Drought Having An Impact On Idaho Hay Producers

The drought across the Northwest has been brewing for some time, with much of the region not seeing a large precipitation event since March. And with soil moisture levels so low to start July, it could be a long summer for many growers, such as Idaho hay producers.

Will Ricks, President of the Idaho Hay and Forage Association says 2021 has been a frustrating year in many ways. Many growers delayed their first cutting because of an unusually cool May, and things have just progressed from there.

“I feel like our yields are going to be down, but probably our quality is going to be up.  Overall, for those that have been able to irrigate, I think they’re going to be OK.  I actually think the price is going to be a little stronger.  So, in that regard, the drought it going to help a little bit for that.  But those guys that are dry farm or relying on the weather for their moisture they’re going to be hurting this summer.”

Ricks added the 2021 drought has had a bigger impact on the Idaho hay community than the 2020 pandemic.

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