Hay and forage buyers may be able to connect with local sellers -- and save on transportation costs -- using a Web site developed by the University of Wisconsin Extension Grains Team. So says Mike Ballweg, UW ag agent from Sheboygan County. The Farmer-to-Farmer site, searchable by county, is currently designed for Wisconsin growers. But out-of-state hay buyers and sellers can also list on it.

"This site is a great way to make connections locally," says Ballweg. "It helps producers locate high-moisture corn grain and corn silage as well as hay. This is important because the moisture content of some forage products can lead to higher transportation costs and make them difficult to haul great distances. I've had people make comments like, 'I didn't know my neighbor three miles down the road was looking to buy silage,' for example."

All price and transportation negotiating is conducted between buyer and seller and there is no charge for the service.

Visit farmertofarmer.uwex.edu/. Contact Ballweg at 920-467-5742.