Hay and forage shortages are likely this winter across the U.S., due to excessive moisture conditions and flooding in the Midwest. University of Nebraska Lincoln Extension Forage Specialist Bruce Anderson says that trend is even more likely in states like Nebraska.

He says hay and forage crops in Nebraska haven’t had much disease pressure yet. However, even with the break in the rain the humidity has been high which is conducive for growth. So, Anderson recommends producers monitor that going forward.

Anderson says the quality of forages may also be down compared to previous drier years.

Anderson recommends producers take inventory of the forages they have and make plans to store so they’re prepared for shortages later this winter.