our stocks over the winter and with the drought last year cutting production. So we’re expecting a little more hay acres this year.”

North Dakota and South Dakota are also optimistic about harvesting more acres than last year while some of the states showing the largest decreases in acreage include Pennsylvania, Indiana, Oregon, South Carolina, and Florida.

The USDA expects all time harvest acreage lows in California, Connecticut, Illinois, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin.

Tuesday, April 24, 2018

Kansas Hay Market Report

Ground alfalfa movement:      Southwest/South Central 
Tonnage:  8,297/5,007         Last week: 8,260/4,779  Last year:  10,863/4,748
             
Hay market trade activity is light, while demand remains very good for all types 
of hay. Prices for alfalfa were steady to l0.00 higher; all other hay types 
stayed mostly steady.  Dry, windy weather has dominated drought-affected areas 
of the central Plains.  While rain was received state-wide over the past 
weekend, much more will be necessary to ease drought conditions. According to 
the U.S. Drought Monitor, the abnormally dry (D0) category increased to 98 pct, 
moderate drought (D1) stayed steady at 83 pct, severe drought (D2) stayed steady 
at 60 pct, extreme drought (D3) stayed near 27 pct and exceptional drought (D4) 
stayed near 7 pct. New crop alfalfa is very slow to grow as cold temps prevail 
most every night. Many producers think that first cutting of new crop alfalfa 
will be delayed 30-45 days due to the cool, dry weather. New crop pricing is 
also slow to come as producers are waiting to see what the weather brings.  
Contacts are reporting that a number of new alfalfa stands will be planted this 
spring and fall. If you have hay for sale, and/or need hay here in Kansas, use 
the services of the Internet Hay Exchange: www.hayexchange.com/ks.php. 
  
Southwest Kansas  
Dairy alfalfa, grass hay, ground/delivered steady, grinding alfalfa steady to 
10.00 higher; movement slow. Alfalfa: horse, small squares 240.00-250.00. Dairy, 
.95-1.00/point RFV, Supreme 175.00-185.00, Premium 160.00-170.00, Good 140.00-
150.00.  Stock or Dry Cow alfalfa, 175.00-185.00.  Fair/Good grinding alfalfa, 
150.00-160.00. Ground and delivered locally to feedlots and dairies, 165.00-
185.00 with an instance at 200.00. Grass hay: Bluestem large squares 80.00-
90.00, large rounds 70.00-80.00. The week of 4/15-4/21, 8,297T of grinding 
alfalfa and 1,420T of dairy alfalfa were delivered. Sorghum ground and delivered 
105.00-115.00; wheat hay ground and delivered 125.00-135.00; Cornstalks: large 
rounds 55.00-65.00, ground and delivered 70.00-80.00. 

South Central Kansas 
Dairy alfalfa, ground/delivered, grass hay steady, alfalfa pellets, stock cow, 
grinding alfalfa steady to 10.00 higher; movement slow. Alfalfa: horse, small 
squares 190.00-200.00. Dairy, .95-1.00/point RFV, Supreme 175.00-185.00, Premium 
160.00-170.00, Good 140.00-150.00. Stock cow alfalfa, 145.00-160.00 delivered. 
Fair/Good grinding alfalfa, 130.00-150.00.  Ground and delivered locally to 
feedlots 165.00-175.00 with an instance at 185.00. Alfalfa pellets: Sun Cured 15 
pct protein 190.00-200.00, 17 pct protein 190.00-205.00, Dehydrated 17 pct 
225.00-235.00. The week of 4/15-4/21, 5,007T of grinding alfalfa and 450T of 
dairy alfalfa were delivered. Grass hay: bluestem, large squares 90.00-100.00, 
large rounds 75.00-85.00; Brome, large squares 130.00 delivered; Oat hay, large 
squares 85.00-95.00, Sudan large rounds 75.00-80.00. Cornstalks: large rounds 
60.00-65.00, cornstalks ground and delivered 70.00-80.00, Straw large rounds 
70.00-75.00. 

Southeast Kansas 
Dairy alfalfa, horse/goat, stock cow alfalfa, grinding alfalfa, 
ground/delivered, grass hay steady to 10.00 higher; movement slow.  Alfalfa: 
horse or goat, 215.00-225.00.  Dairy .90-1.00/point RFV. Stock cow alfalfa 
140.00-150.00.  Fair/Good grinding alfalfa, none reported. Ground and delivered, 
none reported. Grass hay: bluestem, premium small squares 110.00-120.00. Good, 
mid and large squares 90.00-105.00 with an instance at 120.00, large rounds 
70.00-80.00 with an instance at 90.00-100.00. Brome: small squares 6.00-
8.00/bale. Good, mid and large squares 100.00-120.00 with an instance at 135.00, 
large rounds none reported. Oat hay, large rounds 85.00-95.00, with an instance 
at 130.00 delivered. The week of 4/15-4/21, 1,727T of grass hay were delivered. 
Straw, mid and large squares 50.00-60.00. Mulch, large rounds 50.00-55.00.

Northwest Kansas  
Dairy alfalfa, and ground/delivered steady, grinding alfalfa steady to 5.00 
higher; movement slow. Alfalfa: small squares, 6.00-7.00/bale. Horse or goat, 
180.00-200.00. Dairy, Premium/Supreme .90-.95/point RFV. Stock cow, fair/good 
110.00-120.00. Fair/good grinding alfalfa, 100.00-120.00. Ground and delivered 
locally to feedlots and dairies, 120.00-130.00. Cornstalks, large rounds 70.00-
75.00.

North Central-Northeast Kansas 
Dairy alfalfa, grass hay, ground/delivered steady, grinding alfalfa steady to 
5.00 higher; movement slow.  Alfalfa: horse, premium small squares 9.00-
10.00/bale, good small squares 8.00/bale. Dairy .95-1.05/point RFV, Supreme 
175.00-195.00, Premium 170.00-185.00, Good 150.00-170.00. Stock Cow, good 
120.00-125.00. Fair/Good, grinding alfalfa, 110.00-120.00 with an instance at 
150.00. Ground and delivered, 140.00-150.00. Grass hay: bluestem, small squares 
5.00-6.00/bale, large squares 105.00-115.00, large rounds 90.00-100.00.  Brome: 
Good, small squares 6.00-8.00/bale, mid and large squares, 125.00-130.00, good 
large rounds 85.00-95.00. Sudan large rounds 60.00-70.00; Straw: small squares, 
4.00-5.00/bale, large squares 75.00-85.00, large rounds 65.00-75.00.

Crop prices may favor alfalfa in 2018

The low futures prices for corn and soybeans have caused some farmers to consider alfalfa as a more profitable crop in 2018 than either grain.

Current hay market prices in the Midwest are $197 for Prime quality (over 151 relative forage quality or RFQ) and $154 for Grade 1 (RFQ 125 to 150). Further, the market for hay looks good since December 1 U.S hay stocks, at 86 million tons, are the lowest since 2012, and before that the lowest since 1975.

The Midwest is following the national trend and is 10.5 percent lower for December hay stocks than 2016. Also, with the cold weather, the Midwest has had along with little or no snow cover, the likelihood is high that some winter injury and kill will occur to alfalfa stands.

Know your costs

The decision of which crop to grow will depend in large part on the production costs compared to a yield expectation and sales price. Table 1 offers an estimate of production costs by category from Minnesota and Iowa crop production budgets. It is important that you use these numbers as benchmarks and consider individual items will vary significantly across farms.

I remember some years ago, when we were monitoring expenses on several farms, one farmer no-tilled alfalfa into a soybean residue field for a total establishment cost (including seed) of $97 per acre, and another farmer made eight tillage operations plus seeding and seed cost for a total establishment cost of $315 per acre! In that regard, if your numbers are significantly different from those in Table 1, you might want to evaluate why that is the case.

In broad terms, Table 1 shows that corn has the highest production cost due to seed, fertilizer (nitrogen), and crop chemicals, while alfalfa production cost is somewhat less. However, alfalfa has high potassium fertilizer and harvesting costs (generally about $50 per acre per cutting for mowing, raking, and baling).

Capture quality premium

The next step is to consider yield and value of the crop. Table 2 gives some return per acre estimates based on varying crop yields and prices.

The middle yield in Table 2 is close to the national average yield. USDA-NASS reported 176.6 bushels per acre average corn yields (record high) and soybean average yields at 49.1 bushels per acre in 2017. NASS also reported alfalfa hay yields of 3.36 tons per acre, but remember that this does not include haylage, so a reasonable working alfalfa hay yield figure is 4.5 tons per acre. Average yields are from a broad range of conditions, so you must estimate what your yield potential is based on past history.

The corn and soybean values in Table 2 are based on Chicago Board of Trade futures for 2018. The hay values are from the Midwest, derived from the UW Team Forage Hay Market Report for early February 2018.

Table 2 shows that corn and soybeans are about breakeven when both the production costs and a land charge are subtracted from the value of crop produced per acre unless the yield is significantly above average. Alfalfa has the potential for a good return in 2018, especially if dairy quality hay is produced. Note also that many states have significant horse and beef cattle numbers that can use less than dairy-quality hay.

Another consideration is that many regions of the country now have access to contract seeding and harvesting operations. Thus, farmers can contract these operations and do not need to own the equipment to seed or harvest alfalfa.

This may be the year to consider expanding alfalfa acreage.

By Dan Undersander

The author is a forage agronomist (retired) with the University of Wisconsin in Madison.

Corsica, SD Hay and Straw Auction

For Monday, Apr 23, 2018

Receipts:  24 Loads    Last Week:  16 Loads    Last Year:  32 Loads

All prices dollars per ton FOB Corsica, SD.

One load Small Squares equals approximately 5 tons; Large Squares and
Large Rounds range from 10-25 tons per load.

  Alfalfa: Good: Large Rounds, 9 loads 120.00-180.00.  Fair: Large Rounds, 2 
loads 110.00-115.00.

   Grass:  Good: Large Rounds, 7 loads 130.00-180.00.  Utility: Large Rounds, 1 
load 97.50.

   Oat/Pea Mix: Large Rounds, 1 load 135.00.

   Corn Stalks: Large Rounds, 4 loads 57.50-77.50.

Rock Valley Hay Auction

For Monday, Apr 23, 2018

Receipts:  34 loads    Last Week:  14 loads    Year Ago:  19 loads
 
Prices dollars per ton, except where noted.  All sales FOB Rock Valley, Iowa, 
vicinity.  

One load Small Squares equals approximately 5 tons; Large Squares and 
Large Rounds range from 10-25 tons per load.

   Alfalfa: Good: Large Squares, 3 loads 157.50-175.00; Large Rounds, 4 loads 
155.00-172.50.  Fair: Small Squares, 1 load 190.00; Large Rounds, 2 loads 
145.00-147.50.  Utility: Large Squares, 1 load 70.00; Large Rounds, 1 load 
100.00.

   Grass:  Good:  Large Rounds, 2 loads 150.00-177.50.  Fair:  Large Rounds,
3 loads 120.00-122.50.  Utility: Large Squares, 1 load 110.00; Small Squares, 1 
load 125.00; Large Rounds, 1 load 112.50.

   Alfalfa/Grass Mix: Fair: Large Squares, 1 load 140.00.

   Oat Hay: Large Rounds, 2 loads 85.00.

   Millet Hay: Large Rounds, 2 loads 75.00-80.00.

   Straw: Large Squares, 2 loads 80.00-117.50.

   Corn Stalks: Large Rounds, 7 loads 37.50-52.50.

Monday, April 23, 2018

Iowa Hay Summary

Week Ending April 20th, 2018

For this week: Hay prices slid slightly lower this week. However the downward trend in prices was more a reflection of hay quality rather than hay quantity. Straight alfalfa hay was hard to find as was the supreme quality grade for all hay types. Straw prices remained firm. By Wednesday, April 18, cowmen were prepare for the last (hopefully) snow storm of the season by purchasing big round bales of corn stalks to use as bedding for cows that were calving.

A late April snowstorm in IOwa put a damper on temperatures during the midweek, with parts of Iowa seeing more than 6 inches of snow. However, by the weekend temperatures had warmed into the upper 50s to low 60s across the state. Snow could still be found in the bottom of roadside ditches and in pastures on north facing slopes. Producers were anxiously awaiting the fields to dry and soils to warm so that they could begin fieldwork.

Alfalfa Premium Small Squares $320.00 - $350.00
Large Squares $350.00 - $400.00

Alfalfa/Grass Premium Small Squares $205.00 - $205.00
Large Rounds $219.00 - $250.00

Good Large Squares $180.00 - $182.00
Large Rounds $125.00 - $160.00

Grass Good Large Rounds $170.00 - $170.00

Straw Oat Small Squares $120.00 - $165.00
Large Squares $117.00 - $120.00

Corn Stalk Large Rounds $ 93.75 - $ 93.75

Certified Organic Hay: None reported for the week of April 20, 2018.

Hay trade generally steady

In Nebraska, alfalfa and grass hay, ground and delivered hay sold steady. Dehydrated pellets sold steady to $5 higher in the Platte Valley area with all other areas remaining steady. Demand was good to very good, according to the USDA Market News Service, April 14. Prices given on per-ton basis, unless otherwise noted.

Eastern/central—Good alfalfa, large rounds, $90-$95. Good/premium grass hay, large rounds, $85-$100; premium, small squares grass hay, $150. Brome hay, large rounds, $75/bale. Ground and delivered alfalfa, $120. Dehydrated alfalfa pellets, 17% protein, $230. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets 15% protein $210.

Platte Valley—Good alfalfa, large rounds $90-$105. Cornstalk bales, $60 delivered. Ground and delivered alfalfa, $125-$135. Ground and delivered alfalfa cornstalks, $120-$125. Grounds and delivered alfalfa/soybean stubble, $115. Ground and delivered cornstalks, $95-$100. Dehydrated pellets, 17% protein, $210-$220. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets 15% protein, $185.

Western—Supreme alfalfa, large squares, $185; good, large squares, $155-$165; fair, large squares, $140. Straw, large squares, $65. Ground and delivered alfalfa, $150. Ground and delivered alfalfa/stover mix $120. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets, 15% protein, $240-$250.

In South Dakota, East River and West River areas, Very light reported sales of alfalfa and grass this week. Prices mostly steady. Demand is good to very good, as very tight hay supplies combine with wintery weather conditions

East River—Premium alfalfa, large squares, $180; good, large squares, $155-$165; fair, large rounds, $140. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets, 15% protein, $175, 17% protein $180. Alfalfa meal, 17% protein, $185. Good alfalfa grass mix, large rounds, $135, $185 delivered to WI. Premium grass, large rounds, $135; good, large rounds, $110; fair, large rounds, $100. Wheat straw, large squares, $125. Cornstalks, large rounds, $45, $55-$65 delivered.

West River—Premium alfalfa, large rounds, $200 delivered. Good alfalfa grass mix, large rounds, $165 delivered. Premium grass, large squares and rounds, $200 delivered; good/premium, large rounds, $165 delivered.

In Iowa, all hay classes traded steady.

Rock Valley—Premium alfalfa, small squares, $225; good, large squares, $175-$177.50, large rounds, $175-$185; fair, large squares, $157.50-$170, large rounds, $155-$167.50; utility, large rounds, $140-$150. Good grass, large squares, $135-$155, large rounds, $130-$157.50; fair, large squares, $110-$120, large rounds, $112.50-$130; utility, small squares, $95-$105, large rounds, $95-$105. Good alfalfa grass mixed, large squares, $180. Oat hay, large rounds, $95. Straw, large squares, $47.50-$50. Cornstalks, large rounds, $47.50-$55.

In Minnesota, prices were generally steady.

Good alfalfa, large squares, $135-$140, small squares, $175, large rounds, $140-$145; fair, large rounds, $120-$130; utility, large rounds, $110-$115. Good grass, large rounds, $140-$165; fair, large squares, $120-$125, small squares, $165, large rounds, $115-$135; utility, small squares, $125, large rounds, $95-$105. Good alfalfa grass mix, small squares, $175, large rounds, $150; fair, large rounds, $125; utility, large rounds, $95. Straw, small squares, $3.90-$4.50/bale. Cornstalks, small squares, $2.95, large rounds, $23-$36.

In Montana, hay prices sold steady to firm. Demand for hay remains good to very good. Supplies are very tight.

Supreme alfalfa, small squares, $200-$250, large squares, NA; premium, large squares, $150-$175, large rounds, $150-$170, small squares, $180; good, large squares, $150-$175, large rounds, $150-$165, small squares, NA; fair, large squares, $130-$160, large rounds, $150-$160, small squares, NA; utility, large rounds, NA, large squares, $115. Premium grass alfalfa, small squares, NA; good, large rounds, $150-$160, small squares, NA; fair, large squares, NA, large rounds, $150-$160; utility, large rounds, NA. Premium grass, large rounds, NA; good, large squares, NA, large rounds, $145-$150; fair, large squares, $110, large rounds, NA; utility, large rounds, $100. Premium timothy grass, small squares, $210-$240, large rounds, NA; good, large rounds, NA. Barley straw, large squares, $90-$125, large rounds, $100, small squares, NA. Wheat straw, SCMT, large squares, $90-$125, NMT, large squares, $90, large rounds, $90. Cornstalk, large rounds, NA. Pea/oat/barley hay, large rounds, $115.

In Wyoming, alfalfa and grass hay sold steady. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets and alfalfa cubes sold steady. Demand was good.

Eastern Wyoming—Good/premium alfalfa, large squares, $165. Alfalfa orchard grass mix, large squares, $70/bale, small squares, $7/bale. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets, 15% protein, $240-$250.

Central/western Wyoming—Fair/good alfalfa, large squares, $150; premium, small squares, $180-$200. Premium alfalfa/orchard grass, small squares, $200. Premium grass hay, small squares, $200. Certified weed seed free alfalfa cubes, $230-$260.

In Colorado, hay trade activity light on good demand.

Northeast—Premium alfalfa, small squares, $275-$285, retail/stable. Premium orchard grass, medium squares, $317.50, retail/stable. No reported quotes for all other classes of hay.

Southeast—Premium/supreme alfalfa, small squares, $240. Premium grass, small squares, $280. Good sorghum sudan grass, rounds, $75. No reported quotes for other classes of hay.

San Luis Valley—No reported quotes for other classes.

Southwest—No reported quotes from all other classes of hay.

Mountains/northwest—Premium grass, small squares, $270. No reported quotes for all other classes of hay.

In Missouri, hay supplies are light to moderate, demand is moderate and prices are steady.

In Oklahoma, alfalfa trade very light on very light supplies. Movement was at a near standstill. Demand is very good and any alfalfa offered is immediately sold.

Central—Premium alfalfa, large squares, $165-$175. Good bermuda grass hay, 4 x 5 bales, $45-$60; 5 x 6 bales, $65-$80/bale. Good mixed grass, 4 x 5 rounds, $30-$40/bale.

Eastern—Alfalfa, no sales confirmed. Mixed grass hay, 5 x 6 bales, $40-$50. Good bermuda 5 x 6 bales, $50-$65/bale. Mixed grass, 4 x 5 bales, $30-$40/bale. Good mixed grass or bermuda, small squares, $4-$6/bale.

Western—Supreme alfalfa, one load, large squares, $190; premium, large squares, $170-$175. Good bermuda horse quality, $65-$75/bale in 5 x 6 bales. Good bermuda cow hay, 5 x 6 bales, $50-$70, 4 x 5 bales mixed grass, $35-$45/bale.

In Texas, alfalfa hay sold mostly $5 higher and other hay classes remained steady. Movement was moderate as supply remains low and demand high.

Panhandle/High Plains—Premium/supreme alfalfa, large squares, delivered, $225-$260; premium, small bales delivered, $321.75; good/premium, $205-$225. Ground and delivered to feedlots, $180-$190; calf, $200. Good/premium coastal bermuda, large rounds, delivered, $160-$180. Wheat hay, large bales, delivered, $140-$150. Wheat straw, small bales, delivered, $4.75/bale. Bluestem, large bales, delivered, $35/bale. Cotton burrs, delivered, $55.