Hay Markets

Montana Hay Report

Compared to last report: Hay sold mostly steady. New crop hay continues to see slow movement. Most producers are seeing light interest. Hay prices across the west have struggled to gain traction despite dry conditions. Excess carry over hay continues to weigh on the market as many ranchers purchased carry over old crop hay earlier this spring and summer which has limited interest in new crop hay sales. Rancher to rancher sales are also continuing to make an impact on the market as many ranchers are opting to sell new crop hay while feeding old crop hay this winter. Demand for hay is mostly light as heavy supplies continue to be seen. Dairy quality hay is being offered at little to no premium to feeding quality hay. Reports of more ranchers opting to not cut 3rd cutting and use fields for grazing this winter has a potential to further impact the hay market if an open winter is seen. Weather will play a big impact on the market in the next 90-150 days. The vast majority of old crop hay has been cleaned up, however deliveries are continuing to be seen. Drought conditions continue to be seen in most of western Montana. Far northeast and southeast Montana are also starting to see drought conditions as well. Much of the central portions of the state are finishing up 2nd cutting, while the southern and eastern portions of the state are well into 3rd. According to the drought monitor 67.44% of the state is in Moderate drought or worse, up 4.93% from two weeks ago. 22.29% of the state is in an Severe drought or worse, up 0.11% from two weeks ago. 9.00% of the state is in Extreme drought or worse, up 1.14% from two weeks ago. Notably, 100% of the state is abnormally dry, unchanged from 2 weeks ago.

Wyoming Hay Report

Compared to last week, alfalfa and alfalfa/grass mix hay sold steady. Demand was moderate. Some producers are donating hay to those affected by the wildfires.

Prices are dollars per ton and FOB the field or hay barn unless otherwise noted.