Ongoing dry and drought conditions in many parts of the state are supporting hay and forage prices as we look towards this fall. Perennial dryland hay production in many parts of Nebraska has been less than average. Forage production on rangeland and pasture in central and eastern Nebraska is, in many situations, significantly less than average. This diminished production is going to result in less fall and winter grazing.

Nationally, the stocks of corn and the current crop in much of the Corn Belt are estimated to be adequate to support December corn futures trading near $5.50 per bushel. With harvested forage supplies being tight in much of Nebraska, harvesting corn for silage may be a good option this year, especially with fields that are drought stressed.

When evaluating whether to harvest a field for silage or grain, there are several factors to consider. Both methods of harvest have advantages and disadvantages depending upon an operation’s goals and objectives. Read this article on UNL Beef to learn more.

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