The Weekly Fill-Up | January 26-30

January 26, 2026

Late January often brings a stretch of winter where conditions feel familiar but demands remain high. Cold temperatures continue, daylight is still limited, and fuel and propane usage stays consistent across eastern South Dakota. For Sioux Valley Coop members, this week is about staying proactive and avoiding complacency as winter wears on.

Diesel fuel markets have remained relatively steady through the second half of January, with little movement week to week. While prices are still higher than last winter, the lack of volatility suggests the market has settled into a holding pattern. For operations that rely on diesel daily—trucks, loaders, generators, and service vehicles—the bigger concern right now is delivery reliability. Winter storms, drifting snow, and extreme cold can quickly disrupt transportation routes. Keeping bulk diesel tanks comfortably filled and scheduling deliveries ahead of time remains one of the most effective ways to prevent interruptions during this part of winter.

Fuel usage during late January can be deceptive. Even without long operating hours, cold starts, extended idle time, snow removal, and livestock care can quietly increase fuel consumption. Reviewing current usage compared to earlier in the month can help determine whether delivery frequency needs to be adjusted to match winter conditions.

Propane demand remains strong as heating needs continue across the region. National propane inventories entered winter in good shape, helping support relatively stable pricing so far. Locally, however, prolonged cold spells can drive propane usage higher than expected, especially for livestock buildings, shops, and rural homes. Delivery schedules often tighten during these stretches, making it important to check tank levels regularly and plan fills before tanks reach low levels.

This week is also a reminder that winter is far from over. February often brings some of the coldest temperatures of the season, and fuel and propane demand typically remains elevated. Using this time to confirm tank capacity, review delivery schedules, and communicate upcoming needs with Sioux Valley Coop can help ensure smoother service through the remainder of winter.

Overall, the message for the week of January 26 is steady but disciplined. Fuel and propane markets are stable, but winter logistics leave little room for error. Planning ahead, monitoring usage closely, and staying proactive with deliveries remain the most reliable ways for Sioux Valley Coop members to keep operations running smoothly through late 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