The Weekly Fill-Up | February 2-6

February 2, 2026

Early February often feels like the long middle of winter. Temperatures remain cold, daylight is still limited, and fuel and propane usage stays steady across eastern South Dakota. For Sioux Valley Coop members, this week is less about reacting to change and more about maintaining consistency as winter stretches on.

Diesel fuel markets continue to show stability as February begins. Prices have moved very little in recent weeks, holding at levels higher than last winter but without major swings. This steady pattern shifts the focus from price timing to reliability. Winter weather, drifting snow, and occasional road closures can still impact delivery schedules with little notice. Keeping diesel tanks comfortably filled and planning deliveries ahead of forecasted weather remains one of the best ways to ensure trucks, loaders, generators, and service vehicles stay operational.

Fuel consumption during this part of winter often remains higher than expected. Cold starts, extended idle time, snow removal, and daily livestock care all contribute to steady fuel use, even when operating hours feel reduced. Reviewing usage trends from January can help determine whether delivery frequency needs to be adjusted to match ongoing winter conditions.

Propane demand continues to run strong as heating needs remain consistent across the region. National propane inventories entered winter in solid shape, which has helped keep pricing relatively stable so far. Locally, however, extended cold stretches can drive propane usage higher, especially for livestock buildings, shops, and rural homes. Delivery schedules can tighten during these periods, making it important to monitor tank levels regularly and schedule fills before tanks reach low levels.

The week of February 2 is also a reminder that winter is not yet behind us. Historically, February can still bring some of the coldest temperatures of the season. Taking time now to confirm tank capacity, review delivery schedules, and communicate upcoming needs with Sioux Valley Coop can help prevent last-minute issues later in the month.

Overall, this week’s message is steady and disciplined. Fuel and propane markets are stable, but winter logistics leave little room for error. Staying proactive with planning, monitoring usage closely, and scheduling deliveries early remain the most reliable ways for Sioux Valley Coop members to keep operations running smoothly through the heart of winter.

Sources

U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) – Weekly diesel fuel price and distillate market data
YCharts – U.S. retail diesel fuel price trends
EIA Winter Fuels Outlook – Propane inventory and winter demand conditions
LPGas Magazine – Winter propane supply and cold-weather delivery considerations