The U.S. hay supply is seeing gains and keeping more money in farmer’s pockets

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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API said it stands ready to work with Congress to develop a balanced approach to E15 legislation that promotes fuel choice, supports investment certainty, and contributes to a stable and fair marketplace for American consumers.
Lawmakers are pressing for answers on how Washington’s “managed trade” approach — keeping leverage through long-term tariffs — will affect farmers, global markets, and future export opportunities.
In the meantime, Senate Majority Leader John Thune is asking that farmers be allowed to use marketing assistance loans to help stay afloat.
Beef industry groups seem to agree — market-based pricing, not federal intervention, best supports rancher livelihoods and long-term beef supply stability.
Cattle groups say additional imports would offer little relief for consumers but could erode rancher confidence as the industry begins to rebuild herds.
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