Hay Market Demand and Price Report for the Upper Midwest

Demand and Sales Comments 

Dairy quality hay continues to be in demand. The market was strong on a light test this week with limited hay at the auction. If you need forage or have forage to sell or straw, connect to the Farmer-to-Farmer webpage at http://farmertofarmer.uwex.edu/. 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. Straw prices are steady with a limited supply of straw. Small square bales averaged $4.20 a bale (range of $3.40 to $6.00). Large square bale straw averaged $40.00 per bale (a range of $20.00 to $64.00). Large round bale straw averaged $39.00 per bale (a range of $15.00 - $55.00). 

In Nebraska, hay prices were steady with good demand for ground and delivered alfalfa. There were very limited sales of new crop hay. 

In Iowa, supply is good, demand is steady, and prices are steady. 

In South Dakota, alfalfa prices are firm. Drought concerns are supporting current hay price with limited sales and spotty rain showers. 

In Missouri, prices are steady with moderate supply and limited sales. Currently rain has slowed progress in hay making. In Southwest Minnesota, prices were steady. 

In Kansas, market prices were steady on limited test. Demand remains good for alfalfa. 

In Wisconsin, prices are steady for dairy quality hay. Lower quality or higher moisture hay is being discounted.