Kansas Hay Prices Remain Firm in July

By Scout Nelson

Kansas hay prices have remained steady this past week despite light demand and moderate trade activity. According to the Kansas Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News Service, prices for various types of hay have been steady on limited tests as producers focus on work in the fields.

The weather in Kansas has been hot, muggy, and humid, which is ideal for corn but not beneficial for hay production. While the southwest region continues to receive beneficial rain, hay producers are facing challenges due to these conditions. The reported prices are based on averages and per-ton rates unless noted otherwise.

In the southwest, demand for hay remains light with moderate trade activity. Prices for dairy alfalfa, grinding alfalfa, and ground and delivered alfalfa have remained steady. Dairy alfalfa is priced between $1 and $1.10 per point of RFV. Other alfalfa varieties range from $110 to $160 per ton, depending on type and delivery. Alfalfa pellets range from $215 to $225 per ton, depending on protein content.

The south-central region of Kansas also experienced light to moderate demand. Alfalfa prices for small squares and dairy alfalfa remained steady. Prices for large rounds of grinding alfalfa range between $110 to $115, with other alfalfa varieties priced between $125 and $140 per ton. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets remain steady at $210 to $215 per ton.

The southeast region saw light demand and slow trade activity, with prices for dairy alfalfa steady at $1.05 to $1.10 per point RFV. Grass hay, including Bluestem and Brome, was also steady, with large round bales of Bluestem priced at $70 to $80.

In other regions, including the northwest and north central/northeast areas, trade activity remained slow, with very little demand and lower volumes of hay being bought or sold. Wheat straw prices for large squares ranged between $60 to $100, depending on quality and size.

Overall, Kansas hay prices have shown little change, but producers are still facing challenges with weather conditions affecting production. While demand remains light in some areas, prices have held steady for now, and moderate trade continues across various regions.

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