South Dakotans Prepare for Corn Harvest Declines Amid Rising Costs

South Dakota farmers are bracing for declining corn harvests in 2026, despite being among the top five states producing the key crop. Last year's harvest was a 'bin buster', but this year's outlook is less promising.

The state's agricultural sector had seen significant growth in recent years, but increasing input costs and lower commodity prices are taking their toll on farmers' profitability. Rising fertilizer and diesel costs are causing particular stress as planting season approaches.

South Dakota has traditionally been a major producer of corn, alongside Iowa, which is the only state among the top five to show modest improvements in its harvest outlook.