U.S. alfalfa hay production declining: Hay prices remain stable

Published 2020년 11월 26일

Tridge summary

A recent webinar by Hoard’s Dairyman provided insights into the current state of hay prices and forage quality in the United States. Speaking at the event, Rankin highlighted a decrease in hay production and quality, with alfalfa hay production down by 33% from 2005 to 2019, while corn silage acres have increased by 14%. Despite these trends, the USDA forecasts a 6% drop in alfalfa production for 2020, and export rates have increased by 6%. Mike Hutjens discussed the improved digestibility of corn silage and haylage this season, emphasizing the importance of dairy farmers conducting a forage inventory to ensure adequate feed for their herds. The article also touches on the potential of using forage extenders like straw and cornstalks to control body condition in cattle, and the benefits of hominy as a cost-effective feed source. Additionally, it addresses the challenges of managing drought-stressed corn silage and the advantages of storing it in bags for increased feed flexibility.

Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

Typically, hay prices are the highest during April to May, Rankin said during a webinar organized by Hoard’s Dairyman. “We didn’t have as high of a bump this year as we often do,” Rankin said. “Last year we had one of the lowest hay stocks as of May 1 as we’ve had in quite a number of years,” he said. “We don’t make as much hay or feed as much hay through the winter as we once did.” For the 17 states that produce the most hay in the United States, the production of alfalfa hay from 2005 to 2019 declined by 33%, Rankin said. Haylage production during that same period declined by 18% and corn silage acres increased 14%. “Most of the decline in haylage is being taken up by the increase in corn silage,” Rankin said. “One state that has really dropped alfalfa hay acres is California that had 1 million acres of hay in 2009 and this year that state is forecasted to be around 350,000 acres,” he said. “A lot of those acres are taken up by nut trees.” Excess to adequate inventory of hay ...

Source: Agrinews