By Scout Nelson
Despite winter weather, hay market demand remained light during the week ending January 18, as reported by the Kansas Department of Agriculture and USDA Market News Service. Trade activity was slow, and prices stayed mostly steady. The hay supply remained abundant, with prices listed on a per-ton basis unless specified.
Southwest Region
In the southwest, demand was light, and trade activity ranged from slow to moderate. Dairy alfalfa, grinding alfalfa, and ground-delivered prices held steady. Dairy alfalfa was priced between $1.05-$1.15 per RFV point, while good stock cow hay ranged from $115 to $125. Grinding alfalfa in large rounds and squares averaged $95-$100. Ground and delivered alfalfa prices reached $140-$150. Reported sales included 4,890 tons of grinding alfalfa and 100 tons of dairy alfalfa.
South Central Region
South central demand was similarly light, with slow trade activity. Dairy alfalfa and grinding alfalfa prices were steady, while ground and delivered prices dropped $5. Dairy alfalfa was priced at $1-$1.10 per RFV point. Grinding alfalfa delivered in large rounds and squares averaged $100-$110, with sun-cured alfalfa pellets priced at $220-$235 for 15% protein and $350 for 17% dehydrated protein. Total sales included 5,413 tons of grinding alfalfa, with no dairy alfalfa sold.
Southeast Region
Demand in the southeast was also light, with slow trading. Dairy alfalfa ranged from $1.05-$1.10 per RFV point. Bluestem grass hay averaged $85-$180 depending on bale type, while brome hay ranged from $6-$135. Wheat straw in large squares was priced at $70. Sales reported included 1,622 tons of grass hay.
Northwest Region
The northwest region experienced minimal demand and slow trade activity. Horse alfalfa prices were $175-$185, and grinding alfalfa averaged $90-$100.
North Central/Northeast Region
Demand remained light in the north central and northeast regions. Dairy alfalfa ranged from $1.10-$1.20 per RFV point, while grinding alfalfa held steady at $90-$100 for large bales. Grass hay prices varied based on bale size, with bluestem and brome hay averaging $8-$135. Reported sales included 546 tons of grinding alfalfa and 50 tons of dairy alfalfa.
Overall, the hay market maintained steady pricing amid slow trade activity and ample supply.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: Kansas, Business