The Weekly Fill-Up | February 16-20

February 16, 2026

By mid-February, winter fuel usage is no longer about preparation — it’s about endurance. The initial cold snaps have passed, but consistent temperatures and steady workloads continue to draw from diesel and propane supplies across eastern South Dakota. For Sioux Valley Coop members, this is the stretch where attention to detail prevents late-season disruptions.

Diesel fuel markets remain relatively balanced this week, showing little dramatic movement. The absence of volatility may feel reassuring, but it also means there is little opportunity to wait for meaningful price changes. Instead, the focus shifts to reliability. Rural delivery routes can still be impacted by snow, wind, or temperature swings, and keeping storage tanks positioned comfortably above reserve levels remains one of the smartest decisions members can make during this phase of winter.

Fuel consumption during mid-February often operates in a steady rhythm. Livestock operations, equipment movement, transportation needs, and winter maintenance all continue regardless of daylight hours. Cold weather increases engine strain, extends warm-up times, and subtly elevates diesel use even when field activity is minimal. Reviewing recent usage compared to early January can help identify whether delivery schedules need small adjustments heading into the final weeks of winter.

Propane demand continues to hold strong as heating systems work consistently to maintain building temperatures. Even with national inventories in healthy condition entering the season, localized demand remains the true driver in rural communities. Extended cold stretches can quickly tighten delivery schedules. Proactively confirming tank levels and communicating anticipated needs allows Sioux Valley Coop to coordinate service more efficiently and reduces the risk of urgent fills.

Mid-February also serves as a strategic checkpoint. While spring may be visible on the horizon, winter weather patterns historically remain active through early March. Evaluating tank capacity, reviewing delivery cadence, and ensuring clear communication with Sioux Valley Coop now helps position operations for a smooth transition out of winter.

The message for the week of February 16 is measured but important. Fuel and propane markets are stable, yet winter conditions still demand attention. Staying deliberate with monitoring, scheduling, and communication ensures operations remain steady, efficient, and powered locally through the remaining weeks of the season.

Sources

U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) – Weekly diesel fuel and distillate data
YCharts – U.S. retail diesel fuel pricing trends
EIA Winter Fuels Outlook – Propane inventory and demand analysis
LPGas Magazine – Regional propane supply and winter logistics reporting