U.S. Hay Supply Forecasted to Drop 7.2% in 2026 Despite Strong Carryover Stocks
Aug 31
1 min read
According to the USDA-NASS Crop Production report released on Aug. 12, 2026, the total U.S. hay supply is forecast to contract by 7.2% for the 2026 crop year. Despite a robust 19.5% year-over-year increase in May 1 carryover stocks, a sharp 7.9% drop in expected annual production (and a 9.3% plunge compared to the 10-year average) will drive overall feed availability down.
In a recent Cow-Calf Corner article, Derrell Peel, Oklahoma State University Extension livestock marketing specialist, summarizes what these numbers mean for producers heading into winter.
By Angie Stump Denton
August 26, 2026 08:31 AM
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