By Scout Nelson
The Kansas Department of Agriculture, together with the USDA Market News Service, reported a downturn in hay movement for the week ending August 10, while demand stayed relatively light. This trend indicates a sluggish period in the hay market within the state.
Across Kansas, hay prices have shown some fluctuation, attributed largely to the availability of alternative feedstuffs. In the Southwest region, while dairy alfalfa prices held steady, prices for grinding alfalfa dropped by $5 to $10.
However, prices for ground and delivered alfalfa remained unchanged. Notably, alfalfa rated for dairy use ranged from $1.15 to $1.25 per point RFV, with ground and delivered alfalfa fetching between $155 and $160.
The South-Central region mirrored this trend with steady dairy alfalfa prices and consistent prices for alfalfa pellets across different protein levels. Meanwhile, the Southeast region saw a decrease in bluestem prices by $5 to $20, although brome hay prices stayed the same.
In contrast, the Northwest and North Central/Northeast regions reported steady prices for grinding alfalfa. The premium horse alfalfa in the Northwest sold for up to $310 for small squares, while in the North Central/Northeast, premium horse hay small squares went for $12 per bale.
Overall, the market's response indicates a cautious approach from buyers amidst an abundance of feed options, with significant regional variations in price and demand dynamics.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-amwalker68
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Hay & Forage, Alfalfa