It’s a story that livestock producers are familiar with up and down the west coast; a widespread hay shortage, or difficulty finding enough quality hay. Todd Nash, President of the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, said there are a number of factors impacting Oregon growers; most notably, ongoing drought.

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“There’s a few isolated areas that have gotten substantial rain, but irrigation water, for example in the Klamath Basin, has been reduced. In Jefferson County, they’re seeing their reduction of water allotment reduced by up to 90%, in some cases.”

Nash said for growers able to get water, input  costs are making it challenging to produce the need amount of hay.

“Fuel is crazy high but fertilizer has doubled. We imported a lot of product from Ukraine and so that product has just gone through the roof.”

Nash added because of the hay shortage, many operators are questioning the future of their farm and if they should sell cattle or even get out of the industry altogether.

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

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