Hay Market Reports

With some USDA employees furloughed and offices closed, several regular statistical and market reports affecting hay and forage producers have been cancelled or delayed. Here’s an update on what we know.

It’s the time of year when all three spirits of the hay year come into view: past (production), present (stocks) and future (markets). For now, it’s the export market that’s likely causing the most sleepless nights.

Government policies on both sides of the globe have altered the U.S. hay export picture. But despite the substantial decline in alfalfa hay shipments to China, September exports were the highest since June, totaling more than 229,250 metric tons (MT).

Depending on location and market, October is frequently a time to determine whether the haying season will be a sweet success.

A look at crop/weather maps helps tell the story as the 2018 hay production season winds down in many areas. Continuing drought in the Southwest affected quantity, while widespread rain elsewhere impacted quality and prices.

The “dog days” of summer generally create a weather-driven hay market, with all eyes on harvest quality and yield. This year, however, the markets have additional bones to chew on – trade wars and a lingering weak dairy economy.