Overview: Learn the best times to order hay in Laramie County, Wyoming, and Northern Colorado. Avoid shortages, secure top-quality hay, and save money with expert tips from the best! Read on!
If you’re a farmer or rancher in Laramie County, Wyoming, or Northern Colorado, you know there’s no room for guessing when it comes to feeding your livestock. Hay is a cornerstone of livestock nutrition, and ordering it at the right time can make all the difference.
This guide will walk you through how to plan your hay purchases so you’re never caught short, saving you time, money, and stress.
Why Timing Matters
The timing of your hay order impacts:
Cost: Hay prices often spike during late fall and winter when demand increases.
Availability: The best quality hay goes fast. Waiting too long could mean settling for lower-quality bales.
Transportation: Early planning gives you more flexibility in scheduling deliveries, reducing last-minute hassles.
Understanding the hay market cycles, especially in regions like Laramie County, Wyoming, and Northern Colorado, is key to making informed purchasing decisions.
>> Related Reading: 5 Things to Know When Buying Hay
Best Times to Order Hay
Early Summer Provides Prime Quality: Early summer is an excellent time to order hay, as conditions in Wyoming and Northern Colorado are ideal for cutting the first crop, ensuring access to fresh, high-quality bales. Farmers in Wyoming and Northern Colorado are cutting their first hay crop, and you’ll have access to the freshest and highest-quality bales. Placing orders early ensures you secure premium hay before it’s gone.
Late Summer and Early Fall: Stock Up for Winter : By late summer, most producers in areas like Fort Collins, Colorado, and Laramie County have their second or even third cutting available. This is the perfect time to evaluate your inventory and stock up for winter. Buying in bulk now often gets you a better deal.
Monitor Market Trends : Stay informed about local hay production trends in Northern Colorado and Wyoming. Factors like drought, excess rain, or increased livestock populations can influence supply and demand. Ordering when production is high and demand is low (usually post-harvest) will help you lock in competitive prices.
Tips for Ordering Hay
1. Know Your Livestock’s Needs
Different animals require different hay types:
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Horses thrive on Timothy grass or orchard/alfalfa mixes.
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Cattle often do well with cow hay, straight alfalfa, or corn stalk rounds.
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Goats and sheep may prefer orchard/brome/timothy blends with light alfalfa.
Choose hay that matches your herd’s nutritional requirements to avoid waste and ensure their health.
2. Work With a Trusted Supplier
Establishing a relationship with a reliable hay supplier ensures consistent quality and availability. At All Around Ag, we proudly serve farmers and ranchers in Laramie County, Wyoming, and Northern Colorado, carrying a variety of hay types, including:
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North Park Timothy Grass
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Intermediate Wheat Rounds
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Wyoming Timothy/Garrison
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Cow Hay
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Orchard/Brome/Timothy with Light Alfalfa
Reach out early to discuss your needs and reserve your order.
3. Inspect Before You Buy
Always inspect hay for quality. Look for:
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Bright green color
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Sweet, fresh smell
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Minimal dust and mold
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Consistent texture and weight
This ensures you’re feeding your livestock the best possible product.
4. Plan for Storage
Proper hay storage prevents spoilage and maximizes shelf life. Ensure your barn or storage area is dry, well-ventilated, and protected from pests.
You might be interested in this quick guide on >> 5 Compelling Reasons to Choose Local Hay for Your Livestock that might interest you!
Pro Tip: Don’t Wait Until Winter
Winter hay shortages are common in Laramie County and Northern Colorado, and last-minute purchases can lead to higher prices and lower quality. Ordering early gives you peace of mind and better control over your livestock’s feed supply.
In Summary
Ordering hay at the right time is more than just a smart financial move — it’s essential for maintaining the health and productivity of your livestock. By planning ahead and working with trusted suppliers like All Around Ag, serving Laramie County, Wyoming, and Northern Colorado, you’ll always have high-quality hay when you need it.
Ready to order? Contact us today and let’s get your hay needs sorted before the rush!