Shifts in South Dakota farm sizes impact cropland use

By Scout Nelson

Over the past 25 years, the agricultural landscape in South Dakota has seen a notable shift towards large-scale farming. According to the 2022 U.S. Census of Agriculture, farms over 2,000 acres now manage over two-thirds of the state's cropland, a steep rise from less than half in 1997.

This growth in large farm operations correlates with a decrease in medium-sized farms, highlighting a trend towards consolidation in agriculture.

Economic factors, such as the benefits of economies of scale and labor-saving technological advancements, have played significant roles in this transformation. These larger operations not only control more land but are also pivotal in maintaining soil health and ecosystem functions.

As the number of large farms has increased, the overall number of farm operations in South Dakota has decreased by nearly 30% from 1997 to 2022, primarily at the expense of medium-scale farms.

The number of small or hobby farms has increased, likely due to rising land values making smaller operations more feasible for newcomers to the industry.

This trend has significant implications for the state's agricultural landscape, with larger farms playing a critical role in crop production while small farms struggle to maintain a significant presence in terms of cropland operation.

Between 2002 and 2017, cropland increased at the expense of grasslands, driven by high commodity prices. From 2017 to 2022, there was a slight decline in cropland as some land was converted back to grassland due to less favorable farming conditions.

These changes reflect broader trends in agricultural practices and land use, underscoring the importance of monitoring and adapting to these dynamics for the sustainability of farming in South Dakota.

Photo Credit -istock-alenamozhjer