Sugar Beet Plantings Ahead Of Average Nationwide

Sugar beet planting nationwide is nearing completion, a little earlier than normal. According to USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey, 81% of the U.S. crop was planted by May 2nd, ahead of the five-year average of 51% and last year's 47%.

"We're seeing planting approaching completion in Michigan 95% complete, and Idaho 93%. Then a big week for progress in the red river valley sates of Minnesota and North Dakota.  In North Dakota, a huge jump from 15% to 66% of the sugar beets planted just in the last week. Minnesota another huge jump as well from 28% to 79% planted."

Rippey added dryness is a concern, not only across the Northwest, but also across the Northern plains.

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