Kansas Reports Dip in Hay Trading

By Scout Nelson

Kansas hay demand remained mostly light during the past week, with only the southwest region reporting light to moderate interest. According to the Kansas Department of Agriculture–USDA Market News Service, trade volume dropped by 2,400 tons, and prices were mixed across different hay types and regions.

In the southwest, trade activity was slow to moderate. Grinding alfalfa prices dropped by $5, while ground and delivered prices stayed steady at $150–$160 per ton. Good stock or dry cow hay sold for $120–$130. Bluestem grass hay was reported at $75 per bale.

The south-central region also saw light demand and slow trade. Ground and delivered alfalfa rose by $5, while other prices remained steady. Alfalfa pellets ranged from $215–$340 depending on protein content. Bluestem grass and Sudan hay had minor shifts in pricing.

Southeast Kansas experienced steady dairy alfalfa prices, while Bluestem dropped $5 and brome hay prices rose slightly. Horse or goat alfalfa small squares ranged between $7.50–$8.50 per bale. Grass hay pricing remained relatively steady overall.

The northwest reported little to no demand, with limited activity and pricing mainly on horse alfalfa and grinding alfalfa. Prices for grinding alfalfa stayed between $90–$100 per ton.

In the north central and northeast regions, demand was also light. Dairy alfalfa prices remained steady, while grinding alfalfa dropped slightly. Ground and delivered prices increased marginally. Grass hay prices held steady, with Bluestem and brome small square bales ranging from $8–$9 each.

Although some areas received rainfall, it was not enough to significantly change hay market dynamics. "A possible hot dry summer will most likely be factored in to determine new crop pricing," the report stated. New crop pricing is still being considered but has not yet been officially released.

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