WESTERN MARKET UPDATE
Nevada demand strengthens while Idaho buyers stay cautious
The newest reports show two different buyer patterns: stronger confirmed activity in Nevada and incremental purchasing in Idaho.
What changed
Nevada confirmed 4,950 hay tons, up from 1,250, while Idaho confirmed 3,825 tons versus 3,984 in the prior period. Confirmed-trade volume reflects reported transactions, not total production or a statewide price index.
Idaho: steady FOB values meet freight resistance
USDA described Idaho demand as moderate and alfalfa prices as steady. Premium eastern Idaho alfalfa traded at $220–$230 per ton FOB, Premium southern Idaho alfalfa at $225, and Premium southeastern Idaho alfalfa at $250. Dairies and feedlots were buying small loads while waiting for lower prices, and diesel near $6 per gallon constrained cheaper delivered offers.
Nevada: good demand and larger confirmed volume
USDA described steady movement and good demand across hay types, with some California dairies buying large alfalfa lots. Supreme eastern Nevada alfalfa traded at $210 per ton FOB to a dairy, Premium eastern alfalfa at $230 to farm and ranch buyers, and Good central alfalfa at $220. Premium timothy traded at $17 per three-tie bale to stables.
Reported Nevada bale volume increased to 4,150 from 1,062. Small-bale demand remained good statewide. Drought also broadened, with 96% of Nevada in moderate drought or worse.
Other regions retain their latest valid reports
No newer California or Oregon USDA report was available when this brief was prepared. California remains dated September 25 and Oregon September 24; their existing summaries remain in place rather than being restated as current-week observations.
What to watch next
- Nevada dairy buying: Whether large California dairy purchases continue.
- Idaho load size: Whether buyers continue incremental purchases or commit to larger lots.
- Freight: Whether diesel costs keep delivered prices firm despite buyer resistance.
- Drought: Whether worsening exposure tightens later-season availability.
- Next release: California’s next report is scheduled for October 9.
Manager’s bottom line
Nevada’s stronger confirmed volume is constructive, but Idaho remains cautious. Sellers should separate FOB value from delivery cost and keep quote validity short. Buyers should compare delivered cost, quality, and shrink instead of waiting on FOB price alone.
New sources: USDA Idaho Direct Hay Report, October 1, 2026; USDA Nevada Direct Hay Report, October 1, 2026. Retained sources: California, September 25; Oregon, September 24. GB Hay commentary is AI-assisted. Confirm grade, bale weight, terms, freight, and live bids before transacting.