The Iowa Department of Agriculture is encouraging Iowa hay and straw producers to register or update their listing on the Iowa Hay and Straw Directory. The directory lists Iowa producers with hay and straw for sale, as well as organizations and businesses associated with promoting and marketing quality hay and straw.

“The directory is a tool for both buyers and sellers, and we hope farmers will take the time to review and update their information,” says Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. “This directory can serve as an important link between hay producers and those looking to buy, so we encourage Iowans to take advantage of this free directory.”

Listing of hay and straw for sale
The listing is available to interested buyers throughout the nation; however, only sellers from within Iowa can be included on the list. Names are gathered throughout the year with added emphasis now that the 2018 hay harvest is well underway. Sections within the Hay and Straw Directory include “Forage for Sale,” “Forage Auctions,” “Hay Associations,” “Forage Dealers,” “Hay Grinders” and “Custom Balers.”

Farmers interested in listing should visit the department’s website.

For folks without internet access, call the Hay and Straw Hotline at 800-383-5079. The state ag department will fax or send a printed copy of the application to be filled out.

Certified weed-free
The Iowa Department of Ag is also supporting the Iowa Crop Improvement Association’s “Iowa Noxious Weed Seed Free Forage and Mulch Certification Program.” Through this program, Iowa forage and mulch producers can take advantage of many emerging market opportunities for “Certified Weed Free” products. 

For more information on this program, producers should contact the Iowa Crop Improvement Association at 515-294-6921. More information can also be found by visiting iowacrop.org/Weed_Free.htm.

Source: Iowa Ag Department