Andrew Eddie

One of the largest hay and forage shows on the west coast will take place in the Tri-Cities this week, as the NW Hay Expo kicks off Wednesday.

Thanks to high input costs, high labor costs and low commodity prices, the farm economy has been struggling for several years; when that struggle comes to an end is anyone’s guess.

"Commodity prices are down, input prices are up, labor costs are high, and movement is pretty slow with foreign markets.”

For many commodities, it’s been the theme of most of 2025; the farm economy is not doing well.

Hay growers across Washington have enjoyed a great year when it comes to growing conditions. But unfortunately, the same can’t be said about the economic conditions growers are facing.

Andrew Eddie, President of the Washington Hay Growers Association, says the 2025 cop is looking pretty good across much of the Columbia Basin.

The 2025 Northwest Hay Expo will take place in the Tri-Cities next week.  Andrew Eddie, President of the Washington State Hay Growers Association, said this year’s classes and education opportunities will focus on trends in the industry, helping growers improve business practices.   "It wa...

Like many other Northwest commodities, 2024 was a trying year for Northwest Hay growers.  Andrew Eddie, President of the Washington State Hay Growers Association said two challenges made this year difficult.   “All alfalfa price between 2023 and then this year in 2024, there's a sharp decline in price, but also combined with that, it was a very drastic decline in movement of product as well,"

With so many question marks for Northwest growers this upcoming season, it’s important producers control what they can.  Andrew Eddie, President of the Washington state Hay Growers Association says interest rates, trade, international conflict, and of course weather are all out of control of the growers; but one thing you can control is relationships.  He noted a go...

The past year was a mixed bag for Northwest producers.  Several growers enjoyed near record profits thanks to high commodity prices and government subsidies.  But unfortunately, high input prices cut into those gains, making 2022 flat or even a negative year for some across the region.  When it comes to ...