Winter hay demand rises as farmers prep for cold months

KSNF/KODE — Colder weather means an increased demand for one agricultural product.

"Whenever we're talking about actually feeding an animal and getting them through this higher energy needs season, we need higher quality food," said Wendie Powell.

During winter months, the lack of growing grass means farmers need to rely on hay to keep livestock fed.

That's why getting a head start is crucial.

"Late summer fall is definitely a time to squirrel away the nuts, if you will," said Powell.

Powell, a livestock production agent, says the first thing is knowing how much hay is needed.

"At this time of year, we're feeding. Southeast Kansas is known for their cow-calf operations, so we've got mama cows that are possibly having their calves."

Feeding that new calf means a cow needs to consume a bale every two weeks. Other livestock, like horses, may not need as much, but it can still be expensive.

It can also bring warmth to animals that don't eat it.

"It's a perfect insulation. It's easy to clean out of stalls and whatnot. And it's one of those things that we can get on a more economical scale.

Powell says the price of hay also comes down to delivery fees, which can range from $20 to $50 a pound.

That depends on where it's coming from, the company, and the quality.

"We might find inexpensive bales, but they're 200 miles away, and we have to pay transportation by the mile and find the company that will transport that," said Powell.

The size of the bale and its age can also play a role in cost, along with how to store it.

But Powell says it's worth it to make sure the livestock are set for the season.

"It's our responsibility morally, ethically, all the things to make sure that animal has the quality of feed it needs to get through the cold feeding season."