Kentucky Horse Farms - Hay Stocks Lowest since 1950

Found a very important article for anyone that has horses (or livestock for that matter).  It appears that between the droughts, and the rough "spring" that occured this year in many parts of the country, that hay stocks/reserves have been dramatically reduced.  The article says in part: "USDA's May 11 Crop Production report estimates all dry hay stored on U.S. farms on May 1, 2007 totaled 15.0 million tons, down 30% from the previous year and the lowest inventory since 1950."

Add in the flooding going on various parts of the country (Oklahoma, etc) - and some of the country's traditionally largest producing regions for hay, have been hit hard.

And add in the fires/droughts out west that have been ongoing for years.

This could have a dramatic impact on all horse farm owners.  So if you own a farm, and have horses or other livestock - I'd recommend stocking up now on hay while you can get it.  Expect prices to jump.

Hay prices have already doubled in some parts of the country.

The article can be seen in its entirety at: Dairyline 

For horse owners, there have been reports of persons just opening their gates and turning their horses loose because they can't afford to feed them.

And even if you aren't a horse, or other livestock owner - you will be affected.  When hay jumped from $4 to $8 (or higher) per bale in some parts of the country, what do you think is going to happen when the farmers can't afford to feed their livestock?

I've spoken to several farmers in my area - expect massive sell offs of entire herds - this will cause short term prices to plummet on things like beef, etc. - followed by long term price hikes for years to come.

The hay shortage is a concern for everyone.

Be sure to visit these other informative websites:

KY Farms For Sale

KY Horse Farms

Horse Forum