Why Alfalfa Demand Is Surging Across the Midwest | Austin Rice | Rural Radio
Featured Category
•
5m 54s
For Nebraska hay producer Austin Rice, the 2026 season is off to a dry start — but recent rains are bringing some optimism.
Near Wilsonville, Rice says SR Farms entered spring after one of the driest winters he can remember, with little snow and limited moisture. Still, timely rains are helping conditions improve as the growing season begins.
SR Farms manages up to 2,000 acres of alfalfa and ships hay across 28 states, with demand rising after recent wildfires across Nebraska and neighboring states.
“We’re happy to get what we can get and hoping this kind of primes the pump for some more,” Rice said.
Despite drought concerns and volatile hay markets, Rice says producers are staying hopeful for strong cuttings ahead.
Fridays in the Field is presented by FNBO - The Great Big, Small Bank.
Up Next in Featured Category
-
How Asparagus Is Grown: A Visit to Se...
Did you know asparagus can grow several inches in a single day during peak season?
In this episode of Field Trips with Tara, we visit Seka Hills to learn how California asparagus is grown and harvested. From the field to the harvest crew, we'll explore what it takes to produce one of California'...
-
Selecting the Right Adjuvant | Precis...
Hunter Medenwald discusses what to look for when selecting a high quality adjuvants to maximize crop protection performance.
-
Salt in Manure, Hope After Hail, Alfa...
The Hefty brothers share their experiences with measuring manure, calculating yield after hail, and analyzing exactly what alfalfa needs. The Weed of the Week gets smoothed over. And Darren gives you free spray tips for your spray tips!