For readers in South Dakota, this page covers crop and livestock conditions, commodity prices, farm policy and agribusiness. Reporting follows the state's farms and ranches from the field through the processors and suppliers that handle what they produce.
A $7.98 million federal grant will fund conversion of 7,500 acres of marginal cropland into perennial grassland across South Dakota.
Live Poll
Should the federal government spend more money restoring grasslands and supporting ranchers?
October 27, 2026
Mellissa Heermann to Seek Re-election in South DakotaTwo-term state legislator Mellissa Heermann seeks another term representing District 7 this November.
October 26, 2026
South Dakota Farmers Face Harvest ChallengesAgricultural workers are battling diseased corn and rising fuel costs during the 2026 harvest.
October 8, 2026
Cargill Signed Major South Dakota Wind Energy DealThe company secured 87 megawatts of capacity through a 12.6-year virtual power purchase agreement.
September 29, 2026
South Dakota Rancher Expanded Into Direct Beef SalesA sixth-generation South Dakota cattle rancher pivoted to a direct-to-consumer model in 2025.
September 28, 2026
South Dakota State Honored Four Agriculture LeadersThe annual award recognizes individuals for their significant contributions to the state agricultural industry.
September 24, 2026
South Dakota Cattlemen's Association Opened Academy ApplicationsThe state agricultural organization has begun accepting applicants for the third class of its leadership program.
September 23, 2026
Ladner Visited Taiwan for Trade TalksSouth Dakota Representative Trish Ladner joined a Midwestern legislative delegation to discuss trade and cybersecurity.
September 22, 2026
Dusty Johnson Will Depart House After Term EndsSouth Dakota's Representative will exit Congress in January 2027 following eight years of service.
September 22, 2026
South Dakota Researchers Studied Drone ProfitabilityA 2026 study examined how corn and soybean farmers in eastern South Dakota utilize and monetize drone technology.
September 19, 2026
South Dakota Farmers Urged New Farm BillSouth Dakota producers traveled to Washington D.C. to advocate for updated federal agricultural legislation.
Day to day, that means weather and drought effects on crops and pasture, cattle and hog markets, changes to farm programs and rules, and consolidation among grain, meat and equipment companies. Coverage reaches from the eastern cropland to the western ranching country and the small towns that depend on both. Weather and water conditions drive more of the agricultural news here than any other single factor. Input costs and commodity prices are the pressures that shape how producers respond to nearly every season.
