HAY MARKET REPORT

Weekly Hay Market Demand and Price Report for the Upper Midwest

July 18 , 2008

Data Compiled by Ken Barnett, UW-Extension

All hay prices quoted are dollars per ton FOB point of origin for alfalfa hay unless otherwise noted.

The information presented in this report is compiled from public and private sales and reports in the Midwest.

Demand and Sales Activity

Compared to the previous week, small square bale prices were down 13%. Large square bale prices were up 6%. Large round bale prices were down 11%. Sales activity was light to moderate.

In Nebraska, hay prices were steady. Persistent rains were causing problems for producers. Inquiry and demand have been light to moderate. For Iowa, hay prices were $18.95 higher. Producers continued to battle persistent rains. Demand was very good and trade activity was brisk. In South Dakota, hay priceds were $11.65 lower. Demand was moderate for all classes. Straw was fully steady. The second cutting was about half done with yield varying from moderate to good. Weather has not been as producer-friendly as it could have been. In Missouri, hay prices were steady. The supply and demand were moderate. Perfect hay weather the past week put all hands in the fields, moving, tedding, raking and baling. The most hay of the year has been baled in Missouri this past week. All classes of forages were being baled; even wheat producers were putting up late straw. Grass has never been greener and the tonnage has been tremendous, but quality was suffering somewhat due to the late harvest. in Southwest Minnesota, hay prices were $24.40 lower. Sales activity was light. In Illinois, hay prices were $9.55 lower, with moderate demand and offerings.

For Wisconsin, second crop hay was reported at 29 percent harvested and of good quality, but with lower than normal yields. This level of harvest compares to 58 percent last year and the 5-year average of 43 percent. One southern county reported third crop hay looking fairly good. Pasture condition was reported as 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 51 percent good and 23 percent excellent.

Straw prices in the Midwest averaged $2.46per small square bale (range of $1.85 to $3.50); $29 per large square bale; and $28.75 per large round bale. Compared to the previous week, straw prices for small square bales were up 12%. Large square bale prices were up 29%. Large round bale prices were steady.

The next weekly hay market demand and price report for the Upper Midwest will be posted on July 21.

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