September 20, 2006

Cattle producers in South Georgia hit by hay shortage

South Georgia cattle producers are worried about a possible shortage of hay this winter as the summer drought cut back on pasture grasses, forcing some farmers to feed hay normally used for winter.

With hay supplies falling low, many are considering having to sell their herds.

Cattle Producer W.F Griffin said most fields have produced only three cuttings this year, as opposed to the usual four or five. This meant that hay became scarcer and thus much more expensive. Rising transportation costs also helped to hike up prices.

Since that is the case, not only would there may be a glut on the cattle market, there would be a serious impact on the herd, which would take years to rebuild, Griffin said.

Hay fields in Georgia have also been affected by insect pests, which made the hay shortage more acute.