By Scout Nelson
The agricultural landscape of South Dakota in 2023 showed a slight decline in overall crop values, according to forecasts from the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. The total value of field and miscellaneous crops is pegged at $8.29 billion, marking a 6% decrease from the previous year.
Corn, a staple in South Dakota's agricultural output, is expected to see a notable drop in value to $3.84 billion, which is 11% lower than last year. The average price per bushel also decreased to $4.50, showing a $2.00 reduction from the prior marketing period.
On a brighter note, soybean production is looking up with a projected total value of $2.77 billion, an increase of 2% from last year. However, the price per bushel for soybeans is down by $1.70, settling at $12.40.
Winter wheat production has taken a hit, with its value anticipated to be $248 million, a significant 25% decrease. The price per bushel for winter wheat also declined to $7.55, down $1.12 from the previous year.
Other spring wheat didn't fare well either, with its production value expected to be $198 million, a 33% decrease, and a price per bushel of $7.10, down $1.61.
Alfalfa production shows promising growth with an expected value of $659 million, up 26%. The average price per ton for alfalfa decreased to $166.00, down $19.00.
Other hay production is also on the rise, with its value projected at $284 million, a 30% increase, and an average price per ton of $132.00, up $3.00 from last year.
This mixed bag of outcomes reflects the ever-changing dynamics of South Dakota's agricultural sector, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities facing the state's farmers and ranchers in 2023.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-artqu
Categories: South Dakota, Business, Crops