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Founded in 1985, the DSRC first operated a branch from Napa Jct., near Yankton, to Platte, SD. That operation ceased in 1989. The railroad continued, having started operations on the Kadoka line out of Chamberlain in 1987.
There were years of success--but also hard years. From a high of 187 miles, the road dwindled to one active mile, 1999-2006, when its connecting carrier raised prices for grain shipments.
One customer, a food-grade box plant at Mitchell, sustained the railroad during that time.
In 2006, new haulage rights mean the road should be open for the fall harvest.
DSRC history in newspaper and magazine articles
Rails Through The Grass
An excellent book on the Platte line, written by a former Dakota Southern employee and posted with permission. (PDF, 19MB)