By Scout Nelson
The Kansas Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News Service reported on July 23 that demand for all hay offerings remains very light, while prices are steady but soft. This report comes in the context of ongoing drought conditions across the state.
The U.S. Drought Monitor’s High Plains summary for the week of July 16 noted some above-normal precipitation in eastern Kansas, but abnormally dry conditions have expanded in northwest and southeast Kansas.
These drought conditions are impacting agricultural activities, including hay production and sales.
Southwest Kansas:
Demand: Light
Trade Activity: Slow
Prices: Steady
Dairy alfalfa: $1.15-$1.25/point RFV
Grinding alfalfa: $115-$125/ton, ground and delivered: $155-$165/ton
Triticale: $85-$95/ton, ground and delivered: $155/ton
Weekly Sales: 3,215 tons of grinding alfalfa and 23 tons of dairy alfalfa
South Central Kansas:
Demand: Light
Trade Activity: Slow
Prices: Steady
Dairy alfalfa: $1.15-$1.25/point RFV
Grinding alfalfa: $120-$130/ton, ground and delivered: $150-$165/ton
Sun-cured alfalfa pellets: 15% protein: $255-$265, 17% protein: $275-$280
Bluestem grass hay: $120-$130/ton
Weekly Sales: 8,770 tons of grinding alfalfa and 775 tons of dairy alfalfa
Southeast Kansas:
Demand: Light
Trade Activity: Slow
Prices: Steady
Bluestem grass hay: $125-$200/ton
Brome: $160-$205/ton
Weekly Sales: 1,177 tons of grass hay
Northwest Kansas:
Demand: Light
Trade Activity: Slow
Prices: Steady
Horse alfalfa: $13.25/bale
Grinding alfalfa: $100-$120/ton
Weekly Sales: Data not specified
North Central/Northeast Kansas:
Demand: Light
Trade Activity: Slow
Prices: Steady
Dairy alfalfa: $1.15-$1.25/point RFV
Premium horse hay: $13/bale
Grinding alfalfa: $85-$95/ton, ground and delivered: $150-$170/ton
Bluestem grass hay: $8-$135/ton
Brome: $10-$155/ton
Wheat straw: $60-$70/ton
Weekly Sales: 844 tons of grinding alfalfa and 185 tons of dairy alfalfa
In summary, the Kansas hay market is experiencing light demand and steady prices amidst widespread drought conditions. These factors are influencing trade activity and overall market stability. The Kansas Department of Agriculture will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on market conditions.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pamwalker68
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Hay & Forage