Hay Season Overview and Soil Health Strategy

What happens here

The video opens with the farmer, Josh, from Stoney Ridge Farmer, discussing the current 'Hay Day' activities. He explains his strategy of purchasing hay bales, specifically 4x5 round bales, rather than baling his own, citing cost-effectiveness due to the expense of baling equipment (tractors, balers, rakes, tires, chains, belts). He mentions acquiring spring bales from earlier in the year and additional 'old hay' from another farmer. The core of his strategy is to use the hay, particularly the approximately 10% outer layer that is usually wasted by cows, to improve soil health. This 'waste' is spread on pastures, allowing it to decompose and act as natural fertilizer, referred to as 'butt fertilizer' or manure. This process introduces carbon and manure into the soil, which helps to raise the soil's pH (from his farm's acidic pH 4 to a more neutral 7.2-7.5), thereby promoting healthier grass growth year after year.

Goal: Understand the purpose and strategic benefits of hay bale management for pasture health.