Despite the recent breach of the irrigation canal north of Savage, Sidney Sugars’ agricultural manager Duane Peters still expects a strong sugar beet crop in the area.
“The beets are looking good right now,” Peters said. “The farmers have done a great job of keeping the beets wet.”
The sudden washout of an Lower Yellowstone Irrigation canal occurred on Aug. 21. Officials are estimating the canal will be be available for irrigation during 10-12 days.
“Overall, we are happy about the crop,” Peters said. “We’re not seeing any problems that have arisen at this time.”
Peters said the area is fortunate to have good, heavy soil. Gravel and sand ridges are where the loss of tonnage will occur.
The Savage district still has irrigation water. The areas without irrigation water include the Sidney and Sugar Valley districts. Peters said about 13,000 acres are being affected.
He says farmers have maintained a good attitude and Franz Construction has been working hard on the repairs. “It’s been a team effort.”
Source: www.sidneyherald.com