The OMAFRA field crop team has given it's summary of this year's forage results.
They feel hay production was a challenge as the cool spring stunted early growth.
Then the dry summer halted any further growth until the rain returned in August.
OMAFRA notes hay inventories are now below average although the quality is high.
As a result, more corn was harvested for silage than originally planned.
The team says many farms are now utilizing straw and corn stover to extend feed stores.
The ministry also notes an increased interest in cover crops for emergency use.
Small grains or small grains with a pea mixture were reported to be the most popular this summer.