South Dakota Farmers Face Mixed Fortunes in 2025

By Scout Nelson

South Dakota’s agriculture sector is experiencing very different outcomes in 2025. While some producers celebrate record earnings, others face serious financial concerns caused by trade battles, tariffs, and shifting global markets.

Row-crop farmers in the eastern part of the state, especially soybean and corn growers, face low demand and prices. China, once the largest buyer, has reduced purchases and turned to South American suppliers. With fewer export opportunities, many farmers expect losses.

Soybean producers, in particular, face major challenges as unsold crops pile up. Corn growers are also affected, even with a record harvest expected. High yields combined with low demand are pushing prices downward, leaving farmers worried about storage costs and future planting expenses.

Farm leaders warn that rising input costs such as seeds, fertilizer, and land rents, combined with weak markets, could force some producers into financial trouble. They stress the urgent need for stable trade agreements to help balance global markets.

Meanwhile, ranchers west of the Missouri River are seeing strong profits. Sheep producers report very high prices for lambs, while cattle ranchers are enjoying record values for cows and calves. Reduced beef imports due to tariffs and animal health concerns have strengthened domestic markets. Demand for beef in the United States remains strong despite inflation, giving ranchers a boost.

Other sectors, such as pork, dairy, and turkey, remain relatively stable. Pork producers benefit from steady exports, dairy farmers gain from new processing capacity and strong cheese demand, and turkey farms continue production despite bird flu challenges.

Overall, 2025 highlights the sharp divide in South Dakota agriculture. While livestock producers benefit from high prices, many crop farmers face serious struggles. The year shows how global trade decisions and tariffs shape the future of farm families and rural economies.

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