ST. LOUIS (AP) -- In this year of near-record drought, hay is becoming a precious commodity. Now, it is being targeted by thieves.

KMOX Radio (http://cbsloc.al/Vw4Hhz ) reports that thieves are targeting big bundles of hay left in fields prior to being harvested. Missouri Farm Bureau president Blake Hurst says thieves are hauling it away and selling it.

The price for fresh hay to feed livestock is on the rise with winter approaching. Hurst says that makes unguarded bales tempting targets.

He says farm states across the country are seeing the trend, so much so that some farmers are now putting global positioning trackers inside hay bales.

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Information from: KMOX-AM, http://www.kmox.com

Copyright 2012 The AP.