Deep South Drought

For cattlemen and others who rely on hay — particularly in the brutally cold winter — to feed their livestock, last year’s drought wiped out their inventories. 

Despite recent rainfall, cattle farmers are still suffering the effects of drought. According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, 67.3 percent of Cullman County is experiencing “extreme drought” (D3) which is just one level below the worst designation while the rest are in “severe drought” (D2).

But through a cooperative effort between local organizations, hay will be available for sale to Cullman County residents for $30 per 4×5 bale. The price is subject to change in the future if necessary.

Beginning Monday, those in need of hay can fill out applications at the Cullman Conservation District Office at 501B Fourth St. S.W. in Cullman, located in the Cullman USDA building. Its hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Applications will be processed on a first come-first served basis. Hay is limited and will be distributed on at rationed amounts.

Once a farmer is approved, they will be contacted with a pick-up time and amount of hay that they have been approved for. The hay is being warehoused at the Cullman Agricultural Trade Center on U.S. 31.

The Cullman County Commission, Cullman County Cattleman Association, Cullman County Farmer’s Federation, Cullman Conservation District and Cullman County Economic Development have joined together to form the Cullman County Hay Relief Program.

Funds were collected to purchase hay and transport it to Cullman County from surrounding areas not affected by the recent drought.

A grant from the Cullman County Community Development Commission covers the transportation fees, and the $30 price is simply the cost of the hay, officials said.

For more information, call Travis Kress or Kathy Holmes at 256-734-1431.

What: Apply to purchase hay for $30 per bale. 

Where: Cullman Conservation District Office, located in the Cullman USDA building at 501B Fourth St. S.W. in Cullman. 

When: Applications accepted beginning Monday, Jan. 9. 

More information: Call Travis Kress or Kathy Holmes at 256-734-1431. 

* You can also browse available hay to sale through the Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries’ online listing at http://www.agi.alabama.gov/s/haylist.