Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years
Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years
The Terra Felis transfers beets from the side of the road into the Wyoming Sugar Factory's truck to take them to the factory for processing.
The 2024 Wyoming Sugar sugar beet harvest came in breaking records in Washakie County despite weather challenges.
Head Agriculturist Jacob Bullinger reported a yield of about 36 tons per acre, which is what he believes is a record. The county yield exceeds the company's overall yield of 33 tons per acre.
The harvest went well despite some delays due to muddy yard conditions as well as wet fields.
In early October, workers at the Wyoming Sugar Factory in Worland experienced elevated temperatures and unanticipated wet weather, which temporarily suspended harvesting operations. Despite these weather fluctuations, the sugar beets remained largely unaffected. "The sugar content is exceptionally high, averaging around 19.6," said Bullinger.
While the benefits of a fruitful harvest are evident, increased tonnage also presents challenges. Due to the overwhelming volume, beets have been piled on the edges of fields, he said. Despite this slight hurdle, processing at the factory is proceeding smoothly, and the processing campaign is expected to be completed by March,
he added.
