USDA is being asked to quickly implement the sugarbeet eligibility requirements within the WHIP+ program. Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association executive director Harrison Weber says USDA is cooperating with the sugarbeet industry. “Unfortunately, we don’t have a date or how much assistance we’re getting, but we’re having those conversations every day.” The concept of directing the WHIP+ payments through the beet cooperative breaks new ground. “That’s where we’re working with USDA to make sure they’re comfortable with our ask; it’s never been done this way before so we just want to make sure everything works correctly from the get-go.” Weber praised North Dakota Senator John Hoeven and Minnesota Congressman Collin Peterson for taking a leadership role in this issue.
