Most of the Midwest received good moisture during the growing season, producing ample hay availability. As a result, the hay market has slowed and prices have decreased, indicating a buyer’s market. That has some livestock growers speculating whether they should purchase hay now to create a carry-over surplus as a forage insurance policy if forage supplies are tight in 2025. Considering moisture conditions across North Dakota since July have been low and spring moisture conditions are unknown, North Dakota State University-Extension forage crops specialist James Rogers says they should buy, provided some caveats be met.
Question whether to buy hay surplus
This year, due to good spring moisture, hay harvest was often delayed. That increased plant maturity and lowered nutrient content.





