2017 Not A Good Looking Year for NW Hay Growers

Challenging weather in September and October hit the Northwest hay industry in 2016.  Northwest Farm Credit Services Michael Stolp says Washington and Oregon Hay markets and grower profitability remained weighed down by strong inventories and challenging export conditions.

“Supplies of weather damaged hay, overhang feeder markets.  While demand for high quality hay is capped by dairies with hay inventories of 12 months or more.  Although alfalfa exports increased in 2016, continued strength in exports is uncertain.  The U.S. dollar made strong and freight prices face prices upward due to shipping company consolidations.”

Stolp said the outlook for Northwest alfalfa markets is bleak going into the first half of 2017.  Timothy markets are varied due to a shortage of high quality hay but over supply of low quality hay.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com