Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director Greg Ibach is encouraging Nebraska producers with hay surpluses and pasture for rent, to register as a seller on the department’s online Hay and Forage Hotline service.
“Last year we had an outstanding alfalfa and prairie hay crop throughout much of Nebraska and early signs indicate another good crop this year,” said Ibach. “With drought conditions worsening in some other livestock-producing areas of the country, this would be a good time for producers to register on the Hay and Forage Hotline. Buyers will also be looking for pastureland and corn stock ground to rent.”
According to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Nebraska had a 16% increase in hay stocks from the previous year. As of May 1, hay stocks for the state were at 1.45 million tons. The latest crop condition report for Nebraska rated current alfalfa condition as 77% good to excellent.
The most recent National Drought Monitor indicates extreme drought conditions in parts of northeast Wyoming and southwest South Dakota. Moderate drought and abnormally dry conditions are expanding in that region and now include much of the Nebraska Panhandle.
The Hay and Forage Hotline is on the Nebraska Department of Agriculture website at www.nda.nebraska.gov. Sellers can register by filling out an online form or by calling 800-422-6692.
