The USDA is projecting a year to year decline in hay production due to slight decreases in planted area and average yield. Drought is also an issue in some areas.
Production of alfalfa and alfalfa mixtures is seen at 48.156 million tons with an average yield of 2.99 tons per acre and harvested area of 16.123 million acres, while production of all types of hay is pegged at 72.326 million tons with an average yield of 2.04 and harvested area of 35.414 million tons.
