Hay Market Demand and Price Report for the Upper Midwest

For July 9, 2018
Data Compiled by Richard Halopka UW-Extension Clark County
Crops & Soils Agent

All hay prices quoted are dollars per ton FOB point of origin for alfalfa hay unless otherwise noted.

The information presented in this report is compiled from public and private sales and reports in the Midwest.

Hay auction data is collected on the first and third week of the month and posted the following Monday when possible. Prices quoted in this report are for “as fed” alfalfa hay.

Demand and Sales Comments:
Prices were steady to stronger as top dairy quality was in demand and overall prices were higher. Lower quality hay prices were steady at best. Some markets are only holding one hay auction per month during the summer.

Upper Midwest Hay Price Summary by Quality Grade:

For Nebraska, alfalfa sold unevenly steady on a thin test. Demand was light to moderate. Most of the state has received rain and has delayed making native grass meadow hay.

For Iowa, more hay available this week as many farmers have begun second crop and prime quality hay is available. Farmers in the northeast are having problems baling hay as the area continues to be wet.

In South Dakota, hay prices were firm with a good to moderate demand. The greatest demand is for prime quality dairy hay as there is a limited supply available.

For Missouri, hay supplies are light, demand is good and hay prices are steady to firm. A large portion of the state is listed on the drought monitor.

In Southwest Minnesota, little dairy quality hay available and prices reflect the quality of hay available this past week.

In Wisconsin, second cutting is in full swing as many acres were harvested this past week with dry weather. Mostly lower quality hay at the auction this week. There are many inquiring about hay, but will not pay because of the large carryover from last year.

Straw prices were steady to stronger this week. Small square bale straw price averaged $3.50 a bale (range of $2.50 to $6.00). Large square bale straw prices averaged $41.00 per bale (a wide range of $22.00 to $74.00). Large round bale straw averaged $40.00 per bale (one sale of $40.00) with very limited sales this week.