Michigan Hay Prices Lower in 2013 Compared to 2012
Information provided by MSU Extension, by: Phil Kaatz
The preliminary USDA Agricultural Prices were recently released and the prices for September hay were lower nationally compared to September of last year (2012) and August of this year for alfalfa hay, other hay and all hay. These prices reflect survey results of farms in the respective states. Michigan reported a slight decrease from August and a slight increase from September of last year. The following table shows the results from the reporting North Central States.
The price for Michigan dairy quality hay has drifted down from the highest prices so far of the season found in spring and early summer. Small square bales are the highest price followed by large square bales and then large round bales. Alfalfa grass mixed hay has continued to be under alfalfa hay in price. Grass hay prices with good quality have remained steady for most producers.
In the late summer, warm, dry weather gave producers a chance to make good quality hay and producers responded to harvest excellent quality fourth cutting. According to the Michigan Hay Sellers List sponsored by Michigan State University Extension, there is an ample supply of hay available in all categories. Buyers are encouraged to not wait to secure adequate supplies of hay for winter feed in hopes of finding a better price.
For more information, contact MSU Extension educators Phil Kaatz at 810-667-0341 or kaatz@msu.edu, or Jerry Lindquist at 231-832-6139 linquis@msu.edu.
This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).
