The Weekly Fill-Up | March 30-April 3

March 30, 2026

As March comes to a close, fuel markets across South Dakota are entering a more active phase. The shift from preparation to execution is beginning, with early fieldwork, increased hauling, and equipment movement gradually building diesel demand across the region. For Sioux Valley Coop patrons, this week is where timing starts to matter more than observation.

Diesel markets are showing subtle upward pressure as refinery maintenance continues to limit production levels across parts of the United States. While this seasonal slowdown in refining is expected, its impact becomes more noticeable when demand begins to increase at the same time. Early reports from across the Midwest indicate that agricultural activity is picking up in pockets, which is enough to start tightening supply at the rack level. Even without full-scale planting underway, this early demand shift is influencing how fuel moves through the system.

Another development influencing diesel this week is the ongoing strength in crude oil markets. Prices have remained supported by continued global supply discipline from major oil-producing nations, along with steady demand expectations. While these global factors do not always result in immediate local price changes, they help establish a firmer baseline for diesel pricing. For Sioux Valley Coop patrons, that often means fewer short-term buying opportunities and a more consistent upward bias as spring progresses.

Locally, improving weather conditions are accelerating the transition into field readiness. Drier ground, longer daylight hours, and more consistent temperatures are allowing producers to move equipment, stage inputs, and begin early passes in some areas. This increase in activity translates directly into higher diesel usage, even before planting reaches full scale. At the same time, better road conditions are helping fuel deliveries move more efficiently, which is supporting steady supply across rural areas.

Propane markets continue their seasonal shift away from winter demand. With heating needs declining, propane usage has slowed significantly compared to earlier in the year. Inventory levels remain strong following a relatively balanced winter, and there are no immediate supply concerns across the Midwest. For most Sioux Valley Coop patrons, propane is now transitioning from a high-priority fuel to a background need, with attention shifting toward maintaining adequate levels rather than managing peak demand.

This week also highlights the narrowing window for pre-season fuel positioning. As April approaches, demand can increase quickly and more consistently across the region. Once planting activity ramps up, delivery schedules tighten and purchasing becomes more reactive. Using this final week of March to review diesel inventory, confirm delivery timing, and align supply with anticipated fieldwork can help reduce pressure in the coming weeks.

The key takeaway for the week of March 30 is momentum. Diesel markets are beginning to respond to early demand while refinery output remains constrained. Propane markets are stable and well supplied as winter fades. For Sioux Valley Coop patrons, this is a moment to move from planning into action—making sure fuel needs are covered before the pace of spring fully takes over.

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