Arizona Forage Producers Association Weblog

Monday, January 27, 2003

As expected, the USDA-NASS Crop Production report (released January 10th) showed nationwide hay stocks down from a year earlier as of December 1, 2002. U.S. hay stocks on December 1 were reported at 103.8 million tons. That was down 6.8 million tons, or 6 percent, from 2001?s. Compared to December 1, 2000, U.S. hay stocks were down by about 1.8 million tons. Although several states posted increased hay stocks, many areas of the country hurt by drought in 2002 face tight supplies and high prices.
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"Forages return more money directly to Arizona producers than any other crop, including cotton and produce. The value of all hay alone produced in Arizona was $183 million in 2001(according to USDA figures), about twice value as much as cotton, while farmers themselves realize only a minor portion of the value of the produce crop. The value of our silage crops adds to the Arizona forage total value. And, forage production is increasing! I urge every Arizona forage producer to give this new organization your support with both membership and participation. Go get a neighbor to join up, too. Let's take charge of our futures by defining our products, supporting common objectives and sharing information." -- Lee Banning President

Copyright 2003 Arizona Forage Producers Association