Cash basis levels for both corn and soybeans have been historically strong in the western corn belt for several months, and that has continued at harvest. South Dakota Soybean Association Director and Castlewood producer Chad Schooley says cash grains prices are usually pressured at harvest, so it’s been a welcome surprise.

He has been harvesting soybeans and says cash prices are well above 12-dollars in most areas, which is a good indication of the strong demand.

However, cash corn prices are also strong, especially in areas that had a short crop in 2020 and are facing tight production this year due to drought. Schooley says ethanol plants and livestock producers are both trying to secure supplies.

He hopes the strong demand will continue after harvest and provide additional marketing opportunities.