DNR offers livestock producers emergency haying

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is offering emergency haying for livestock producers because of a hay shortage.

State wildlife managers have identified 922 acres on 43 wildlife management areas where emergency haying would benefit wildlife.

The state conservation lands are located in 22 Minnesota counties. Sites were identified where haying could be allowed and would help manage habitat conservation.

Only Minnesota farmers who need forage for their own livestock are eligible to cut hay in those areas.

Counties with potential sites include Blue Earth, Clearwater, Cottonwood, Faribault, Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Jackson, Kittson, Le Sueur, Marshall, Martin, McLeod, Mille Lacs, Nicollet, Olmsted, Otter Tail, Roseau, Sibley, Wabasha, Wilkin and Winona.

Farmers have until Aug. 9 to contact area wildlife managers about emergency haying opportunities.