Winter weather is ahead and most of the harvest season is behind us; the 2023 production year is coming to a close, with final prices taking shape and a better idea of what forage needs will look like over the winter.

While the promise of cooler weather and fall are quickly approaching, moisture conditions continue to determine the availability of winter feed.

With the peak of summer behind us and the tempting cooler temperatures of fall approaching, the hay market is still driven by who is able to put up high-quality hay or not.

As the growing season progresses, the difference moisture makes is becoming abundantly clear. While most markets are remaining steady and the demand for hay is good, heavy rains have delayed the haying season in many parts of the country.

As the weather warms up, the demand for hay is also warming. While producers anxiously await the ability to turn cattle out to graze, the slow exit of winter weather is demanding more hay to be bought.

A slight increase in hay acreage and yield-boosting moisture conditions in some regions provide hope for increased forage production in 2023.

Moisture conditions are improving, but hay exports and milk prices are weakening, with a likely impact on demand.

Here’s Progressive Forage’s monthly look at factors impacting hay markets for January 2023.

Whether buying or selling hay, there’s plenty to unwrap as the calendar year comes to a close.