JES Farms - Large-Scale Irrigated Agriculture Operation in South Dakota

JES Farms, located just north of Pierre, South Dakota, in Hughes and Sully Counties, stands as one of the premier large-scale irrigated agricultural operations in the Midwest. This expansive, privately owned farm spans approximately 16,395+/- acres featuring highly productive silty loam soils ideally suited for high-yield row crop production. Prime Irrigation and Productivity At the heart of JES Farms lies an advanced irrigation system drawing from the Missouri River. It includes 84 Valley center pivots (with 13 corner systems), a 13-mile gravity-fed canal system with a 125-foot elevation drop for efficient low-pressure delivery, and extensive underground piping. This setup supports roughly 12,458 irrigated acres delivering reliable water even in South Dakota’s variable climate (average rainfall ~19 inches). The farms also has 2,333 dryland cropland acres. The farm boasts strong productivity ratings, with top soil classes averaging 93% and an overall average around 84%. FSA data highlights substantial contract bases for corn, wheat, and soybeans. JES Farms also leases 175 acres and that leasehold interest could possibly be assigned to Buyer. The permit to pump water from the Missouri River was issued by the State Legislature of South Dakota. The permit is for 55,000 acres feet of irrigation water. In 2017, over 250 miles of drain tile was installed for 18 pivots. The 13 pivots system corner units were also installed in 2017. Infrastructure and Diversified Operations A ~2,000,000-bushel grain storage and handling facility with hopper bins, overhead bins, dryers, and quonsets. A 5,000-head feedlot capacity. Bulk anhydrous and seed storage. Multiple equipment/storage buildings. 10 dwellings for workforce housing. Marketing Highlights for Sale The operation features robust supporting infrastructure: Diversification strengthens revenue streams beyond cropping. The farm backgrounds cattle on corn stalks and silage (historically handling thousands of head seasonally), Owners take in 2,750 cows to winter on corn stalks and silage for approximately 125 days at .90 to $1.25 per day, sells cornstalk bales, and includes a state walk-in-only upland game and goose hunting lease generating significant annual income. 2026 hunting lease is a one-year lease with South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks for $7.50 per acre. Proximity to key markets enhances efficiency: Fort Pierre Livestock (14 miles), Onida grain outlets and ethanol plant (~20-21 miles), and Pierre’s amenities (state capital services, airport, hospital, schools—all within 14 miles). JES Farms represents a rare opportunity for investors or producers seeking a turnkey, highly profitable irrigated farming enterprise with built-in livestock and recreational income. Its scale, efficient Missouri River water access, low pumping costs, productive soils, and strategic location near transportation and processing hubs position it as a standout asset in central South Dakota agriculture. The farm’s integrated systems support high-output grain production while providing multiple revenue layers for resilience and returns. ??Farm Service Agency (FSA) Data: Cropland Acres: 14,961.94. Corn Contract Acre Base: 10,726.2 PLC Yield: 139 Bu.Wheat Contract Acre Base: 1,187.52 PLC Yield: 38 Bu.Soybean Contract Acre Base: 1,334.08 PLC Yield: 38 Bu. L??ake Oahe: Lake Oahe is a massive man-made reservoir on the Missouri River, located just north of Pierre, South Dakota. It stretches approximately 231 miles northward to near Bismarck, North Dakota, covering about 370,000 acres with over 2,250 miles of shoreline. As the fourth-largest reservoir in the United States, it offers excellent fishing (walleye, northern pike, catfish, and bass), boating, camping, hunting, and recreation at dozens of shoreline areas. The lake is formed by the Oahe Dam and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. ?Sheehan JES Property Lakeshore Development: ?On the extreme northwest corner of the farm, there is a tract known as "The Peninsula" which extends into the Missouri Rive/Lake Oahe. The owner of JES, Harvey Sheehan, had this tract professionally surveyed and plat mapped for a subdivision development. The masterplan was approved by Sully County in 2021. This tract could be split from the balance of the farm and sold separately. 2025 Estimated Real Estate Taxes: ? $188,000