looking for advice to start bailing hay..First timer

[Pwalk]

A friend of mine has about 100 acres of hay field. He said I could cut, bail, and sell the hay. The neighbor is doing it right now. He did really want them to but had no one to do it. Ive only bailed hay a few times with my uncle. Im dont have any equipment yet to do the work. I was wondering if it be worth buying the equipment and doing the work for the profit. Is there much profit in it, The neighbors have been giving them some money to do the work. Would it be worth it at all to move forward in buying equipment? Some of the property is on a hill and I know people do have trouble with it. Nothing too dangerous though. Thanks

 

[hosspuller]

Is there much profit in it? NO.

Who is your market for the hay? Horse people pay the most, but are the pickiest.

 

[KiotiKowboy]

Just a few years ago, hay was in extreme demand due to drought. As I recall, 4x6 round bales started at $50. I think prices have since come down .... If anyone knows what to expect this year - please share your thoughts

I have 100 acres, about 90 in hay - bermuda and fescue. I thought about haying for myself and decided I didn't want to invest in the gear and work a few years on the hay just to get it paid off. Sooooooooooo ... I let the buyer do it.

I generally work a 2:1 sale, with the buyer using his own equipment. He pays me for every 3rd bale. The several thousand $$$ keeps me in chemicals and sometimes helps purchase a new toy for the farm.

 

[RPW]

Profit? Maybe as it depends on the market. Around here 5x6 horse quality start at about 70 and go up from there.