Drought and Hay Shortage: Impact on Northern Michigan and Texas Agriculture
Northern Michigan is experiencing a hay shortage due to a combination of drought and high fertilizer prices. The Federal Agricultural Statistics Agency reports that hay is at a 50-year low. Meadow Creek Ranch, a farm in Reed City, has only received 25% of their usual hay yield this summer. The drought has also affected grass growth, forcing them to rely on hay earlier than usual. To address the issue, they plan to change their fertilizer application and increase Sudex cultivation. Additionally, hay prices have risen by an average of $10 per bale, reaching around $85.