Pacific Northwest Hay Market Update

Around the region, most hay growers are working on their first cutting of hay. As we move through the summer, we will be checking in on the region’s hay prices several times each month.
USDA Grain and Livestock Reporter Greg Sanders that for most of the region, this first cutting of hay’s quality will be very good and the prices strong.?Sanders: “Right now the new crop hay that they are buying now for the dairies is bringing $250 to $260 and that is in large bales.”?As far as export hay prices, Sanders says
Sanders: “The exporters are sort of laying low. On the lower testing hay they are buying it anywhere from $240 to $250 and then on the higher testing hay they are paying $260 just like the dairies are.”
With the California drought dramatically affecting that state’s hay crop, Sanders says it has brought new prospective export buyers to our region.?Sanders: “China has already stepped into the market here. They haven’t bought anything yet, but they are snooping around because the high cost of hay in California has edged them out so they are looking up here.
According to the USDA’s weekly hay reports in the Washington/Oregon Columbia Basin area Demand remains good by domestic buyers light to moderate demand from exporters. All new crop Alfalfa contracts are straight thru rain or shine all cuttings no test. Buyer demand is good with light to moderate supplies.
In Idaho trade is slow with very good demand. Most are are just getting first cutting in the bale and marketed. Buyer demand is good with light to moderate supplies.