Low hay demand and slow trade persist in Kansas

By Scout Nelson

In Kansas, the hay market is experiencing a slow season, with demand remaining low and trading activity minimal.

This trend has been persistent, despite a few large sales of old crop alfalfa. Farmers are currently focused on clearing out old stock to prepare for the upcoming new season's hay, which still has an uncertain price point.

Throughout the regions of Kansas, the situation varies slightly but the overall theme remains the same—low demand and slow trade. In Southwest Kansas, for example, dairy alfalfa prices are steady, while the price for ground and delivered alfalfa saw a $10 increase.

Prices for grinding alfalfa remain stable, with large rounds going for between $105 and $115, and large squares slightly higher at $120. Delivered prices range from $160 to $170.

In South Central Kansas, the dairy alfalfa prices also remain steady, and there's a steady market for alfalfa pellets and ground alfalfa, which are delivered at prices ranging from $185 to $195. The sun-cured alfalfa pellets, depending on protein content, are priced between $275 and $400.

In the Southeast, prices for dairy alfalfa and various grass hays like Bluestem and Brome are steady. Small square bales of Bluestem grass hay are priced at $200-$205, while large rounds are slightly less, ranging from $130 to $140. Brome hay follows a similar pricing structure.

Northwest Kansas reports steady prices across dairy and grinding alfalfa, with horse alfalfa priced at $13.25 per small square bale. Premium alfalfa squares can reach up to $225.

In the North Central and Northeast regions, the trade activity is similarly sluggish with stable prices for dairy alfalfa and a slight increase for grass hay.

Premium horse hay remains at $13 per small square bale, and large rounds of fair to good grinding alfalfa are selling between $140 and $160.

As the season progresses, Kansas farmers are hopeful for an uptick in demand and smoother trading conditions, but the current market remains challenging.

With these conditions, it's essential for producers to stay informed and prepared for shifts in the market as they clear old stocks and anticipate new crop pricing.

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