As drought conditions continue to intensify across much of North Carolina, many livestock producers are facing reduced pasture growth, limited forage availability and increasing feed costs.
Developed by NC State Extension with support from NC Farm Bureau and the North Carolina Cattlemen’s Association, NC Hay Finder offers a free online marketplace that connects hay buyers and sellers across North Carolina.
Finding Hay When It Matters Most
NC Hay Finder allows users to:
- Search for hay using a ZIP code
- Filter listings by distance, hay type (e.g., alfalfa, fescue) and price
- Connect directly with sellers or create a free profile to post hay listings
During drought conditions, when local forage supplies can become scarce, the tool can help producers identify available hay sources and potentially reduce transportation costs.
Remember: Hay Quality Matters
While locating hay is important, evaluating its quality is equally essential.
Hay quality can vary significantly based on forage species, harvest timing, storage conditions and other factors. Producers are encouraged to conduct forage testing whenever possible to better understand the nutritional value of purchased hay and make informed feeding decisions.
Connect with the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) Farmer Forage Testing Program or a commercial lab for testing.
Get Started With NC Hay Finder
- NC Hay Finder Website — browse listings, post hay for sale or learn more about the platform
- NC Hay Finder Quick Guide (PDF) — download a printable overview of the platform
Need a little help?
Your local Extension livestock agent can provide additional guidance on hay sampling, forage testing and drought-related livestock management strategies.
