Hay supplies are up by double digits over the last year, and that is helping keep costs down.
Frequent Market Day Report guest Dr. Darrell Peel says hay production was up more than three percent last year, and stocks, as of May 1st, were up nearly 50 percent over 2023 levels. Despite the gains, total hay supplies fell nearly two percent over the last decade.
Peel says that for producers in many states, increased supplies will mean more flexibility in the coming months.
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Farmers face tighter barge capacity and higher freight costs during peak harvest.
Bigger-than-expected corn and wheat stocks are bearish for prices, while soybean figures were neutral. Farmers may face additional price pressure as harvest accelerates.
Taiwan’s pledge to expand imports strengthens export prospects for U.S. row crops, livestock products, and specialty commodities, while the USDA’s broader trade push seeks to diversify farm markets globally.
“American soybean farmers—who are already reeling from your sweeping tariffs—deserve better.”
Farmers will need to closely monitor forecasts if the regulatory changes are implemented, as temperature cutoffs will replace fixed spray dates.
