The sugarbeet harvest is complete for American Crystal Sugar Company, but growers are dealing with lower yields and disappointing sugar content. Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association Executive Director Harrison Weber said dry growing conditions limited crop development. “We just did not see the growth like we’ve been accustomed to the last number of years.” Sugar content started strong early in harvest, but rainfall later increased beet size while reducing sugar concentration. Weber said higher diesel costs also added to growers’ financial pressure. He estimated a semi working harvest can use about 150 gallons of fuel every 24 hours. “It’s a significant fuel bill at a time when sugar prices are significantly down.”
