New Digital Hay Directory Offers Real-Time Inventory for Ranchers

To help livestock owners navigate persistent drought conditions and changing forage supplies, the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) has opened the 2026 Digital Hay Directory listing form. This year, due to local drought impacts, we will accept listings from out-of-state hay producers, expanding the network of available feed for regional livestock producers and owners.

By transitioning from a static annual print publication to a dynamic, real-time digital database, the virtual hay directory will take the legwork out of sourcing feed. Buyers can now instantly filter and search for inventory across county lines and state borders.

"CDA's annual Hay Directory has always been a great way for livestock owners to find the feed they need easily, but drought requires different solutions," said Danielle Trotta, senior marketing specialist for CDA. "By taking our directory digital and opening it to trusted out-of-state producers, we are creating a more resilient supply chain. Producers can now update their available inventory, saving valuable time for busy ranchers when every day counts."

Key Features of the Digital Hay Directory:

• Update Your Listings: Unlike previous printed annual editions, the digital platform allows hay producers to update their available inventory, ensuring buyers don't waste time calling on sold-out stock.
• Comprehensive Filtering: Livestock owners can sort listings by region, forage type (including alfalfa, native grass, and mixes), bale type and size, lab analysis availability, certified weed-free status, and organic certifications.
• Out-of-State Sourcing: Recognizing that drought doesn't stop at state borders, livestock owners can now connect with verified producers in neighboring states to secure critical supplies.
• Integrated CDA Drought Resources: The CDA Drought Resources webpage connects producers directly to climate monitoring tools, financial assistance programs, and the Colorado Drought Cooperators network.

Call to Action for Forage Producers

Both Colorado-based and out-of-state hay producers who have inventory available are highly encouraged to list their business. Keeping listings accurate helps maintain a reliable emergency network for the entire agricultural sector.

The digital directory is open for continuous registration. Producers can submit or update their listings at any time by visiting the CDA Markets Division website.

To find resources related to drought, including potential funding sources and mental health support, visit the official CDA Drought Resources page at ag.colorado.gov/drought.

For more information or to contact the Markets Division at 303-869-9175, e-mail [email protected] or visit the markets division webpage.