Recently in the Hay Information Category

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
UPDATED May 22 5:30 p.m.
The link listed here provided Central MN Alfalfa Harvest Alert Scissors-Cut data obtained through May 21. Additional Information might be added to this report on May 23 later in the afternoon or evening. If so it will be edited here at this link. We will sample again on Thursday Morning, weather permitting.

It looks like finding a WEATHER opportunity may be the primary decision factor for a lot of the hay crop in this area now milk cow quality hay. There are some fields yet that are just starting to show some bud development and might have a little time to grow yet.

PAST HAIL. Good news for hailed off field on May 1 north of Albany. It is a very nice looking stand of 12 inch alfalfa now. Nearly every stem was broken at 3 to 7 inches by the hail.
 
Remember, for scissors-cut sampling, we like to have 3-4 samples that are 3 or 4 days apart to establish a trend line to gain more confidence in the numbers.

Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data 2012 May 21.pdf

ALFALFA WEEVIL RESOURCE. There a couple notes at the end of the posted report finding some alfalfa weevil larva in a field today... and a resource listing some threshold guidelines. Here's another:
AW trtmnt thresholds.pdf

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
UPDATED MAY 15 5 pm

The link listed here provides Central MN PEAQ and Scissors-Cut sample information from Monday May 14... and a list from past sampling days for each cooperating farm.

We will have more lab reports for Monday sampling on Tuesday and I will update the link listed HERE with new data as we get it. Remember, for scissors-cut sampling, we like to have 3-4 samples taken 3-4 days apart to consider a trend line to provide more confidence in the numbers. The can bounce up and down some based on the chance of what is clipped each day.
 
Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data 2012 05 14.pdf

Read more for some other observations and resources

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
UPDATED MAY 9 about 9 PM - Added report from Maus farm near Freeport
The link listed here provides Central "MN Alfalfa Harvest Alert" scissors-cut data and PEAQ readings for May 7 and previous dates.
Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data 2012 05 07.pdf

Some fields are looking about ready, depending on goals, weather and soil conditions. Some fields may be 10 days to 2 weeks later.
Read more for other resources.

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
Hail did some damage to alfalfa fields as well as automobiles and homes on Tuesday afternoon and evening on May 1 at places  from out toward Padua in western Stearns County to Albany. In some fields nearly all stems in established alfalfa were broken as stripped of leaves. These will need to start again with new shoots from the crown. In new emerged alfalfa seedlings, stems broken below the leaves are done. I'll attach an article here written previously by Wisconsin Extension Specialist Dan Undersander that offers some discussions about decisions that might be made.
 Hail Alfalfa Undersander.pdf

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
The link listed here provides Central MN Alfalfa Harvest Alert Scissors-Cut data obtained as of May 5. Addition information might be added to this report on May 7. If so it will be edited here. Remember, for scissors-cut sampling, we like to have 3 or 4 samples that are 3 or 4 days apart to establish a trend line to gain more confidence in the numbers.
Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data 2012 05 03.pdf

For more information about scissors-cut sampling or PEAQ go to  http://www.extension.umn.edu/forages
Or search for Midwest Forage Association

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties    
       The Central MN Alfalfa Harvest Alert Scissors-Cut and PEAQ Sampling project has started for 2012 with data collected in Carver, Scott, McLeod, Meeker, Wright, Stearns, Benton and Morrison Counties.
      Data from fields measured and sampled on April 30, 2012 are posted at
 Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data 2012 April 30.pdf
       There could be a lot of variation between fields based on soil moisture conditions, any earlier frost damage, how late fields were cut in the fall, how much growth was on fields in the fall, hail damage, and other factors.
      Some questions have been asked about whether the hay crop will be more mature than height and maturity would indicate because it came out of dormancy so early. The numbers from the first three fields sampled would seem to indicate this won't be much of an issue, but we'll get a better look at that as we see more field and lab results.
       More sampling sites will be started on May 3 and perhaps a couple more next week. Results will be posted here as the information is put together.
Read Further for more information.

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties

This information is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on April 19, 2012. I am posting three reports:

Apr 19, 2012 SC Hay Auction.pdf ...  A list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay, RFV and type of bale ... cost per pound of dry matter and cost per RFV point are calculated.

History of Selected Lots 2011 2012.pdf ... A summary of auctions held this year: Medium Square Alfalfa 101 to 200 RFV divided in 25 point groups, and bedding material.

Graph SC Hay Auction 2001-2012.pdf ... A line graph of auction seasons from 2001 to 2012

Read further for a couple observations about the auction and a resource for evaluating hail damage on alfalfa.

The last two auctions of the season are scheduled for May 3 and 17.

You can look at USDA Hay Market Reports at http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/LSMNpubs and a "hay wanted" and "hay  for sale" Minnesota Hay List at www.haylist.umn.edu 

by Dan Martens, U of M Extension Educator in Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on April 5, 2012. It is based on information provided by Stearns DHIA Lab and the Mid-American Auction Company.

April 5 2012 SC Hay Auction.pdf ... A summary of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale and 25 RFV points... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated.

History of Selected Lots 2011 2012.pdf... A summary of hay auctions held this year showing Medium Square Alfalfa 101-200 RFV divided in 25 RFV groups, and medium sq. straw.

Graph SC Hay Auction 2001-2012.pdf.. A line graph of these auctions from 2001 to 2012. For the Feb 16 auction, the 176-200 RFV group is just one load - so not really an average.

The next auction at Sauk Centre will be held on Thursday April 19.

Read more for some comments on Other hay market info, Alfalfa and frost, Alfalfa harvest alert scissors cut project, Pricing standing hay, Summer tours, Safety, Useful forage websites.

by Dan Martens, U of M Extension Educator in Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on March 15, 2012. It is based on information provided by Stearns DHIA Lab and the Mid-American Auction Company.

Mar 15 2012 SC Hay Auction.pdf ... A summary of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale and 25 RFV points... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated.

History of Selected Lots 2011 2012.pdf... A summary of hay auctions held this year showing Medium Square Alfalfa 101-200 RFV divided in 25 RFV groups, and medium sq. straw.

Graph SC Hay Auction 2001-2012.pdf ... A line graph of these auctions from 2001 to 2012. For the Feb 16 auction, the 176-200 RFV group is just one load - so not really an average.

The next auction at Sauk Centre will be held on Thursday April 5.

 

by Dan Martens, U of M Extension Educator in Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on March 1, 2012. It is based on information provided by Stearns DHIA Lab and the Mid-American Auction Company.

Mar 1 2012 SC Hay Auction.pdf... A summary of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale and 25 RFV points... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated.

History of Selected Lots 2011 2012.pdf... A summary of hay auctions held this year showing Medium Square Alfalfa 101-200 RFV divided in 25 RFV groups, and medium sq. straw.

 Graph SC Hay Auction 2001-2012.pdf ... A line graph of these auctions from 2001 to 2012. For the Feb 16 auction, the 176-200 RFV group is just one load - so not really an average.

The next auction at Sauk Centre will be held on Thursday March 15.

by Dan Martens, U of M Extension Educator in Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on Feb. 16, 2012. It is based on information provided by Stearns DHIA Lab and the Mid-American Auction Company.

Feb 16 2012 SC Hay Auction.pdf ... A summary of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale and 25 RFV points... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated.

History of Selected Lots 2011 2012.pdf... A summary of hay auctions held this year showing Medium Square Alfalfa 101-200 RFV divided in 25 RFV groups, and medium sq. straw.

Graph SC Hay Auction 2001-2012.pdf ... A line graph of these auctions from 2001 to 2012. For the Feb 16 auction, the 176-200 RFV group is just one load - so not really an average.

The next auction at Sauk Centre will be held on Thursday March 1.

You can look at the USDA Hay Market Report at http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/LSMNpubs Select "Hay" in the middle of the page.

by Dan Martens , U of M Extension Educator in Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is from the Sauk Centre MN hay auction held on Feb. 2, 2012. It is based on information provided by Stearns DHIA lab and the Mid-American Auction Company.

Feb 2 2012 SC Hay Auction.pdf .... A summer of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale and 25 RFV points... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated.

History of Selected Lots 2011 2012.pdf ... A summary of auctions held this year: Medium Square Alfalfa 101-200 RFV divided in 25 RFV point groups, and medium square straw.

Graph SC Hay Auction 2001-2012.pdf ... A line graph of auctions from 2001 to 2012. Dotted lines indicate where hay was not sold in a group at a particular sale. Averages might not mean so much when 1 a few loads were sold.

Read more for a little discussion about alfalfa winter survival and other sources of market information.

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties

I am posting three items based on information from the January 19 Hay Auction at Sauk Centre:

Jan 19 2012 SC Hay Auction.pdf... A list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold... grouped by kind of hay, RFV in 25 point groups, and type of bale ... cost per pound of dry matter and cost per point RFV are calculated.

History of Selected Lots 2011 2012.pdf ... Average and Range of RFV values and prices for Medium Square Alfalfa in 25 RFV groups from 101 to 200 RFV. This included the average through each of the last 4 years and each auction so far this year. Medium Square Straw also listed.

Graph SC Hay Auction 2001-2012.pdf .... Line graphs fro markets fo Medium Square Alfalfa by 25 RFV groups. This year's line is a bold gold line. Dotted lines indicate and in-between sale did not hay hay in this group.

Read further from information about:
4 Regional Forage Production Workshops, Feb 6-9, in Rochester, Lamberton, Greenwald and Cromwell.

Other Hay Market Information

by Dan Martens
This information is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on January 5, 2012. I am posting three items:
Jan 5 2012 SC Hay Auction.pdf ... A list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale, 25 RFV points with calculations for averages, cost per RFV point, and cost per pound of dry matter.

History of Selected Lots 2011 2012.pdf ... A summary of auctions held for the last for years and for individual auctions this season: Medium Square Alfalfa 101 to 200 RFV in 25 point groups, and medium square straw.

Graph SC Hay Auction 2001-2012.pdf ... A line graph of auction seasons from 2001 to 2012

Read more for information about:
- Other sources of hay market information
- 4 Regional Winter Forage Workshops

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator in Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties

I am posting summary of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold on Nov. 17, Dec. 1, Dec. 15... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale, hay by 25 RFV points, grass by protein groups. Consider average carefully when based on a limited number of entries.

It doesn't take rocket science to say hay prices are higher this year compared to last year. Medium Square straw bales are running mostly in a $20 to $40 per bale range.

Nov 17 2011 SC Hay Auction.pdf
Dec 1 2011 SC Hay Auction.pdf
Dec 15 2011 SC Hay Auction.pdf
History of Selected Lots 2011 2012.pdf   A summary of averages and ranges for the last 4 years and for individual auction so far this year ... for Medium Square Alfalfa from 101-200 RFV in 25 point groups... and medium square straw
Graph SC Hay Auction 2001-2012.pdf  A line graph of auctions through the seasons from 2001 to 2012 for Medium Square Alfalfa in 25 RFV point groups.

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
This is a posting of my first summary of the Hay Auction at Sauk Centre for 2011-2012 market year. It appears that the hay price is higher. It's more difficult with small numbers of loads to be confident about averages calculated from sales. The price for quality clean straw in medium square bales appears to be pretty steady in the $25-35 per bale range. See links below for the following reports.

History of Selected Lots 2011-12.pdf  Average and range of RFV values and prices for Medium Square Alfalfa in 25 RFV groups from 101 to 200 RFV. Includes average through the sale seasons for the last 4 years and individual sales for each auction so far this year.

Hay Market Graphs 2001-2012.pdf  Line graphs of markets for Medium Square Alfalfa for 25 point RFV groups from 2001 to present time. This year's line is gold. Dotted lines indicate there were not lots in a sale between two sale date point.

2011 09 15 SC Hay Auction.pdf   Lots sold are grouped by bale type, kind of hay and 25 RFV points. Averages are calculated where it seems appropriated. Look at averages carefully where there are few or 1 load in a group. Look at averages carefully where there is a wide range of price. This probably means some hay in poor physical condition did not sell well and hay in better condition in the group brought a higher price. If you looking for hay with a better physical appearance, you're probably going to pay the higher pice.

2011 10 06 SC Hay Auction.pdf Same format

2011 10 20 SC Hay Auction.pdf Same format

2011 11 03 SC Hay Auction.pdf Same format

Auction will be held on the first and third Thursday of each month through May.
 

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties

Check   Alfalfa Field Data 06 02 2011.pdf    for information updated Friday afternoon June 3 about 5 p.m. for sampling done on June 1 and 2. The end of the report has notes about "yellow alfalfa" and "alfalfa weevils."

Consider YOUR crop conditions, field conditions, feed targets, past experience and expertise, other priorities and your best hunch about the weather. 

Farm families are amazing people for the kinds of decisions they need to make on a day to day basis which a wide range of variables and significant factors such as the weather that they cannot control. We can all appreciate their efforts when we sit down at the table ... and the efforts of others for whom their work and livelihood is very weather dependent. 

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
Check   Alfalfa Field Data 06 02 2011.pdf  for information we have so far from alfalfa fields sampled on June 1 & 2. This list includes the most recent info from farms where we don't have June 1 or 2 info. It also includes all information for individual farms.

See "Continued Reading" for some notes about "yellow alfalfa" and "alfalfa weevil."

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties

Check  Alfalfa Field Data 05 31 2011.pdf  for Alfalfa Scissors-Cut and PEAQ information we have so far from fields sample May 30/31 ... UPDATED June 1 about 5 p.m. Fields are being sampled on some variable schedules due to Memorial Day Holiday - a couple on May 30, some May 31. The McLeod and Meeker fields will be sampled on Wednesday June 1 for this week.
Many fields in our sampling area are at a place where they could be harvested now with the first good weather opportunity; and weather forecasts continue to look like we'll be dancing around egg shells some.
The end of the report offers a May 30 update on Alfalfa Weevil Growing Degree Days and information from an Alfalfa Grass Mixed Sample a couple miles south of Foley.

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties

Check "continued reading"   for an update of PEAQ and Forage lab data from fields checked on Thursday May 26 as of Friday May 27 about 5:00 p.m. The NORMAL technology failed me in trying to attach a pdf document. You'll have to look back at the first May 26 posting for previous test results on individual farms.

Weather. Notes at the end of the report include comments from Extension Climatologist Mark Seeley about weather prospects over the next couple of weeks.

Alfalfa Weevil. Notes at the end of the report include a couple observations about alfalfa weevil also.

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is from Hay Auction held at Sauk Centre MN ON May 5 and 19.
An additional Auction will be held on June 2.

SC Hay Auction 05 05 2011.pdf   A list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold on May 5... grouped by kind of hay and type of bale ... cost per  pound of dry matter and cost per RFV point are calculated.

SC Hay Auction 05 19 2011.pdf Same for May 19 auction

History of Selected Lots 2010 2011.pdf    A summary of auctions held this year: Medium Square Alfalfa 101 to 200 RFV divided into 25 RFV groups, and bedding material.  Sometime during the next couple of weeks, I'll calculate averages through the 2010-2011 season.

Graphs of Med Sq Alf 2001 to 2011.PDF     Line graphs of auction seasons from 2001 to 2010.

Throughout the year, you can also get USDA Hay Market reports at
 http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/LSMNpubs

You can check or post "Hay wanted" and "Hay for sale" at www.haylist.umn.edu

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties marte011@umn.edu 800-964-4929
Click    Alfalfa Field Data 05 26 2011.pdf    for Alfalfa PEAQ and Scissors-Cut samples from Thursday May 26. More results will be received on Friday afternoon and an update should be posted later Friday afternoon or evening. Then we will not have new results until Tuesday afternoon May 31.

"continued reading" offers an note from Extension Climatologist Mark Seeley aboiut weather prospects over the next 2 weeks and another note on "alfalfa weevil."

By Dan Martens, U of M Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
Click on Alfalfa Field Data 05 23 2011.pdf
to get an update of alfalfa scissors cut PEAQ and lab data from cooperating farms on May 23 ... as of 5 p.m. on May 24. All farms are in now.

Early stage buds are starting to show up in some fields. As we get alfalfa moving toward 22 to 24 inches tall (in some fields now), some people will start looking at soil moisture and weather conditions that might be suitable for harvest of better dairy quality hay, depending on ration strategies and past experience.

The notes at the end of the report includes a couple thoughts about Alfalfa Weevil development.

By Dan Martens, U of M Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
Click here Alfalfa Field Data 05 23 2011.pdf for information from field sampling on May 23 that we have back as of 4:30 on Monday afternoon.
The first page shows information received so far for all farms on May 23. The next pages show information for each farm individually so far this spring. These are listed generally from south to north: Scott, Carver, McLeod, Meeker, Wright, Stearns, Benton, Morrison Counties.
Samples from some farms are mailed to the forage lab and it takes another day to get information back.

By Dan Martens, U of M Extension Educator, Stearns - Benton - Morrison Counties
I'm posting here a link to data from fields checked on May 19. The first page shows information for all farms for May 19, followed by all tests so far listed by individual farms. These are listed generally from south to north: Scott, Carver, McLeod, Meeker, Wright, Stearns, Benton, Morrison Counties.
This information was updated around 3:30 pm. on Friday May 20.
Click here for the updated May 19 report Alfalfa Field Data 05 19 2011.pdf

By Dan Martens, U of M Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
I'm posting a link here to data from fields checked on Monday May 16. Barry Visser from Vita Plus sampled at the Poppler farm in Wright County where alfalfa measured 18 inches; and says most fields he has checked are in the range of 15 to 17 inches for tallest stems.
For the May 16 Field Data Report click here Alfalfa Field Data 05 16 2011.PDF

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
The information we have so far from sampling on Monday morning May 16 is:
In Wright County, at the Poppler Farm near Waverly, tallest stems 18." With favorable weather, that kind of field could be ready to harvest within the next two weeks.
At the Krause farm west of Buffalo 15.5"
In Benton County at the Scapanski Dairy northeast of Sauk Rapids and at O & S Dairy east of Rice 14 to 14.5 inches.
Of course feed quality numbers are much higher that we want for harvest yet, but we can see as other field work has been at a standstill, the hay crop has been making some progress. I'll post a chart with feed quality tests as we get more of that information. More information about doing scissors cut sampling on your own farm, using PEAQ sticks, or using this information can be found at www.extension.umn.edu/forages

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
I am posting information here for the April 7 and 21 Sauk Centre Hay Auctions. This includes:
SC Hay Auction 04 07 2011.pdf  A list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold... grouped by kind of hay, 25 RFV points ... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point.
SC Hay Auction 04 21 2011.pdf Same as previous
History of Selected Lots 2010 2011.pdf A summary of auction held this year: Medium Square Alfalfa in 25 RF points showing average and range for price and RFV.
Graphs of Med Sq Alf 2001 to 2011.PDF   A line graph of auction seasons from 2001 to 2011. The bold red line is this years season. A dash line indicates information not available.
Read more about plans for Alfalfa Scissors Cut Sampling in Central Minnesota for 2011

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
The information posted here is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on March 17, 2011. Thanks to the Mid American Auction Co. and the Stearns DHIA Association for sharing information that is used to create these reports report. I am posting three items.

SC Hay Auction 03 17 2011.pdf   A list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay and type of bale .... cost per pound of dry matter and cost per RFV point

History of Select Lots 2010 2011.pdf   A summary of auction held this year of Medium Square Alfalfa from 101 to 200 RFV in 25 point groups and straw bedding, average and range of values

Graphs Med Sq Alf 2001 to 2011.pdf  A line graph of auction seasons from 2001 to 2011. The bold red line is the auction for 2010 2011 so farm. The March 17 average price is just a mark because data is not available from March 3 at this time. There were no loads of Med Sq Alf in the 175 to 200 RFV group.

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns - Benton - Morrison Counties
I am posting my summary of the Sauk Centre MN Hay Auctions for February 3 and 17, 2011. This posting includes:
1. Summary of lots sold grouped by type of hay or bedding, type of bale and 25 RFV points.
     SC Hay Auction 02 03 2011.pdf
     SC Hay Auction 02 17 2011.pdf
2. History of Selected Lots sold so far through this sale season, medium square alfalfa and medium square straw.
     History of Select Lots 2010 2011.pdf
3. Line Graph of average prices for Medium Square alfalfa for the last 10 years, a visual clue perhaps to any trends in the market.
     Graphs Med Sq Alf 2001 to 2011.pdf
Please include strategies for a SAFE spring work season in your spring planting season planning.

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns - Benton - Morrison Counties

I am posting here a summary of Hay Auctions held at Sauk Centre MN on Jan 6 and January 20, 2011. The loads are grouped by kind of hay or bedding, bale type, and 25 Relative Feed Value Points. The February 3 and 17 posting will include a line graph of auctions through the last 10 years and a history of medium square alfalfa and medium square straw groups through this sale season so far.

SC Hay Auction 01 06 2011.pdf
SC Hay Auction 01 20 2011.pdf

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auctions held on December 2 and 16, 2011. I am posting 4 items here:
SC Hay Auction 12 02 10.pdf  A list of hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay and type of bale.
SC Hay Auction 12 16 10.pdf  Same kind of list for Dec 16.
History Selected Lots 2010 2011.pdf   A summary of auctions held so far this year - Medium Square Alfalfa lots with RFV from 101 to 200 listing averages and ranges for RFV and price, also straw.
Graph SC Hay Auction 2001-2011.pdf   A line graph of auction seasons from 2001-2011. The current year is the red line.
Extra reading has a couple comments about the auctions, and some info about coming events. These auctions continue to be held on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays at 12:30 p.m.

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on November 18, 2010. Remember averages probably indicate what average hay might sell for. The physical condition of the hay is important along with the lab test.
SC Hay Auction 11 18 10.pdf   A list of all tested lots sold, straw and corn stalks ... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale, 25 RFV points ... with quality and price information.
History Selected Lots 2010 2011.pdf  A summary of auctions held so far this year for medium square alfalfa and straw.
Graph SC Hay Auction 2001 2011.pdf   A line graph, visual attempt to compare prices from year to year, 2001 to now. Remember some points on a graph might represent one or two loads.

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison counties
Click SC Hay Auction 11 04 10.pdf to see a report of the hay and bedding sold based on groups sorted by hay type, bale package, and 25 RFV points.

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
Click on SC Hay Auction 10 21 10.pdf to see a report of the hay and bedding lots sold based on groups sorted by hay type, bale package and 25 RFV Points.

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
A small number of loads sold at the October 7 Auction. Click on SC Hay Auction 10 07 2010.pdf to see a report on hay lots sold based on groups sorted by hay type, bale package and 25 RFV points. There was 1 load of large round straw bales.

You can check more hay market information by going to
http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/LSMNpubs.
Select "hay" in the middle of the page. I like the East River South Dakota Market as another close by "dairy" market perspective.

You can also go to http://www.haylist.umn.edu to post "hay for sale" or "wanted to buy" and to find links to other hay exchanges.

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns - Benton - Morrison Counties
I am attaching my summary of the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on September 16, 2010.
Click on the link SC Hay Auction 09 16 10.pdf for a document that include all tested lots and bedding materials. The lots are grouped by kind of hay, type of bale, in groups by 25 RFV points. The third page is a history of selected lots. I encourage people to consider the usefulness of averages carefully with small numbers of loads and some significant differences in physical condition.

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on September 2, 2010.

Click on the link SC Hay Auction 09 02 10.pdf for a list of all tested lots sold and bedding materials sold. The lots are grouped by kind of hay, type of bale, in groups by 25 RFV points. The last page of the report is a history of selected groups with averages and ranges from previous years along with corresponding September 2, 2010 information.

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
Posted Originally Thursday Evening May 27, 2010
Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data May 27, 2010.pdf

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
Updated on Wednesday Evening May 26
This is a report of information from fields sampled on Monday May 24 with a couple of updates from May 20. We have a lab report from Motley sample fields now.
Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data May 24, 2010.pdf

For more information about doing scissors cut sampling or using PEAQ sticks or charts, look in the center of the U of M Extension Forages web page at:
http://extension.umn.edu/forages

By  Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
UPDATED Friday Evening May 21, 2010
We have more information back from May 20 sampling. Information is posted in this pdf document and will be updated here with a few more lab results on Monday if all goes well.
Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data May 20, 2010.pdf

For more information about doing scissors cut sampling or using PEAQ sticks or charts, look in the center of the U of M Extension Forages web page at:
http://extension.umn.edu/forages

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties

I am posting here the grouped and averaged summary for the auction held at Sauk Centre on May 6 and May 20, 2010 ... and end of auction season summaries.

SC Hay Auction 05 06 10.pdf A list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay and type of bale ... cost per pound of dry matter and cost per RFV point are calculated.

SC Hay Auction 05 20 10.pdf Hay by groups as described for May 6

Summary Selected Lots 2009-2010.pdf This is a summary of selected lots through the year including an average and ranges for these groups through the year.

Graph SC Hay Auction 2001-2010.pdf This is a line graph of the averages for medium square bales in 4 RFV groups completer through May 2010.

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
Updated May 19, 2010 ~ 5:30 p.m.
Some Harvest has started.
Report for field samples on Monday May 17:
Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data May 17, 2010.pdf

For more information about doing scissors cut sampling or using PEAQ sticks or charts, look in the center of the U of M Forages web page at:
http://extension.umn.edu/forages

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
UPDATED Monday Evening May 17
ALL test and field information for May 13 IS POSTED NOW in the document here:

Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data May 13, 2010.pdf

For more information about doing scissors cut sampling or using PEAQ sticks or charts look in the center of the U of M Extension forages web page at:
http://extension.umn.edu/forages

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
UPDATED May 13 Evening
THINGS HAVE NOT CHANGED MUCH SINCE LAST THURSDAY. This report shows information we have gotten so far from May 10 sampling and field observations. We expect lab reports from two sites yet. 
For more information about doing scissors cut sampling or using PEAQ sticks or charts look in the center of the U of M Extension forages web page at: 

http://www.extension.umn.edu/forages

Click the link below to look at the data from May 10, 2010. See when some fields were at today's height in 2009. New May 10 information will be updated by edits to this entry.

Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data May 10, 2010.pdf

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties
UPDATED MAY 7 - 4:15 p.m.

This report shows Alfalfa Harvest Alert information from field observations and forage tests in Caver/Scott, McLeod/Meeker, Stearns/Benton/Morrison, and Wright Counties. It includes RFV & RFQ numbers on some samples and some notes related to samples.

For more information about doing scissors cut sampling or using PEAQ sticks or charts look in the center of the U of M Extension forages web page at:
http://www.extension.umn.edu/forages

Click the link below to look at the data from May 6, 2010. This information will be updated by edits to this entry. Most of these fields will be sampled on Monday and Thursday mornings until they are harvested. Crop height appears to be 1 to 2 weeks ahead of last year.

Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data May 6, 2010.pdf

ALFALFA FROST Concern? See continued reading noted below.

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties<

Updated May 5.

This report shows information from field observations and forage tests in Caver/Scott, Mcleod/Meeker, Stearns/Benton/Morrison, and Wright Counties. The Alfalfa Harvest Alert Project includes using forage lab tests and the PEAQ process for estimating forage quality as a gauge for making harvest decisions. PEAQ stands for Predictive Equation for Alfalfa Quality. It estimates what the forage test of a fresh cut sample might be based on the height of the tallest steam and the maturity of the most mature stem.

We generally expect "feed in the bunk" to be 15 to 25 RFV points lower than what a fresh cut lab test would indicate or what the PEAQ stick or chart would read. For more information about doing scissors cut sampling or using PEAQ sticks or charts look in the center of the U of M Extension Forages web page at:

http://www.extension.umn.edu

Click the link below to look at the data from May 3, 2010. The information for May 3 will be updated by edits to this entry. Once started, most fields are sampled on Monday and Thursday mornings until they are harvested.

Alfalfa Harvest Alert Data May 3, 2010.pdf

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearn-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is for the Sauk Centre Hay Auctions held April 1 and 15, 2010.

The reports are a list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale ... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated. Straw and other bedding material is included. Consider averages carefully when they are based on a limited number of entries.

SC Hay Auction 04 01 10.pdf

SC Hay Auction 04 15 10.pdf

History Selected Lots 2009 2010.pdf   A summary of auctions held this year. Medium Square Alfalfa 101 to 200 RFV by 25 point groups, and bedding materials.

Graph SC Hay Auction 2001 2010.pdf   A line graph of auction seasons from 2001 to 2010 for Medium Square Alfalfa groups from 101 to 200 RFV. The orange line is 2009-2010.

by Dan Martens
This information is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on March 18, 2010. I am posting three reports:
SC Hay Auction 03 18 10.pdf - A list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay, RFV, and type of bale ... cost per pound for dry matter and cost per RFV point are calculated.
History Selected Lots 2009 1010.pdf- A summary of auctions held this year: Medium Square Alfalfa 101 to 200 RFV in 25 point groups, and bedding material.
Graph SC Hay Auction 2001 2010.pdf- A line graph of Auction Seasons from 2001 to 2010.

By Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearns-Benton-Morrison Counties

This information is from the Sauk Centre Hay Auction held on March 4, 2010. I am posting three reports:

SC Hay Auction 03 04 10.pdf  A list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay and type of bale ... cost per pound of dry matter and cost per RFV point are calculated.

History Selected Lots 2009 2010.pdf  A summary of auctions held this year: Medium Square Alfalfa 101 to 200 RFV divided in 25 point groups, and bedding material.

Graph SC Hay Auction 2001 2010.pdf   A line graph of auction seasons from 2001 to 2010

You can look at USDA Hay Market Reports at http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/LSMNpubs and a "hay wanted" and "sale for sale" at www.haylist.umn.edu 

 

 

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearn-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is for the Sauk Centre Hay Auctions held February 4 and 18, 2010.

The reports are a list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale ... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated. Straw and other bedding material is included. Consider averages carefully when they are based on a limited number of entries.

SC Hay Auction 02 04 10.pdf

SC Hay Auction 02 18 10.pdf 

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearn-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is for the Sauk Centre Hay Auctions held January 7 and 21, 2010.

The reports are a list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale ... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated. Straw and other bedding material is included. Consider averages carefully when they are based on a limited number of entries.

SC Hay Auction 01 07 10.pdf

SC Hay Auction 01 21 10.pdf

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearn-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is for the Sauk Centre Hay Auctions held December 3 and 17, 2009. The reports are a list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale ... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated. Straw and other bedding material is included. Consider averages carefully when they are based on a limited number of entries.

SC Hay Auction 12 03 09.pdf

SC Hay Auction 12 17 09.pdf

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearn-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is for the Sauk Centre Hay Auctions held November 5 and 19, 2009. The reports are a list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale ... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated. Straw and other bedding material is included. Consider averages carefully when they are based on a limited number of entries.
SC Hay Auction 11 05 09.pdf

SC Hay Auction 11 19 09.pdf

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearn-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is for the Sauk Centre Hay Auctions held October 1 and 15, 2009. The reports are a list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale ... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated. Straw and other bedding material is included. Consider averages carefully when they are based on a limited number of entries.

SC Hay Auction 10 01 09.pdf

SC Hay Auction 10 15 09.pdf

by Dan Martens, Extension Educator, Stearn-Benton-Morrison Counties
This information is for the Sauk Centre Hay Auctions held September 3 and 17, 2009. The reports are a list of all tested hay lots and bedding materials sold ... grouped by kind of hay, type of bale ... cost per pound of dry matter and per RFV point are calculated. Straw and other bedding material is included. Consider averages carefully when they are based on a limited number of entries.
SC Hay Auction 09 03 09.pdf

SC Hay Auction 09 17 09.pdf

2009 Central MN Alfalfa Scissors Cut Project - 6/2/09 (pdf)

2009 Central MN Alfalfa Scissors Cut Project - 5/20/09 - pdf

Individual Auction Results - 5/7/09 - pdf (Sauk Centre unless noted)

Graph 2001-2009 SC Hay Auctions - 5/20/09 - pdf

Summary of 2008-09 Results to Date - 5/20/09 - pdf

Graph 2008-09 Md Sq Alf - 5/20/09 - pdf

Graph of 2008-2009 Medium Square Alfalfa 4/16/09

Graphs of 2001-2009 SC Hay Auctions as of 4/16/09

Summary of 2008-09 Results to Date - 4/16/09

Quality Tested Hay Auction - April 16, 2009

Quality Tested Hay Auction - April 2, 2009

Quality Tested Hay Auction - March 19, 2009

Quality Tested Hay Auction - March 5, 2009

Quality Tested Hay Auction - February 19, 2009

Quality Tested Hay Auction - February 5, 2009

Quality Tested Hay Auction - Sauk Centre, MN - January 22, 2009

Quality Tested Hay Auction - January 8, 2009

Dan Martens, Extension Technical Advisor, U of M Extension, marte011@umn.edu
The “Quality Tested” Hay Action at Sauk Centre, Minnesota was started by the Central Minnesota Forage Council with assistance from the University of Minnesota to promote quality testing in the marketplace and to create a marketplace for buyers and sellers of hay. The auction has since been turned over to a privately owned company, the Mid American Auction Company.

Access the Crop News hay information archive for 2007 and 2008.