2-8 IAT Apples & Beets

 A snapshot of sugar beet and apple markets. 2 things that are sweet are sugar beets and apples and Michael Stolp, VP-Market Research and Development  for Northwest Farm Credit Services  over in Spokane tells us that  the outlooks for 2012 and 2013 are indeed sweet for sugar beet and apple producers.

Sugar Beets -- Despite widespread replanting last spring, growing conditions were favorable through the summer and fall, resulting in strong sugar beet yields throughout the Northwest. Higher production was matched with favorable prices, and producers finished 2012 with solid returns. Going forward, increasing world sugar production is expected to pressure prices below the record highs evident over the last few years.

Apples -- The Northwest produced a record shattering apple crop in 2012. The Northwest produced a record shattering apple crop in 2012. The large crop is attributed to increased orchard productivity and excellent fall weather that extended harvest. Strong markets incented growers to harvest as many apples as possible, and extra time allowed growers to pick more apples with fewer workers. Additionally, apples that were passed over early were picked after having time to size-up. Growers can expect profitable returns despite record production. An otherwise short Northern Hemisphere apple crop is driving strong markets, prices and sales.