| The Klamath Basin sugarbeet industry suffered an untimely demise in 2000. Increased importation of sugar to the United States, yield increases in U.S. production areas, depressed prices, and corporate decisions in response to these factors resulted in the closure of sugar refineries in Northern California following the processing of 2000 crops. In anticipation, contract acreage for the 2000 Klamath Basin crop was reduced to approximately 8,500 acres. Severe frosts in late April and late May resulted in loss of over 50 % of planted crops, including variety and weed control studies at the Klamath Experiment Station. Local research demonstrating effects of planting date on yield potential indicated that replanting after late May frosts would not be economically feasible. Approximately 3,700 acres were harvested in the fall of 2000, ending a decade of mostly favorable results with a crop that diversified and stimulated the economy of the region's agricultural community. |