South Dakota farmers optimistic about commodity prices

LAKE PRESTON, S.D. (AP) — Farmers in South Dakota says there’s a reason for optimism as they head out to their fields to plant crops this spring. Commodity markets are up 62% over the 10-year average. Wayne Soren raises crops and cattle near Lake Preston. Although he’s optimistic as he drives his planter into his corn field, the third-generation farmer also has concerns, mainly about dry conditions. Soren wonders if there will be enough rain to grow a crop this years. Following the late-April rainstorms, the May 5, 2022, U.S. Drought Monitor data shows 69% of the state remains in drought conditions.