Hay Pricing 1.0.2

In Wisconsin, an estimated 2.5 million acres of dry hay and haylage are harvested annually, with dry hay alone contributing an estimated $80–$100 million in market sales. The sector operates without a formal hay commodity market comparable to corn or soybeans, and reliable price information can be elusive, particularly for hay that remains standing in the field.

This review assesses the tool as a resource intended to help farmers and landowners determine hay values and navigate the sale or purchase of standing hay. It also provides access to historical hay price data.

Users can input projected yield, cutting schedule, and harvest costs to calculate a standing-value per acre, which can aid negotiation and planning.

• Strengths: Provides a structured framework for price estimation and access to historical data, reducing guesswork in negotiations.
• Usability: Clear input fields for yield, schedule, and costs; per-acre value calculation is straightforward.
• Limitations: The accuracy depends on the quality and timeliness of data; regional variations and seasonal dynamics may affect precision.