In 1998, production is estimated at 5.2 million tons, up from 4.5 million tons last year. The majority of respondents indicate feedgrain supplies to be adequate to surplus. Most feedstuffs are rated in good to excellent condition, with adequate to surplus quantities reported. Feed barley is the only feedstuff reported to be in limited supply, with 20 per cent of respondents indicating a possible shortfall. Otherwise, supplies are expected to be adequate and the quality for the major feedstuffs are rated as fair to excellent condition.
Winter crops are reportedly in fair to excellent condition.
Three-quarters of respondents expect hay and bedding straw supplies to be insufficient. However, the overall quality of the feedstuffs is good. Feed barley and oats are adequate to surplus in supply and about 75 per cent of respondents expect silage supplies to be sufficient. Pastures are rated in fair condition and livestock are generally rated as good condition. Over 40 per cent of respondents expect that hay, straw for fodder and greenfeed supplies may be insufficient.