Timothy
PNW
Weather over the first three weeks of May has been cooler with scattered rain. Extended forecast is calling for warmer temps.
Columbia Basin, Washington
The timothy crop is looking good. We are seeing varying stages of growth with some fields ready to cut within one to two weeks dependent on weather. Upon inspection in the Basin we are noticing a moderately larger number of timothy fields which have been removed. Forecast is calling for warmer temps from mid 80s to mid 90s.
Ellensburg, Washington
Cooler temperatures have timothy growth progressing at a slower pace. We are unsure when the beginning of 1st cutting harvest will commence. Extended forecast is calling for warmer weather from the mid 70s to 80s.
Idaho
The dryland country has been getting a good amount of moisture during the past couple of weeks, this much needed precipitation is allowing for a strong and healthy stand throughout the Palouse.
Alfalfa
Ellensburg, WA Alfalfa - May 2020
Ellensburg, WA Alfalfa - May 2020
PNW
Columbia Basin, Washington
Some early cutting began over a week ago. Two different storms affected different areas resulting in rained on 1st cutting. A very small proportion of fields cut have been put up without rain. Majority of 1st cutting is yet to be started.
Ellensburg, Washington
The alfalfa stand is looking good across the valley, some farmers waited for the rain to pass before cutting. A number of farmers are beginning to put first cutting on the ground.
Idaho
Parts of Southern Idaho (Magic Valley) have already begun to harvest some 1st cutting alfalfa. Weather seems to be cooperating so far.
Oregon
Some fields in Northern and Eastern Oregon have begun harvesting 1st cutting. Some fields of alfalfa have no rain; however, nearly all of what has been cut so far received a few showers.
PSW
California
Much of 1st cutting alfalfa was rained on or over-mature. Some 2nd cutting was rained on and some was over-mature. Quality overall for 2nd cutting was better than 1st cutting. Some early 3rd cutting is beginning this week.
Kleingrass & Bermuda Hay- PSW
Kleingrass
1st cutting Kleingrass is wrapped up. A lot of this material was over-mature and will most likely be graded as standard grade.
Bermuda
At this time we anticipate Bermuda straw available toward the end of July. Demand for Bermuda straw is high as buyers are looking for cheaper commodities. Bermuda Hay 1st cutting has been completed. The demand has been softer for new crop, so overall quality has been lower as farmers grow for tonnage. Acreage is similar to 2019 crop levels
Sudan
California (PSW)
Some early fields are being cut right now, but overall harvest will begin in 1.5-2 weeks. We expect majority of Sudan to be in the bale by Mid-June.
Ellensburg, Washington (PNW)
Acreage in the Valley appears to be comparable to 2019.
Straw
PNW
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Acreage amounts seem to be down across all crops, tonnage is anticipated to be greater than last year due to the amount of rain received in the valley compared prior year. Crop carryover amounts are minimal, too early for a detailed comment in regards to harvesting schedule. We are hoping weather allows for an on time harvest.
Eastern Oregon - Perennial Ryegrass Straw
Too early in the season to comment.
Columbia Basin, Washington - Fescue Straw
Too early in the season to comment.
Columbia Basin, Washington - Bluegrass Straw
Too early in the season to comment.
