News

Hay supplies tight, feedlots muddy in Missouri

The drought may be over in Missouri, but a wet and cold February has led to another set of problems.

The USDA says 67% of the state is short to very short of hay and roughage, well above a year ago, with colder temperatures leading to increased hay demand and heavier than normal precipitation muddying feedlots and stressing livestock.

Only 1% of the state reports any kind of soil moisture shortage with average precipitation nearly two inches above usual.

Weather is also negatively affecting winter wheat, with 19% of the crop in good to excellent shape, compared to 35% this time last year.

The USDA’s weekly crop progress reports resume April 1st.