Supply stays tight while quality separates from volume
Northern California & North Intermountain
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September 11, 2026August 17, 2026 August 12, 2026
Demand holds firm, but diesel changes the delivered-hay math
Northern California & North Intermountain
Read issueWestern forage supply tightens into late summer
U.S. alfalfa production projected 5% lower; California other-hay production 19% lower. Ranch and horse demand outpaces dairy and export channels.
Issue highlights
California alfalfa was projected at 3.08 million tons, down 2%, while other hay was projected at 1.06 million tons, down 19%. Lassen drought, diesel, fertilizer, power and regulation remained the operating watch list.