A lot of the first alfalfa cutting is being taken off in western and south-central Idaho, says Glenn Shewmaker, University of Idaho extension forage specialist. "It looks like we may be able to get those cuttings off without rain," he states. "Yields may be off some because of cooler weather we had earlier in the season." Demand is good as more dairies are built in the area. "Producers are hauling hay right to the dairies," Shewmaker reports.
Some parts of the state are dry. Snow runoff was early and levels were low in some places, which may lead to less irrigation water being available.
Shewmaker says grass seed sales indicate there could be an increase in grass hay production in the future.
Contact Shewmaker at 208-736-3608.