The Weekly Fill-Up | March 23-27

March 23, 2026

As March moves toward its final stretch, fuel markets are beginning to reflect the early stages of spring demand across the Midwest. While planting season hasn’t fully ramped up yet, activity is building just enough to start influencing diesel movement and purchasing behavior. For Sioux Valley Coop patrons, this week is less about reacting to price swings and more about positioning ahead of a busier season.

Diesel markets are showing signs of firming, driven by a combination of tightening refinery output and gradually increasing demand. Refinery maintenance remains ongoing across parts of the United States, limiting how much diesel is being produced at any given time. This seasonal maintenance is normal, but it becomes more noticeable when demand begins to climb at the same time. Even small increases in regional consumption—such as equipment preparation, hauling, and early fieldwork—can start to put pressure on supply.

Another factor influencing diesel this week is the broader crude oil market. Prices have remained somewhat elevated compared to earlier in the winter, supported by ongoing global supply uncertainty and production decisions from major oil-producing countries. While these global factors don’t always create immediate changes at the local level, they do contribute to a stronger pricing floor. For South Dakota fuel users, that often translates into fewer opportunities for price dips as spring approaches.

Locally, improving weather conditions are playing a role in both demand and logistics. Warmer temperatures and drier roads have made transportation more efficient, allowing fuel deliveries to move more consistently across rural areas. At the same time, those same conditions are encouraging early-season activity. Even if full planting operations are still weeks away, the increase in movement—checking fields, servicing equipment, and preparing inputs—adds to diesel demand across the region.

Propane markets continue to move away from peak winter pressure. With heating demand declining, propane consumption has eased across South Dakota and the broader Midwest. Inventory levels remain strong following a relatively moderate winter, helping maintain stable availability. For most Sioux Valley Coop patrons, propane needs are shifting from immediate demand to maintenance mode—ensuring tanks are at appropriate levels without the urgency seen earlier in the season.

This week also marks an important planning window. As April approaches, fuel demand typically accelerates quickly once fieldwork begins in earnest. The difference between late March and mid-April demand can be significant. Using this period to evaluate diesel storage levels, confirm delivery schedules, and align purchasing strategies can help reduce pressure when activity increases.

The overall message for the week of March 23 is forward-looking. Diesel markets are tightening gradually as refinery maintenance and early demand intersect. Propane markets remain well supplied as winter fades. For Sioux Valley Coop patrons, this is a moment to act with intention—making small adjustments now that can create a smoother transition into the high-demand weeks ahead.

Sources

U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) – Weekly Petroleum Status Report
EIA Refinery Utilization and Distillate Production Data
EIA Propane/Propylene Inventory Report
YCharts – Midwest Diesel Fuel Price Trends