11/07/07 Unlicensed hay dealers a problem for hay growers

Washington Ag November 7, 2007 With costs of hay often surpassing $200 a ton, more hay growers and buyers are voicing concern about the actions of hay dealers who are not licensed and bonded by the Washington State Department of Agriculture. WSDA investigators have handled about 40 complaints during this year's hay season, dealing with concerns over payment, quality, or quantity issues. Complaints have come from growers and consumers from both Eastern and Western Washington. The value of disputed hay sales reported to WSDA is more than $180,000 this year. Kirk Robinson, manager of the WSDA's Commission Merchants Program says the agency's goal is to resolve payment disputes and get growers paid quickly. He offers some simple advice. Robinson: "Sellers of hay just to beware. If you are feeling a little bit uncomfortable about the person you are dealing with take the time to research to make sure you are dealing with someone that is reputable. You know, call your neighbors or fellow growers just to find out if this is someone I should be dealing with, because once a check is written and the hay is gone, if that check becomes bad or you don't get payment, it is a lot harder to track someone down than to make that decision beforehand." Growers can check on the WSDA website to verify the license of a hay dealer or call WSDA offices in Olympia and Yakima. I'm Bob Hoff. (Growers can call WSDA at (509) 249-6961 in Yakima or (360) 902-1854 in Olympia to discuss a problem. Growers also can check on the WSDA Web site to verify the license of a hay dealer. Go to www.agr.wa.gov and click on inspection services and then Commission Merchants.)