NEVADA
Movement steady as feeder and small-bale demand leads
Feeder-hay interest exceeds test-hay demand across the state, dairies continue to seek tested lots, and small bales remain in strong demand.
What changed
USDA reported 1,250 confirmed hay tons, down from 5,500 in the prior report. Reported hay bales declined to 1,062 from 1,250. These numbers cover confirmed trades only and do not measure total production, bids, or unreported business.
Demand and market tone
Hay movement was described as steady. Feeder-hay demand is stronger than demand for test hay statewide, although dairies are still searching for tested product. Small bales continue to draw strong demand across Nevada.
Reported transactions
- Central Nevada: Good second-cutting large-square alfalfa at $220 per ton FOB to farm and ranch buyers; Premium three-tie alfalfa at $16 per bale; bundled Supreme small-square alfalfa at $350 per ton FOB retail.
- Central Nevada grass: Bundled Premium timothy at $400 per ton FOB retail.
- Eastern Nevada: Premium three-way forage mix at $190 per ton FOB to farm and ranch buyers.
- Northern Nevada: Good large-square alfalfa at $200 per ton FOB to farm and ranch buyers.
- Western Nevada: Premium three-tie alfalfa/grass mix at $14 per bale FOB.
Each transaction reflects its own grade, package, location, and terms; none is a statewide quote.
Drought signal
The report states that 89% of Nevada was in moderate drought or worse, 56% in severe drought or worse, and 8% in extreme drought or worse.
GB Hay interpretation
Lower confirmed tonnage does not by itself establish a tighter market, but steady movement and strong feeder and small-bale interest support careful inventory segmentation. Keep tested dairy lots, feeder hay, and retail small bales priced to their separate end markets, and verify current bids before committing supply.
Source: USDA Nevada Direct Hay Report, September 15, 2026. GB Hay commentary is AI-assisted. Confirm grade, bale weight, terms, freight, and live bids before transacting.