Forage Market Insights: Hay, feed costs and the broader market outlook

Winter has tightened its grip, keeping hay markets steady but cautious as producers navigate uneven quality, feeding demand and slow exports.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 10:23am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

This report provides current forage market insights, drawing on state extension services, private market analysts and industry observations. It covers hay prices, exports, and regional market conditions across the Midwest, East, Southwest, and Northwest.

Why it matters

The forage market is a key indicator of broader agricultural and livestock trends. This report offers a comprehensive look at the current state of the hay market, including price movements, quality variations, and regional dynamics that impact farmers, ranchers, and the broader agricultural economy.

The details

The report examines the latest USDA price data for dairy hay, alfalfa, and other hay, noting both month-over-month and year-over-year changes. It also covers the latest export data, which shows steady but cautious demand from key Asian markets like China, Japan, and South Korea. Regional market conditions are detailed, with insights from state extension services on supply, demand, and pricing trends across the Midwest, East, Southwest, and Northwest.

  • As of Jan. 6, approximately 42% of U.S. hay-producing acreage was considered under drought conditions, an increase of 5% from a month earlier.
  • The estimate of alfalfa hay-producing acreage under drought conditions decreased to 29%, 4% less than a month earlier.
  • The latest USDA price data is for November 2025.

The players

Marian Viney

Managing Editor / Progressive Forage. Marian Viney covers forage topics, serving as a trusted resource for hay, silage and pasture production.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Winter has tightened its hold, and hay markets are moving with the same steady, cautious pace. Feeding demand is firm, but prices remain moderate and uneven, shaped by wide quality gaps – especially in grass hay – and a slow export picture. Producers are managing inventories carefully while waiting for clearer signals from weather and trade.”

— Marian Viney, Managing Editor (Progressive Forage)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This report highlights the complex and interconnected nature of the forage market, with factors like weather, exports, and regional dynamics all shaping prices and supply. As producers navigate these challenges, they must carefully manage their inventories and stay attuned to shifting market signals.