Hay

Revised June 2025.

Overview and Production

Hay refers to forage harvested at an optimal growth stage, dried to a safe moisture level (typically below 20%), and stored for later feeding to livestock. It is critical in supplying feed during winter or drought periods when pasture is unavailable. Hay can be made from various forage species, including alfalfa, clover, timothy, orchardgrass, bromegrass, and mixed grass-legume blends. 

In 2024, approximately 48.5 million acres of hay were harvested in the US, marking a 6.2% decline from 2020. Alfalfa accounts for about one-third of total hay acreage. It is known for its high crude protein and energy levels, making it a preferred choice for dairy cattle and high-performance livestock. Grass hay is commonly used in beef, equine, and small ruminant systems. 

Hay production varies widely by region, influenced by factors such as climate, soil type, precipitation, and availability of irrigation. Leading alfalfa hay-producing states include Montana, Nebraska, South Dakota, Idaho, and California. Iowa follows closely behind at 6th highest production at 750 thousand tons of alfalfa hay. Harvesting practices generally are between 3-5 cutting in Iowa but can be as high as 8-11 cutting per year for non-dormant varieties in the southwest. 

Weather remains a critical factor; excessive rainfall can delay harvest and reduce quality, while drought limits yield. Properly drying and storing hay also influences long-term feed value and marketability. Round bales, square bales, and large square bales offer flexibility in storage and transport options. 

Marketing 

The hay market operates on local and regional scales, often relying on private sales, auctions, and feed dealers. Unlike row crops, hay is typically not traded on futures markets, so local supply, quality, and transportation costs heavily influence prices. 

USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) provides regular price reports that reflect regional hay prices by species, bale type, and quality. As of June 2023, average prices were reported at approximately $180 per ton (dry matter basis) for alfalfa and $138 per ton for grass hay. These values represent a dip from record highs in 2022 but remain above average prices from 2015–2021. 

Hay is the main export of forages from the US, with a value of $1.11 billion, representing 3.18 million metric tons of hay in 2024, which is down compared to 2023. Hay is lighter than other forages, such as ensiled products, due to its lower moisture content, making it more transportable. Most US hay is exported to Japan, China, and South Korea. Even though there is an export market, most of the hay is used on farms or within the US, as only 3% of the total hay produced is exported.  

Useful Links, Background Information, and References 

Alfalfa Management Guide, 2011, American Society of Agronomy 

Hay Reports, 2025, USDA Agricultural Marketing Services  

 USDA Hay Markets, 2025, Hay and Forage Grower  

Hay Acres, 2025, USDA NASS  

2023 National Forage Review, 2023, Progressive Farmer 

Quick Stats – Total Hay – Production, 2022, USDA NASS 

Figure 4: Mowing and conditioning grass hay. 

 Figure 5: Cut hay, drying in swaths.