Thursday, August 9, 2007

Maryland hay supply list

ANNAPOLIS, MD -- With rainfall shortages in Maryland wreaking havoc on pastures and hay fields, Maryland livestock producers are already exhausting hay supplies that would normally feed their animals through the winter.

ewes eating alfalfa hayWhile the Maryland Department of Agriculture has a listing of hay sources on its Web site, http://www.mda.state.md.us/, it is seeking updates to better connect hay suppliers with those who need it to feed their animals.

"Many livestock and horse owners are desperate for feed supplies because in many areas there is no pasture and hay supplies are diminishing," said Agriculture Secretary Roger Richardson.

"We are asking those with hay available to contact us so that we can provide an up-to-date listing to our farmers." To list hay supplies, please contact Mark Powell at (410) 841-5770, 410-841-5987 (fax) or powellms@mda.state.md.us.

Livestock producers can log onto http://www.mda.state.md.us/ to find hay listings or call (410) 841-5770 to receive a print out of the listings.