Hay Market Demand And Price Report For The Upper Midwest As Of October 23 , 2015

Oct 27, 2015

Demand and Sales Activity

The all grade hay price from all markets in creased by $ 7 .00 per ton this week compared to the previous report . The data is collected from markets in Wisconsin and nearby Midwestern states.

For Nebraska , There is light demand with a n adequate supply of forages with steady prices . Dry weather is allowing farmers to make top quality 4 th and 5 th cutting hay.

For Iowa , there is good demand for small square bales and buyers were paying a premium for prime hay .

In South Dakota , very quiet week for hay sales . Demand is light with steady prices. Cattle farmers are weaning and marketing calves, which may increase demand for hay.

For Missouri, market activity is light; supply is moderate to heavy with steady pricing. There wa s a slight uptick in old crop hay purchases a result of dry weather and lack of stockpiled forage to support dry cows.

In Southwest Minnesota, l iterally no prime quality hay at auction . Very small sample this week with only four loads of alfalfa hay sold.

For Illinois, demand for quality alfalfa hay is g ood . A large offering of prime quality hay carri ed the market this week pushing prices up to $450.00 per ton . In Wisconsin , qu a lity hay arriving at the auction moved prices higher this week . Lower quality hay is in plentiful supply and overall the hay price is reflecting supply .

The Midwest straw market was slightly depressed compared to the last report . Market price for s mall square bale straw averaged $ 3 . 0 0 a bale (range of $ 1 . 0 0 to $6.00) . L arge square bale straw price was off abou t $1.00 per bale , with an average price of $ 3 4 . 0 0 per bale ( wide range of $ 1 2. 00 to $ 56 .00); and large round bale straw price dropped $4.00 per bale ; with a n average price of $ 2 1 .00 per bale ( range of $ 1 0 .00 - $ 31 .00 per bale ).

Source:uwex.edu

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Video: Why Seed Analysts are Thriving Under Seeds Canada

Last month in Edmonton, Alta., industry leaders and stakeholders gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of the seed industry at Seeds Canada’s annual conference. Among them was Sarah Foster, president of 2020 Seed Labs and the new vice-president of Seeds Canada.

Foster, who has been on the board of Seeds Canada for over a year, has witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with the formation of the organization. Seeds Canada was established just over three years ago through the merger of multiple seed industry groups, including the Commercial Seed Analysts Association of Canada (CSAAC). Since then, the organization has been working to define its priorities and solidify its role in the industry.

“The challenge has been allowing the dust to settle after the merger,” Foster explained. “We’ve been focused on identifying what our priorities should be and ensuring that our members, especially the seed analysts, are getting what they need to continue their professional work.”

One of the recent highlights was a pre-conference event where the three major seed labs in Alberta — 20/20 Seed Labs, SGS Canada and Seed Check — opened their doors to members. The event saw a record number of seed analysts and business professionals in attendance. Foster emphasized the importance of this transparency, stating, “It’s crucial for people to see what goes on behind the scenes. We’re an open book now, and that openness helps build trust and understanding within the industry.”

The event also featured an environmental scan and a series of discussions that fostered strong communication among attendees. According to Foster, the dialogue was both encouraging and inspiring.

“A lot of people were really inspired by the fact that Seeds Canada is moving ahead with its agenda. The seed analysts, who have always worked diligently in the background, are now being recognized more prominently,” she said.

Before the merger, seed analysts were represented by CSAAC. Now, as part of Seeds Canada, they are finding their place within the larger organization. Foster believes that the integration has been successful, noting, “I think we’re thriving. You only need to look south of the border, where similar consolidations are happening.”

As Seeds Canada continues to evolve, Foster remains optimistic about the future. “I want to be totally transparent with anyone who is a seed analyst — I’ve got your back. We’re moving in a positive direction, and we’ll do everything we can to meet the needs of our members,” she said.