By Scout Nelson
Nebraska recorded its largest on-farm hay stocks in 26 years on May 1, with inventories reaching 1.75 million tons. This figure, released by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service, marks a 21% increase over May 2024 and reflects strong hay production from the previous season.
May 1 is the official start of the hay crop year. The inventory figure serves as a key indicator of how well producers are positioned heading into the new season. With 86% of the state currently facing some level of drought, the strong inventory may help buffer against possible production shortfalls.
“Larger on-farm inventories can help producers weather production shortfalls.”
Hay stocks are also up nationwide. According to the Daily Livestock Report, U.S. hay supplies are 8% higher than last year. Nebraska joins states like Texas, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Minnesota in seeing significant inventory growth.
This boost in hay availability has affected prices. Nebraska’s average hay prices in April were more than $50 per ton lower than the same time last year. These lower prices offer relief for cattle producers facing tough forage conditions but may challenge hay producers who rely on stronger prices for income.
The connection between drought and hay supply trends is clear. Past declines in hay stocks—such as in 2001, 2013, 2018, and 2023—followed years of significant drought. While current stocks are strong, the continued presence of drought suggests the need for careful monitoring of hay and forage conditions throughout the season.
The outlook remains mixed, with strong starting inventories but uncertain production conditions. As the crop year progresses, producers will need to manage both opportunities and risks in Nebraska’s challenging environment.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-pamwalker68
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Hay & Forage, Weather