Imports during that time went from 2.777 tons in 1996 to 1.702 tons in 2000. About 50 percent of the increase during the past four years can be attributed to sugarbeets. That increase is not equal in all regions. The largest increase has come from the Red River Valley area with 35.62 percent. Increased production coupled with confounding government programs that will remain in place until 2002 will keep prices from recovering.
Production appears to be down slightly.
Low sucrose content, low yields, poor harvest conditions and the PIK program, all contributed to this condition. It was later used in the PIK program. The industry would struggle to survive in western Nebraska under these conditions. Only the highest yields with high sucrose content are marginally profitable at these prices. Elimination of the sugar industry in Nebraska creates a significant impact.