Assuming 150 acres of hay and a hay price that's the same per ton regardless of bale size, Dickinson compared net incomes of several systems. Round bale systems came out on top with $23,043 in net income. Next in line were: bale accumulator, $21,580; kicker baler, $21,051; towable bale stacker, $19,758; bale bander, $16,984; large square, $16,541; and self-propelled bale stacker, $12,058.

“But it's a matter of what fits your farming operation best; each system has its advantages and disadvantages,” says Dickinson.

Growers close to urban markets have to determine if a small bale size will increase their hay's marketability or if they can reach larger-sized farms that want trailer loads of hay. Local market fluctuations as well as yield potential and fertility significantly impact a grower's costs and returns, he adds.

“I always emphasize that no two farms are alike in terms of the resources they have available and what needs they may have,” says Dickinson.

“Some guys may really enjoy spending time on their tractors. Maybe they're blessed with a large number of children who enjoy getting out on a hay wagon. Those are all considerations. Just really evaluate and look for the solution that fits your farm the best.”