Improved U.S. Alfalfa Crop

WASHINGTON - Aug 12/13 - SNS - Production of the 2013 alfalfa and alfalfa mixture dry hay crop is forecast at 59.9 million tons, up 15% from 2012, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

If realized, this will be the second lowest production level since 1955. Based on August 1 conditions, yield is expected to average 3.39 tons per acre, up 0.38 ton from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 17.7 million acres, up 2% from 2012. If realized, this will be the second lowest harvested area since 1948.

Producers in Indiana are expecting a record high yield. Similarly, the expected yield in Utah is equal to the record high.

Timely spring rainfall coupled with favorable temperatures throughout the summer led to expected increases in alfalfa hay yield throughout much of the United States. Despite an overall expected increase in production, hay quality was of concern in some areas because a portion of several cuttings was rained on before baling and storage was complete. Conversely, forecasted yields throughout much of the Four Corners region declined when compared with last year due to long-term drought that has remained entrenched in the area despite recent monsoonal moisture.