The forage market continues to be influenced by several key factors including drought conditions, fluctuating hay prices and continuing trade policies.

It’s reported that the Dane County Farmers' Market, which was started in 1972 to unite the urban and the rur­al cul­tures, is the largest producer-only farmers market in the country.

Depending on your geography, the 2025 forage season is underway. Regardless of where you crop, questions regarding ag and trade policies, input costs, labor, planting, production and prices are front and center. Here’s a review of what we know about hay and forage markets as you continue to look for answers.

Years ago, I proudly wore the FFA blue corduroy jacket while attending Oregon (Wisconsin) High School. Recently, I was asked to serve as a judge for one of the speaking contests during the Section 5 FFA Leadership Development Event at my alma mater.

I'm so excited to join the Progressive Publishing team and to guide Progressive Forage as its managing editor. I’m working from home in Belleville, Wisconsin – one of three UFO capitals of the world.