By Scout Nelson
The Kansas hay market shows steady demand this past week, driven by drought conditions affecting portions of the state. Areas receiving adequate moisture report good to excellent alfalfa and wheat crops, while drought-impacted regions face limited growth, insect pressure, and crop stress, according to the Kansas Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News Service, Mar. 28.
Southwest sees light to moderate demand with trade activity slow to moderate. Alfalfa prices for dairy range from $0.90–$1 per point RFV. Good quality stock or dry cow hay sells for $130–$140. Grinding alfalfa, large round and large square 3×4; prices range $105–$115. Alfalfa pellets, sun-cured 15% and 17% protein, $230. Grass hay, such as bluestem and brome ranges $90–$160 delivered. During Mar. 29–Apr. 4, 4,659 tons of grinding alfalfa, 600 tons of dairy alfalfa, and 207 tons of grass hay were bought or sold.
South Central has light to moderate demand, with alfalfa steady and large round prairie hay $10 lower. Dairy alfalfa prices range $0.95–$1.05 per point RFV. Grinding alfalfa large round and square 3×4, $105–$115. Grass hay and wheat straw prices vary from $17–$85. Total sales: 7,679 tons grinding alfalfa, 325 tons dairy alfalfa, 552 tons grass hay.
Southeast reports light to moderate demand with grinding alfalfa up $10. Dairy alfalfa $0.90–$1 per point RFV, stock or dry cow hay $150–$160. Grass Hay and brome range $95–$200.
Northwest has slowed to moderate trade; dairy alfalfa $1–$1.05 per point RFV. Horse hay medium square 3×3 $175–$185, small square $195–$205. Grinding alfalfa $100–$115 delivered.
North Central/Northeast regions see light to moderate demand. Dairy alfalfa steady; grinding alfalfa and prairie hay $5 lower. Grass hay and brome prices range from $9–$155. Wheat straw for $90–$110. Total sales: 700 tons grinding alfalfa, 400 tons dairy alfalfa, 736 tons grass hay.
Overall, Kansas hay markets remain steady, with prices reflecting quality, regional supply, and local demand. Drought and insect pressure continue to influence crop growth and availability across the state.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Wheat, Hay & Forage, Alfalfa, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Weather