By TIM THORNBERRY
Kentucky Correspondent

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Despite recent rains in the state, weather conditions throughout the spring will decrease the amount of hay Kentucky farmers will produce this year, presenting a problem for those who depend on it to feed livestock.

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) has established a Hay Hotline to help those in need, as well as those who might have extra to sell. Producers who call the number to buy or sell will be listed on the Hay Hotline page on the department’s website.

“These services could make the difference between holding on to livestock or having to sell,” Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. “The early April freeze and the recent drought together have greatly reduced Kentucky’s hay supply. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture will do whatever we can to help farmers ride out this dry spell.”

The University of Kentucky UK has estimated forage losses in Kentucky at $45 million. Yields of first cuttings averaged about 50 percent of normal, according to UK experts.

Tom Keene, hay specialist with the UK College of Agriculture, said even with the added rainfall, producers may be in need of hay until next spring.

“I see a shortage throughout the year. I think there is some hay that is available nationwide, but other parts of the country are experiencing drought, too. It’s going to be a real challenge for producers to stretch their hay until we can make a new crop,” he said.
Keene also said farmers can expect hay prices to remain high and continue to rise throughout the rest of the year.

“Producers and sellers nationwide are well aware of the situation in Kentucky and other drought-stricken areas,” he said. “Producers would be well-served to source their hay early and acquire quantities necessary to carry them through until May of 2008.”

Keene pointed out that current prices on midsize square bales of 140-150 RFV (relative feed value) hay delivered into Kentucky from outside the state is somewhere between $140 and $175 per ton.
“Small square bales of good horse hay are bringing more than $200 per ton. Locally grown round bales are easily bringing $80 per ton, or maybe even more,” he said. Keene reminded farmers they have many tools at their disposal to acquire hay and make it last, such as using the Hay Hotline, storing hay properly and having hay tested. He said the hotline will be a “work in progress,” with new features added over time.

“KDA is also going to contact other state departments of agriculture around the country and ask them to let their producers know of our need for hay,” Keene said. “Hopefully, state hay organizations and producers nationwide will participate in our effort to help Kentucky farmers ‘stretch’ their hay inventories for this year. The hay that KDA currently tests will also be linked to this site, as you can see when you go there.”

The Hay Hotline number is 888-567-9589. Its website is at www.kyagr.com – click on the Programs menu at the top of the page, and click on Hay Hotline.