By Scout Nelson
This season’s forage yield and quality across South Dakota have been heavily influenced by fluctuating weather conditions, including excessive moisture and cooler-than-normal temperatures. According to Sara Bauder, forage field specialist for SDSU Extension in Mitchell, South Dakota, forages like alfalfa had a slow start due to the wet and cool spring.
“Those forages that we traditionally expect in the spring, like alfalfa and things like that, were a little slow to get started, because they were either underwater or it was just very, very cool,” Bauder explained. However, as temperatures warmed, the growing season improved where fields were not flooded.
Hay yield and quality have largely depended on the timing of cuttings relative to rainfall. In the eastern parts of the state, flooding caused significant issues with hay that either got rained on while down, wasn’t cut due to flooding, or bales that were not moved quickly enough and ended up submerged.
In drier parts of the state, there has been a decent hay crop, but the quality and yield have been influenced by whether the harvest started on time. Extreme heat in recent weeks has added another layer of challenge, as it affects grass growth and lowers forage quality.
Bauder emphasized the importance of good management practices, such as adequate fertilization and avoiding overgrazing, to reduce plant stress during extreme weather conditions.
According to the USDA Direct Hay Report for South Dakota, demand and movement for hay have been lower than usual, with premium hay prices ranging from $140 to $160 per ton. Bauder also advised producers to watch for pests, such as blister beetles, when purchasing hay.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pamwalker68
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Hay & Forage, General, Weather