This is the third highest nationwide stocks on record.
Hay stocks are up in three of the four regions, while prices have trended inversely.
Hay stocks increased the most in this region in California where hay stocks were reported at 3.246 million tons, over twice the previous year's level. In response to the increase in hay supplies, prices have declined in California. Average hay prices for this region are the lowest of the four. High hay stocks are not the only reason for low hay prices in the North Central region. Low calf prices have restricted demand from beef cow-calf producers as has the mild winter weather which has limited the need for supplemental feeding.