Both the Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) and Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) are urging producers in Manitoba to list available hay, straw, and alternative feeds in the wake of dry conditions, and lower-than-expected forage and hay yield reports.
“Given dry conditions reported across much of the province, we feel that it is important to ensure producers know what their options are when it comes to both buying and selling available hay and straw,” says KAP president, Bill Campbell. “As a grain farmer and a beef producer, I must utilize every option available to ensure the long-term viability of my operation.”
Both organizations have created a fact sheet, found below, where producers can use the multiple resources listed to find or sell what they have or need.
“Many beef producers have been hard hit by back-to-back dry conditions that have led to diminished pasture and forage yields and depleted their hay and straw reserves,” explains MBP president Tom Teichroeb. “Faced with these conditions, they are looking to source both traditional and alternative sources of feed and bedding. We are encouraging producers with these kinds of resources available to consider listing them for sale. ”
According to the latest Canadian Drought Monitor map, areas in northeastern Manitoba, and the south of the province, are listed as having “abnormally dry” to “moderate drought” conditions. In June, areas of the province saw “severe” and even “extreme” drought.
Fact sheet
Farmers and producers in Manitoba have numerous options when it comes to listing available hay and straw, and for buying hay, straw and alternative feeds. By no means is this list exhaustive and we encourage you to share other avenues for listing and buying with both Manitoba Beef Producers and Keystone Agricultural Producers.
Manitoba Agriculture
Manitoba Agriculture can assist farmers and producers with questions on where to source hay, straw and alternative feed. Call 1-844-769-6224 or visit your local Ag Office. The Manitoba Agriculture Livestock page also has tools and resources for dry conditions.
Manitoba Government Hay Listing Service
The Manitoba government has a hay listing service that includes hay, pasture land, and alternative feeds available. There are also options to select certified organic and certified weed free feed. To learn more, click here.
Social Media
There are two dedicated groups on Facebook for buying/selling hay and straw.
Manitoba Hay and Feed for Buy/Sell
Hay/Feed for sale in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba
Other social media avenues including Twitter also feature hay for sale across the province, however that exchange needs to occur on a user to user basis.
Hay Exchange
The internet Hay Exchange is a free hay listing and hay locator website. It includes listings from all 50 states and all Canadian provinces. For more information, click here.
Others
Buy and sell websites like Kijiji and eBrandon will occasionally have listings for hay and straw.